When traveling with a minor where one parent or both parents or legal guardians are not cruising, we strongly recommend bringing an original signed letter from the absent parent(s) or legal guardians authorizing the minor to travel with you. If there is no second parent with legal claims to the minor (due to sole custody, deceased, etc.) other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, death certificate, birth certificate naming only one parent, would be useful to bring in place of a signed letter. This will expedite processing by the Department of Homeland Security., New to cruising? Get answers to FAQs ranging from cruise preparation to debarkation. Browse by category or click to see the most popular cruise questions., Minor Guest Policy: Effective February 1, 2025 Click here to view Carnival's Minor Policy for bookings created before February 1, 2025. Minor Policy for Bookings Created February 1, 2025 and Onward Guests are required to be 21 years of age (on embarkation day) to travel on their own. Guest ages will be verified at embarkation..