Traveling with a small dog can transform a simple trip into a meaningful experience — one filled with warm companionship, curious eyes watching the sea, and the comfort of having your loyal friend beside you. But when planning a cruise, many owners pause and wonder: are small dogs allowed on cruise ships?
The answer is: sometimes, but not always.
Cruise policies vary dramatically depending on the company, the route, the ship, and the type of accommodation you book. Some cruise lines welcome pets under specific conditions, while others strictly forbid them unless the dog is a certified service animal.
This guide explains everything you need to know, from cruise company rules to small-dog behavior onboard, safety considerations, emotional wellbeing, bathroom logistics, and whether cruising is truly right for your little companion.
Let’s begin.
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Are Small Dogs Allowed on Cruise Ships? The Real Answer
Most small dogs are not allowed on mainstream cruise ships unless they are legitimate service animals.
However, a few luxury or specialized cruise lines do welcome small dogs under strict rules.
So the accurate answer to are small dogs allowed on cruise ships? is:
👉 Only on specific cruise lines or itineraries.
Cruise companies fall into three categories:
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No pets at all
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Pets allowed only on certain cruises or decks
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Service dogs always allowed
This is very different from airlines, hotels, or ferry companies, which often have more flexible policies.
Cruise Lines That Allow Small Dogs
Right now, only a few major cruise operators offer pet-friendly voyages, and even then, the rules are strict.
Cunard - Queen Mary 2
The only major transatlantic cruise that openly accepts dogs.
They offer:
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Onboard kennels
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Designated pet deck
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Supervised playtimes
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Required check-in procedures
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Weight limits (perfect for small dogs)
Your dog will not stay in your cabin, but in a supervised pet area.
This is the most common “yes” answer to are small dogs allowed on cruise ships?
Boutique Luxury Cruises (rare)
Some small, private, or chartered yachts may accept small dogs upon request.
This is not standard, and often extremely expensive.
Service Dogs
All cruise lines are legally required to accept fully trained service dogs.
Emotional support animals are almost always refused.
Why Most Cruise Ships Do Not Allow Small Dogs?
If you’re wondering why small dogs are restricted, here are the real reasons:
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Strict sanitation requirements
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Limited outdoor spaces for toileting
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International biosecurity regulations
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Allergy concerns
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Safety risks for the dog
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Confined spaces and noise exposure
Cruise ships operate under multiple countries’ regulations, making pet accommodation extremely complex.
This brings us back to your small dog’s psychology. Many small dogs are sensitive to noise, temperature changes, and movement — which is why you see behaviors like why do small dogs shake or how long does 2 weeks feel to a dog when their routines change.
Cruises intensify these triggers.
If Small Dogs Are Allowed, What Are the Requirements?
If a cruise company allows small dogs, expect:
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Health certificates
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Vaccination proof
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International travel documents
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Microchip identification
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Pet passport for Europe
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Strict drop-off procedures
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Limited visitation hours
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Special toileting areas
These steps ensure hygiene and safety for all passengers.
How Small Dogs React to Being on a Cruise Ship?
Before deciding, it’s important to understand how small dogs cope with the cruise environment.
Small dogs often:
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Bark at unfamiliar noises (how to stop small dog barking at other dogs gives insight into reactivity)
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Shake when anxious
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Refuse to eat during travel
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Hold their pee longer because they don’t feel comfortable
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Struggle with motion sensitivity
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React to crowds
Your dog’s typical behavior on land, barking, shaking, appetite changes, or even food sensitivity is a good predictor of how they’ll behave at sea.
Bathroom Logistics: One of the Hardest Parts
One of the main reasons cruise lines refuse pets is because it’s extremely difficult to provide proper toileting options.
If you’re still asking are small dogs allowed on cruise ships, understand this part clearly:
Dogs must use:
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A designated artificial potty area
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A small turf box
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A special sanitation pad
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A gravel or sand tray
This is not natural for most dogs. Even well-trained dogs may refuse to pee or poop for long hours or even days which is dangerous, as explained in how many times a day should a small dog poop.
Small dogs may also be fearful of using the toileting deck due to:
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wind
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ship movement
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unfamiliar smells
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other animals
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enclosed spaces
Bathroom stress is a major reason cruises reject pets entirely.
Safety Considerations at Sea
Small dogs face unique safety risks onboard:
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Falling through railings
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Slipping on wet decks
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Overheating in cabins
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Being startled by loud noises
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Reacting aggressively when overwhelmed
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Predatory birds on deck
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Encounters with other animals
Should You Bring a Small Dog on a Cruise? The Honest Answer
Even if you find a cruise that accepts small dogs, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s the right environment.
Small dogs thrive on:
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predictable routines
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stable ground
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consistent bathroom schedules
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safe walking paths
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clear calm spaces
Cruise ships offer the opposite.
Unless it’s the Queen Mary 2 or a private yacht charter, bringing your small dog may cause more stress than joy.
If you are determined, consider your dog’s profile:
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Are they calm or reactive?
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Do they adapt to new places quickly?
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Can they handle noise, crowds, and vibration?
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Do they bark at everything?
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Do they get anxious when separated?
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Can they pee or poop on artificial turf?
Your dog’s normal routines feeding, digestion, elimination, reactions... should guide your decision.
Alternatives to Cruises for Pet-Friendly Travel
If you decide a cruise is not the best option, here are pet-friendly alternatives:
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Pet-friendly hotels
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Road trips
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Train travel
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Private yacht rentals
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Lakeside cabins
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Pet-friendly beaches
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RV travel
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Flying with pets in cabin (depending on size)
These options offer freedom, routine, and more comfortable bathroom solutions.
Conclusion: Are Small Dogs Allowed on Cruise Ships?
So, are small dogs allowed on cruise ships?
👉 Yes, but only on very specific cruise lines or under strict rules.
For most ships, the answer is no, unless the dog is a trained service animal.
Even when allowed, small dogs can struggle with:
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noise
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crowds
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movement
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bathroom routines
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emotional stress
Before booking, consider both the cruise line policy and your dog’s wellbeing. Sometimes the most loving choice is choosing a type of travel that keeps them comfortable, safe, and confident.
Your small dog depends on you to make the decision that truly fits their nature.
- With Love, The Amorina Team
Note: This content is for general guidance only, not veterinary advice. Amorina Pet Bags is not liable for actions based on this. Consult a vet for tailored pet care.
