MEMBER SUBMISSION: I wanted to share a recent experience with you of being denied boarding on Norwegian Cruise Line. I have previously been on one of their cruises after my conviction with no problems after researching what cruise lines allowed people forced to register. We planned this new cruise on NCL with 12 other family members, my husband and I for a family vacation. I received a call from NCL one week prior to the cruise and was told my reservation was being canceled and because I was on the sex offender registry and I could not appeal the decision. I looked up and contacted Matthew Lewis (Sr. VP Chief Security Officer) and was then contacted by Scott Bernstein (Director of Security Operations and Investigations) who’s was very polite and professional. He said he would look into the matter and call me back. He called me back the next day and told me that it was a new policy, started on June 1st 2022 and purely by being on the registry regardless of my crime, which was non-violent with no actual victim from a sting operation, bans me from being allowed on their ships. I don’t know what you will do with this information but I wanted to share it with you.
Ex Post Facto – Sustainer 2024
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I want to put this out. I just got back from a MSC 7 day cruise. I got wonderful news to tell you. The day I boarded the cruise I did not have any problems at all. All went well. Then when I got off today. I had no problems. I just went right through. Was never stopped and pulled aside.
Here is the other thing I want to share. One of the stops was Montego Bay, Jamaica. I was able to walk right off with no problem at all. And other stop was Ocean Cay, Bahamas a private owned Island by MSC. I got off fine.
I didn’t have any issues has a RSO.
I will be going back on to MSC Cruise 🛳.
Does anyone know of any all inclusive s that allow RSO?
I wanted to share that we too were successful in taking MSC earlier this month. My husband even has a passport with the identifier and embarkation took less that 30 minutes. Had no issues whatsoever getting off the ship in the Bahamas either. Debarkation was just as fast. Literally just walked off, had our faces scanned by the facial recognition software customs uses and walked outside. We will definitely be sailing with them again.
Ive been on a registy for a crime ive never comitted or would even think about commiting .Never the less Ive been on 45 cruise with never an issue and as of 4 years ago ive been kicked off every cruise line except MSC. But im sure is coming.
curtisscotthansen.com
anyone know about princess cruises as of january 2024? weird story but I talked to a RSO while at a bar on a MSC cruise. He said he goes on princess all the time and it’s only now
princess and MSC that will
allow RSO. Can anyone verify ?
How does these cruise lines know a person is on the registry they actually do back ground checks or ppl just tell them after reading all of the nigmare post
Well I did write a long detailed response however the stupid software deleted my entire message saying it was too long with no ability to go back and correct it so the bottom line of my post was to say nobody wants you to travel this system is designed to make you fail you do not want to be in multiple Ports computers for years with the possibility of getting denied my advice and my experience is to do last-minute travel after you’ve left the United States and book your cruise I don’t know if it’s because of the European rights to move on but my experience is that you will not have a problem if you do not leave from a US port and you book Outside the US jurisdiction maybe they don’t do background checks if it’s not booked in the US I’ve been lucky and I have gotten away and Cruise on some of the so-called band lines even when my final destination was a port in the US as my return my suggestion is also to do last-minute travel you get great deals you avoid having to notify every single port that you’re coming And the system tends to not work to your detriment when done like this and outside the country if you think there’s a clear cut procedure with clear cut companies that are always going to allow you to travel after you tell them that you’re a registrant you should not waste your money I also suggest travel insurance that covers all situations including visa problems
Well we didn’t need more excuses for Problems with cruises but after I saw this posted 4 hours ago Lauren Book is already jumping on the bandwagon with more reasons to push for more nonsense legislation that hurts us and helps nobody in reality. Earlier this month, MSC Cruises was sued for two alleged sex crimes on separate ships. One lawsuit alleged a crew member raped a passenger, and the other accused the cruise line of failing to protect an underage girl from being molested in a bathroom.
Hi, my brother who is a registered felon was just notified that he would not be allowed to board. There are 12 of us going, two families who know my brother and his background. This has ruined our vacation before it even started. We never would have booked with NCL if this policy was stated somewhere, which it is not. We will never cruise with NCL again. Note, 6 months ago the same bunch of us cruised to Alaska on Princess Cruise lines and he had no problem. Steer clear of Norwegian and Carnival.
is he on the RSO….or is it a different type of felony?
Tony,
I’m interested in an MSC cruise. Do you ever have any issues? I would do Princess too.
NCL did us the same way, my husband and I have cruised with NCL in the pas and booked again to cruise last May 2023 and between 4-5 days my husband received a call that he was not allowed to board due to being a RSO and would be refunded. This was very heartbreaking because it was our Anniversary. Instead I booked a week in the US virgin Islands with no issues
Hi I was wondering what you had to do to visit the Virgin Islands? I know you have to contact SORA but what about when you get to the islands? First time thinking of leaving the country.
US Virgin Islands should be no problem. The British VI will not permit SOs to visit
Did they refund your entire trip or only your husbands since technically you weren’t restricted? We want to take our kids too, so nervous to risk not getting our refund if they deny my husband.
