Taking a cruise with your kids after you and their other parent have split can be a wonderful way to create new memories. However, making this effort will need to involve some careful planning to better ensure compliance with your court-ordered custody arrangements and any requirements imposed by the cruise line that you’re sailing.
Chances are that you’ll need to start your planning process by engaging in some proactive communication with your child’s other parent. Even if the subject of vacations is addressed in your parenting plan, if your ex kicks up a fuss, that could cause you stress and impact your vacation. Therefore, being proactive can hopefully help you mitigate this risk and iron out any concerns before they create permanent wrinkles in your plans.
Technicalities
Before planning a cruise, you’ll want to review your custody agreement and parenting plan. Some agreements include clauses about out-of-state or international travel. If this is the case for your family, the law may require the permission of your child’s other parent and/or their notification before you can leave. This is particularly important for cruises that leave from the U.S. but visit foreign destinations, as they technically involve international travel.
If your custody agreement doesn’t clearly address travel, you may need to consult your family legal team to determine what is required. It’s best to avoid any last-minute surprises or disputes by proactively seeking clarity on travel permissions if they are not clearly defined.
And, if your custody arrangement requires consent for travel, you’ll need to communicate with your co-parent about the trip. This may involve sharing details about the cruise, including the itinerary, dates and accommodations. If your child’s other parent is hesitant, be prepared to address their concerns and reassure them of the trip’s safety and security. In some cases, providing emergency contact information or a way to stay in touch during the trip can help ease concerns.
For cruises that involve international destinations, you may also need a notarized letter of consent from the other parent. Many cruise lines and foreign ports of entry require proof that both parents agree to a trip in order to prevent international custody disputes.
While taking a cruise with your kids post-divorce can be a rewarding way to bond and create lasting memories, you need to be proactive in order to minimize the risk of legal complications down the road. And remember, seeking legal guidance if you have questions or concerns is always an option.