Effective June 1, 2009, the following rules take effect for cruise passengers:

U.S. citizens on cruise voyages that begin and end at the same U.S. port (closed-loop itineraries) must show proof of citizenship* and government-issued ID (such as a driver's license).  A passport will not be required for passengers that fall into this category, however one is strongly recommended.

 *Documents include:  Original or certified copy of birth certificate; Naturalization papers; Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the State Department.

All other passengers and/or itineraries  (such as cruises that begin in one U.S. Port and return to a different U.S. port or any cruise that begins or ends in a foreign port) will require a passport or other recognized document.  For a list of documents see www.travel.state.gov   

Visas Requirements:  United States citizens don’t need a U.S. visa for travel, but when planning travel abroad may need a visa issued by the embassy of the country they wish to visit.

If you need a Visa, use a reliable Visa Services such as Zierer Visa Service; Visa HQ also provides Visas. Rush MY Passport is a rush passport service and is the service to use if you need your passport quickly.