Were you refunded by NCL or did you have to file an insurance claim. We’re in this same situation and our cruise is 11 days away. It’s BS that NCL does not disclose this information on their website. Thank you for you time.
I just sailed on Carnival with my son.For those wondering g, they have updated their cruise contract with a list of those who will be denied sailing. It now lists other violent felonies including armed robbery, domestic assault, manslaughter, and murder, along with any sexual assault. Thought that was interesting. Also, has anyone here recently cruised with MSC? If so, how was that process? Any ports you were denied entering? Did you have a passport?
I traveled on MSC from New York City to Bermuda this past August 2023. I had no issues getting on board. Getting off the ship in Bermuda there was no issues. Just walked off the ship and right into port. No Passport was needed. I just used my driver’s license to get back on board the ship with my ship card.
When I got back to NYC I got a call from guest relations. They said that immigration and customs needed to see me before I got off the ship. When I meet with them, they just looked at my passport and my driver’s license. They asked if my address has changed. I said no and I was on my way. I recommend MSC.
Thank you for that information. Did you book directly with the cruise line or through a travel agent? Did you have to be selective about where you wanted to go, or was any itinerary open to you? Hope you don’t mind my questions. I just want all my ducks in a row before I make any plans. I don’t need the rug pulled out from underneath me, or my husband for that matter.
We booked directly with MSC. We only looked at MSC cruises leaving NYC since we live in NY. The Bermuda trip fit into our summer schedule. I did my research on Bermuda and didn’t find anything saying I would not be aloud in. I know Grand Cayman won’t let RSO in. I don’t know about other islands.
Hello Dan,
I was wondering if you would be willing to help me. My husband is a RSO and we are wanting to go on a cruise this summer. After reading your submission, I was very excited to see that MSC allows RSO on board. My husband likes to double check and I called MSC and asked them if a RSO could Cruise with them. They put me on hold and got back on and said no, they couldn’t. I didn’t tell them where we planned to go or port, so I know it wasn’t an issue there. I was just curious if you had some other information that would be relevant. My husband is fearful that we will book it and then they will cancel. Thank you for your time.
I have a cruise on MSC currently booked and fully paid for sailing in March. We also called to verify if my husband could sail and we were told they (MSC) doesn’t screen passengers and that he’d just have to make sure the country we are visiting will allow him in.(We are currently working on that) When you called did you speak to their security or just a customer service rep?(we only spoke to a rep) You now have me wondering if my husband will be denied boarding now. I’m honestly considering canceling at this point to save the hassle.
Hi,
There is nothing more I can add. I booked my cruise directly with MSC. Never mentioned that I was RSO. I sent my trip info to NY SORA as I have to do when leaving the USA. I had no issues. I took the cruise in August of 2023.
Does anyone know if you’re on Virgin Voyages, whether you’d be prohibited from Puerto Plata? I’ve read on the travel matrix they prohibit RSO. My husband is a RSO. We had a great time on VV. Just had extra security checks. So we want to do another but not sure about ports or leaving internationally from Spain or Greece. Any feedback appreciated!
I’m curious how you were able to sail on Virgin at all. Did you book through an agent or thr cruise line directly. I looked at their cruise contract and it clearly states no one with any criminal background is able to sail. My husband and I wanted to try Virgin, but didn’t want to waste our time if he is going to be denied passage.
Vv no longer allows rso
I think their “rule” is horse poop
how many people have crimes on there record no matter how small the crime is a misdemeanor is a crime if that was the case they would have a empty ship.
if you no longer on the registry keep your mouth shut
never heard of a cruise ship doing back ground checks
it could happen IDK cruise line policies
I was flagged and called I wouldn’t be allowed for a misdemeanor arrest. I have no convictions and my case was dismissed. However the check the cruise line used only showed the arrest. Luckily I was able to provide correct documentation showing no convictions and a dismissed case and was allowed to travel. However this was evidence they check and restrict.
Has anyone had any luck getting contact info for Tony?
Just to be clear on this post. NCL does not allow RSO on their cruise ships anymore. We were platinum travelers and are cruise was cancelled last year regardless of the country or ports.
The person I am traveling is no longer on the registry list but just booked with carnival and their rule now is even if your not registered anymore your record has to be expunged clear of any crime.My question is does rcl and ncl have the same rule
It has been several years, but when I got cancelled on RCCL they said I just have to be off the registry. Probably best to call each line and verify.
