Parents with sole custody It is true that a parent who has sole custody of their child or children does not need permission from the other parent to travel domestically or abroad. Parents with sole custody will have to provide their court-ordered custody arrangement to get the child's passport.

Yes, a divorced parent can take a child on a cruise, but they must navigate specific legal and documentation requirements to prevent "international parental child abduction" concerns. Even if you have sole legal custody, cruise lines—and immigration officials in foreign ports—typically require a notarized Letter of Consent signed by the non-traveling parent. This letter should explicitly state the travel dates, the ship's name, and the destinations. If the other parent is deceased or their parental rights have been terminated, you must carry a certified copy of the death certificate or the relevant court order. Furthermore, if the child has a different last name than yours, you should bring a birth certificate to prove the relationship. In 2026, cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Disney are very strict about this; failing to provide the correct "Parental Consent" paperwork can result in being denied boarding at the pier without a refund. It is always best to check your specific divorce decree for any travel restrictions.