The dream of the open sea. A salty breeze on my face. My best friend by my side. For a long time, I thought I could never take my dog on a luxury vacation. I pictured myself on a sun deck. My dog, a small dachshund, curled up next to me. The reality was much harder. Most big cruise ships say no to pets. They have strict rules. They worry about health and messy accidents. However, things are changing. I found ways to make this dream happen. I want to share my secrets with you. If you love travel and your dog, this is for you.
Can I Really Take My Dog on a Cruise?
First of all, let us talk about the big question. Can I take my dog on holiday to Europe? The answer is yes. But you must plan carefully. Most major lines like Royal Caribbean dog-friendly cruises only allow service animals. These are dogs trained for a specific task, like helping someone who cannot see. Emotional support animals do not count on these ships. On top of that, every country has different laws for animals.
Gradually, I learned that a few special ships do allow pets. Some are luxury liners. Others are river boats. Additionally, many ferries in Europe act like mini-cruises. They have restaurants, shows, and soft beds. You can stay in a cabin with your pup. Therefore, a sea trip is possible if you know where to look. Here are the 10 best dog friendly cruise to Europe options I have found.
1. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2: The Gold Standard
The Queen Mary 2 is the most famous dog friendly cruise from usa to europe. It is the only ship that regularly crosses the Atlantic with pets. I took this trip from New York to Southampton, and it was a dream.
First of all, you must know that your dog does not stay in your cabin. They stay in a special kennel area on Deck 12. This area is air-conditioned. It is very safe. At that time, I met Oliver, the Kennel Master. He has worked there for ten years. He treats every dog like a star. He even knows them all by name.
Onboard the Queen Mary 2, there are 24 kennels. Similarly, cats can join too, but they must book two kennels to fit their litter box.
Numerical Data you should know:
- Cost: In 2026, a small kennel costs $1,300. A large kennel costs $1,500.
- Waitlist: These spots sell out 12 to 24 months in advance.
- Size Limits: Dogs taller than 27 inches cannot fit.
The ship has a British lamppost and a New York fire hydrant for the dogs to use. It is quite funny to watch. However, you can only visit your dog at certain times. I spent hours sitting on Deck 12 just to be near my pup. Finally, you get a professional photo of your pet in a cute ship coat. A perfect memory.
2. 1AVista Reisen: Dog Friendly River Cruise Europe
If you want to see the heart of the continent, a river cruise is the best way. 1AVista Reisen is a German company. They are experts at Dog-friendly river cruises in Europe. I took a trip along the Rhine River with them.
On the contrary to the big ocean ships, your dog stays in your cabin with you. No kennels here. This made my dog very happy. The staff is very kind. Though the main language is German, the crew speaks English too.
Details for this cruise:
- Route: Rhine, Danube, and Moselle Rivers.
- Dog Meadow: They put real grass on the top deck for potty breaks.
- Rules: Usually, only one dog is allowed per cabin. The dog should be under 50 cm tall at the shoulder.
Gradually, you sail past castles and vineyards. Your dog can join you in the lounge and the dining room. Therefore, it feels like a true family holiday.
3. MS Junker Joerg: Exploring the Baltic
I also found a smaller ship called the MS Junker Joerg. It sails the Baltic coast of Germany and even goes to Poland. The captain of this ship loves dogs. He even brings his own senior dog on board.
First of all, this ship is very relaxed. Appropriately trained dogs can even run off-leash on the sun deck. Additionally, the ship stops at places where dogs can run on the beach. It is not a super fancy ship, but it is very cozy.
Transitioning to the logistics of travel, you might wonder how to get to these ships.
4. Tallink Silja Line: A Nordic Adventure
Tallink Silja Line offers a great dog friendly cruise to europe experience in the north. They sail between Stockholm, Helsinki, and Tallinn. I used this ferry as a two-night mini-cruise.
On top of that, they have special pet-friendly cabins. You do not have to leave your dog alone. At that time, I booked an A-class cabin with a window. It was worth the extra money.
Statistal Data for Tallink Silja:
- Fee: It costs about €32 for a round-trip pet ticket.
- Exercise: There is a sandpit on the upper deck for the dogs.
Plus, you can sit at the open-air bar with your dog and watch the islands go by. A peaceful moment.
5. Stena Line: Dog Friendly Cruise from UK to Holland
For my friends in the United Kingdom, the Stena Line is a top choice. It is a fantastic dog friendly cruise to europe from southampton alternative, though you depart from Harwich. It goes to the Hook of Holland.
First of all, the cabins are very nice. They can fit up to three small pets or one large dog over 30kg. Similarly, if the cabins are full, they have high-tech kennels. I could even watch my dog on a CCTV screen from my cabin TV!
Important facts:
- Time: The overnight trip takes about 8 to 9 hours.
- Price: A kennel spot is only about £22.
However, you must book the pet cabin early. They are very popular.
6. Viking Line: Crossing the Baltic Sea
Viking Line is another great option for the north. They sail between Finland, Sweden, and Estonia. Similarly to Tallink, they are a mix of a ferry and a cruise ship.
Gradually, I found that these ships are very comfortable. They have many shops and restaurants. Dogs are allowed on all regular voyages. Additionally, they have designated pet areas for walks.
7. Brittany Ferries: Sailing to Spain and France
If you want to go further south, Brittany Ferries is the way to go. They sail from the UK to France and Spain. I looked at the route from Portsmouth to Bilbao.
First of all, they offer pet-friendly cabins. This is much better than leaving your dog in the car. On top of that, some routes have exercise areas on the deck. Therefore, you can enjoy the sea air together.
