Can You Smoke on All Cruise Lines Find Out Here

No, you cannot smoke on all cruise lines—policies vary widely and are increasingly restrictive. Most major cruise lines now ban smoking in cabins and on balconies, permitting it only in designated outdoor areas or casinos, if at all. Always check your cruise line’s specific rules before booking to avoid fines or onboard restrictions.

Key Takeaways

• Smoking policies vary by cruise line—always check before booking.
• Designated areas exist on all major cruise lines for smokers.
• Smoking in cabins is universally prohibited—fines apply if violated.
• Vaping rules mirror smoking policies—confirm before use onboard.
• Some lines ban smoking entirely—research to avoid surprises.
• Outdoor decks allow smoking in specific zones—ask staff for locations.
• Non-compliance risks fines or removal—follow posted rules strictly.

The Great Cruise Smoking Debate: What You Need to Know Before You Set Sail

Picture this: you’re lounging on the deck of a luxurious cruise ship, the ocean breeze gently brushing your face, a cocktail in hand, and the sun setting over the horizon. It’s the perfect moment—until you reach for a cigarette. Suddenly, you’re hit with a wave of uncertainty. Can you smoke on all cruise lines? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Cruise smoking policies are as varied as the destinations these floating resorts visit, and understanding the rules is essential to avoid fines, embarrassment, or even being asked to disembark.

Smoking on cruise ships has evolved dramatically over the past two decades. What was once a common pastime for many travelers has become highly regulated due to health concerns, changing social norms, and strict maritime laws. Today, nearly every major cruise line has implemented designated smoking areas, and some have gone as far as banning tobacco products entirely in certain zones. Whether you’re a casual smoker, a cigar aficionado, or a vape enthusiast, knowing where and how you can light up is crucial. This comprehensive guide will break down the policies of the top cruise lines, explain regional regulations, and offer practical tips to help you enjoy your cruise—without breaking the rules or your vacation vibe.

Why Cruise Lines Restrict Smoking: The Rules Behind the Smoke

Health and Safety Regulations

One of the primary reasons cruise lines restrict smoking is health and safety. The International Maritime Organization (IMO), along with national agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard, enforces strict fire prevention standards. Smoking near fuel storage, engine rooms, or flammable materials poses a serious risk. Additionally, secondhand smoke exposure is a major concern in confined spaces like cabins, hallways, and dining areas. To comply with international health standards—such as those set by the World Health Organization (WHO)—cruise lines have adopted smoke-free policies in most indoor areas and many outdoor zones.

Changing Passenger Expectations

Modern travelers are more health-conscious than ever. According to a 2023 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) report, over 78% of passengers prefer smoke-free environments. Cruise lines respond to these preferences to maintain high customer satisfaction and attract families, non-smokers, and wellness-focused travelers. For example, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line have significantly reduced smoking areas over the past 10 years, citing passenger feedback as a key driver.

Legal and Insurance Implications

Smoking violations can lead to hefty fines under maritime law. If a passenger is caught smoking in a prohibited area, they may face penalties ranging from $250 to $500 per incident. In extreme cases—such as smoking in a cabin or causing a fire—passengers can be removed from the ship at the next port, with no refund. Cruise lines also face increased insurance premiums if smoking-related incidents occur, which further incentivizes strict enforcement.

Smoking Policies by Major Cruise Line: A Detailed Breakdown

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean allows smoking only in designated outdoor areas. These typically include:

• The starboard (right) side of the pool deck
• Specific sections of the outdoor promenade on select ships
• Dedicated smoking lounges on older vessels (e.g., Oasis-class ships)

Important: Smoking is banned in all staterooms, balconies, dining rooms, and indoor lounges. Vaping is treated the same as tobacco smoking and is subject to the same rules. Violators may face fines up to $250 and potential removal from the ship.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival permits smoking in a few outdoor zones, primarily on the starboard side of the Lido deck. However, the policy varies slightly by ship class. For example:

• On Carnival Breeze and Carnival Horizon, smoking is allowed on the starboard side of Deck 10.
• On newer ships like Carnival Celebration, smoking zones are smaller and more isolated.

Carnival bans smoking on balconies due to fire risks and complaints from neighboring cabins. Vaping is allowed only in designated areas. Carnival also offers a “Smoke-Free Cruise” option on select sailings, where all tobacco and vaping products are prohibited.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL has one of the most restrictive policies. Smoking is permitted only in outdoor designated areas on Deck 16 (starboard side) on most ships. Key points include:

• No smoking on balconies or in staterooms.
• No smoking in the casino (unlike some competitors).
• Vaping is allowed in the same designated areas as tobacco.

