Two passengers were unable to board Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 last week after failing to complete all of the necessary documentation in time.
Anne Conway was planning to board the ship with her 15-year-old granddaughter Leila, but was under the misconception that she only needed an ESTA for herself.
This was incorrect, and so the pair were unable to board their ship for the return cruise to New York.
“I knew I needed an ESTA but I thought I read somewhere that children under 16 didn’t need one if they’re traveling with an adult. But I obviously got that wrong… Both of us were just sobbing. I was so disappointed for Leila. She was so excited… To get within yards of the boat, it was devastating. I cried all the way home and all night,“
Anne Conway
It is possible to get an ESTA within a few hours, but there’s no guarantee and it’s recommended to do it as soon as possible.
Once the duo realised they couldn’t board, they did try to get Leila’s ESTA processed in time, but confirmation only came through at 5.04 pm, which was a few minutes after the ship had set sail.
While there was no way for the pair to immediately fly out to the ship – the cruise was a Transatlantic one – they have been able to raise funds through a GoFundMe which means they’re able to fly out to New York and at least join the ship for the return leg home.
ESTAs are visas that UK residents can use to visit the US for periods of up to 90 days, avoiding the need for a full visa. Most UK residents are eligible, but they are required for all travellers, including children.
Guests will be notified of any travel documents they need to arrange when they book a cruise, and are advised to carefully check well before the sailing date.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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