8. DFDS Seaways: Northern Europe Routes
DFDS Seaways is another big name in sea travel. They have many routes across the Baltic and North Sea. However, you must check their website carefully. Recently, they said dogs cannot go on their “mini-cruises” to Amsterdam.
On the contrary, they still allow dogs on regular crossings in pet-friendly cabins or kennels. Similarly, they have “poop decks” for exercise.
9. P&O Ferries: Hull to Rotterdam
P&O Ferries offers a route from Hull to Rotterdam. They have a pet lounge on some ships. This is a great place to sit with your dog. Additionally, they offer cabins for pets. Therefore, it is a solid choice for a short trip to Europe.
10. The Future: Tails of the Sea (Cruise Tails)
Finally, there is a brand new option coming soon. Cruise Tails is planning the first-ever dog-centric cruise. This is not just a cruise that allows dogs. It is a cruise for dogs.
Details on the Islander ship:
- Capacity: They plan to allow 250 dogs on the voyage.
- Perks: Puppy Pilates, splash pools, and even a pet butler.
- Relief: Every balcony will have a private pet relief area.
Gradually, they hope to sail more often. This might be the Best dog friendly cruise to europe in the future if they expand their routes.
How to Fly with a Dog to Europe
I know what you are thinking. How do I get to the ship? If you are coming from the USA or Australia, you might need to fly first. How to fly with dog to europe is a big topic.
First of all, most airlines only allow small dogs in the cabin. The weight limit is usually around 8kg to 10kg. However, I found a company called JSX. They allow larger dogs to fly if you buy an extra seat. BarkAir is another new choice, but it is very expensive.
On the contrary, long-distance ground transport is an option too. Companies like Happy Tails Travel can drive your dog to the port. They provide 24-hour care. Therefore, your dog never has to be alone.
Can Dogs Travel Freely in Europe?
Once you land or dock, you must know the rules. Can dogs travel freely in europe? Mostly, yes. Europe is very pet-friendly. But you need a Pet Passport.
First of all, you must get a USDA health certificate if you are from the USA. This is a stressful process. The certificate must be signed within 10 days of your trip. At that time, I had some sleepless nights waiting for the mail!
Gradually, once you are in Europe, you can visit a local vet to get an EU Pet Passport. This makes moving between countries much easier.
Important Health Rules:
- Microchip: Your dog must have one before the rabies shot.
- Rabies: The shot must be up to date.
- Tapeworm: Countries like the UK, Ireland, and Norway need a special treatment 1 to 5 days before you arrive.
FAQ
Are there any cruise ships that allow dogs?
Yes. A few options do exist for you and your pet. The Queen Mary 2 is the most famous ship that allows dogs on its long trips across the ocean. Additionally, some river cruise ships in Germany and the Netherlands let dogs on board. Many regional ferries in Europe also act like small cruises where your dog is welcome.
Are there any cruises that you can take dogs on?
You can take your dog on the Cunard Line for trips between New York and Europe. 1AVista Reisen offers river trips where your pet is the star. Transitioning to the north, Tallink Silja Line and Viking Line allow pets on their routes in Scandinavia. You also have the choice of Brittany Ferries or Stena Line for shorter sea voyages.
Are dog-friendly cruises more expensive?
They generally cost more than a standard trip. Cunard charges a premium for their kennel service. Therefore, you should prepare for extra fees. From 2026, a small kennel spot will cost $1,300, while a larger one is $1,500. Some ferries also charge a small fee per pet, such as €32 for a round trip.
Can dogs stay in your cabin on cruises?
It depends on the ship you choose. On 1AVista Reisen river boats, your dog stays in your berth or cabin with you. Many ferries also have special pet-friendly cabins. On the contrary, the Queen Mary 2 requires all dogs to stay in the kennel area on Deck 12. They are not allowed in passenger rooms.
What is the new dog friendly cruise?
The new option is the Tails of the Sea voyage by Cruise Tails. It takes place on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander. This trip is unique because the ship has private pet relief areas on balconies and pet butlers. Gradually, they hope to make this a regular choice for travelers.
How much does it cost to take a dog on Cunard?
Current prices are between $800 and $1,000 per spot. However, the cost is going up soon. Starting in 2026, you will pay $1,300 for an upper kennel and $1,500 for a lower one. Cats cost more because they must book two kennels to have room for a litter tray.
Can I bring my dog on a Carnival cruise?
No. Carnival Cruise Line only allows service dogs that are trained to help with a disability. They do not allow regular pets or animals for emotional support. You will be turned away if you try to board with a pet.
Which Royal Caribbean ship has a dog?
The Icon of the Seas has a golden retriever named Rover. She is the Chief Dog Officer and travels with the crew to meet guests. She is a very popular part of the ship.
What is the luxury dog cruise 2025?
The Tails of the Sea cruise was the main luxury event planned for November 2025. However, the initial trip was delayed. They now plan to sail in 2026 or 2027. It will feature puppy massages, grooming, and dog shows.
Can dogs go on Viking cruises?
It is important to know which “Viking” you mean. Viking Line ferries allow pets and have pet-friendly cabins. On the contrary, Viking Ocean and River Cruises only allow service dogs. Regular pets are forbidden on those luxury cruise ships.
Concluding Words
Finding a dog friendly cruise to Europe is a challenge, but it is a dream that can come true. You have choices ranging from the luxury Queen Mary 2 kennels to cozy river cruises and Scandinavian ferries. You must plan 12 to 24 months in advance to secure a spot for your furry friend. Make sure your health certificates and microchips are ready before you head to the port. A sea trip is a wonderful way to avoid the stress of a plane cargo hold. Your best friend deserves a vacation too.
