I Took A Cruise That Allows Dogs (And Cats) Onboard!

Many of us are animal lovers, and some would like to take their pet dog or cat with them when they cruise. I have a cat and a dog, Hudson and Rolo, and I always miss them when I travel.

As a general rule, it isn’t possible to take your pet on a ship, but there is one ship that allows owners to take dogs and cats onboard, although it’s not cheap to do so!

There is one very special ship, the last Ocean Liner at sea, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, that does allow you to bring your dog or cat with you – but there are strict rules about how and when.

I have a pet cat, Hudson and a pet dog, Rolo. I don’t think they would like to be on a ship!

Which Routes?

Unless you have a service animal, it’s not typical to be able to cruise with your cat or dog.

If you are making a Transatlantic crossing, Cunard will allow you to take your pets onboard the ship. But they will have to stay in specially designed airconditioned kennels. They will not be allowed in your cabin with you.

Queen Mary 2 has scheduled Transatlantic Crossings to or from Southampton, New York or Hamburg. They sail all year round.

This is great for those emigrating from one country to another or those who will be relocating for a significant period of time.

Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner — Queen Mary 2, the last Ocean Liner, sailing from New York

The Onboard Kennels

There are strict rules regarding the type and size of dogs that can be transported.

They can only accommodate dogs that are 27 inches or less in height and 34 inches or less in length in each kennel.

If your pet exceeds 34 inches in length, then you will need to book two lower kennels. (Of course, you will also have to pay for two kennels, and that is quite costly!)

We’ve welcomed animals on board our ships for close to two centuries, and we continue to do so on our Transatlantic Crossings on board Queen Mary 2. Her air-conditioned kennels can accommodate up to 24 four-legged guests per sailing. What’s more, they offer your pet a wealth of complimentary luxuries to ensure they enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay at sea.
Cunard

Certain Types Of Dogs Are Excluded

There are certain types of dogs that Cunard won’t accept, either because of their size or because of their breed.

Large dogs such as Great Danes, Dobermans, St. Bernards or Afgan Hounds can not be transported. A full list of these dogs can be found on Cunard’s website.

Dogs prohibited by the UK Pet Travel Scheme are not allowed on board. These breeds currently include:

XL bully
Pit Bull Terrier
Japanese Tosa
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Any mix of breeds which includes these.

How To Book A Kennel For Your Cat Or Dog

Kennels are available on Transatlantic Crossings sailing to or from Southampton, New York, or Hamburg on Queen Mary 2.

Only cats and dogs are permitted, and reservations can only be made if you will also be sailing with your pet.

The number of kennels are limited, and can sell out fast. You can enquire about kennel availability by contacting Cunards Customer Contact Centre or emailing [email protected].

When you book, you must provide information about each pet, including any medical conditions and medications. You will need to bring their medications onboard with you. They will also ask about feeding requirements and dietary restrictions.

Feeding pets on board
To ensure your pet’s dietary requirements are met, we’ll contact you ahead of sailing with a choice of pet food brands we’re able to offer on board. If none of these meet your pet’s preference, you are welcome to bring your own pet food. Pets can be fed by their owners or the Kennel Master. Freshly cooked chicken, vegetables, and broth are also available to order on board, on request.
Cunard

Cunard dogs on Queen Mary — Cunard allows dogs on QM2

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices charged are per kennel, and only one dog is allowed in each.

Large cages for larger breed dogs are $1,000 each, while small ones for small dogs are $800 each.

Cats can be accommodated, but they will require two cages, one for the cat and one for its litter tray. The cost will be $1,600- but two cats can share this double kennel if necessary.

Starting in 2026, kennel rates are increasing to $1,300 for an upper kennel and $1,500 for a lower kennel. Of course, these figures are only meant as a guide – prices are subject to change.

What’s Included In That Price?

In addition to a kennel with bedding, regular food is provided in provided bowls for each dog and cat.

Cats stay inside all of the time. Dogs are allotted daily outdoor exercise time in a gated area at the back of deck twelve.

There is a lamp post to make British dogs feel at home- and a fire hydrant for the American ones !

Cunard fire hydrants and lamposts for dogs — Fire hydrants and lamposts to make dogs feel at home.

There are visiting hours three times each day for passengers travelling with their pets. Hours may vary, but are often between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m., 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Owners can spend quality time with their pets during these times.

Only pet owners are allowed to visit the animals on board.

Owners can choose to feed and walk their own pet during these times, or you can have the kennel master and the crew take care of dog walking for you.

Once per sailing, a professional photographer gives passengers an opportunity to have a photoshoot with their pets, with various props being made available.

As a Cunard Kennels guest, your cat or dog will be treated to a complimentary portrait session with our ship’s photographer and Kennel Master. The Kennel Master will dress in our iconic red bellhop uniform for the photoshoot, and we’ll provide plenty of props for your pet to wear and play with, including a Queen Mary 2 life ring, a Cunard jacket, and a miniature bellhop hat.
Cunard