Yes, just like when traveling by air, a valid passport book OR passport card is a topmost Bahamas travel requirement via a boat (note: closed loop cruises are different), being a private charter, fishing boat, or party boat. In total, all options for traveling via sea are: Passport Book. Passport Card.
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Traveling to the Bahamas without a passport isn't possible in any case. Whether you cruising on a close loop cruise, via an airliner, or any other source, you'll need a passport for the Bahamas in all cases.
In place of a passport, you can use WHTI-compliant documents like passport cards, trusted traveler's cards, and NEXUS cards. While these allow you to travel to these regions by sea and road, they are not acceptable for international flights.
The form of ID you'll need to travel on a ferry depends on the route and your nationality. On most international routes, you will need your passport to check-in. However, there are exceptions to this.
Closed-Loop CruisesIf you are a U.S. citizen planning a closed-loop cruise, you can travel without a passport. A closed-loop cruise means that you board a cruise ship in a U.S. port, only travel in the Western Hemisphere and then return to the same U.S. port where you started your journey.
Entering PoliciesCustoms and Immigration officials will come to your vessel. Everyone on board must have proof of citizenship. U.S. citizens must present a passport. Upon your arrival in The Bahamas, you will be asked to fill out an Immigration Arrival/Departure Card, which you will keep until your departure.
The main city of this island is Freeport, which is just 110 miles northeast of Miami, making it easily accessible by ferry. The journey by boat can be as short as 2.5 hours, so it's an excellent choice for a Miami to Bahamas one-day trip. The island really has it going on.
A valid passport is required; visas are required where they apply. This includes Europe, Asia, Central and South America. For additional passport information, visit www.travel.state.gov. Royal Caribbean International strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport during their cruise.
You can pay to get your passport sooner if you've not already applied and you think the standard service will take too long. You need to book a passport office appointment and pay online. You can book an appointment up to 3 weeks in advance.
For international flights: If you are traveling internationally, attempting to board your flight with an expired passport will not be possible. Even if you are permitted on the plane, you will likely be turned away upon arrival. It is not worth the risk, so renew your passport before you travel.