Here’s What We Know About the First Dog Cruise

In November 2025, the Margaritaville Sea Islander cruise ship will set sail from Tampa, Florida, for its inaugural pet-friendly cruise, welcoming up to 250 dogs onboard.

This marks the first time a major cruise line is offering such an experience, with dogs invited to join their families on a 6-night journey that will visit Key West, Progreso, and Cozumel, with two days at sea.

Here’s what we know so far about the cruise:

Cruise Details

• Sailing Dates: November 18–24, 2025

• Duration: 6 nights/7 days

• Destinations: Key West, Progreso, and Cozumel, with two days at sea.

• Booking Opens: Reservations open in December 2024.

Dog-Friendly Features

The cruise will offer several activities and amenities for canine passengers, such as:

• Puppy Massages

• Costume Contests

• Dog Shows

Cost and Requirements

There will be an additional $1,500 fee for each dog traveling. This covers accommodations, onboard dog-friendly activities, and additional staff for pet care.

• For humans: A valid REAL ID, registered birth certificate, or passport is required.

• For dogs: Proof of vaccinations and a “passport” issued by Cruise Tails will be needed.

Relief Stations for Dogs

One of the logistical challenges with traveling with pets on a cruise is where dogs will go to relieve themselves. To address this Cruise Tales states that each dog-friendly cabin will have a private relief station on the balcony, and additional relief stations will be located throughout the ship.

Concerns from Pet Owners

Recently, we asked our followers on Instagram if they would consider taking their dogs on a 6-day cruise, and the majority of responses were positive, with many owners expressing excitement about the opportunity to travel with their pets. However, not all feedback was enthusiastic. One respondent shared concerns, describing the idea as a potential nightmare for her dog.

This highlights the importance of considering individual dogs' temperaments and needs before committing to such a trip. While some dogs may enjoy the experience, others might struggle with the duration or changes in routine.

Why It Matters

This pet-friendly cruise offers a unique opportunity for dog owners to take their pets on vacation, but it also raises questions about the challenges of traveling with animals on a cruise ship. The success of this inaugural sailing could pave the way for more pet-friendly cruises in the future, or it could highlight the complexities of accommodating animals on a large ship.

Additional Information

For more details or to join the waitlist once bookings open, visit the Cruise Tails website.

While the idea of a dog-friendly cruise is an exciting new concept, it’s clear that pet owners should carefully consider whether their dogs are suited for a cruise of this length before making a booking.