The US Department of State has finalized the International Land and Sea Document Requirements for US Citizens.  While a passport for AIR travel will still be required for travel to International Destinations, passports for cruises beginning and ending in a US port will NOT be required.  Cruise travellers can present a Birth Certificate and Driver's License as proof of citizenship and be able to visit international ports on the cruise. 

We still recommend obtaining a passport to our cruise passengers as the 'Gold Standard' in documentation for US Citizens, though it is not a requirement for cruising from a US Port.  Passengers sailing from a non-US port such as European cruises or those originating in South America, Asia, etc. will stil require a passport.