Don’t want to Jinx future plans however I scheduled a trip at the end of the last year out of Rome to multiple European ports and actually even did my 21 day notice did not have any issues on the ship but questioned at a few ports by customs and they never told the ship security why. . The rule change I believe was in effect when I cruised and for now I will continue but only book out of country trips. I took a chance with my last cruise and got off in Miami. I would suggest not planning and flying to Europe with a last minute cruise out of Europe on ncl. I don’t believe this will trigger any search of the USA registry
I book my cruise back in April .shipping date was September. Keep in mind this was our 4th time sailing . I wish I seen these comments before booking my trip with NCL .. they need to update there policy that they no longer allow RSO .. before sailing they notify my husband 3 days before sailing that he was flagged . Really disappointed on how they run things . Booked 5 month ago and they have the nerve to inform 3 days before sailing .
how long did it take for your refund to be issued and were you also refunded for all the purchases you made for onboard the ship as well, ie. spa, internet, and drink packages?
I just canceled my NCL cruise after reading this, glad I did. The woman I spoke with confirmed RSO are no longer welcome on their ships. The only way they know is when you give the 21 day advance notice for international travel the FEDs contact them and tell them the boogie man is coming . So if you want to not let them know that’s on you, but I’m not taking that risk. Federal prison doesn’t sound like a good time. Now I’m booking a Hawaii vacation
If you are in the registry in one state but not the state you currently live in would they know??
Do you have the womans name and possibly a phone number?
Could you tell me if you had any issues with Hawaii?
This is all disappointing to me, as I keep seeing the places I can’t go and things I can’t do now that I’m an RSO. My wife kids wanna do something big to celebrate me getting off probation later this year, and thought a cruise would be much easier than going to a theme park. Now, I’m seeing that I’d basically have to go on an adults-only cruise if I even wanted to be considered for embarkation. I wish we could just do our time and move on with our lives.
MSC will allow you, but I have been denied back in 2019 at the following destinations after no problem many times prior (Grand Cayman
Roatan), when you get off the ship to disembark they scan your sea pass and it will make a loud noise and the screen will say “prohibited entry” in red. Good luck everyone, the system continues to fail us, soon we won’t be welcomed anywhere….Safe spot for now is most of Europe and all European Islands….
I have traveled a lot during my lifetime. In fact, I have been to 28 different countries. However, I have come to the conclusion that there is much in the United States I have yet to see, so I have set my goals on domestic sites. My next venture will be to Vicksburg, MS, after reading about it in a book on the Civil War.
With all that’s happening here I want to rent my house out and move somewhere less restrictive. Did my time but no relief and I’m retired army. Any advise
Has anyone boarded an MSC cruise from Europe? Since it is a European line I was wondering if you board in Europe would that make a difference? Thanks for all who are trying to help with information on experience.
Hi, I will be traveling on MSC from New York City to Bermuda in August. Has anyone heard of any issues with these ports?
Thanks
I traveled on MSC from New York City to Bermuda this past August 2023. I had no issues getting on board. Getting off the ship in Bermuda there was no issues. Just walked off the ship and right into port.
When I got back to NYC I got a call from guest relations. They said that immigration and customs needed to see me before I got off the ship. When I meet with them they just looked at my passport and my drivers license. They asked if my address changed. I said no and I was on my way. I recommend MSC.
Can someone please let me know if MSC cruises line will allow RSOs? I am planning to book a marriage cruise.
I was wondering the same thing since europe based.
Thanks
I just got back from week long on msc. No problem boarding. But was pulled getting off. But no real headache. They were not nasty at all.
Did they say you were not allowed or any comments regarding travel?
Nothing really. They were really nice. Searched bags. Asked me do I know why they stopped told them yes. I was traveling with my minor asked them to not scare her and they did wonderful job. Said it was stupid they had to do. Charge 24 years old.
What port did you go out of. And what did they do when they pulled you?
Nassau and their private island ocean cay. Embarkation was really smooth. Probably took 45 mins to get on boat. 30 mins from when I buzzed to search to leaving to get off. Not bad.
Hey all. I am also an RSO in FL and have previously been on NCL and MSC. First problem was earlier this month when I got the NCL cruise that I would be denied boarding for a cruise with my family and two other families. Frustrating as my charge is also 20 years old but we did get fully refunded.
Have an MSC cruise scheduled for May so I hope they stay the same they are now. We actually love MSC. It will now be our cruise line we are loyal to.
I get pulled at the end of every cruise when disembarking at the end. It is actually US Customs not anything to do with the specific cruise line. They also have been generally nice to neutral but either way that works for me. Just the same usual baggage search.
Hope this helps. Please keep me updated for those of you who successfully cruise on MSC. Looking forward to them again in May!
Ch let me know how it goes in May on MSC Cruise. I have one scheduled for February of 2024. Thanks
Happy to report that the cruise to Ocean Cay with MSC with me and the family went great! Even Customs at Port Canaveral was super fast this time. We always liked MSC and I feel that great people fairly. I can only admonish all of us in this situation to always be aware of perception and act cautiously and with class as I know we all will when cruising. It is a fun way to travel and we never want to do anything to risk losing it! For those of you that get to cruise with your families enjoy and make great memories from it!
Thanks for the information. Makes me feel i won’t have any problem going. It gives me peace.
