Routes & Pet Policies

Bar Harbor, Maine, US to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
Portland, Maine, US to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada to Bar Harbor, Maine, US
Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada to Portland, Maine, US

Cat Ferry accepts the carriage of cats and dogs on their routes between the United States and Canada. Birds and livestock are not permitted. Pets other than cats and dogs need to be approved by Customs in advance.

Pet cats and dogs can travel in passenger's vehicles or in designated kennels that the ferry provides which are located in the cargo hold near the vehicles. Pets for pet owners who are traveling without a car will be accepted in designated kennels.

Pets must travel with their owners or a designated representative of the owner. Pet owners or representatives are responsible for the care and feeding of their pet. Pet owners whose pets are traveling in their auto should provide blankets, food, water and adequate ventilation for their pet.

Service animals only are permitted to travel on the passenger decks. Your service dog should be clearly marked and leashed. Documentation may be requested.

There is no charge for transporting your pet.

There are a limited number of kennels in which your pet will be allowed. Pets are subject to first come, first served policies. It is necessary to make a reservation for your pet in advance by contacting Cat Ferry.

Documentation

It will be necessary that you have the proper documents to travel on Cat Ferry with your pet. Vaccination and current health certificates must be provided at check in. Pet owners should plan to visit their veterinarian within 10 days of travel for current health certificates. Endorsement by the USDA or CFIA is not necessary.

Cold Weather Restrictions

When the weather is very cold, Cat Ferry may not be able to accommodate your pet in one of the kennels located in the cargo hold of the ship. Know that temperatures in your car will be chilly and cold weather restrictions are made for the safety of your pet. Be sure and dress your pet accordingly and leave blankets for warmth. Confirm that there will be no issues transporting your pet when calling to make your reservation.

Tips for Traveling on a Ferry with Your Pet

1. Make your reservations early. Pet friendly cabins and kennels, if available, are in great demand and book up quickly.
2. Arrive at the dock in plenty of time to check in your pet.
3. Walk and exercise your pet before boarding.
4. Bring portable water and food bowls as you will be responsible for the care of your pet.
5. Bring a muzzle and a sturdy leash as these things will be needed to walk your pet.
6. Never give your pet a medical (prescription) sedative prior to traveling on a ferry or cruise ship. If you have a hyper or nervous pet, then give it an all-natural calmer.
7. Always purchase your pet carrier well in advance of your trip and acclimate your pet to it so that your pet can get used to it.
8. Be sure to tell the cruise or ferry line you will be traveling with a pet as they impose restrictions on the number of pets on a specific sailing.
9. Do not try to sneak your pet to your cabin or any areas of the ferry where they are not allowed. Be a responsible pet owner and follow the pet policies of the ferry.
10. Even though sea travel may be stressful both you and your pet, both of you will be happier if your pet gets to travel with you on your trip.

CITES

If your pet is not a dog, cat or ferret, and especially if it is a turtle or parrot, and you are leaving your country on a ferry, you should verify that it is not protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). You will need to apply for additional permits if this is the case. Over 180 countries worldwide participate and enforce CITES regulations.

Need More Assistance?

To the best of our ability, we ensure that recommendations given on PetTravel.com reflect the current regulations. We cannot predict how a given ferry may enforce these regulations. Noncompliance may result in the ferry refusing to board your pet. We suggest that you minimize the disruptions that may occur by following the rules of the country you are visiting.

Further detail on import permits, costs, tests and procedures are available at minimal cost at PetTravelStore.com. We also stock all the equipment and accessories you will need for traveling with your pet. Same day shipping Monday through Friday until 4:00 PM EST.

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