NCL has been phasing out smoking lounges and reducing outdoor zones to align with its “Freestyle Cruising” wellness initiatives.

MSC Cruises

MSC allows smoking in a few outdoor zones, but the rules are stricter on newer ships. For example:

• On MSC Seaside and MSC Grandiosa, smoking is allowed on the starboard side of the pool deck.
• On older ships like MSC Poesia, a dedicated smoking lounge may still exist.

MSC prohibits smoking on all balconies and in all indoor areas. The line also bans e-cigarettes in staterooms and balconies, though vaping is permitted in designated outdoor zones.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises permits smoking in outdoor areas on the starboard side of the Lido deck and in a dedicated smoking lounge (on select ships). The line is known for its “Cigar Club” on ships like the Regal Princess, which offers a ventilated, enclosed space for cigar enthusiasts. However:

• No smoking on balconies or in staterooms.

<

• Vaping is allowed only in designated outdoor zones.
• Smoking is banned in the casino and all dining venues.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises has one of the most progressive policies, with smoking permitted only in two small outdoor zones on the starboard side of the pool deck. The line has eliminated indoor smoking lounges and banned smoking on balconies. Vaping is allowed in the same outdoor areas as tobacco, but not in staterooms. Celebrity emphasizes a “wellness-focused” experience, and smoking is increasingly discouraged through signage and crew enforcement.

Regional Variations: Smoking Rules Depend on Where You Sail

Caribbean and North American Cruises

Most Caribbean and U.S.-based cruises follow strict no-smoking policies due to U.S. Coast Guard regulations and high passenger demand for smoke-free environments. Ships departing from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral typically enforce the same rules regardless of the cruise line. For example:

• Smoking is banned on balconies (fire hazard).
• Indoor smoking is prohibited except in rare, ventilated lounges.
• Designated outdoor zones are often limited to one side of the pool deck.

Tip: If you’re sailing from a U.S. port, assume the rules will be strict. Always check the cruise line’s website 24 hours before departure for last-minute updates.

European and Mediterranean Cruises

European cruises—especially those operated by lines like Costa Cruises or MSC—may have slightly more lenient policies in certain ports. For example:

• In Italy and Spain, smoking on open decks may be allowed in more areas, but still not on balconies.
• Some ships visiting the Mediterranean may allow smoking in outdoor lounges during port days.

However, once the ship returns to international waters (typically 12 nautical miles from shore), the cruise line’s standard policy applies. Always follow the ship’s rules, not local customs.

Asia-Pacific and Australian Cruises

In regions like Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, smoking policies are often even stricter than in the U.S.. Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) enforces smoke-free zones on all vessels, and many ships have banned smoking entirely on outdoor decks. For example:

• P&O Australia has banned smoking on all balconies and outdoor areas.
• Royal Caribbean’s Australian sailings prohibit smoking anywhere on the ship except in a single, isolated outdoor zone.

Vaping is also heavily restricted in these regions due to local laws.

Alaskan and Canadian Cruises

Alaskan cruises (e.g., with Holland America or Princess) follow U.S. and Canadian maritime laws. Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas, and balcony smoking is universally banned. The cold weather and wind conditions make outdoor smoking zones less appealing, so many passengers choose to abstain during these voyages.

Smoking vs. Vaping vs. Cigars: What’s Allowed and Where?

Vaping and E-Cigarettes

Vaping policies mirror tobacco rules on most cruise lines. Key points:

• Royal Caribbean: Vaping allowed only in designated outdoor smoking areas. Banned in staterooms, balconies, and indoor areas.
• Carnival: Vaping permitted in the same zones as tobacco. No vaping on balconies.
• Norwegian: Vaping is allowed in outdoor designated areas only. No exceptions for staterooms.

Warning: Some cruise lines (e.g., Disney Cruise Line) treat vaping as a serious violation, with fines up to $500. Always check the fine print.

Cigar Smoking

Cigar smoking is often treated differently due to its social and luxury connotations. Some lines offer dedicated cigar lounges:

• Princess Cruises: “Cigar Club” on select ships (e.g., Regal Princess). Must be 21+ and purchase cigars onboard.
• Celebrity Cruises: “Cigar Bar” on ships like Celebrity Edge. Ventilated, enclosed space.
• Holland America: “Crow’s Nest” lounge on some ships allows cigar smoking in a designated corner.

On most ships, cigar smoking is not allowed on balconies or open decks unless in a designated outdoor smoking zone. Bring your own cigars, but avoid lighting up near non-smokers.

