So, it's been a whirlwind, as my Girlfriend and I decided to splurge on a cruise, somewhat last minute. We had to rush and get my daughter's vaccine in order (thankfully had time there), and though her passport won't arrive on time, being closed loop we should be fine with her birth certificate (I do have my passport).
But in talking to a friend about the upcoming cruise, they asked if we had a notarized letter from mom giving her permission, and I was taken back... guess I missed another thing?
Mom is in the loop, and is excited for her to go. But she lives across the country from us, so it is more work to coordinate things like this (she also works nights, so mundane things for most can be a bigger chore for her).
Realistically, I like to plan for worst case that can normally happen (I know there is risk already without her passport), so I wanted to find out how common it is to NEED a letter, and what happens without it? I am traveling with her (no flight, we live in FL and departing Canaveral), and our last names match (and she is 9 and plenty articulate.. hah), but I would hate to lose our cruise if we didn't get it on time..
(And man, so much effort to spend 5 days on a boat... sheesh!)