You're missing an important intersection: you can get on a closed-loop cruise from the US without a passport and with a criminal record. Cruises fill the "chea

You're missing an important intersection: you can get on a closed-loop cruise from the US without a passport and with a criminal record. Cruises fill the "cheap Caribbean getaway" segment for the sizable American population where getting a passport or not having a criminal history would otherwise be a blocker. Arguably it's also a motivator in why Cruises have the reputation they do, but that's beside the point.