Great to hear that you had fun with your family I like to go myself with my wife and kids!!
how long did it take to get your refund. i was just denied myself. Also i have spa, drinks, internet, and embarkation packages that were purchased. did they literally refund everything
Florida guy… Where did you leave out of Miami or Orlando?
Miami
Ok Miami customs is very friendly and fast, Pre-Covid they would just look at passport at Disembarkment and I never was pulled aside (20+ cruises 2013-2019) apparently things have changed since Covid. If you ever go through Orlando and come back into the country through a cruise ship it was the worst (did this few times pre Covid but stopped due to aggravation) They will stop you at Disembarkment and GO THROUGH EVERY PICTURE AND VIDEO IN YOUR PHONE! Don’t know if has changed since though post Epidemic. Just an FYI be prepared though , I had some intimate pictures of my girlfriend and I, embarrassing!!
So my question is what cruise line and where did you go? Wondering if any issues at points you went ashore?
Thanks
Yes I was a Royal Caribbean Diamond member with over 140 sea days like 30 plus cruises in 10 years before they called during the epidemic and told me I cant sail with them anymore because I was on the registry (which didn’t make sense because they let me sail on case by case basis in which i had to clear myself) charge 24 years old, consensual 5 year age gap..
I was denied at the following ports after being allowed there several times prior: Grand cayman and Roatan. Been on MSC once before but I will continue as it seems my only option, Im sure there are others though that will allow me… maybe Holland or Virgin and some smaller cruise lines….
Do you need passport to go on MCL. Does your passport state you are a RSO?
Did you have any issues with the Bahamas? We are looking at a cruise to the eastern carribean that stops in Puerto Rico, Dom Republic, Bahamas, and Ocean Cay. My husband is a RSO and I just want to make sure he does not have any issues at the ports.
None is Bahamas. But would love to hear if any issues with dom republic
I know thats the one im concerned about. I heatd there is no issues with aruba. Also do you kmow of any issues with Puerto Rico? He can go to the us virgin islands. We just got back from there. Very very pleasant and super nice
I visited Puerto Rico last year, no issues at all.
Same. I was on an MSC cruise in November 2022 that stopped in Bahamas, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Dominican Republic. No issues anywhere which is a little ironic because when I FLEW into DR in July 2022 I was denied entry. But on the cruise ship was fine
Hi , did you have an issues with going to the Virgin Island? How long were you there?
I contacted MSC Cruises and was told they do not have a policy that prevents registrants from cruising. I have an 8 day cruise booked with them for early 2024. I will be contacting MSC this summer to confirm again I am cleared to cruise. If they have changed their policy that will give me enough time to look for another cruise line.
I believe that MSC is a European based line and hope that is true because we have looked at using them also. Please keep us posted.
I hope I can travel. I’m booked on MSC for this upcoming April.
Please keep me informed about your cruise on Apill on MSC. Let me know how it goes.
I am also booked on a MSC cruise for April and I have been told the same thing that they have no policies that normally it’s the port authority that stops RSO and as a secondary screening, does anybody know about that we are going out of Miami in April?
Bryan, please keep me post about your cruise for MSC on April. Our of Miami.
I have a reservation I just booked for February of 2024. I would really appreciate it. Thanks.
So the cruise went off with out a hitch. Boarding was easy, simple and fast. It wasn’t till we came back that we had to report to customs, my wife and myself. Once we got there a customs officer checked our documents and then another one took me in an office and asked a lot of questions about my job and residence history and about my past. Once that was done he let my wife go out front of the terminal and wait for me which was another hour and we missed our train back north. But while waiting he took my phone and watch and told me to wait outside the office and he went back in and turned off the lights and went through my phone, from my emails text and internet search history along with all my photos. And after that he finally called me back in asked a couple of more questions and then let me leave. So from now on to make the process simple and quick I will not be bringing my phone with me anymore. If I want photos my wife or kids will be taking them with their phones or I will use a GoPro. But all in all Miami customs officers are very polite and like to give fist bumps.
I have cruised at the end of last year and also have never had my phone or electronics touched. I have seen others with me have that done but based on comments secondary seems to only do that depending on charges. In the last 10 years on the registry I only had my luggage briefly looked at regardless if from a cruise or a flight
[moderated]
I would also add if you have a iPhone to simply back up reset phone and you can still activate without linking to iCloud so this way you are able to make calls etc but they don’t have any info then you can do a restore when home. I try now to store all my files from a pc also on a remote server or again backup using a drive image program wipe clean. Restore when home. It’s a shame and they should not have access to private files or photos. I have in the past sent my travel partner separate first with my luggage in her bag and wait for me with me having a small bag or suitcase if you don’t do that they could search her bags also if you bring anybody else with you to secondary. Although I have implemented these tips I still have never had my stuff taken. I usually also put my phone in my back pocket and unless asked do not show it. I always travel with my laptop in my carryon laptop bag. Again it’s a form of harassment however I have never had a rude agent they told me before we get flagged then after they review the charges they determine the depth of the inquiry or search. I keep it simple I was on vacation with my partner. I have been asked does she know about the charge and I say yes.
