Cruising offers a fantastic way to relax and explore different parts of the world, combining leisure, adventure, and luxury. For some passengers, however, the question of whether or not they can smoke during the cruise is a key consideration. “Can You Smoke in a Cruise Ship? Know the Onboard Policies” is an important topic for those who enjoy smoking while travelling and wish to know the rules that apply on board.
Smoking policies on cruise ships have evolved over the years, driven by concerns over the health and comfort of all passengers, as well as the environmental impact of cigarette butts and other smoking waste. If you’re wondering where you can light up a cigarette or enjoy a cigar during your voyage, read on to understand the onboard policies and where you can find designated smoking areas.
Can You Smoke in a Cruise Ship? Know the Onboard Policies
When it comes to smoking on cruise ships, the rules and regulations are not uniform across all lines. This means that before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to understand the specific smoking policies of the cruise line you’ve chosen.
Generally speaking, smoking is restricted to specific areas on the ship, with many cruise lines enforcing a no-smoking policy in most indoor public spaces. However, there are designated areas where smoking is allowed, and knowing where you can indulge in your habit is crucial to ensuring an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
What Areas Allow Smoking on Cruise Ships?
Each cruise ship has different zones where smoking is permitted, and they usually include the following:
- Designated Smoking Decks: Most cruise ships have at least one outdoor area, often located on the upper deck, where smoking is allowed. These decks are typically away from the pools, dining areas, and other spaces that are non-smoking.
- Cigar Lounges: On certain premium or luxury cruise lines, dedicated cigar lounges exist for passengers who enjoy a fine cigar while at sea. These areas are designed with comfort and style in mind, often featuring leather seating and humidor storage.
- Private Balconies: Many cruise lines allow passengers to smoke on their private balconies, but this can depend on the ship. Some ships even have specific guidelines on how far you should be from your cabin’s walls and railings when smoking.
- Certain Bars or Cafes: For those who prefer to smoke in a more social setting, some cruise ships offer outdoor bars or cafés that have designated smoking sections. These areas are typically well-ventilated and comfortable for smokers.
What About the Smoking Policies for Different Cruise Lines?
As mentioned, different cruise lines have varying policies when it comes to smoking. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular cruise lines and their specific smoking policies to give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
| Cruise Line | Smoking Allowed | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | Designated outdoor areas, private balconies, and cigar lounges | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public areas, including dining rooms and theaters. |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Outdoor smoking areas, private balconies | Smoking is allowed on specific decks, but not near pools, dining areas, or staterooms. |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | Outdoor smoking areas, private balconies | Smoking is allowed on specific decks, but not in enclosed areas. |
| Princess Cruises | Outdoor decks, private balconies, and designated cigar lounges | Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces and staterooms. |
| Celebrity Cruises | Outdoor smoking areas, private balconies | Smoking is banned in dining rooms, staterooms, and most indoor public areas. |
Can You Smoke in the Staterooms or Cabins?
Cruise lines are strict about smoking inside cabins or staterooms. This is a measure taken to ensure the comfort of all guests, prevent potential fire hazards, and maintain a fresh and pleasant environment throughout the ship.
- Designated Smoking Rooms: While rare, some cruise lines do offer staterooms with designated smoking areas. These rooms may come with additional cleaning charges and might not be available on all ships.
- Penalties for Violations: Passengers who are caught smoking in non-designated areas (like their staterooms, enclosed hallways, or indoor public spaces) will likely face hefty fines. In some cases, offenders may even be disembarked from the ship before the cruise concludes.
What If I Want to Smoke a Cigar or Vape?
Both cigars and vaping have become increasingly popular aboard cruise ships, and many lines have set up policies to accommodate these activities.
Smoking Cigars on a Cruise Ship:
- Designated Cigar Lounges: Most cruise ships allow passengers to smoke cigars in dedicated cigar lounges. These lounges are often equipped with comfortable seating, excellent ventilation, and a selection of fine cigars.
- Outdoor Smoking Areas: In addition to indoor cigar lounges, most ships provide specific outdoor areas where passengers can enjoy cigars. These areas are typically designed for maximum comfort while ensuring minimal impact on non-smokers.
Vaping Policies:
- Designated Vaping Areas: Vaping on cruise ships is generally restricted to outdoor spaces, much like traditional smoking. Many ships designate specific areas or even entire decks where vaping is allowed.
- Indoor Restrictions: Just like smoking, vaping is banned from all indoor spaces, including restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
Why Do Cruise Ships Have Smoking Policies?
Cruise ships have some of the strictest policies surrounding smoking. There are several key reasons for this:
- Health and Safety Concerns: Smoking indoors presents significant health and safety risks. In addition to fire hazards, secondhand smoke is a concern for passengers who prefer a smoke-free environment. With limited space on cruise ships, maintaining a smoke-free indoor environment is essential for everyone’s well-being.
- Environmental Considerations: Cruise lines are working hard to reduce their environmental footprint. Cigarette butts and cigar remnants are difficult to dispose of properly, especially in the middle of the ocean. By restricting smoking to certain areas, cruise lines can manage waste better and minimize their impact on the environment.
- Comfort for All Passengers: Cruises are often multi-generational vacations where both smokers and non-smokers coexist. Providing designated smoking areas ensures that everyone can enjoy the cruise without discomfort.
FAQs: All Your Smoking Questions Answered
Can I smoke on my cabin balcony?
Many cruise lines allow smoking on private balconies, but always check with the cruise line before booking, as some ships may have stricter rules on smoking in certain areas.
Can I vape on a cruise ship?
Vaping is allowed in designated outdoor areas, but like smoking, it is prohibited indoors. Always check the cruise line’s specific policies regarding vaping, as they can vary.
Can I bring my own cigarettes or cigars on board?
Yes, most cruise lines allow you to bring cigarettes or cigars on board. However, there are usually limits on the quantity, and you may need to declare tobacco products at the time of embarkation.
Is smoking allowed in the pool area?
Smoking is typically not allowed near the pool area or the sunbathing decks, as it can be a disturbance to other passengers who prefer a smoke-free environment.
