Required Travel Documents
You’ve booked your cabin, planned your outfits, and memorized the lineup. But if your travel documents aren’t in order, you’re not getting on the boat. Period.
Don’t let paperwork kill the vibe. Here’s everything you need to know about Cruise to the Edge ID requirements so you’re stage-side, not left behind. We’re Prog Rock, not red tape, but when it comes to international travel, this stuff matters.
SO…DO YOU NEED A PASSPORT?
Yes, we highly recommend that all guests travel with a valid passport.
Since you’ll be leaving the country, a passport ensures compliance with U.S. CBP identification requirements and allows you to sail smoothly aboard the Norwegian Pearl on this epic progressive rock cruise.
A PASSPORT IS REQUIRED IF:
- You’re not a U.S. citizen
- You’re flying into or out of a foreign country as part of your trip
- You need emergency medical evacuation or must disembark early in a foreign port
IMPORTANT: Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your cruise’s return date.
Accepted Travel Documents for U.S. Citizens
These progressive rock cruise boarding requirements exist so you’re cleared for departure and ready to rock. If you don’t have a passport, you may still sail, but only under specific conditions. You must carry one of the following three sets of documents:
OPTION 1 – U.S. Passport (Recommended)
- U.S. Passport (valid through travel dates and for six months beyond)
OPTION 2 – PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP + PHOTO ID
Accepted documents include:
- ONLY an Original or State Certified copy of a Government Issued Birth Certificate with a raised seal or holographic image
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (notarized copies not acceptable)
- Certificate of Naturalization (notarized copies not acceptable)
Important:
- Photo ID must be valid, government-issued (driver’s license, etc.)
- The name on the ID must match the proof of citizenship; bring documentation for any name changes (marriage certificate, etc.)
- U.S. citizens under the age of 16 do not require a government-issued photo ID, but must show proof of citizenship
OPTION 3 – WHTI-COMPLIANT DOCUMENTS
Certain WHTI documents are accepted. Check details here: WHTI Info
NOT ACCEPTED AS PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP:
- Notarized photocopies of birth certificates or passports
- Hospital birth records
- Social Security cards
- Voter registration cards
- Baptismal certificates
- World Passports
Guests relying on these documents will be denied boarding.
Non-U.S. Citizens
All non-U.S. citizens must carry a valid passport that does not expire within six months of your return date. Some guests may also require:
- A valid U.S. multiple re-entry visa
- Tourist visas for certain ports of call
Check with consulates, embassies, or immigration offices for requirements specific to your nationality.
U.S. Alien Residents (Green Card Holders)
If you’re a U.S. permanent resident:
- You must carry your valid passport and your Alien Resident Card (ARC or “Green Card”)
- Expired ARC cards can result in denial of re-entry, check the date and renew if needed
- Some ARC holders may still require visas for certain countries
Sometimes, non-U.S. citizens and ARC holders may be asked to surrender documents at embarkation, which will be returned at debarkation.
For Green Card renewal info, visit: USCIS Green Card Renewal
Visa Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
Non-U.S. citizens require a valid, machine-readable passport and may also need a valid, unexpired U.S. multiple re-entry visa if applicable.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
Eligible international travelers wishing to visit the U.S. under the VWP must apply for ESTA authorization. Citizens from VWP countries must carry a machine-readable, biometric passport with a digital photo, valid for the entire voyage. Guests without proper identification may be refused boarding or entry into the U.S.
More info: U.S. Visa Waiver Program and ESTA information.
Pro Tips – Music Cruise Travel Documents
- Ensure your passport is valid at least 6 months beyond your cruise return date
- Names must match exactly across all documents
- Print copies of all documents—your phone battery won’t save you at check-in
- Keep all documents in your carry-on, not checked luggage
- Traveling with minors? Extra documentation required (see below)
Real ID for U.S. Domestic Flights
As of May 7, 2025, every U.S. air traveler age 18+ must carry a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly domestically.
REAL IDs are marked with a star in the upper corner. Not sure if yours qualifies? Contact your state DMV.
More details: REAL ID Info
Adults Traveling With Minor Children
Adults traveling with children who aren’t their own must bring:
- The child’s passport (or certified birth certificate)
- A notarized letter from a parent authorizing the trip and medical care if needed
- Or legal guardianship papers
Don’t let paperwork stop you from boarding the ship.
Inoculation & Health Requirements
All guests must be medically fit for travel. Requirements may include vaccination, testing, or other health protocols from NCL, the CDC, or local authorities.
Check with:
Rock Cruise Document Checklist
Your Cruise to the Edge Travel Documents include:
- Passport (or alternate approved documents)
- Boarding pass
- Emergency contacts & medical info
- Travel insurance details
- Rock spirit and prog vibes
Improper documents mean denied boarding. No refund, no exceptions.
MORE INFO & RESOURCES
- U.S. State Department Passport Info
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Canadian Travel Resources
Don’t let paperwork blow your encore. Rock smart, travel prepared.