Are you planning a cruise in 2025? There are several important travel changes and cruise line policy updates that you’ll want to know before setting sail.
New rules are already in effect for some travelers, while others are set to roll out later this year. From updated travel requirements for Europe and the United Kingdom to changes in domestic air travel within the United States, these developments could impact everything from how you book your cruise to what you pack.
Whether you’re heading out on a Mediterranean adventure, a British Isles itinerary, or cruising closer to home, this post covers all the latest cruise and travel news you need to prepare for a smooth and stress-free vacation in 2025.
1. New Travel Requirements for Europe and the UK
If you’re planning a European cruise, particularly to popular Mediterranean destinations, there’s some welcome news on the travel requirement front.
ETIAS Delayed Until 2026
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which was initially scheduled to be implemented in 2025, has now been officially delayed until 2026.
Similar to the U.S. ESTA, this electronic authorization system will eventually be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries entering most European nations. However, with the delay, travelers now have more flexibility and time before they need to worry about applying.
So, if you’ve been anxious about securing ETIAS approval ahead of your cruise vacation, rest assured because there is no immediate rush to complete this process. This gives cruise travelers one less thing to worry about as they prepare for their summer European cruise.
ETA Required for UK Travel
The ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorization, is something that everyone traveling to the UK will need, whether you’re flying in or arriving by cruise. This authorization is easy to obtain and costs only £7, or around $13 USD.
However, it’s important to be cautious. Some unofficial websites charge more than the standard fee, so it’s crucial to apply only through the official UK government website.
The process typically takes about three days, and there have been cases of travelers receiving their approval sooner. Still, it’s best not to wait until the last minute.
2. U.S. Domestic Travel: Real ID Requirements Coming
Starting in May 2025, U.S. domestic air travel will require passengers to present a Real ID or an acceptable alternative form of identification. This is particularly important for cruisers flying to their departure ports.
Acceptable alternatives include a valid passport, passport card, Global Entry card, or an enhanced driver’s license, available only in select states such as New York, Washington, Michigan, Vermont, and Minnesota.
With these new requirements quickly approaching, checking your documents ahead of time is important to guarantee you’re fully prepared and avoid any last-minute issues at the airport.
3. AARP Gift Card Update
If you have been relying on AARP gift cards to save on cruises with lines like Princess, Holland America, or Carnival, there is an important update to be aware of. As of January 2025, Carnival has officially stopped accepting these discount cards, and AARP is no longer selling them for use with the cruise line.
This change follows a gradual decline in their value throughout the previous year. The discount dropped from 10 percent to 8 percent in November, then down to 5 percent in December, before being phased out entirely.
For many cruisers, these cards offered a small but welcome way to cut costs, and their removal marks the end of a popular savings option. It remains to be seen whether similar programs will emerge in the future. However, those extra cruise savings through AARP are off the table for now.
4. Norwegian Cruise Lines Free at Sea is Now “More at Sea”
Norwegian Cruise Line has officially retired its popular “Free at Sea” program and introduced a new version called “More at Sea,” which took effect in January 2025. This updated package still includes many of the perks cruisers loved, such as a beverage package, specialty dining, internet minutes, and shore excursion credits.
While it comes at a slightly higher price point than the original program, many cruise travelers have found that it offers strong overall value, especially when bundled into the cruise cost.
5. Carnival’s New Age Booking Policy
Carnival Cruise Line has made a notable change to its booking policy that affects younger cruise travelers planning to travel independently. As of 2025, guests must now be at least 21 years old to book a Carnival cruise on their own.
This new age requirement means that anyone under the age of 21 must be accompanied by someone at least 25 years old to sail. The policy promotes a safer and more responsible cruising environment for younger guests.
There are, however, a couple of key exceptions to this rule. Married couples under 21 are still allowed to book and cruise without an older companion, as are individuals actively serving in the military.
6. Gratuity Increases Across Cruise Lines
Cruise lines gradually raise their daily gratuity rates, which continue into 2025. Margaritaville at Sea recently increased its standard gratuities from 18 dollars to 20 per person daily.
In addition, service charges for spa treatments, specialty dining, and drinks have increased, rising from 18 percent to 20 percent. Other major cruise lines, including Disney and Royal Caribbean, have also implemented similar increases.
While these adjustments may seem small, they can add up throughout a cruise, especially for families or guests on longer itineraries. One helpful tip for travelers is to prepay gratuities when booking.
Doing so locks in the current rate, protecting you from any price hikes that may occur before your departure date.
7. New U.S. Entry Requirement for Long-Term Visitors
Beginning in April 2025, travelers entering the United States for 30 days or more must register with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This change is especially relevant for Canadian snowbirds who spend extended periods in the country during winter.
While this new requirement may sound concerning, there is some good news. Canadians are currently exempt from the fingerprinting process as part of the registration.
To guarantee compliance, travelers should check their I94 status online, particularly if they plan to visit the United States for an extended stay around or after the implementation date. Being proactive will help avoid any disruptions or complications during travel.
8. Tourist Taxes at Cruise Ports
Several popular cruise ports are introducing new tourist taxes in 2025, which could impact the cost and planning of your trip. In Venice, Italy, visitors may be charged up to ten euros per day, although this fee can be reduced to five euros if registration is completed at least four days in advance.
In Greece, ports like Mykonos and Santorini implement seasonal taxes during peak travel times to manage over-tourism. Meanwhile, Mexico has proposed a forty-two dollar per person tourist tax specifically for cruise passengers.
Although originally planned for January, this tax has been delayed until July 2025. If it goes into effect, it could influence cruise itineraries and pricing.
Some cruise lines may choose to include these additional charges in the total booking cost, so it is important to stay updated as more information becomes available.
9. New Banned Items on Cruises
Recent updates to cruise line policies have led to new restrictions on what passengers can bring aboard. Most cruise lines no longer allow guests to bring full cases of bottled water, though some may offer alternative options or guideline.
Many cruise lines still permit each guest to bring one bottle of wine, but only on embarkation day. Personal internet routers are also banned due to potential signal interference and security concerns.
To avoid any issues during boarding, reviewing your cruise line’s official list of prohibited items before you pack is important.
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How do you feel about these new travel and cruise changes? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ilana
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