Smoking on a cruise ship isn’t a single recipe but a set of rules, locations, and etiquette that can make or break your voyage. This guide covers the designated smoking areas, cabin policies, and practical tips for smokers and non-smokers alike, so you can enjoy your cruise without surprises.
Ingredients
- 1 cruise ship with a clear smoking policy (check your line’s website)
- 1 valid government-issued ID (for age verification, usually 18 or 21+)
- Cigarettes, cigars, or e-cigarettes (packed in carry-on, not checked luggage)
- 1 lighter or matches (allowed on board, but not in checked bags)
- 1 ashtray or portable ashtray (for balcony or excursions, if allowed)
- Patience and courtesy for fellow passengers
Instructions
- Research your cruise line’s smoking policy before you book. Most major lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian) allow smoking only in designated outdoor areas and in the casino. Some lines, like Disney, prohibit smoking entirely on balconies and in cabins. Visit the cruise line’s official website or call customer service to confirm the exact rules for your ship.
- Pack your smoking materials in your carry-on bag. Lighters and e-cigarettes are prohibited in checked luggage due to fire risk. Place cigarettes, cigars, and vaping devices in your carry-on to avoid confiscation and ensure you have them when you board.
- Locate designated smoking areas on the ship. On embarkation day, look for the smoking areas listed in the daily newsletter or on the ship’s deck plan. Common spots include a section of the pool deck (often on one side), a corner of the casino, and sometimes a lounge or bar. These areas are marked with ashtrays and signs.
- Smoke only in those designated areas. Never smoke in your cabin, on your balcony, or in any indoor public space—this includes restaurants, theaters, and hallways. Violations can result in fines (often $250–$500) and, in extreme cases, disembarkation.
- If you’re on a balcony, check if smoking is allowed. Many lines now ban balcony smoking due to fire hazards and complaints. If allowed, use the provided ashtray and never toss cigarette butts overboard—they can blow back onto the ship or into the ocean, which is both unsafe and environmentally harmful.
- Be mindful of wind and other passengers. Even in designated areas, smoke can drift. Position yourself downwind of others, and avoid smoking near doors, vents, or crowded spots. If someone asks you to move, do so graciously.
- Use the casino’s smoking section if you gamble. Many ships allow smoking in the casino, but only in a specific section. If you don’t smoke, request a seat in the non-smoking area. If you do smoke, keep it to the designated slots and tables.
- For e-cigarettes, follow the same rules as traditional cigarettes. Vaping is generally prohibited in cabins and balconies, and only allowed in designated smoking areas. Some ships treat e-cigarettes differently, so check your line’s policy.
- On port days, smoke only in designated areas ashore. Many ports have strict smoking laws, and some beaches and restaurants are smoke-free. Always ask a local or look for signs before lighting up.
- Dispose of cigarette butts properly. Use the ashtrays provided in smoking areas. Never throw butts on the deck or overboard—this is a safety hazard and can lead to fines.
Tips
- Bring extra cigarettes or e-liquid. Ship stores may sell cigarettes, but they are often expensive and limited in variety. Pack enough for the entire cruise, plus a few extra in case of delays.
- Consider a patch or gum for sea days. If you’re worried about limited smoking times or weather, nicotine patches or gum can help you manage cravings. They’re available at the onboard pharmacy or bring your own.
- Check if your cruise line has a smoking lounge for cigars. Some ships have a dedicated cigar bar with ventilation. If you smoke cigars, look for this amenity—it’s more comfortable than the outdoor deck in bad weather.
- Be aware of fire alarms. Smoking in your cabin can trigger the smoke detector, leading to a ship-wide alert and a hefty fine. Never smoke in the bathroom or near a smoke detector, even if you think the steam will mask it.
Serving Suggestions
Smoking is best enjoyed with a drink—perhaps a coffee or a cocktail—in a designated area. On a warm day, the pool deck smoking section offers ocean views and a breeze. In the evening, the casino’s smoking corner is a social spot for gamblers. Always pair your smoke with a responsible attitude: keep your distance from non-smokers and children, and never leave a lit cigarette unattended.
Variations
- Cigar smoking: If you prefer cigars, look for a ship with a cigar lounge. These often have comfortable seating and a well-stocked bar. If not, the outdoor smoking area works, but be mindful of wind.
- Vaping: Some cruise lines allow vaping in the casino but not on balconies. Check your line’s policy; if unclear, treat vaping like smoking and stick to designated areas.
- Smoking on private islands: When your ship docks at a private island (e.g., CocoCay, Great Stirrup Cay), smoking is usually allowed only in designated areas on the island. Follow the same rules as on the ship.
Storage and Reheating
Store your cigarettes in a cool, dry place in your cabin—avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or near heat sources. E-cigarettes should be kept away from extreme temperatures; store batteries in a case to prevent short-circuiting. If you buy cigarettes at a port, keep them in your cabin safe to avoid theft. There’s no reheating involved, but if you’re a vaper, keep your device charged and carry spare coils—ship stores may not sell them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke on my balcony? Most major cruise lines now prohibit balcony smoking. If you’re caught, you’ll face a $250–$500 cleaning fee and possibly be banned from future cruises. Check your specific line’s policy, but assume it’s not allowed unless explicitly stated.
Where exactly can I smoke on a cruise ship? Designated areas are typically on the pool deck (one side only), in the casino, and sometimes in a specific lounge or bar. Look for ashtrays and signs. The daily newsletter will list the exact locations.
Can I bring my own cigarettes on board? Yes, you can bring cigarettes and e-cigarettes in your carry-on. There’s no limit for personal use, but be aware that some ports may restrict the quantity you can bring ashore. Lighters are allowed in carry-on, but not in checked luggage.
Is vaping allowed in the same areas as smoking? Generally, yes—vaping is treated like smoking on most cruise lines. However, some lines have separate rules, so check your policy. In all cases, vaping is not allowed in cabins or balconies.
What happens if I smoke in my cabin? You’ll likely trigger a smoke alarm, which can cause a ship-wide alert. The cruise line will fine you (usually $250–$500) and may charge a cleaning fee. In severe cases, you could be disembarked at the next port.
Can I smoke on the ship’s deck at night? Yes, if the designated smoking area is outdoors and not restricted by weather. However, many ships close certain deck areas at night for cleaning. Check the daily schedule for hours.
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