I am getting conflicting information about whether passports are required for a closed loop cruise embarking/returning from Fort Lauderdale with ports in Roatan and Belize. Since it is a closed loop cruise to the Caribbean, it should be okay to travel with WHTI-approved documents (birth certificates, etc) and photo ID. There is a little caveat on the website that says if you stop in Central or South America, you must travel with a passport. I have a passport but one of the people in our group was planning on traveling with a birth certificate. Has anyone RECENTLY traveled to the Caribbean with stops in Roatan or Belize without a passport?
I do not need a lecture about how you should always travel with a passport. I have one and I strongly encouraged this person to get one while we still had time. He still may be able to get an expedited passport but this is stress none of us need right before our vacation. Right now, we can't get anyone to answer the phone to set up an appointment for an expedited and they don't do walk-ins.
Thanks in advance!