Wedding Cruise FAQ
Answers to the questions couples and their guests ask most about wedding cruises, vow renewals and destination wedding cruise planning.
What is the difference between a wedding cruise and a honeymoon cruise?
A wedding cruise includes the ceremony, usually with guests sailing along. A honeymoon cruise is a trip for the couple after the wedding. Many couples combine the two by staying on the ship or booking a second cruise after the guests leave.
How many guests can come to a wedding at sea?
Ceremony packages often cover a modest number of guests; larger groups use a bigger venue or a private event. The number of guests who can sail is limited only by cabin availability.
Can we have a wedding cruise in a short weekend sailing?
Yes. Three- and four-night sailings are popular because more guests can join. A boarding-day ceremony suits them well.
Do we need passports?
For foreign ports, plan on valid passports for everyone. Closed-loop sailings from US ports have their own document rules for US citizens, but a passport is the safest choice, especially if anyone must fly home early.
Can same-sex couples marry on a cruise?
Many lines offer ceremonies to all couples, but legality at sea or in a port depends on the law that applies. Ask your advisor to confirm the ship and port rules for your plans.
Can we get married on a cruise if one of us has been married before?
Yes, but a legal ceremony may require proof of the end of the previous marriage. Ask the line and the port authority what documents they need and how far ahead.
Is there a wedding cake on a cruise?
Most packages include a small cake or offer one as an add-on. A larger cake for a reception is arranged through the line’s wedding or events team.
Still Have a Question?
Every ship, port and package is a little different, which is why the best answer often depends on your exact sailing. Send us your question with your date and the ships you like, and we will check the current rules. Before you write, you may find the answer on our pages about wedding cruise packages, destination wedding cruise logistics or the guest block.
Five Decisions to Make Before You Ask for Quotes
Couples who settle a few basics first get faster, more useful answers. None of these needs to be final, but a rough idea of each lets our advisors compare real options instead of guessing.
- Legal or symbolic? Decide whether you need the ceremony itself to be the legal marriage, or whether you will sign the papers at home.
- Season and length. A long weekend keeps more guests on board; a week gives you more time together.
- Guest estimate. A range is enough, such as fifteen to thirty cabins.
- Budget comfort for guests. Tell us whether most guests will want inside, oceanview or balcony cabins.
- Must-haves. A beach, a sunset ceremony, a particular ship or line, or a departure port near home.
With those five answers, a wedding cruise shortlist usually comes together quickly.
Ask a Wedding Cruise Advisor
Ask us anything about your wedding or vow renewal at sea. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will reply with the answer and free quotes for your dates.
Ask an Advisor