Travel Tips

Travel Tip: Canine Cruising

Locations in this article:  Chicago, IL

Traveling with a pet is not always easy, but the good news is there are some seafaring options for dogs—and their owners—to experience together.

Believe it or not, dogs and cats are allowed on the high-end Queen Mary 2.

The ship offers kennel service on transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton.

With a dedicated Kennel Master and plenty of amenities, this can actually be a great option for those who aren’t comfortable flying with pets.

But it requires a lot of pre-planning. Space is limited and there are non-negotiable rules about bringing pets into the UK, so start the process several months ahead of time.

A little closer to home, the Potomac Riverboat Company welcomes leashed dogs every Thursday on its 40-minute summer tours of Alexandria’s seaport.

Leashed dogs can also board Chicago’s Mercury Canine Cruise each Sunday in July, August and September.

And if you’re headed for a weekend getaway, there are dog-friendly ferry services to Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod and Nantucket.

Always double check the rules before purchasing tickets and remember, there are no vets board so make sure your pup is healthy enough for the trip.

Learn more about trips you can take with your pets in our Pet Travel section.

Get more helpful advice in our Travel Tips section.