I have spent over twenty years traveling the world with my furry friends. I know the struggle of lugging heavy suitcases and worrying about hotel rules. It is exhausting. However, I found a secret that changed my life. I started taking dog friendly cruises europe. Imagine this. You unpack your bags just once. You sail past beautiful vineyards. Your pup stays right by your side. A dream come true? Absolutely.
Many people ask me, do any cruises allow dogs? The truth is that most major lines say no. They cite health rules and biosecurity. Plus, most ships lack the right gear for a dog to do their business. But I have done the research for you. There are some incredible gems out there. From luxury dog friendly cruises europe to cozy river boats, the options are growing. I am excited to share my top ten picks and expert advice with you.
1. The Legend: Cunard’s Queen Mary 2
The Queen Mary 2 is the gold standard for pet travel. It is the only ocean liner that offers a regular dog friendly cruise from europe to us. I have seen people use this for moving between countries or just for a grand vacation.
You will find twenty-four climate-controlled kennels on Deck 12. Your dog does not stay in your cabin. Instead, they get the royal treatment in the kennel area. A full-time Kennel Master feeds, walks, and plays with them. I think the best part is the outdoor walking area. It even has a New York fire hydrant and a Liverpool lamp post to make the dogs feel at home.
The cost is not cheap. From January 2026, small kennels will cost $1,300 USD, and large ones will be $1,500 USD. Therefore, you must book early. These spots often sell out a year or two in advance.
2. 1AVista Reisen: Rhine River Adventures
I took a week-long cruise on the Rhine with my dog, and it was perfect. A German company called 1AVista Reisen runs these trips. They are the pioneers of dog friendly river cruises europe. On these ships, your dog stays with you in your cabin.
The crew sets up a “dog meadow” on the sun deck. This area has real grass and plants for the pups. It makes the logistics of “doggy business” very simple. I love that the ship makes regular stops. You can go for long walks along the riverbanks.
The rules are specific. Usually, you can bring one dog with a shoulder height of up to 50 cm per cabin. If you have two tiny dogs under 30 cm, you can ask for special permission. Plus, the all-inclusive service means you can relax while your pup enjoys a treat at reception.
3. MS Junker Joerg: The Baltic Coast
I recently explored the Baltic coast of Germany on the MS Junker Joerg. The captain is a massive dog lover. He even sails with his own senior pup. This creates a very relaxed vibe on board.
I was thrilled to see that well-trained dogs can play off-leash on the Sun Deck. The ship travels to beautiful spots in Germany and Poland. In Poland, some stops allow dogs to run free on the beach. This ship allows dogs up to 60 cm tall, which is a bit more room than other river cruises.
4. Tallink Silja Line: Nordic Mini-Cruises
If you want to see Sweden, Finland, or Estonia, Tallink Silja Line is your best bet. These are large ships that feel like a mix of a ferry and a cruise. They offer dog friendly cruises europe that are perfect for a two-night getaway.
I recommend booking an A-class cabin with a window. You will pay a small fee, about €32 per dog, for the round trip. On the upper deck, there is a designated exercise area with a gravel sandpit. Additionally, you can hang out at the open-air Promenade bar with your pup.
5. Stena Line: From the UK to the Netherlands
I have found that dog friendly river cruises in europe from uk are hard to find, but you can create your own DIY trip. Take the Stena Line ferry from Harwich to Hook of Holland. I used their pet-friendly cabins and loved it.
These cabins can hold up to three small pets (15kg each) or one large dog over 30kg. There are no extra fees for the pets in these cabins, though the cabin itself costs a bit more. If the cabins are full, you can use the kennels for £22. I felt better knowing I could watch my dog on a CCTV display from the TV in my lounge.
6. MS Normandie: A Scenic Storybook Glide
The MS Normandie offers four- to eight-day routes through Germany and the Netherlands. I think this is the ideal choice for a slower pace. Your pup can join you in most communal areas like the salon and the restaurant, as long as they are on a lead.
The ship docks several times a day for walks. There is also a relief area on the Sonnendeck. On top of that, the crew is very helpful and can provide support in English.
7. Le Boat: Self-Drive Canal Freedom
I absolutely love Le Boat for a unique experience. You do not need a license to drive these boats. You can explore the canals of France or the UK at your own speed.
