10 Pet-Friendly Cruises For Dogs Of All Sizes
Traveling with a big dog has always come with challenges, but the tides are changing. New opportunities are making it easier to set sail with your trusted companion by your side. Here are 10 cruises that allow dogs of all sizes, allowing you and your pet to enjoy a worry-free vacation together.
Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Voyage
Luxury meets comfort aboard the Queen Mary 2, the only primary ocean liner with dedicated kennels. Dogs of all sizes sail between New York and Southampton, enjoying personalized care and an outdoor exercise area. Since 2004, this ship has redefined transatlantic pet travel and set the gold standard for dog-friendly cruising.
1AVista Reisen River Cruises
This cruise is making European river cruises more exciting for big dog owners by welcoming dogs of all sizes aboard select ships with spacious, pet-friendly cabins. In 2025, a six-night cruise along the Rhine River to the Netherlands aboard the MS VistaGrace will offer a unique experience for dogs and their owners.
Mercury’s Canine Cruise In Chicago
Mercury’s Canine Cruise offers big dogs a front-row seat to Chicago’s iconic skyline. This 90-minute boat tour along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan welcomes all breeds and provides an open deck for fresh air and tail-wagging excitement. A lively, narrated tour also shares fun facts about the city while dogs enjoy complimentary water bowls.
Emerald Star Dog-Friendly Boating Adventures
Exploring Ireland’s waterways with a large dog is effortless aboard Emerald Star’s pet-friendly canal boats. With self-drive rentals along the Shannon River, owners can explore scenic routes while their dogs roam freely on deck. The easy boarding ramps and access to dog-friendly villages make the experience even better.
Le Boat Self-Drive Boating Vacations
Fancy captaining your dog-friendly boat? Le Boat allows travelers to explore the rivers and canals of Canada and Europe with their pets onboard. With no prior experience required, owners take the helm while their dogs lounge on deck, soaking in the scenery. Boats come equipped with pet-friendly features, such as easy boarding ramps.
Dog-Friendly Ferry Crossings
Ferries such as Brittany Ferries and Stena Line provide a flexible way to cruise with large dogs by offering spacious pet-friendly cabins and designated exercise areas. The UK and Ireland routes allow dogs to travel comfortably alongside their owners while avoiding the stress of confined travel kennels.
Blue Cart Charter
For a truly exclusive experience, private yacht charters such as Blue Cart Charters offer customized, pet-friendly cruises throughout the Bahamas. Spacious decks, personalized pet services, and flexible itineraries create a seamless sailing adventure. This luxury yacht company ensures dogs enjoy a stress-free journey.
Alaskan Marine Highway System
Nature lovers and big dogs will find adventure on the Alaskan Marine Highway System, a ferry network spanning 3,500 miles and connecting remote ports. However, note that pets must remain on the car deck in an approved carrier or vehicle, with 15-minute pet calls every eight hours on extended routes.
Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruises
This cruise offers a dog-friendly adventure through San Francisco Bay, allowing leashed pets to join their owners on scenic voyages. Passengers can take in iconic sights like Alcatraz while enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. However, dogs must remain leashed for a safe and comfortable experience for everyone on board.
Pet-Friendly Voyages On Cruise Tobermory
Dogs are welcome aboard Cruise Tobermory to explore Ontario’s stunning waters. However, pets must remain leashed and under control to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers. While pets are not allowed inside the indoor lounge, they can enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking views from the open deck.
