Can You Smoke on a Cruise Line Find Out the Rules and Tips

Smoking policies on cruise lines are strict and vary by company, but generally, smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas or specific lounges—never in cabins or on balconies. Most major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, ban smoking in staterooms due to fire hazards and guest comfort, with hefty fines for violations. Always check your cruise line’s official policy before lighting up to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Smoking policies vary by cruise line; always check the rules before booking.
• Designated areas only—smoking is banned in cabins, balconies, and most public spaces.
• Vaping falls under the same rules as smoking; don’t assume it’s allowed.
• Enforcement is strict; violations can lead to fines or removal from the ship.
• Use outdoor zones near the stern or upper decks where smoking is permitted.
• Ask crew for clarity if unsure—rules change frequently and differ by itinerary.

Can You Smoke on a Cruise Line? Find Out the Rules and Tips

Imagine standing on the deck of a luxury cruise ship, the ocean breeze brushing your face, a drink in hand, and the golden sun setting on the horizon. Now, picture lighting up a cigarette or cigar in this serene moment. For many travelers, smoking is a personal ritual, a way to relax or celebrate. But when it comes to cruise vacations, the rules around smoking can be surprisingly strict—and vary significantly from one cruise line to another. If you’re a smoker planning a cruise, you’ve likely asked yourself: Can you smoke on a cruise line? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s a nuanced mix of designated areas, evolving policies, and sometimes even outright bans.

Smoking policies on cruise ships have tightened over the years, driven by health regulations, environmental concerns, and shifting passenger preferences. Today, most major cruise lines have transitioned to smoke-free environments in indoor spaces and increasingly restrict outdoor smoking to specific zones. For passengers, understanding these rules is crucial to avoid fines, confrontations with crew, or even being denied boarding. Whether you’re a casual cigar smoker, a vape enthusiast, or someone who enjoys the occasional cigarette, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of cruise ship smoking policies, offering practical tips to help you navigate the rules while enjoying your vacation to the fullest.

General Smoking Policies on Major Cruise Lines

When it comes to smoking on cruise ships, the first rule of thumb is this: indoor smoking is almost universally prohibited. This includes staterooms, balconies (in most cases), dining areas, theaters, and public lounges. However, outdoor smoking areas vary by cruise line, ship, and even itinerary. Let’s break down the general policies of the top cruise lines and what you can expect.

Indoor Smoking: The Universal Ban

Every major cruise line—from Carnival and Royal Caribbean to Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Princess—has banned smoking inside staterooms and balconies. The reasons are clear: fire hazards, secondhand smoke drifting to adjacent cabins, and guest complaints. For example, Royal Caribbean’s policy states that smoking in staterooms or on balconies results in a $250 cleaning fee per occurrence. Carnival Cruise Line goes further, warning that repeat violations may lead to removal from the ship. Even luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania enforce strict indoor bans, though they often provide more spacious outdoor zones.

Why the strictness? Cruise ships are floating cities with limited ventilation systems. A single cigarette can trigger smoke alarms, disrupt the experience for non-smoking passengers, and pose a serious fire risk in confined spaces. As a result, designated smoking areas are the only permitted zones—and they’re always outdoors.

Outdoor Smoking Areas: Where and When

Outdoor smoking is allowed in specific, designated areas, typically on open decks away from high-traffic zones. Here’s a quick overview of where you might find these areas:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Smoking is permitted on open decks, usually on the starboard (right) side of the ship, away from pool areas and dining venues. Some ships have dedicated cigar lounges.
• Royal Caribbean: Smoking zones are often on the port (left) side of Deck 4 or 5, with some ships offering cigar bars or outdoor lounges. Note: Smoking is banned on balconies.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Smoking is allowed on select open decks, but policies vary by ship. For example, the Norwegian Encore has a designated smoking area on Deck 7, while the Norwegian Bliss allows it only on Deck 15.
• Princess Cruises: Smoking is permitted on open decks, usually on the starboard side, with cigar smoking allowed in specific lounges (e.g., Churchill’s Cigar Lounge on select ships).
• Holland America Line: Smoking zones are typically on the port side of the Promenade Deck, with cigar smoking allowed in the Crow’s Nest or Explorer’s Lounge.

Pro tip: Always check your cruise line’s official website or contact guest services *before* boarding. Policies can change, and some ships—especially newer ones—may have fewer or no smoking zones. For instance, Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wish has no outdoor smoking areas, reflecting the company’s family-friendly ethos.

Exceptions for Cigars and Pipes

While cigarettes and e-cigarettes face tight restrictions, some cruise lines make exceptions for premium cigars or pipes, often in dedicated lounges. For example:

• Carnival: Cigar smoking is allowed in the “Cigar Bar” on select ships (e.g., Carnival Horizon).
• Royal Caribbean: The “Cigar Club” on ships like Symphony of the Seas permits cigar smoking, but only with pre-approved brands.
• Princess Cruises: Churchill’s Cigar Lounge offers a curated selection of cigars and a relaxed, smoke-friendly environment.

Remember: These lounges often have additional rules, such as age restrictions (21+), purchase requirements (you may need to buy cigars onboard), or time limits. Always ask staff for guidance to avoid surprises.

