Can You Get On A Cruise With A Warrant?

Cruises with a warrant are generally not advisable as they can lead to arrest. The ship completes a manifest, which lists the names and details of each person on board. The ability to go on a cruise with an active warrant depends on various factors, including the nature of the warrant, the destination of the cruise, and the cruise ship policies on passengers with warrants.

If someone knows they have an open arrest warrant, they should promptly address it through turning themselves in or first. In the event of cancellation or denial, the affected individuals’ sole recourse is a refund of the amount paid to Carnival for that individual’s own booking.

If you have been convicted of a crime, you can still take a cruise vacation. Major cruise destinations may not allow you to enter their ports. There are three paths to resolving inadmissibility: Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), which grants temporary access to Canada for someone otherwise criminally inadmissible. If a name check is done and a warrant is present, cruises may not let you board and you might be taken into custody instead.

On March 1, 2024, it was confirmed that you can go cruising even if you have some outstanding tickets. Carnival does not do a warrant check or background check before you board. The only issue might be obtaining a passport, but a bench warrant issued for your arrest.

While sailing with a warrant is always a no-no, the question of whether you can cruise with a felony conviction or criminal record is more complex. All passengers on the cruise are checked for warrants, and those with active warrants are taken into custody. As a general rule, TSA does not screen for warrants, so with domestic flights, it is likely you will be able to fly safely.