Can a Felon Go on a Cruise? A Complete Guide

Can a felon go on a cruise? Yes, felons can go on cruises, but not all cruises are an option. It depends on the cruise and the destinations. Some ports and countries do not allow US felons to enter.

Boarding a cruise ship poses unique challenges for individuals with a criminal record, as cruise lines often enforce strict policies regarding passenger eligibility. These policies may vary depending on the destination and the specific restrictions imposed by each port of call.

For felons, navigating these regulations becomes crucial, as certain places may restrict entry based on criminal history. In this article we explain which countries allow felons on cruise ships and which countries do not.

Can a Convicted Felon Go on a Cruise?

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Yes, felons can go on a cruise, but in planning a cruise, it’s crucial to be aware of the policies and restrictions that apply, especially for individuals with a felony conviction.
While cruise destinations span various countries, each has its own documentation requirements and policies regarding felons on cruises. These restrictions are set by cruise lines and the countries they visit, ensuring compliance with local laws and safety measures.
Staying informed about such policies is essential, as they dictate whether a convicted felon can embark on cruises or if certain restrictions are in place that may affect their ability to travel freely.

What Cruise Can a Felon Go on?

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, and New Zealand are popular cruise destinations, but travelers with a criminal record need to carefully navigate the rules and restrictions of these countries, as well as the United Kingdom.

When a cruise goes to Alaska, it usually must stop in Canada due to a rule called the Passenger Vessel Services Act. However, individuals with a criminal record might face restrictions on these cruises.

This also applies to cruises that travel to Australia and New Zealand, Canada and New England, the Mexican Riviera, and along the California coast. Some Caribbean cruises might also be off-limits if they stop in any of these countries.

Each destination has its own set of rules for entry, making it crucial for travelers with a criminal record to understand these requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

What Destinations Felons Can And Can’t Cruise to?

Understanding which destinations felons can and cannot cruise to involves navigating a complex web of international laws and cruise line policies.

1: New Zealand

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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No, felons are not always able to go to New Zealand. New Zealand enforces rigorous character criteria for tourists, and individuals with a felony conviction within the last 10 years are generally unable to travel to New Zealand on a cruise.

5: Caribbean

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Yes, felons are able to go on a cruise to the Caribbean. US citizens must ensure they meet all entry criteria, including possessing a valid passport or passport card.
For felons wanting to visit these nations, understanding the specific regulations for entry is essential, as each Caribbean destination may have different requirements and considerations.

6: Bahamas

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Yes, Felons are able to go on a cruise to the Bahamas using a passport card with no probation restrictions. Ensuring compliance with these regulations, including possessing a valid passport card, is crucial for felons seeking to visit the country.

7: Hawaii

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Yes, a felon can travel on a cruise to Hawaii without additional restrictions as long as they stay within the USA. It’s advisable to confirm the cruise itinerary, as some routes may include stops at Vancouver, Canada, where strict entry rules generally prevent most felons from entering.

Cruise Line Policies

Cruise line policies for passengers with felony convictions can vary a lot. Different companies have different rules, and it also depends on the type of crime.

1: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Felons are allowed to embark on a Royal Caribbean Cruise without the risk of being denied based on previous felonies. For details on their policy regarding refusal of transportation, you can refer to this link, which does not mention criminal records or past felonies.

2: Disney Cruise Line

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Taking a Disney Cruise Line voyage offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a memorable cruise experience. Individuals with felony convictions are permitted to go on a Disney Cruise Line.

Interested individuals must consider the Disney Cruise terms and conditions regarding backgrounds and offences when planning their trip.

Disney Cruise Line maintains specific conditions for guests concerning their right to passage and adherence to their terms.

3: Carnival Cruise Line

Can A Felon Go On A Cruise

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Felons can go on a Carnival cruise, but they must adhere to the company’s guest screening policy before boarding. This policy looks into the felonies on the records of people seeking passage to ensure they have the right to travel.

The guest screening policy specifies that they can refuse boarding to individuals with convictions for certain felonies, such as aggravated physical or sexual assault, armed robbery, and other violent crimes. They also state they may check public records and will issue a refund if entry is denied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Felon Go on a Carnival Cruise?

Carnival prioritizes the safety of its guests and crew and thus retains the right to refuse boarding to individuals convicted of certain crimes. These crimes may include aggravated physical assault, sexual assault and related offenses, armed robbery, and other violent acts.

Can a Felon Go on a Disney Cruise?

Disney Cruise Line retains the authority to refuse boarding to guests with criminal histories. For safety reasons, they also will not permit passage to women who are in their 24th week of pregnancy or will reach that stage during the cruise.

Can a Convicted Felon Get a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

Yes, individuals with felony convictions can indeed obtain a passport.

Does Carnival Cruise Do Background Checks?

Yes, Carnival Cruise Line conducts background checks on all guests before boarding. These checks help ensure the safety and security of everyone on board.

Can a Felon Go on a Cruise to Canada?

If a person with a felony is granted a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Criminal Rehabilitation (CR), they may be permitted entry into Canada.

Can a Felon Go on a Cruise to the Bahamas?

People who are currently under community supervision in the United States are not allowed to enter the Bahamas.

Can a Felon Go on a Cruise to Jamaica?

Most Caribbean nations, except Jamaica, do not restrict entry based on criminal records. Jamaica specifically prohibits individuals with felony convictions from entering the country. It is important to research the specific laws and regulations of your destination before traveling there due to these differing policies.

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