Since the cruise lines are not equipped with major medical facilities onboard, they have established very strict policies with regard to expectant mothers and infants. Each cruise line requires expectant mothers to provide a physician's letter (faxed in advance or hand delivered at the time of check-in) stating that the guest is in good health, fit to travel, and that the pregnancy is not high risk. The letter must also include the expected date of the child's birth.
Typically, a letter is not required for infants to travel. However, each cruise line has a minimum age requirement for guests traveling, which will be verified upon check-in at the pier. This minimum age requirement varies by cruise line and even itinerary. Always tell your Vacations To Go cruise counselor if you are pregnant or planning to cruise with an infant to insure you meet all required guidelines.
American Cruise Lines
Pregnant Women: Permitted to board during any phase of pregnancy. There are no restrictions.
Infants: Minimum age is 1 month old.
Carnival Cruise Line
Pregnant Women: Prohibited to sail if she will enter the 24th week of pregnancy before or at any time during the cruise.
Infants: Minimum age for sailing is 12 months for trans-Atlantic, Hawaii and South American cruises and 6 months for all other cruises.