I suggest the Canal du Midi route. You sail under beautiful trees and visit historic villages. Your dog can walk along the towpath while you steer the boat. Gradually, you will get the hang of passing through locks. Just make sure to keep your dog in the cabin when you are in a lock for safety.
8. Hurtigruten: The Norwegian Coastal Express
Norway is breathtaking, and you can see it with your dog on the Coastal Express. I found that you can book a pet-friendly cabin for a fee of 150 NOK per night.
The ships travel close to land, so urgent help is never far away. You must book through the service center to ensure you get a pet room. Therefore, plan ahead for this rugged and beautiful journey.
9. Viking Line: Baltic Sea Comfort
Do not confuse Viking Line with Viking River Cruises. This ferry line runs between Finland, Sweden, and Estonia. They allow dogs on all regular voyages.
I appreciate that they have designated pet areas and cabins. The check-in process is much easier than at an airport. It is a very relaxed way to see Northern Europe.
10. DFDS Seaways: The Newcastle Connection
For those in the North of England, DFDS offers a great route from Newcastle to Amsterdam. I was so happy when they introduced dog-friendly cabins.
The cabins are simple but have everything you need, like bunk beds and a bathroom. You can take your dog out for fresh air at any point. Plus, once you reach Holland, the rail system is very dog-friendly. You can easily head to Paris or Germany from there.
Important: Rules and Regulations
I cannot stress this enough. You must prepare the paperwork. First of all, your dog needs a microchip. The vet must scan the chip before giving the rabies shot. Next, the rabies vaccine must be given at least 21 days before you travel.
Since Brexit, UK pet passports are no longer valid for the EU. You now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This document is only valid for ten days for entry into the EU. However, it stays valid for four months of onward travel within the EU.
If you are going to Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway, your dog needs tapeworm treatment. A vet must give this between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive.
Warning: Banned Breeds
I want you to be safe. Some countries and cruise lines ban specific breeds. The UK bans the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and the American XL Bully.
In Germany, the state of North-Rhein Westphalia bans many “dangerous” breeds from their river cruises. This includes Staffordshire Bull Terriers and mixes. First of all, check the local laws for every port on your route.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Sail
I have learned a few tricks over the years. Here is what I pack for my dog:
- A comfortable harness and a lead that is not retractable.
- A bed or blanket that smells like home.
- Enough food for the whole trip.
- A lick mat or long-lasting chews for stressful times.
I also suggest training your dog on metal or grated floors. Many ships have these, and they can be scary for a pup. Gradually get them used to the sounds of engines and crowds before you board.
FAQ
Which cruise line is dog friendly?
Cunard is the most famous line for ocean travel because it has special kennels. 1AVista Reisen is a great choice for river trips in Germany and the Netherlands. Stena Line, Tallink Silja, and Viking Line also offer wonderful pet-friendly options on their ships.
Are there any cruises that you can take dogs on?
Yes, but the choices are very few. You can choose between large ocean liners, small river boats, or mini-cruises that use ferries. Better safe than sorry.
Are dog-friendly cruises more expensive?
You may find that a pet-friendly cabin costs slightly more than a regular room. The cost for a kennel on an ocean ship is also quite high. A luxury price for a luxury pet?
What is the new dog friendly cruise?
The Tails of the Sea voyage is the newest trip for pets. It will take place on the ship called the Margaritaville at Sea Islander.
How much does it cost to take a dog on Cunard?
Beginning in January 2026, a small kennel will cost $1,300 USD. A large kennel will cost you $1,500 USD.
Can dogs stay in your cabin on cruises?
Pups stay right in the cabin with you on 1AVista Reisen and MS Normandie river trips. Many mini-cruises also allow this in special rooms. However, dogs must stay in the kennel area on the Queen Mary 2.
What breeds are not allowed on dog cruises?
Many lines ban breeds that people think are dangerous. You cannot bring a Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, or an American XL Bully on most ships. Some river boats also ban Staffordshire Bull Terriers and any mixes of those breeds.
Now that you have the facts, let us wrap up our journey.
Concluding Words
To sum it all up, dog friendly cruises europe offer a special way to see the world without leaving your best friend behind. You can enjoy the high seas on the Queen Mary 2 or glide down a river on the MS Normandie. These trips require a lot of planning and early booking because spots are very limited.
You must also handle all the health papers and check for breed rules before you go. While these trips can cost a bit more, the memory of a sunset with your dog is worth every penny. Ready for the high seas?
Safe travels, sailors!
