Your bags are packed and you're ready to go – or are you? Just because you have been granted a valid American passport does not mean that you are eligible to enter all and any country on your cruise itinerary. If you have a criminal offence on your record, even as something as minor as a DUI, there may be countries that will not allow you to enter, no matter how long ago the offence. The following is a list of popular cruise ports of call and the likelihood of being able to visit.

The Good – Mexico and the Caribbean

Rest assured that if your cruise ship plans to dock in the ports in Mexico and the Caribbean, you would, most likely, be allowed to enter the country. These countries do not normally perform any type of background check for tourists and a valid American passport is all you need to unlock the door to these tropical paradises.

The Bad – Mediterranean Cruises

Generally, Europe will not be a problem as long as you hold a valid U.S. passport. However, if you are planning to cruise the Mediterranean, you may be tripped up by a port of call in Turkey. Turkey requires American citizens to apply for a tourist visa upon entry. On that visa, you will be asked if you have ever been convicted of a crime. You have to tick yes. To check no is a criminal offence and no one wants to spend time in a Turkish prison. The best bet, if you absolutely must cruise the Mediterranean, is to stay on the ship in Turkey and let your party tell you all about it when they get back.

The Ugly – Alaska and the Canadian Coastlines

Who knew the friendly neighbors to the north could be such sticklers for past criminal offences? Even a ten-year-old DUI can stop you from entering the Great White North. This rules out all Alaskan cruises (which stop in Canada) as well as Canadian East Coast tours. The reason Canada is so fussy is they have full and immediate access to the American Criminal database, and unfortunately, with knowledge comes restrictions. Your best bet, if you want to cruise up north, is to contact an attorney to have your record expunged or to get permission from the Canadian government.

If you have a past criminal record, it is always wise when traveling to look into the specific entry requirements of the countries you plan to visit. Being refused entry--or worse, being held in custody--is a surefire way to ruin your holiday. Do your due diligence when planning and you will have a relaxing and memorable cruise holiday. Contact a DUI attorney for more information.