In a breakthrough development
for pet-friendly travel, Cruise Tails
has teamed up with Expedia
Cruises of West Orlando to launch the first-ever dog-friendly cruise. Set
to embark in November 2025 from Tampa, Florida, this innovative voyage will
provide dog parents and their furry companions an unparalleled vacation
experience aboard Margaritaville
at Sea’s flagship vessel, The Islander.
The maiden voyage
will welcome 250 dogs, their owners and their human guests, with each traveler
becoming an Inaugural Ambassador of this unique adventure. Guests can look
forward to a variety of pet-centric activities and experiences, including dog
shows, training workshops, costume contests, themed parade, guest speakers, special
gifts and samples from premium pet vendors, and more.
Steve Matzke,
founder of Cruise Tails, was inspired to create this one-of-a-kind experience
after facing his own travel challenges as a dog owner. “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,” he said. “I want to
change that for myself and other dog lovers.”
To ensure smooth
sailing for both pets and their owners, Cruise Tails is introducing several
protocols for a successful voyage. In part, these include:
- Approval Required:
All guests must apply and agree to specific onboard rules, such as keeping dogs
within designated areas. Dogs must also meet vaccination requirements.
-
Pet Butler
Service: Each family will be assigned a dedicated Pet Butler to maintain
cleanliness of their cabin and the ship, ensuring everyone is comfortable and hygienic
throughout the trip.
-
Private Relief
Stations: Every dog on board will have access to a private pet relief area on
the balcony of their cabin.
-
Health
Certifications: All pets must have a health certificate, signed off on by a
licensed veterinarian, and proof of up-to-date vaccinations before boarding the
ship.
There will be many
special activities onboard that guests can enjoy with or without their pets,
and a full support team will be available to ensure that everything goes
smoothly for participants. Dog-specific amenities will include grooming
services, puppy massages, dog-friendly splash zones and more.
Human guests can
also take a break from Fido to enjoy dog-free spaces like the Margaritaville
casino, the St. Somewhere Spa & Salon, pool decks, 12 island-inspired
dining options, 13 lively lounges, live music and entertainment venues, and
various spots for soaking up the Caribbean sun.
While specific
dates and details have not yet been released, the cruise is expected to set
sail at the end of 2025. The waitlist for all dog parents who are eager for an
opportunity to vacation with their four-legged friends will open soon and a
full list of onboard protocols will be released in the next few weeks. Dogs
will be required to be leashed in public areas and cruise-goers will be expected
to sign a photo waiver since everyone is sure to be sharing the doggie-filled
fun on social media.
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