[moderator’s note: when dealing with a border crossing, be sure also to always follow the law, and if you have any questions, consult an attorney].
Interesting they checked your phone in Miami, yes leaving it home next time would be ideal…can I ask you what stops you made on the cruise? No problems getting off at the destinations?
I was refused just before covid at Roatan and Grand Cayman. No problems in others places…
We only went to the private island and getting off and on no problem.
I have concerns about my friend . He likes to go on a cruise to Caribbean cruise but he is a SOR . I’m kind a worried they might deny him . But he went on a cruise last August seven days this year but Alaska cruise NCL. Please let me know what country he can able to cruise . Thank you so much
I though you were taking that comment in another direction…
I’ve had enough cruise time on 4 aircraft carriers, one cruiser, and one destroyer.
thank you for your service ! I to did USAF and all we done for our country and this is how we are repaid…SHAMELESS to say the least…
but speaking of travel RPs are not allowed into some countries
but you can Bet your #ss war breaks out we be the 1st ones shipped out to these countries we was never allowed to travel too.
Just wanted everyone to know that NCL verified that they no longer allow RSO on cruises. I had planned a cruise last year but it was canceled due to covid. They contacted me on 8/29/22 asking if I wanted to rebook. We spoke on the phone for about 5 minutes when I asked about possible changes based on the SOR. The consultant indicted I would not be eligible to cruise at this time. So guess that verifies what the first poster indicted.
Check out my complaint. I sent it to over 20 law offices and other organizations. Not a sole offered assistance. Here:
April 15, 2019
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
On March 28, 2017, I drove onto the lot of Faccillo Affiliates of Florida Inc. in Cape Coral, intending to buy an automobile. I chose Faccillo because he had been advertising for a couple months that you get a free cruise if you buy Kia from him. It sounded like a great deal so I signed the papers. I also wanted to take my friend, Robert, on this cruise. We would have some intimate time getting to know each other better. This will be the first time he and I have traveled anywhere together. I drove away with my new Kia and cruise tickets. We would set sail on December 3rd and be gone for four days and four nights.
Before the cruise, before December 3, I received additional emails from the Faccillo Cruise Control psyching me up for the cruise. On October 18, I received a colorful Congratulation. It says:
Congratulations on the purchase or lease of your Fuccillo vehicle and your upcoming cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas ® December 3 – 8, 2017! Billy, Abby, and Gloria look forward to meeting you and personally thanking you for your valued business.
On November 7, I received a lengthy email that
Congratulations on the purchase or ….. Please save this email as there is information regarding your reservation number, booking drink packages, shore excursions, spa treatments, and specialty dining restaurants. You will also find information on check-in procedures, attire, what to pack, where to park and documentation. It is very important that you review this letter in its entirety to prepare for your cruise! You will want to refer to it, as we get closer to the cruise.
The fees for this “Win a Cruise” totaled $612.67. I paid an additional $84 for Travel Insurance. I had been assigned my cabin. Bobbey also spent hundreds of dollars for meals and an excursion off shore.
On November 7, I received my booking confirmation. On November 13, 2017 I pre-boarded online. I printed out my SETSAIL PASS and Luggage tags. Then on November 28, nine months after I bought the car and 3 days before the cruise was to launch I get a call from Royal Caribbean Global Security. The woman said that she is calling because “you’re on the state registry.”
I am on the sex offender registry for a 1983 crime and I had to get permission from the County Sheriff – which I did.
She told me that there was an open investigation on me because I was on the registry and that I had to be approved by the security team before I could board. She told me to email her and “tell me what’ve you’ve done since your offense” (or something to those words.) She gave me an email to send it to and I quickly got something prepared. I pleaded my case in writings and other documents.
I have accomplished a lot over the past 30 years; since my offense. There is no way that they could deny me. I was sure of it.
Royal Global acknowledge receipt of my documents. I sent 24 pages of documentation showing proof of my accomplishments. The next day I called to see if a decision had been made. The woman told me she was waiting on her security team to contact her and she would contact me as soon as possible. Then on Friday (two days before the cruise set sail) she called me and said that she had a couple questions.
The only question I remember her asking was “who is Bobbey?” I explained that Bobby was my partner and nothing further was said.
She said that she would “pass that information on to her security team and then call me back.” I got a call back within the hour and was told I had been denied; either because of “Bobbey” or because I am on the registry. She would not tell me.
My brother, Jim Gray, and sister-in-law, Susan Gray, also booked on the cruise. They were looking forward to a cruise with Bobbey and me. In fact they had the cabin right next door to the cabin I was assigned. Imagine my surprise, after the cruise had returned, my brother told me that the cabin assigned to me had been occupied by another couple. (The cabin that I paid for.) They also told me that there were no children on this cruise.
Bobbey and I are out all this money, and I have a 2016 Kia that I really don’t need. It is almost two years old and there are only 3400 miles on it. We told all our friends that we were going “on our first cruise”. We were embarrassed and humiliated. Can they do this? I also felt/feel as if I was set-up.
