Help for boardAdventures with our four-legged friends: Cats and puppies at sea

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19/08/2024

Traveling aboard the Victoria Majestic is an exciting experience in itself, but it becomes even more special when our favorite four-legged friend is with us. Victoria Cruises Line offers the opportunity for our pets to enjoy the journey at sea.

Sailing experience with cats and puppies (max 7 kg)

Booking and preparations:

• Reservation: when we reserve our cabin on the Victoria Majestic, we must indicate that we are traveling with a pet. Because we have a limited number of cabins of this type
• Vaccinations and documents:
• the first thing you should do when preparing your pet for sea travel is to talk to the vet about your cat or dog's general health. Your veterinarian will be your trusted partner in ensuring that your pet is in optimal health prior to travel.
• the veterinarian administers the necessary vaccinations and performs the necessary health examinations. The veterinarian will also implant the ISO-compatible microchip in your pet, if it does not already have one.
• As many countries insist on treatment for external and internal parasites before travel, discuss the best treatment options with your vet
• Take your pet for a grooming before the trip: trim long nails to prevent injury and trim long unruly hair to make the trip more comfortable for your cat or puppy.
• the necessary documents must be presented to Victoria Cruises Line before sailing

Travel to the territory of the European Union (EU) with your cat or dog

Since your pet is traveling to Europe, it will be a lot of fun, but you need to have the right documents to travel to the European Union.

• must have a microchip
• you must receive up-to-date rabies vaccinations
• Dogs traveling to Ireland, Northern Ireland, Finland, Malta or Norway also need tapeworm treatment.
• ask your veterinarian for a pet passport and animal health certificate before the trip

Pets entering the UK must comply with the rules of the Pet Scheme.

Small pets must be licensed prior to arrival through the following government agency:

• Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
  Pets and Quarantine Branch
  Area 211
  1 A Page Street
  London SW1P 4PQ
  Click here for:  https://pettravel.com/immigration/unitedkingdom.cfm

Traveling with a pet from the United States to France

the page below contains the latest entry requirements.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export/pet-travel-us-france

You can only bring your pet to Australia under strict import conditions, you can read more about this here:

https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/cats-dogs

Since the Victoria Majestic also covers China during its trip, it may be necessary to familiarize yourself with the conditions before entering China so that you and your little pet can enjoy the cruise without worry.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export/china

With our little favorite in Japan

Japan recommends measures for bringing small pets into Japan, which can be found in the link below.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export/pet-travel-us-japan

Arrival in the State of Hawaii

Before arriving in Hawaii, you must ensure that the Animal Quarantine Station has your pet's successful OIL-FAVN test results.

You can get more information about this here:

https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/aqs-info/

In any case, find out in advance about the entry requirements of each destination.

Before boarding the Victoria Majestic houseboat you must have all the documents required for entry. This includes proof of microchipping and rabies vaccinations.

More Cruise Line Travel Tips

• never give your pet a medical (prescription) sedative before traveling with VCL. If your pet is hyper or nervous, give him a natural animal tranquilizer recommended by your veterinarian
• even though traveling at sea can be stressful for you and your pet, you will both be happier if your pet travels with you on board the Victoria Majestic
• take out insurance that can cover your pet's medical expenses. https://www.petplan.co.uk/  specializes in such insurances

The Victoria Majestic also has pet-friendly cabins where they can easily accommodate their berths and scenery.

There are designated places on board for walking pets. These spaces ensure that our pets can also be in the fresh air and move around.

There are shore excursions that are pet-friendly, so we can take our pets with us to explore the mainland.

Get pet-specific life jackets: these flotation devices are tailored specifically for your pet. Dog and cat life jackets not only provide buoyancy, but also have a rear handle that you can use to comfortably lift your pet out of the water if necessary.

Adapting to the unique body shape of cats, cat life jackets are designed to keep cats active without excessive energy expenditure.

Marine Leash: Unlike traditional leashes, these are designed to withstand the marine environment. Leashes are made from marine grade rope and are equipped with rust resistant clips to ensure your pet's safety even in salty conditions.

In addition to the usual first aid kit, which includes pain and anti-inflammatory medications and self-adhesive first aid tape, you may also want to consider:

• paw balms
• hydration solutions
• Tick and flea treatment

Always follow local regulations and rules regarding small animals and bring enough water and food for them during excursions.

Victoria Cruises Line is the ideal choice for those who do not want to leave their pets at home. Amenities for cats and small dogs ensure that the trip is enjoyable for everyone. If you are ready for the adventure of your dreams, don't hesitate, bring your pet with you and enjoy the magic of a sea trip together.

Author: VCL Team
19/08/2024