Lately, it feels like rules and laws are constantly changing, and keeping up has become really tough, even for cruise passengers!
For this reason, you may want to double-check your travel requirements because 2025 has brought some eyebrow-raising policy updates that left many rethinking their plans, and that might include you.
Here are some new cruise travel rules, policies, and changes that will take effect from 2025 to note.
Increased Port Fees and Tourist Taxes
I know it’s no good news, but in 2025, cruise travelers are expected to pay higher port fees and tourist taxes in several major destinations.
The most significant is Mexico, which has introduced a $42 “Non-Resident Fee” for all cruise passengers. Effective July 2025, this regulation is mandatory regardless of whether travelers stay on the cruise or disembark.
Mexico has also added a new $5 tax in Quintana Roo in early 2025, which covers popular ports like Cozumel and Costa Maya.
These changes have made cruising to Mexico more expensive compared to other Caribbean ports, but it’s not the only country moving in that direction.
In a similar way, Greece is implementing a €20 (about $22) fee for cruise passengers visiting popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos to curb overtourism and address long-term sustainability issues.
The government is also restricting the number of cruise ships that can dock simultaneously to distribute visitors more evenly throughout the year, so you might encounter fewer booking options. If you’re visiting on a specific day, it might be best to book months in advance to guarantee a spot.
New Visa and Entry Requirements
From April 2, 2025, cruise travelers visiting the UK without a visa will now need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure.
Luckily, securing an ETA is relatively straightforward. The application can be completed online or via a mobile app, with most applicants receiving a confirmation in a few minutes. The cost of applying for an ETA was initially £10 but increased to £16 starting April 9, 2025.
The ETA permits multiple entries to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time, valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Unfortunately, the Brazilian government has also reintroduced a mandatory “Visitor Visa” for all U.S. passport holders, which is valid for stays of up to 90 days in the country.
You can apply online at brazil.vfsevisa.com and have to pay a fee of approximately $80.90 for a 10‑year, multiple‑entry e‑Visa.
New Age Booking Policy
Major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian have implemented new regulations regarding the minimum age of solo travelers.
Solo travelers must now be at least 21 years old to sail alone. Guests aged 20 or younger must travel with a relative or guardian who is at least 25 years old.
Disney Cruise Lines has also implemented an age restriction, though to a lesser degree; solo travelers must be at least 18 years old or accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.
Stricter Rules for “Chair Hogs”
Have you ever gotten annoyed by passengers claiming deck chairs with bags or towels for hours at a time? This one’s for you.
Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival now have limits on the amount of time passengers can reserve lounge chairs. Royal Caribbean allows up to 30 minutes, while Carnival allows up to 40 minutes.
If the time limit is exceeded, crew members will remove personal items left on unattended chairs.
New Rules on Beverages in Pools and Hot Tubs
On many cruises, drinks are no longer permitted into pools and hot tub areas to keep them safe and clean. This policy helps prevent glass breakage and spills that could cause accidents or contaminate the water.
You can still enjoy your drinks at the pool bar, but you’ll need to leave them outside before getting into the water.
Fare Increases
Keep an eye out for fare increases, as many cruise lines are raising daily automatic gratuities to offset economic fluctuations and rising operational costs.
Summer cruises are expected to be between 20% and 30% more costly than last summer, according to early market research. So if you encounter an early-bird deal, you might want to book it quickly to lock in a better price before costs rise further.
ETIAS Delayed to 2026
Now let’s move on to some good news (at least for now). The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to enter European countries has been delayed to 2026.
The policy was initially set to be implemented in 2025 but has been delayed until 2026, so many passengers can still visit the port in the European Union.
However, when this rule comes into effect, travelers will need an electronic permit and will pay a fee even to visit popular European ports like those in Italy and Spain.
Updated Banned List
Cruise lines have updated and expanded their lists of banned items for greater safety and security.
The list now also includes new electronic devices that were previously not allowed, as well as some decorations.
You can find the updated list of banned items by clicking here.
CRUISE ESSENTIALS 2025
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