I hope you see the injustice in my case. I pray you will help me.
Sincerely yours,
Scott T. Wieland 239-270-8215 [email protected]
This is , in a nutshell is why they keep passing more laws against RSO’s, We have no real recourse and nobody wants to fight because of the stigma and the public outcry. Time to go hide behind the wall again so Big brother continues beating us down…
I’ll start by saying that I am a travel advisor and I do specialize in cruises. I’m also an SO so I do keep on top of things like which lines do and do not permit sex offenders onboard. I actually just returned from a Norwegian cruise from Rome to Barcelona a few weeks ago and had no problems doing the cruise.
Royal, Carnival, and Disney are the only three cruise lines currently scanning the registry for offenders. (I haven’t heard that NCL is doing it but I haven’t checked with them since the beginning of June when the author said the new rule went into affect. I am scheduled for another NCL cruise in September and haven’t been told I couldn’t go.
When I say Royal and Carnival above, I mean only Royal and Carnival. If you want to go on Celebrity or Azamara (part of the Royal Caribbean family) or Cunard or Princess (part of the Carnival family), they will not deny you boarding because you are on the registry. I’ve actually confirmed that with both Royal Caribbean International as well as Carnival.
If you are thinking of going on a cruise, my advise is to use a travel advisor (most do not charge anything extra as we make our money off a commission) and they can let you know if you can go or not. If they don’t know, a good travel advisor will get on the phone with the right people and find out.
Also, be sure to check out this link ( https://registranttag.org/resources/travel-matrix/ ) as it will tell you what countries will and will not let you in. If you are taking a cruise to one of the countries that say they won’t let you in, you may want to look at another cruise itinerary.
This is great information, thank you. It does make me wonder though, if it isn’t so much the cruise line as it is the destination port. I checked the link you posted and pretty much every Carribean country doesn’t allow anyone on the registry with the exception of Tobago, into the country. Perhaps if one doesn’t try to debark in those ports, they’d be allowed to sail.
Tony, I am also a travel advisor. My husband is an SO. If some commits a murder, once they have done there time, probation etc. They are free to cruise. This is so crazy.
Is it cruise ships departing out of Europe would not be.an issue since registry is usa based?
Hi Tony, have you been able to confirm or deny if NCL is allowing people on the SOR to cruise after June 1st? Thanks
My client was called one week before travel and told he would not be able to take his NCL cruise of Hawaii so that is the United States and NCL said it’s their policy not to accept anyone that is on the registry. Our sales rep said she had never heard of that policy and is supposed to call me tomorrow, but my client was convicted in 1988 approximately and nothing since that time… His reservation was canceled And he was celebrating his 55th wedding anniversary and he has other people going on the cruise also. Very unhappy situation. He is 79 years old now.
Tony,
Have heard of any updates on this? We have a cruise scheduled with NCL in three weeks and just completed the 21 day notice. This is very concerning of the change. Any new information would be appreciated.
Hi Jewels, were you able to cruise with NCL?
Nope, they called 5 days before our departure and cancelled our trip. We were going to Tahiti and Hawaii which are both approved locations to travel. No exceptions they said. We had paid a fortune for the trip and they said they would refund. Still waiting for the refund. Such a bummer we loved going on NCL.
That’s too bad. We are booked on NCL for a May Alaska cruise. I’ve never cruised on NCL before but since Carnival and Royal Caribbean cancelled the last 2 cruises we booked I figured I’d give it a try. I guess we’ll cancel and give Holland America a try, My last Alaska cruise was with them after my conviction so hopefully their policy hasn’t changed too. Thanks for responding.
How much time notice did they give you about canceling ?
Curious, did you try Holland yet, any issues ? Or anyone else try them yet?
I cruised to Alaska on Holland America May 2023. Only issue was I was not allowed into Canada. Whoopty do lol I’ve been to Canada since being registered and could care less about those loonies. Anyway I got a letter at my stateroom the day we were docking in Victoria and it said to meet in some room on the ship at a specific time. I went there and there were several other people in the room and they called me first to go into the custom’s office before anyone else on the ship was allowed to get off in Canada. I had to wait until customs cleared all of the passengers and did their thing with the two cruise employees, then they called me back and asked me a few questions and told me I’m ineligible to enter Canada. I told them that’s fine, I planned to stay on the ship anyway, it’s only a 4 hour stop. They gave me an “allowed to leave” form to sign and I went back to the ship and relaxed for 4 hours with almost no other guests on board. The rest of my group was allowed to get off. I’m hoping to try out a Mexican cruise next year on Holland. It’s a pretty boring cruise line as far as their ships and entertainment goes, but better than no cruise at all 🙂 Hopefully they don’t change their policy.