E-Cigarettes, Vaping, and Nicotine Pouches: What’s Allowed?

The rise of e-cigarettes and vaping has added complexity to cruise ship smoking policies. While traditional cigarettes are treated as a known fire hazard, e-cigarettes—which use heated liquid rather than combustion—fall into a gray area. Here’s what you need to know.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping: The Rules

Most cruise lines prohibit vaping in indoor areas, including staterooms and balconies, treating it the same as cigarette smoking. However, some lines allow vaping in the *same designated outdoor zones* where cigarettes are permitted. For example:

• Carnival: Vaping is banned indoors and on balconies but allowed in outdoor smoking areas.
• Royal Caribbean: Vaping is prohibited everywhere except outdoor smoking zones (and banned on balconies).
• NCL: Vaping is allowed only in outdoor smoking areas, with a $250 fine for indoor use.

Important: Even if vaping is technically allowed outdoors, crew members may enforce stricter rules based on guest complaints. Vaping near pools, dining areas, or children’s zones is often discouraged or outright banned, regardless of the written policy. When in doubt, step into the designated smoking area and use your device discreetly.

Nicotine Pouches and “Smoke-Free” Alternatives

For travelers who want to avoid smoke entirely, nicotine pouches (e.g., Zyn, Lyft) and nicotine gum are generally permitted anywhere on the ship, as they don’t produce vapor or smoke. These are ideal for:

• Passengers who want to quit smoking but need nicotine support.
• Those who prefer to avoid outdoor smoking areas (e.g., in bad weather).
• Travelers on ships with no smoking zones (e.g., Disney Cruise Line).

Pro tip: Pack nicotine pouches in your carry-on luggage to ensure they’re accessible during embarkation and port stops. Note: Some countries have strict regulations on nicotine products, so check local laws if you plan to use them ashore.

Vaping on Balconies: The Gray Zone

Many cruise lines explicitly ban vaping on balconies, citing the risk of vapor drifting to adjacent cabins. However, enforcement can be inconsistent. Some passengers report vaping on balconies without issue, while others have been fined. To stay safe:

• Check your cruise line’s policy (e.g., Carnival’s website states, “Vaping is not permitted on balconies”).
• Use a low-output device (e.g., pod systems) to minimize vapor.
• Avoid vaping during high winds or when neighboring cabins are occupied.

When in doubt, stick to designated outdoor areas. A $250 fine isn’t worth the convenience.

Port Stops and International Smoking Laws

Cruise vacations often include stops in multiple countries, each with its own smoking regulations. What’s allowed on the ship might be illegal (or culturally frowned upon) ashore. Here’s how to navigate international smoking laws.

Country-Specific Smoking Bans

Many ports have strict public smoking bans. Examples include:

• Japan: Smoking is banned on most public streets and requires designated “smoking rooms” in train stations and buildings.
• France: Smoking is prohibited in all public indoor spaces and within 5 meters of building entrances.
• Australia: Smoking is banned in public areas, including beaches, parks, and outdoor dining zones.
• Norway: Smoking is prohibited in all public areas, including outdoor terraces and near schools.

Before disembarking, research the local laws. Violations can lead to hefty fines (e.g., up to $500 in Japan) or even detention. Pro tip: Download a translation app (e.g., Google Translate) to read local signage and avoid misunderstandings.

Smoking in Port Cities: Cultural Sensitivity

Beyond legality, consider cultural norms. In some destinations, public smoking is seen as rude or outdated. For example:

• Thailand: While smoking is legal, locals often avoid smoking in public to maintain a “clean” image.
• Scandinavia: Smoking is heavily stigmatized, and many public spaces have no designated zones.

When in doubt, step into a private area (e.g., a hotel room, designated smoking zone) or wait until you return to the ship. Your cruise line’s shore excursion desk can provide local guidance.

Smoking on Excursions

Many shore excursions involve group activities (e.g., bus tours, guided walks) where smoking is prohibited. Always ask your tour guide before lighting up. Some excursions, like beach visits or vineyard tastings, may allow smoking in open areas—but check the rules first. For example, a Royal Caribbean “Beach Break” excursion in the Caribbean might permit smoking on the sand, while a “Historical Walking Tour” in Europe likely won’t.

Consequences of Breaking Smoking Rules

Ignoring cruise ship smoking policies can lead to serious consequences—from fines to being kicked off the ship. Here’s what happens when you violate the rules.

Fines and Fees

Most cruise lines impose a $250 cleaning fee for smoking in staterooms, balconies, or other banned areas. This fee covers:

• Odor removal (e.g., ozone treatments).
• Deep cleaning of carpets, linens, and surfaces.
• Potential cabin rebooking if the room is deemed unusable.

Example: On Carnival, the fee is charged per violation, meaning multiple infractions can cost $500+ in a single cruise. Royal Caribbean and NCL have similar policies.

Removal from the Ship

Repeat offenders or those who cause significant disturbances (e.g., smoking near a children’s pool) may be removed from the ship at the next port. This is rare but not unheard of. For example, in 2022, a passenger on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship was disembarked in Nassau after smoking on their balcony and refusing to comply with crew instructions.

