A couple is getting married outdoors by a lake, surrounded by mountains, while an officiant conducts the ceremony.

5 Things to Know About Eloping at a Cruise Port

CATEGORIES

January 14, 2025
Words by Jessie Allen
Photos courtesy of Adventure & Vow

Opting for a cruise elopement can eliminate the stress that often accompanies traditional, multi-destination travel plans. Plus, you get the benefit of more sightseeing experiences without the additional cost of securing separate transportation and lodging at each new location. But, if you’re planning to wed at one of the ports on your seafaring trip, you’ll need to keep a few things in mind. Here are five essential tips based on Texas couple, Dallas and John’s, unique experience eloping while docked on an Alaskan cruise, alongside insights from their photographers/planners, Traci and Bill of Adventure & Vow.

Seaplane on water near a dock with people boarding; large cruise ship moored at a nearby pier with trees in the background.

1. Choose a port stop with a full-day docking.

While one stop may be more appealing than another, the most important aspect of selecting a port is to have a full day to work with. This way, you can enjoy every moment without feeling rushed. “We created a timeline with some flexibility, knowing that air travel and weather could shift plans,” Bill explains.

A couple in formal attire poses near a rustic cabin and a lakeside forest setting, with smoke visible in the background.

2. Plan every minute precisely.

Time is of the essence when your wedding day is limited to the hours your ship is docked. Dallas and John emphasize the importance of meticulous timing. “Every minute had to be planned to the second, and that left no room for errors,” the bride says. Their elopement involved multiple modes of transport, including seaplanes and helicopters, which required precise coordination to ensure everything flowed seamlessly.

Three photos show a couple at a lakeside cabin: standing on a porch, holding hands on a rock by the water, and rowing a canoe on the lake, viewed through a window.

3. Expect the unexpected.

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in remote locations like Alaska. Traci says, “We always remind couples to embrace whatever nature throws their way—it often makes for the most memorable and beautiful moments.” Luckily, this is exactly what John and Dallas did. “It started to rain after the ceremony, which actually only added character to the pictures,” the groom says.

Top image: Couple standing on a seaplane's floats in a lake. Bottom image: Group of people in formal attire holding drinks near a stone building with a forested backdrop.

4. Hire experienced vendors.

Having photographers who are seasoned in elopements and small destination weddings is invaluable. Dallas and John worked closely with their photographers, to make arrangements with local vendors like Ward Air and Coastal Helicopters. “We presented the options to Dallas and John, and they managed the bookings, which gave them control and confidence over their special day,” Traci recalls.

A couple in wedding attire walks on a glacier, with mountains in the background. They are also seen near and inside a yellow helicopter.

5. Create a list of priorities.

Offer a list of “must-see” or “must-do” things to your photographer(s) so they can remain vigilant about timing and ensure your day is picture-perfect. This kind of thoughtful planning allowed the couple to visit multiple locations (including atop a glacier) for their first look and ceremony, and even enjoy a celebratory fireside drink before returning to the ship.

A couple poses on a glacier, a bride sits in a yellow helicopter, and a large cruise ship docked at a port beside a fire pit.

Vendors: Photographers & Planners: Adventure & Vow; Transportation: Ward Air & Coastal Helicopters; Wedding Dress: Daci Gowns

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