New Travel Rules Affecting Cruise Travelers in 2026

Introduction

Several major travel rule changes are taking effect in 2026, impacting both air travel and cruising. Some of these have already begun rolling out — and one major development broke on New Year's Eve that every cruise traveler needs to know about.

Air Travel Updates

REAL ID Requirements The TSA now requires REAL ID or compliant identification for all domestic travel. Acceptable forms include:

• Official REAL ID driver's license
• Passport (physical)
• Enhanced driver's license
• NEXUS or Global Entry card

For travelers without any of these, the TSA now offers a TSA Confirm ID process for a $45 fee, valid for 10 days of travel. It can be completed online before arriving at the airport or at marked locations near security checkpoints. Expect delays of 10–30 minutes or more.

Important reminder: REAL ID cannot be used for cruise travel. Several travelers have been denied boarding for this exact reason.

Digital Passport Cards A digital passport card is not valid for international travel. You must carry your physical passport book when flying internationally.

Biometric Entry & Exit Effective December 26, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security finalized a rule to collect biometric data (including facial scans) for visitors entering and exiting the United States. This applies to flying, land borders, and maritime operations including cruises. Many U.S. airports and ports of entry are already using facial recognition, particularly for non-citizens.

Traveling to Europe

EES — Entry/Exit System The EES replaces traditional passport stamping with a biometric process for most non-EU travelers, including Americans and Canadians. Rollout began in October 2025 and will be fully implemented by April 2026. This affects all travelers visiting the 29 Schengen Area countries — which includes popular cruise departure ports in Germany, France, Austria, Italy, Greece, Spain, and Norway.

UK ETA — Electronic Travel Authorization If you're cruising from, to, or through the UK, you must obtain a UK ETA. Key details:

• Not a visa — it's a travel authorization
• Apply directly on the official UK government website
• Cost: £16
• Valid for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first

ETIAS — European Travel Information & Authorization System ETIAS has been delayed over a year but is expected to launch around mid-2026. Required for travelers from the US, Canada, and other non-EU countries visiting the Schengen Area. Expected cost is around €20. Updates will be provided as they become available.

Cruise Line Policy Changes

Non-Refundable Deposits Becoming the New Standard Several major cruise lines have shifted their default pricing to non-refundable deposits:

• Royal Caribbean and Celebrity — already in place
• Princess Cruises — newly implemented; the lowest price shown on their website is now non-refundable
• Virgin Voyages — introduced a three-tier pricing system; the base fare displayed is non-refundable

This shift mirrors airline and resort industry norms and is driven by tight inventory and travelers holding placeholder bookings far in advance.

Medication Rules There has been some clarification on bringing medications aboard:

• Carnival Ambassador John Heald confirmed that pill organizers are allowed
• Most cruise lines still recommend keeping medications in their original prescription containers for verification by security or medical staff

Best practices to follow:

• Carry a written list of all prescription medications
• Bring at least 3–7 extra days of medication in case of travel delays
• Always check the destination country's rules — some medications that are legal at home may be controlled substances elsewhere

Big News: Hawaii Cruise Tax — Still in Limbo

This is the biggest developing story heading into 2026. Hawaii implemented a tourist tax targeting cruise passengers that could add $500 or more to the cost of a Hawaii cruise. Here's how it has unfolded:

• Cruise lines launched legal proceedings to block the tax
• In mid-December 2025, courts initially ruled in Hawaii's favor, allowing the tax to proceed
• On December 31st, 2025, a federal appeals court issued an injunction blocking the tax — at least temporarily

The situation remains unresolved. If you have a Hawaii cruise booked, pad your budget accordingly. More legal developments are expected in 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Get REAL ID-compliant identification before traveling domestically
• Carry your physical passport book for all international and cruise travel
• Research EES, UK ETA, and ETIAS requirements before any European cruise
• Understand whether your cruise deposit is refundable or not before booking
• Pack extra medications and check destination country rules
• Watch the Hawaii cruise tax situation closely before booking