In recent years, cruise lines have become well known for their “themed” cruises. There have been LGBTQIA+ cruises for years. Friends of ours have been going on various rock and roll cruises for years. The Broadway Cruise has hosted all-star lineups since 2023. And the inaugural Hallmark Christmas Cruise was so popular this year that it’s already scheduled another one for 2025.
Change topics for a moment, and you’ve got lots and LOTS of people who like to bring their dogs on vacation with them. There are plenty of outdoor venues who welcome well-behaved dogs on leashes. And more and more hotels have become pet-friendly over the years, too. So is it surprising that the first pet dog-friendly cruise has just been announced?
In a first for pet-friendly travel, Cruise Tails has teamed up with OTA Expedia Cruises to launch the first-ever dog-friendly cruise that’s made for you AND your favorite canine. Set to sail on Margaritaville at Sea’s flagship vessel, The Islander, the voyage will have its embarkation (you see what they did there?) in November 2025 from Tampa, Florida.
The cruise will sail from November 18 to 24, 2025 and promises:
- Dreamy tropical retreats with luxe comfort
- 3 stunning, exotic destinations
- Endless onboard fun and adventure
- Non-stop entertainment and thrills
- Gourmet delights
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- All taxes, port fees and crew gratuities included
In total, 250 dogs will board the vessel. The specialty cruise, called Cruise Tails, will feature activities such as costume contests, parades, and dog shows. The new cruise experience is designed to be inclusive to its pup passengers sailing to the Caribbean.
Per their press release, each pet owner will be assigned a “Pet Butler” while on the Islander, who will ensure the cabins of the dog travelers, along with the vessel itself, remain in “top condition.” Each room with a canine passenger also has a “private relief station” on the balcony.
Owners will be invited to participate in activities with and without their furry friends, as they can “book with dog groomers, enjoy puppy massages, visit dog-friendly splash stations, and more,” as per Cruise Tails.
“I consider my Yorkie, Louis, to be part of my family, and for years, I missed out on the ‘family reunion’ cruise because I will not travel without him,” Steve Matzke of Cruise Tails said in a release. “I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers.”
Prices vary from $1,700 to $3,550 per guest, based on double occupancy.
Of course, dogs on a cruise isn’t the same as people on a cruise. Cruise Tails’ protocols on the journey will include an approval process to ensure dogs are up to date on their vaccinations and are prepared to travel. Once on board, all canine cruisers will be expected to follow the rules established for them and their human handlers.
And yep, other cruise lines – Cunard Line and the Queen Mary 2 – allow pets on board. But this is the first “pet themed” cruise the world has ever seen.
Interested human travelers are encouraged to review the qualifications, protocols and tips as soon as possible, then fill out an application.
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