Written by Chillie Falls, AccessAdventure.net, October 1, 2025
A potential U.S. government shutdown is set to begin October 1, 2025, if Congress fails to reach a funding agreement. While non-essential federal services would close, cruise operations are expected to continue with minimal disruption.
Essential federal employees — including Customs and Border Protection, TSA, and U.S. Coast Guard personnel — will remain on duty, keeping cruise ports open. However, these workers will be unpaid until the shutdown ends, raising the risk of delays or staffing strain.
According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), port security and core operations will not be suspended. Cruise line headquarters and onboard operations will remain unaffected, as they are privately run.
The biggest impact for cruise passengers will likely be at national parks, museums, and other federally operated attractions, which would close. Passport services will also continue but may face delays.
Airports will stay open, though travelers may face longer lines at security and customs checkpoints. Passengers are advised to follow the usual guidelines: arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
The U.S. Travel Association warns the country’s travel industry could lose $1 billion per week during a shutdown, though cruises will largely continue as planned.