Your account might be flagged now I would suggest a new one and do a International departure. I fly and cruise lots and one thing is they always mess up my name but it’s close enough that nobody noticed the passport vs ticket name. If you really want to use NCL I believe you can bypass the check they are doing. The notifications and passport scan are another issue. I will never ever again plan to depart on a usa cruise and have to also notify of travel to every country. I will go out of the USA and when the voice of god commands me to cruise I will. Then nothing is required and I believe Euro law is more on your side. Just my thoughts and based on experience
Tony,
Can you send me your info? I’ve been so scared to book a cruise!
This was very helpful information. With most travel agencies being online these days, how would I contact you specifically to book a cruise?
@tony , can you confirm updated NCL policy as of 2023? This would be for a RSO on a Hawaiin cruise departing from Honolulu (i.e. only US ports).
Tony, were you able to do your Sep 2022 cruise on Norwegian?
Unfortunately, Celebrity no longer allows RSOs as of 2021, at least in our experience. We had previously sailed with my brother who is an RSO on Celebrity in 2019 and were almost denied – they called 5 days before the cruise to say he may not be able to board, and asked for add’l information. Friends and family also wrote letters on his behalf, and he was able to board and we had a wonderful trip.
We had a European cruise (departing/returning to Amsterdam in May 2020) that was delayed due to covid, and we cleared him with the security department in 2019 while finalizing our booking. The cruise was postponed to May 2021, then May 2022… but we never made it, because in July 2021 Celebrity security, the same guy (Corey) who had handled my brother’s case in 2019 as well as our booked cruise in 2020, called my brother, was very apologetic but said it was now a blanket policy with no exceptions, and that the policy started around June 2021 and covered all RCCL entities. So, we cancelled the cruise and got a full refund.
We then researched Holland America. I spoke to Wes, head of security at Princess and Holland in July 2021. He said that they received scanned passenger manifest data from Customs and Border Protection. He said he was “almost certain” this applied to all Carnival affiliates.
Hi Anne, I can confirm he is wrong about Holland. I went on an Alaska cruise in May 2023. Only hitch is I wasn’t allowed to go into Canada. I had to go to the customs office before anyone (except a hand full of staff) got off the boat and was questioned and told I’m ineligible to enter canada. No biggie, but Holland America is good as of this past May. Carnival is a definite no go, and Holland is owned by Carnival so I expect this will change eventually. But for now I treated it like it will be my last cruise. Hopefully it isn’t but we’ll see. Good luck.
Tony, do you have a way we can reach you to book a cruise?
Tony have you updated this since July of 2022? We’re trying to celebrate a big birthday with a cruise but were recently (3/12/2023) told by Virgin Voyages(Adults only) that anyone with SO convictions or violet felony convictions were prohibited. Do you know who accepts registrants? Thanks
Tony,
My husband is a RSO and we are wanting to book an Alaskan cruise with Royal with his sister and her husband. Now I am worried we will not be able to go.
I have called Royal to ask and am waiting for a call back. This is all so frustrating.
Kelly, Royal will call you a week before your cruise and say you the RSO can’t go. I have personally had this happen to me. I did however just get back from an Alaska cruise on Holland America May 13-20 2023, the only problem (and it wasn’t really even a problem) is Canada didn’t let me into Victoria. But my family was able to go there without me. I was originally booked on NCL but I called and asked and they said I’m not allowed to cruise. I have heard they recently changed their policy to disallow RSOs, I do not have first hand experience with NCL cancelling a cruise for me though. Hope this helps
We had a family cruise booked for August 2023 with Royal and received the dreaded call that my boyfriend was not allowed to travel due to being RSO even after traveling with Royal in the past. Apparently something changed in 2022 no longer allowed to travel with them
Would you be willing to share your website? I’d like to have a travel advisor that knows these things?
This Just In…Each Cruise Line (if they allow people less than 18 years on their ships), Generally Cross Lists Their Customers That are Embarking with that States’ Law Enforcement Agencies…….Some do NCIC searches but normally not,….. cause everyone with a DUI would be tossed off the ship!
If the Cruise Line does not permit people less than 18 years old, than it is normally not an issue
If I would ever have to go on a Cruise it would be with the one that starts with the letter V
I would not go on a Mickey Mouse Cruise….that would not be proper!
CJB I guess its HollandAmerica with the Elderly! Still wondering if its a state check. What about departing from Puerto Rico? Wonder if they still do a Registry check
Purcashed Cruise in May 2022. Departure June 8, 2023 out of Peurto Rico. NCL
Cruise revoked 5 days before departure for being on national registry. Was told once removed from National registry, I could book again with NCL.
Just watch… now all the other cruise lines will follow suit. They won’t risk the media outting them as being “sex offender friendly.”
Amtrak will be next…
I guess discrimination and hate is not punishment in America.
They all dock here weekly….
I just look and laugh, but I do love when Princess Cruise Lines Plays ‘The Love Boat Theme’…Where is Captain Stubing??????
They are Floating PETRI DISHES
Not for me EVER!
I never understood the allure of being on a floating toilet, but at the same time I get annoyed with the increased discrimination. Pretty soon we will have to boycott all non-Registrant-run businesses.
and they will not care
That’s exactly what a cruise ship is! You’ll never catch me on one!
