TAMPA, Fla. — If you ever feel guilty for leaving your four-legged friend behind when going on vacation, this getaway could be "paw-fect" for you — the first ever, dog-friendly cruise is setting sail right here in the Tampa Bay area.
According to a news release, the first-of-its-kind cruise is being organized by Cruise Tails and Expedia Cruises of West Orlando. The inaugural dog-friendly cruise will set sail in November 2025.
Margaritaville at Sea's signature flagship, the Islander, is set to host the new cruise and depart from Port Tampa Bay.
A total of 250 dogs, along with their owners and "closest humans," will be the cruise's "inaugural ambassadors" when it sets sail.
The cruise is geared toward all things dog and is expected to have "unique" experiences and activities including "gifts and samples from top vendors, dog shows and trainings, guest speakers, costume contests, parades and more."
“I consider my Yorkie, Louis, to be part of my family, and for years I missed out on the 'family reunion' cruise because I will not travel without him," Steve Matzke of Cruise Tails said in a statement. "I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers.”
To ensure the dog-friendly cruise goes without a hitch, dog owners and their pets will have to meet several requirements and follow protocols including the following:
- All participants must apply and be approved by the Cruise Tails team. This includes agreeing to protocols on board, such as keeping dogs in permitted areas and ensuring all dogs are up to date on appropriate vaccinations.
- Pet Butler. To ensure each guest has a clean and enjoyable experience, each family on board will be assigned a Pet Butler, ensuring their cabin and the boat remain in top condition.
- Private Relief Station. Each dog on board will have access to a private relief station they can access on their balcony.
- Pet Health Certificate and Passport. Approved and signed off on by a licensed veterinarian, the cruise will require up-to-date vaccinations and health checks from all pets boarding the ship.
According to cruise organizers, guests will be able to take part in as many activities as they want, with or without their dog.
Other activities offered on board include dog grooming appointments, puppy massages, dog-friendly splash stations and more.
However, there will reportedly be dog-free spaces including the Margaritaville Casino, pool decks, live entertainment and music spaces, 12 dining venues, 13 lounges, and the ship's spa and salon.
More information about the cruise, including how to join the waitlist, is expected to be released soon.
