Passports are still not required of cruise passengers who are sailing a closed loop cruise from any US port (beginning and ending in the same US port) at this time. They are allowed to travel using a certified copy of their birth certificate and a government issued photo id.
HOWEVER, if they should have to fly home for any given emergency they will have huge problems!! If they should miss their ship and need to catch up at the next port they cannot fly. There are any number of things that could occur and actually do occur to travelers where a passport is absolutely necessary!
Take my advice, spend the money, take the time and trouble and get your passport anytime you plan to leave the country! Not only that, but make sure it is valid for 6 months past when you plan to return. Make 2 copies of your passport identification page. Keep one copy with you along with an extra photo. This will help you should your passport be lost or stolen. The other copy along with your itinerary should be left with a family member or a friend who you should list as your emergency contact person.
Be sure to report any lost or stolen passports as quickly as possible!
There is more info on www.travel.state.gov/passport that you should also take a look at. There are passport cards available too, but probably won’t work well for vacationers.
Be safe and smart, nor sorry!! Get your passport!
