How to Get Married on a Cruise

Getting married on a cruise is a romantic way to combine your wedding and honeymoon into one truly unforgettable voyage.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bridal Bouquets
• Champagne
• Wedding Rings
• Champagne Flutes
• Internet Access
• Computers

1. Understand that most weddings on board cruise ships actually take place in port, whether it's at the place of departure or somewhere along the way during your trip.
2. Decide if you want to be married on the ship itself or if you prefer to exchange your vows on a beach or in a chapel on land.
3. Obtain a marriage license for the location where the ship will be docked for your marriage. Ask your travel agent or the cruise company for tips on how to do this.
4. Realize that it's possible to be married at sea if you have your heart set on it. The Grand Princess cruise ship (part of Princess Cruises, which is the line used in the "Love Boat" television series) actually has a wedding chapel. Go to its Web site (princess.com) for more information.
5. Take into account that if you get married at sea on the Grand Princess, your wedding license will be from Liberia, since this is where the Princess cruise line is registered. Make sure this license will be accepted in your state.
6. Consider the range of wedding options that exist: from a $300 package that includes a notary, witnesses, cake and champagne to a package that costs $75 per person for each guest to provide an open bar and buffet.
7. Remember that you arrange for flowers, music and a photographer as part of your package. Talk to the ship's wedding consultant to explain your preferences.
8. Shop around. There are many cruise lines out there. Some of the popular ones are Carnival, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, among many others. Do a search online to find out more.

Tips & Warnings

• Book your cruise well in advance. Many ships are already booked for the next 12 to 18 months.
• The ship's captain is not licensed to conduct wedding ceremonies, contrary to popular belief.
• Ask your travel agent to recommend a cruise line that will meet your needs.

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