Originally Posted by
brooklynmatt
They will go into International Waters in order to open the Casino which will be a major source of onboard revenue, and they will not let a ship return from International Waters without a check.
Immigration in NYC is some of the tightest out there - they often don't even let the crew off for security reasons.
The boat is not stopping anywhere internationally so I don't see it as an issue. I also just looked at Norwegian's check-in process for the 1-Day New York cruise and here's what it says about documentation:
"All guests 16 years of age or older must present proof of identity at time of boarding. (i.e., valid driver's license that includes a photograph, or government identification card, that includes a physical description)."
Here's what it says for, e.g., a Caribbean cruise:
"In addition to your proof of citizenship document, proof of identity must also be presented on embarkation day for all guests 16 years of age or older (i.e., valid driver's license that includes a photograph, or government identification card, that includes a physical description).
For up to date immigration information please visit: http://www.getyouhome.gov."
So it looks like immigration and customs is not an issue unless your cruise specifically goes to a foreign port.