@charityky

If there’s one parent on the birth certificate and you’re cruising with your child, the original birth certificate is what you need to bring with you. A passport is always a great thing to have, though if you have time and the interest in the investment. It makes it easier to travel. It’s always good to check with the cruise in advance if you have a circumstance that might be unique, ccruisedocumentsrroyalcaribbeanc#cruisingwithkids

♬ original sound – Charity🌺Family.Travel.Points.

If you’re cruising with your child and you’re the only parent listed on their birth certificate, you might be wondering:
Do I need a notarized letter or any special documentation?

The short answer:

No, you don’t need a notarized letter of consent if you are the only parent listed.

Here’s why — and a few tips to make your trip even smoother.

---

🛳️ Why You Don’t Need a Consent Letter

When you’re the sole parent or legal guardian listed on the birth certificate, cruise lines and U.S. Customs and Border Protection recognize that there is no other parent to give permission.

This is most relevant on closed-loop cruises, which are sailings that start and end at the same U.S. port (like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, or Galveston). For these cruises, U.S. citizens under 16 can travel with:

• An original or certified copy of their birth certificate,
• And (for adults) a government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license.

---

📄 What to Bring

Even though a notarized letter isn’t needed, here are the documents I recommend bringing:

• ✅ Your child’s original or certified birth certificate
• ✅ Your government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license)
• ✅ Your child’s passport if they have one (optional, but strongly recommended)
• ✅ Any supporting documents you may have (optional, but helpful)
  • Custody paperwork, adoption records, or court documentation, if applicable

Having a passport for your child is especially helpful in case of emergencies, like if your ship is rerouted or delayed in a foreign port and you have to fly home.

---

🚩 Tip: Be Prepared for Questions

Most people breeze through check-in without issues. But occasionally, a crew member or border agent may ask about your relationship to the child. Having clear documentation makes everything easier, especially if your last names are different.

---

🧳 Final Thought

Cruising with kids is one of the best ways to travel as a family. And if you’re the only parent listed on the birth certificate, you’re good to go- no consent letter required. Just pack your documents, keep them handy, and enjoy your vacation.

---

🛂 Don’t Risk Being Denied Boarding

When it comes to travel documents, one missing paper can ruin your entire trip. Cruise lines are strict, and requirements vary depending on your situation.

That’s why I created the Royal Caribbean Travel Documents Checklist, a 1-page printable that makes sure you have exactly what you need: passports, IDs, kids’ forms, name-change documents, and more.

👉 Instant download for just $2.99, peace of mind for less than the cost of a coffee.

---

🔒 Want total peace of mind?
Bundle the Documents Checklist + Embarkation Day Planner for just $7.99 and start your cruise stress-free.

---

📌 Save this post for later, and follow me for more cruise & travel tips.