Consequences of removal:

• You’ll need to pay for your own return travel home.
• You may be banned from future cruises with the line.
• You could face legal action (e.g., for fire hazards).

Secondhand Smoke and Passenger Complaints

Even if you avoid fines, smoking in undesignated areas can spark complaints from other passengers. Cruise lines prioritize guest satisfaction, and crew members are trained to address issues swiftly. A single complaint might lead to:

• A stern warning from security.
• Relocation to a designated area.
• Increased monitoring of your behavior.

To avoid conflict, always follow the rules—and if you see someone else violating them, report it to crew rather than confronting them.

Tips for Smokers to Enjoy a Cruise (Without Breaking Rules)

Smoking on a cruise doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your habit while respecting the rules and your fellow passengers.

Pre-Cruise Preparation

Before you board, take these steps:

• Review the policy: Visit your cruise line’s website or contact guest services to confirm smoking rules.
• Pack wisely: Bring lighters, ashtrays, and nicotine alternatives (e.g., pouches, gum). Note: Matches are often prohibited in carry-ons due to security.
• Download the app: Most cruise lines have apps with deck plans, including smoking zone locations.

Onboard Strategies

Once on the ship, follow these best practices:

• Use designated zones: Stick to the approved areas, even if they’re inconvenient.
• Smoke early or late: Avoid peak times (e.g., dinner hours) to minimize exposure to non-smokers.
• Be discreet: Don’t blow smoke toward others or linger near high-traffic areas.
• Ask staff: If unsure, crew members can direct you to the nearest smoking zone.

Smoking-Friendly Cruises

If you’re a heavy smoker, consider booking with lines that offer more lenient policies. For example:

• Carnival: Offers the most outdoor smoking zones and cigar lounges.
• Princess Cruises: Has dedicated cigar lounges and relaxed outdoor policies.
• Holland America: Allows smoking in the Crow’s Nest, a popular lounge with ocean views.

Avoid lines like Disney or Virgin Voyages, which have near-total smoking bans.

Data Table: Smoking Policies by Cruise Line (2024)

Cruise Line	Indoor Smoking	Balcony Smoking	Outdoor Smoking Zones	Cigar Lounges	Vaping Policy
Carnival	❌ Banned	❌ Banned	✅ Starboard side of open decks	✅ On select ships	✅ Outdoor zones only
Royal Caribbean	❌ Banned	❌ Banned	✅ Port side of Deck 4/5	✅ Cigar Club on most ships	✅ Outdoor zones only
Norwegian Cruise Line	❌ Banned	❌ Banned	✅ Varies by ship (e.g., Deck 7 or 15)	❌ None	✅ Outdoor zones only
Princess Cruises	❌ Banned	❌ Banned	✅ Starboard side of open decks	✅ Churchill’s Cigar Lounge	✅ Outdoor zones only
Disney Cruise Line	❌ Banned	❌ Banned	❌ No outdoor zones	❌ None	❌ Banned everywhere

Note: Policies are subject to change. Always verify with the cruise line before departure.

Conclusion

So, can you smoke on a cruise line? The answer is: yes, but only in designated areas and with strict adherence to the rules. From indoor bans to outdoor zones, cigar lounges, and vaping policies, cruise lines have created a framework that balances passenger freedom with safety and comfort. For smokers, the key is preparation—researching policies, packing the right supplies, and respecting fellow travelers. By following the guidelines in this guide, you can enjoy your cruise without fines, conflicts, or the stress of breaking the rules. Remember, a cruise is a shared experience. Whether you’re lighting a cigar under the stars or using a nicotine pouch in your cabin, being mindful of others ensures everyone has a memorable, enjoyable voyage. Bon voyage—and happy (and legal) smoking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you smoke on a cruise line?

Most cruise lines allow smoking in designated outdoor areas, such as specific sections of the pool deck or promenade, but prohibit it in cabins, balconies, and indoor public spaces. Always check your cruise line’s specific policy before boarding.

Where can I smoke on a cruise ship?

Smoking is typically permitted in marked outdoor zones, like port-side decks or cigar lounges (on select ships). Vaping and e-cigarettes often follow the same rules as traditional smoking—never in cabins or dining areas.

Can you smoke on a cruise line balcony?

Over 90% of cruise lines ban smoking on balconies due to fire hazards and guest complaints. Violations may result in fines or being barred from future sailings—stick to approved areas.

Are e-cigarettes allowed on cruise ships?

Most lines permit vaping in designated smoking zones but treat it like traditional smoking—no use in cabins, restaurants, or near pools. Confirm with your cruise line’s policy to avoid surprises.

What happens if I break the smoking rules on a cruise?

Breaking smoking policies can lead to fines ($250+), mandatory debarkation, or bans from the cruise line. Crew members actively enforce these rules to ensure guest safety.

Can you smoke marijuana on a cruise line?

Even if you’re sailing from a state or country where cannabis is legal, cruise lines prohibit it onboard. Customs laws and international waters regulations make possession a serious violation.