Nicotine Patches, Gum, and Smokeless Tobacco

Good news: smokeless options are allowed everywhere. Nicotine patches, gum, snus, and chewing tobacco are not restricted and can be used in staterooms, balconies, and public areas. These are ideal for passengers who want to avoid smoking zones or reduce cravings without violating rules.

Tips for Smokers and Vapers

• Pack a portable ashtray to avoid littering in designated zones.
• Use nicotine replacements during long port days or when smoking zones are closed.
• Check the daily newsletter for updates on smoking area hours (some close at night).
• Never smoke near lifeboats or fuel tanks—these areas are off-limits.

Consequences of Violating Smoking Rules: Fines, Removal, and More

Fines and Penalties

Smoking in a prohibited area can result in immediate fines. Typical penalties include:

• $250 for first offense (most lines)
• $500 for repeat violations
• Confiscation of smoking materials

Fines are charged to your onboard account and must be paid before disembarking.

Being Removed from the Ship

In severe cases—such as smoking in a cabin, causing a fire, or repeated violations—the cruise line may remove you from the ship at the next port. This is rare but possible. If it happens:

• You forfeit all remaining cruise days.
• You pay for your own return travel.
• You may be banned from future sailings.

Disney Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises are known for zero-tolerance policies.

Damage to Your Reputation

Smoking in non-designated areas can lead to complaints from other passengers, crew intervention, and a negative reputation onboard. Cruise ships are tight-knit communities, and rule-breaking can affect your social experience.

Insurance and Legal Issues

If your smoking causes property damage (e.g., a balcony fire), you may be held legally liable. Travel insurance rarely covers smoking-related incidents, so you could face out-of-pocket costs for repairs or medical care.

Smoking Policy Comparison Table: Top 5 Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Outdoor Smoking Areas	Smoking on Balconies?	Vaping Allowed?	Indoor Smoking Lounges?	Cigar Lounges?	Typical Fine
Royal Caribbean	Starboard side of pool deck	No	Yes (outdoor zones only)	No (except older ships)	No	$250
Carnival	Starboard side of Lido deck	No	Yes (outdoor zones only)	No	No	$250
Norwegian	Deck 16, starboard side	No	Yes (outdoor zones only)	No	No	$250
MSC Cruises	Starboard side of pool deck	No	Yes (outdoor zones only)	No	No	$250
Princess Cruises	Starboard side of Lido deck	No	Yes (outdoor zones only)	No	Yes (on select ships)	$250

Final Thoughts: Can You Smoke on All Cruise Lines?

The short answer to “Can you smoke on all cruise lines?” is a resounding no. While every major cruise line allows smoking in some capacity, the rules are increasingly restrictive, with most banning smoking in staterooms, on balconies, and in indoor areas. The trend is clear: cruise lines are prioritizing passenger health, safety, and comfort over tobacco use.

To enjoy your cruise without hassle, follow these key takeaways:

• Always check the cruise line’s official policy before booking.
• Stick to designated smoking zones—never assume an area is okay.
• Use nicotine replacements to manage cravings in smoke-free zones.
• Respect non-smokers—smoking is a privilege, not a right on modern ships.
• Be prepared for fines if you break the rules—they are strictly enforced.

As cruise travel continues to evolve, smoking policies will likely become even stricter. Lines like Virgin Voyages have already launched 100% smoke-free ships, and others may follow. Whether you’re a smoker or a non-smoker, the best approach is awareness, preparation, and respect for the rules. After all, the goal is to enjoy the open sea—not a citation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you smoke on all cruise lines?

No, smoking policies vary significantly between cruise lines. Most have designated smoking areas, while some, like Disney Cruise Line, are entirely smoke-free onboard.

Where can I smoke on a cruise ship?

Cruise lines typically allow smoking in designated outdoor areas, such as specific sections of the pool deck or stern. Indoor smoking, including staterooms and balconies, is almost always prohibited for safety and guest comfort.

Are e-cigarettes allowed on cruise ships?

Most cruise lines permit e-cigarettes but restrict their use to designated smoking areas. Always check your cruise line’s policy, as some treat vaping like traditional smoking, while others ban it entirely.

Can you smoke on cruise ship balconies?

Smoking on balconies is generally prohibited across major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian. This rule helps prevent secondhand smoke exposure to neighboring cabins and maintains air quality.

Do any cruise lines allow smoking everywhere?

No major cruise lines allow unrestricted smoking. Even luxury lines like Regent or Oceania have strict policies limiting smoking to designated zones. “Can you smoke on all cruise lines” depends entirely on the company’s specific rules.

What happens if I violate the cruise smoking policy?

Breaking the policy may result in fines, confiscation of smoking items, or even removal from the ship. Cruise lines enforce these rules strictly to ensure a safe, pleasant experience for all guests.