All you need to know about taking your dog or cat on a cruise!

For the pet lovers out there you may be rejoicing at this news but I am afraid it is only available with Cunard on the Queen Mary 2 on Transatlantic sailings to and from New York.

Dogs must have their own kennel and cannot share a kennel with other dogs, cats are allowed to share a double kennel with another cat.

Its not cheap though as the prices show below:

Cost

Upper kennel $800*

Lower kennel $1000*

Cats require two upper kennels $1600* (This is two upper kennels, one kennel is for the litter box)

2nd cat in same double kennel $800*

*prices are subject to change.

When making your booking, the following details will be required:

Pet Height in inches (from floor to shoulder)

Pet Length in inches (from tip of nose to base of tail)

Pet weight in pounds

Pet Age at time of sailing

When arriving at check in, guests must make themselves known at the enquiries desk and the Kennel Master will be called to collect the pet.

Vaccinations and Certification

If coming from a non-EU country, other than the USA,  it is your responsibility to check with DEFRA for the requirements to enter the UK.

If travelling from New York to Southampton: all pets must be:

Fitted with a microchip

Vaccinated against rabies and tapeworm

Issued with an official PETS certificate, official PET passport or 3rd country certificate

If travelling from Southampton to New York: all pets must have been:

Issued with a current Health Certificate (the health certificate should show that the dog or cat was examined by a veterinarian within 30 days of entry of the dog or cat into the State of New York)

Had a rabies vaccination within 6 months to 14 days prior to Entry into the State of New York.

If you plan on re-entering the UK with your pet, you must adhere to the Pet Travel Scheme and a six month probation period is required.

Kennel Sizes

Now that Queen Mary 2 has been remastered there are 24 kennels in total:

12 Small upper kennels are – 24.5H” x 35.5W” x 35.5D”. A weight restriction of 25lbs or less applies.

12 Large lower kennels are – 36H” x 35.5W” x 35.5D”. A weight restriction of 26lbs or more applies.

We will also be enhancing the owners lounge area, a new inside play area, extending the outside walking area and enhancing the services offered.

Two kennels can be opened up to form a larger kennel though guests will be charged for the two kennels.

Breeds We Cannot Accommodate

Due to their size, we cannot accommodate the following breeds: Afghan, Curly Coated Retriever, Bloodhound, Gordon Setter, Borzoi (Russian Wolfhound), Great Dane, Briard, Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Setter, Mastiff, Deerhound, New Foundland, Doberman, Pyrenees, St. Bernard, Saluki, Weimaraner, Bull Mastiff and Malamute.

If the dog is “small for their breed”, Cunard kennels need to have exact measurements to ensure the dog will fit. The dog from the head to the floor and hind quarters must be less than 36″ high and less than 60″ long.

Dogs Prohibited by the UK Pet Travel Scheme:

Pit Bull Terrier

Japanese Tosa

Dogo Argentino

Fila Braziliero

or any mix of breed which includes these breeds.

These dogs are considered fighting dogs and are illegal in the UK.

Kennel Location & Opening Hours

Kennels are located at the rear of Deck 12 and are available for cats or dogs only.

Visiting hours are:

8:00 – 10:00

11:00 – 12:00

15:00 – 18:00

20:00 – 20:30

However these times may vary depending on the ship’s operation. Full details will be available on board.

There is a pet play area and a dog walking zone available, please see the additional facilities below.

General

Animals are not permitted in guest staterooms or public areas

There is no Veterinarian on board

Dogs can be walked on to the ship on a lead or brought on board in a kennel

Cats should be brought on board in a kennel.

What happens at the terminal

You will be met in the terminal by the kennel master

A member of ship’s staff will meet with you to ensure you have all the proper documentation prior to boarding.

The kennel master will then escort you and your dog/cat to the kennel area on Deck 12.

Additional Facilities & Benefits

Pets will also receive the following benefits:

Fleece Blankets

Dog/Cat bowl

Selection of premium food – please request during the booking process. The ship will try to source the product or a similar alternative.

Dog biscuits

Cat litter

Now that you know would you take your dog or cat with you or not?