The One Major Cruise Line That Actually Offers Pet-Friendly Accommodations

For pet owners, one of the hardest parts of going on vacation is leaving their furry friends behind. You wonder if your dog knows you're leaving for vacation. Are they eating well? Are they feeling anxious? Now, imagine a world where you could cruise the high seas without a single worry about how your pet is doing — because they're right there with you. Nearly all mainstream cruise ships ban pets (service animals, such as service dogs, excluded) due to significant challenges. Maintaining hygiene in a crowded, confined environment makes accommodating pets impractical, especially with the need to manage waste while adhering to strict cleaning protocols.

Beyond sanitation, passenger safety and comfort are critical concerns. Not everyone is comfortable around animals, and confined spaces heighten the potential for conflicts or allergic reactions. Additionally, navigating international port regulations adds complexity. Many destinations enforce strict rules for animal entry, including health certifications and quarantine requirements, making compliance across multiple ports a daunting task.

Amid these challenges, the Queen Mary 2, a cruise ship operated by the British company Cunard Line (also known as just Cunard), is the only major ship that offers dedicated pet accommodations through its Pets on Deck program. Let's unpack all that the Queen Mary 2 has to offer your furry ones, as well as why the future of pet-friendly cruise-going is looking quite fur-tastic.

Although the Queen Mary 2 is a modern luxury ocean liner, its pet-friendly roots stretch back to the mid-19th century when Cunard ships welcomed pets alongside their owners on transatlantic voyages. Since this ship's launch in 2004, the Queen Mary 2 has carried on this legacy through its exclusive Pets on Deck program, making it the only major cruise ship with dedicated accommodations for pets (both cats and dogs).

The program provides a safe and comfortable kennel area for up to 24 pets per voyage, complete with indoor and outdoor exercise spaces and an owner's lounge for visiting hours. Whimsical touches like a British lamppost and a New York City fire hydrant add ample charm. Pets are cared for by a dedicated kennel master who oversees feeding, cleaning, and exercise and ensures attentive care throughout the journey.

Demand for these accommodations is high, with kennel costs ranging from $800 to $2,000 depending on your pet's size and needs. Transatlantic crossings typically last seven to eight nights, connecting New York, United States; Southampton, England; and Hamburg, Germany. While pets must remain in the kennel area and owners provide their food, the program offers a stress-free alternative to air travel, especially for larger animals, solidifying Cunard's status as a pioneer in pet-friendly cruising.

The Queen Mary 2's Pets on Deck program may lead the pack, but the tides are shifting toward a more inclusive future for pet parents. Starting in November 2025, the Margaritaville at Sea Islander will host its first-ever dog-friendly cruise, creating an exciting new option for travelers eager to bring their furry companions along for the journey.

Upping the canine ante, the Margaritaville will be able to hold up to 250 dogs, offering tailored amenities such as private relief areas, dedicated pet butlers (yes, really), and curated activities like dog training sessions and costume contests. Designed to blend fun with functionality, the program aspires to create memorable experiences for pets and their humans alike.

The Margaritaville's pet-friendly initiative reflects a broader trend within the travel industry. With pet ownership on the rise and travelers increasingly seeking options that cater to their hand-in-paw lifestyle, other cruise lines may be inspired to follow suit. While the logistics of pet-friendly cruising remain complex, these efforts could set a new standard for inclusivity on the high seas — one where pet owners no longer need to compromise on how they travel.

Now, if you'd prefer to travel on land, read up on the essentials you need for RVing with your dog.