That describes those cruise ships exactly!
I had a cruise scheduled several years ago. lestt than a week before debarting was sent an email stating that I would NOT be allowed to board.
no surprise to me. jusr another wany to inflict punishement.
I was on NCL this year I guess before the new changes and was very Happy I could get away!. Besides Viking maybe does anybody know what Cruises dont ban us?. I have been on Royal and Carnival however was before my charges. I do know people seem to have mixed luck with some going all the time and others getting the notice of Cancellation. This is very stupid for them to do if they have not had any issues with this in the past. I expected more from NCL
Robert, we must remember that the registry is not punishment.
although most of these cruise ships are exactly that, as far as I’m concerned!
Robert I dont deny what happened with you but cant find anything online to show this change. I found most comments are they dont do background checks and only Royal and Carnival have actual policies on this. Even Royal has some recent posts on forums that allowed some people to go after a review of the charges. Like always these policies are never applied across the board. I am not trying to brag but I have forced myself to be that exception to the rule. Systems tend to break when stressed or you do something a little different outside the norm. Many Registrants do Cruise and Travel and have no issues. Stay legal but make yourself that exception.
I’m on the registry over an entrapment case out of Oconto Wisconsin. It was a situation where I placed an ad on Craigslist looking for an older woman but yet was still contacted by a police officer and harassed into meeting. I never got out of the car or met anyone but yet they still arrested me and lied on the police report about my case. Despite my case being unique, I’m still treated as if I’m a serial rapist. Companies like Facebook won’t allow you on their site if you are a registered offender. You can be placed on the list simply for pissing outside. It’s all become a joke anymore this whole system.
I have to agree with Jacob, it is not the cruise lines that prevent registrants from sailing, it is the State of Florida that has a public registry that is the problem. We have taken cruises in while living in New Jersey and had no problem getting on or getting off of Norwegian, RCCL, Carnival, Holland America, although most cruises left from Florida. Once we moved to Florida and less than 9 months from our last cruise, my husband was banned from taking cruises completely now that he is a Florida resident. Neither one of us are going to renew our passports next year due to International Megan’s Law. Since Florida registrants are not allowed to vote, law makers will continue to dump on people they have forced to register while they brag about how much safer we are by doing so. We need to get every family member who is a registered Florida voter to vote these prejudiced people out of office!
Candy how are you banned from Cruises in Florida? This is a Individual Cruise Line Rule not Florida. I reported my Cruises and have Cruised in Florida. Many others still say they go on Carnival and Royal its a Roll of the Dice. Who said you are Banned?. Try another Cruise Line. Try a River Cruise. I am wondering also as I have done in the past how this will be handled for Europe Trips?. I wonder if its company wide check?. I have Boarded and Returned in Europe and I have Boarded in Europe and Returned to Florida. I have cruised this year. Never a issue from the Boat but checked paperwork a couple times in other Ports of Europe. The Best cruises in my opinion dont depart from here anyway unless you want the same old Bahamas,Mexico etc. Fly to Paris or Rome take a trip to Greece. I wonder if those trips will be banned as Europe has more legal recourse and laughs mostly at our Registry. Just my opinion and experience. Take a Charter or smaller type cruise that almost guaranteed to be ok I know sadly its not as cheap to do.
Been there, done that with Carnival after several sailings in the past with no issues. Every cruise line has it stated in their ticket contract that if you are on any government watch list, you can be denied passage. My husband and I want to cruise again, we may try Virgin since it’s 18 and up only, but I’m not going to hold my breath.
try Viking also they are 18 and up also
After 29 years in the Navy, I couldn’t give a dame about cruising!
Wow, this is very sad. I have always enjoyed Norwegian Cruise lines and I have built quite a status on them. I wonder if this is going to be like some of the other cruises hit or miss sometimes some registrants have no problem. Others have problems all the time. Also Norwegian foes international. I’ve been on many international and domestic cruises with no problem. I wonder if the INTERNATIONAL is also going to have an issue with same checks and Rulea. I wonder why after so many years.
Valuable and useful contribution from this Member.
We’ll be tempted to blame the cruise line. But remember, it is the state, and not the cruise line, that is officially labeling the passenger as as sex offender. It’s the state that places the cruise line’s security execs in the position of having to explain why they’re permitting a ‘known sex offender’ to board.
We can share re-offense stats with the cruise line til we’re blue in the face, but so long as the state website tells the cruise line that someone is a sex offender, I don’t see much progress.
keep trying don’t give up if you like cruises. Always contact security of each cruise line and get permission before making reservations so you don’t get your hopes up r waste your time. I know Viking cruises does not allow anyone under 18 on their ships so that might be an options if you don’t have children.
I’m waiting for the day the EPA says we are no longer allowed to breath the same air as the “decent” folks. I would say lol but I’m afraid the government might really try it because this crap is getting way out of control.