Traveling to Thailand on a cruise ship brings up an essential question for many tourists: Do you need a visa on arrival when you embark on this journey? The answer might be simpler than you think. Nationals of over 60 countries do not need a visa to enter Thailand. All that’s required is your passport and proof of travel. However, the requirements can vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

Whether or not you need a visa in addition to a valid passport for your cruise is a common question with a rather complicated answer. There are a few factors to consider, and it’s vital to stay informed. For instance, travelers shared their experiences, like one who mentioned, “We didn’t need a visa when visiting Phuket on Splendida in April 2017. We did get landing cards for some ports. I just can’t remember if we had them for Thailand.”source.

Furthermore, there are exemptions in place for citizens of certain countries. If you have an ordinary passport issued by nations such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, South Korea, or Peru, you can travel to Thailand without a visa for up to 90 days. Additionally, U.S. citizens carrying a tourist passport and in possession of an onward or return airline ticket do not require a visa to enter Thailand. The passport must have at least six months validity remaining to be allowed entry.source

However, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape of international travel. Countries, including Thailand, had to introduce strict processes and entry requirements to halt the virus’s spread. Among these measures, the Thailand Pass was introduced. This required visitors to register details like vaccination status, flight, and hotel bookings.source

For those still unsure about their visa requirements, various platforms offer insights, such as iVisa.com and Cruise Critic. It’s always recommended to check and stay updated on the latest requirements before planning your trip to avoid any inconveniences.