Passport & Visa Information
Find out what passports, visas, and travel documents you’ll need for your Ambassador Cruise.
Before you embark on your Ambassador cruise, it’s important to ensure you have the right travel documents in place. This page explains everything you need to know about passports, visas, and entry requirements — so your journey starts smoothly.
If you’re ever unsure, our Guest Services Team is here to help.
Passport Requirements
A passport is essential for all cruises, including mini-cruises and sailings around the British Isles and the Republic of Ireland.
Please ensure your passport:
- Is biometric (e-passport) or machine-readable
- Has enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps
- Is valid for at least 6 months after your return date (for most non-EU cruises)
FOR EU, EEA & SCHENGEN DESTINATIONS
If you’re travelling to the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City, your passport must:
- Be less than 10 years old on the day you enter
- Be valid for at least 3 months after your departure from the Schengen area
You can find the latest UK Government passport advice here
Tip: Passport processing can take up to 12 weeks. Apply early to avoid any delays.
European Union’s New Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will start from 12 October 2025.
If you’re travelling to a Schengen country with a UK passport:
- You’ll need to register biometric details (fingerprints and a photo) when you arrive
- There is no pre-registration or fee required
- Once implemented, EES will replace manual passport stamping
Guests embarking or disembarking in the UK will not need to complete the EES process.
However, guests joining or leaving their cruise in a Schengen port will go through EES, which may cause some delays.
More information: EU Entry/Exit System - GOV.UK
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Non-British Nationals
From 2 April 2025, all non-UK nationals travelling to the United Kingdom will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
You can apply online at: Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) - GOV.UK
Good to know:
- Approval may take up to 3 working days
- Apply as soon as possible before your travel date
Visa and Entry Requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and cruise itinerary.
We recommend checking directly with:
- The Embassy or Consulate of each country you’ll visit
- The UK Government’s Foreign Travel Advice pages
Failure to have the correct visa or entry documents may result in denied boarding.
If your cruise includes destinations that require testing or Passenger Locator Forms (PLFs), this will be communicated before departure via My Ambassador Sailing (MAS).
Visas, Testing & Passenger Locator Forms (PLFs)
Visa, testing and entry requirements can change at any time, and it’s your responsibility to ensure you comply with the latest travel regulations.
To make things easier, Ambassador Cruise Line has partnered with The Travel Visa Company — our preferred visa, testing and entry provider.
HOW THEY CAN HELP
The Travel Visa Company can offer expert help and guidance on:
- Visa requirements for your specific cruise itinerary
- Testing and health entry documentation
- Passenger Locator Forms (PLFs) for international travel
- Independent travel advice for onward journeys or additional stays
Their online portal provides:
- Step-by-step visa guidance for Ambassador cruises
- Downloadable application forms and checklists
- Easy online submission and payment options
Peace of mind starts here – let the experts handle your travel documentation.
Visit: https://thetravelvisacompany.co.uk/ambassador-cruise-line/
Call: 01270 904 907
Email: enquiries@thetravelvisacompany.co.uk.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
Please recheck your passport and visa requirements no later than 2 months before your cruise departure.
The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication but is subject to change.
It remains your responsibility to travel with the correct and valid documentation.
Travelling to Port
Once your travel documents are in order, plan your journey to the terminal with ease.
Need Help?
If you have any questions about passports or visas, please contact our Guest Services Team at least three months before departure.
Call: 0808 256 5952
Email: guestservices@ambassadorcruiseline.com
USEFUL LINKS
Why Cruise with Ambassador
Sail with confidence and comfort on Britain’s authentic no-fly cruise line.
- No-Fly Cruises – Sail from regional UK ports
- Affordable Quality – Exceptional value, service, and entertainment
- Peace of Mind – ABTA-protected and fully insured
