I’ve never ever considered bringing my pooch Bonita Applebum on a cruise but that may change soon. Cruise Tails and Expedia Cruises of West Orlando recently partnered together for the first-ever dog-friendly cruise from Tampa. The inaugural cruise is set for November 2025 so you have a few months to get your funds up. The waitlist for dog parents opens soon too btw.

“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. I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers,” says Steve Matzke of Cruise Tails.

Margarita st Sea’s signature vessel the Islander will host the cruise. Sailing from Port Tampa Bay will be 250 dogs plus their owners and closest humans. The themed cruise includes experiences like gifts and samples from a number of vendors, dog shows and trainings, guest speakers, costume contests, parades, and more.

Cruise Tails does have a few protocols in order for this trip to be successful. The protocols are:

• All participants must apply and be approved by the Cruise Tails team. This means agreeing to protocols such as keeping dogs in permitted areas and ensuring all dogs are up to date on appropriate vaccinations.
• Pet Butler. 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. The cruise will require up-to-date vaccinations and health checks from all pets boarding the ship that are approved and signed off on by a licensed veterinarian.

Guests can participate in many onboarding special activities with or without their pooch. While vacationing, the humans can book appointments with groomers and puppy masseuses plus visit dog-friendly splash stations. There are dog-free spaces also like the Margaritaville Casino, pool decks, live entertainment, chef-crafted and island-inspired dining options, 13 lounges, and the St. Somewhere Spa & Salon.