Can You Smoke on All Cruise Lines Going to Bermuda Find Out Now

No, you cannot smoke on all cruise lines going to Bermuda—policies vary significantly by cruise line and ship. While some, like Carnival and Norwegian, allow smoking in designated outdoor areas and select indoor lounges, others, such as Disney and Royal Caribbean, enforce strict no-smoking rules in cabins and most public spaces, with fines for violations. Always check your cruise line’s specific policy before lighting up to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth sailing experience.

Key Takeaways

• Not all cruise lines allow smoking: Policies vary widely—always check before booking.
• Designated areas are mandatory: Smoking is restricted to specific zones on most ships.
• Bermuda has strict local laws: Follow onshore rules to avoid fines or penalties.
• Vaping rules mirror smoking bans: Treat e-cigarettes like tobacco in most cases.
• Royal Caribbean and NCL: Permit smoking in cabins with balcony doors closed.
• Carnival and Princess: Ban indoor smoking but allow it in outdoor designated areas.
• Penalties apply for violations: Fines or disembarkation may occur for breaking rules.

Can You Smoke on All Cruise Lines Going to Bermuda? Find Out Now

Ah, the open ocean, the salty breeze, and the allure of Bermuda’s pink-sand beaches. For many travelers, a cruise to Bermuda is the epitome of relaxation and adventure. But if you’re a smoker, your dream vacation might come with a cloud of uncertainty. Can you smoke on all cruise lines going to Bermuda? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on the cruise line, the ship, the specific area, and even the time of day. With smoking policies varying widely across major cruise operators, understanding where and when you can light up is essential for a stress-free voyage.

Whether you’re a casual cigar aficionado, a vape enthusiast, or a traditional cigarette smoker, knowing the ins and outs of cruise line smoking rules can make or break your trip. Bermuda itself has strict anti-smoking laws, and cruise lines must comply with both international maritime regulations and local Bermudian laws. This creates a complex patchwork of policies that can confuse even seasoned cruisers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the smoking rules for every major cruise line sailing to Bermuda, highlight designated smoking zones, explore the nuances of electronic cigarettes and cigars, and provide practical tips to help you enjoy your cruise without breaking the rules—or the law.

Understanding Cruise Line Smoking Policies: The Basics

Why Smoking Rules Vary by Cruise Line

Smoking policies on cruise ships aren’t standardized because each cruise line sets its own rules based on brand identity, customer demographics, and evolving public health standards. For example, Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean cater to a broad, family-oriented audience, so they’ve adopted stricter anti-smoking policies in recent years. In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises may offer more flexibility, especially for adult-only areas or premium lounges.

Additionally, cruise lines must adhere to international regulations from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), which promote smoke-free environments on ships. These guidelines, combined with pressure from health organizations and changing consumer preferences, have led to a global trend toward reduced smoking areas and increased enforcement of no-smoking zones.

General Rules That Apply to All Cruise Ships

While each cruise line has unique rules, there are a few universal restrictions that apply across the board:

• Cabins and balconies: Smoking is almost always prohibited in staterooms and on private balconies. This includes cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices. Violations can result in hefty fines (often $250–$500) and potential disembarkation.
• Indoor public areas: Lobbies, restaurants, theaters, and casinos are strictly no-smoking zones, with rare exceptions for designated cigar lounges.
• Children’s areas: All kid-friendly zones, including playrooms and family pools, are 100% smoke-free.
• Compliance with local laws: When docked in Bermuda, cruise lines must follow Bermudian smoking laws, which ban smoking in all enclosed public spaces and within 10 feet of entrances.

These rules are enforced through surveillance, crew monitoring, and passenger reporting. Ignoring them can lead to immediate penalties, including fines, loss of privileges, or removal from the ship in extreme cases.

How to Stay Informed Before You Sail

Before booking your cruise, take these steps to avoid surprises:

• Visit the cruise line’s official website and search for “smoking policy.”
• Review the Guest Conduct Policy and Terms and Conditions during booking.
• Contact customer service directly to ask about smoking zones and enforcement.
• Read recent reviews on forums like Cruise Critic to learn about real-world experiences.

Pro tip: Download the cruise line’s app before departure. Many apps include interactive ship maps with highlighted smoking areas, updated in real time.

Smoking Policies by Major Cruise Line Sailing to Bermuda

Carnival Cruise Line: Strict but Predictable

Carnival is one of the most popular lines for Bermuda cruises, especially from New York and Baltimore. Its smoking policy is among the strictest:

• Smoking is banned in all cabins, balconies, restaurants, and indoor public areas.
• Designated outdoor smoking zones are limited to specific areas on Deck 5 or 10, often near the aft (rear) of the ship.
• E-cigarettes and vaping are treated the same as traditional cigarettes and are only allowed in designated outdoor zones.
• Cigars and pipes may be smoked in the same zones, but never on balconies.

Example: On the Carnival Horizon, smoking is permitted only on the starboard (right) side of Deck 10, near the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. Smoking elsewhere, even in your cabin, can result in a $250 fine.

Royal Caribbean: Adult-Only Zones with Flexibility

Royal Caribbean offers a slightly more nuanced approach, especially on newer ships like Symphony of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas:

• Smoking is prohibited in all staterooms, balconies, and indoor public areas.
• Designated outdoor smoking areas are located on Deck 5 or 6, typically near the adults-only Solarium or sports court.
• E-cigarettes are allowed in the same outdoor zones but not in elevators or stairwells.
• Some ships feature a dedicated cigar lounge (e.g., on Quantum-class ships), where cigars and pipes are permitted.

Tip: Royal Caribbean’s app includes a “Smoking Zone” filter on the ship map. Use it to locate the nearest permitted area quickly.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Balanced Approach

NCL strikes a balance between strict rules and adult-focused flexibility:

• Smoking is banned in all cabins, balconies, and indoor areas.
• Outdoor smoking is permitted in specific zones on Deck 7 or 8, often near the adults-only Haven or pool deck.
• E-cigarettes and vaping are allowed in designated outdoor areas only.
• Some ships (e.g., Norwegian Escape) have a cigar bar or lounge where cigars are permitted.
• Smoking is allowed on the starboard side of the pool deck during late-night hours (after 10 PM).

Note: NCL’s “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy means rules may vary slightly by ship. Always check your specific vessel’s policy.

Celebrity Cruises: Premium Experience with Clear Rules

Celebrity, known for its upscale ambiance, enforces clear but slightly more lenient policies:

• Smoking is prohibited in all staterooms, balconies, and indoor areas.
• Designated outdoor smoking zones are on Deck 5 or 6, often near the Rooftop Terrace or adults-only pool.
• E-cigarettes are permitted in the same outdoor zones.
• Cigars may be smoked in the Martini Bar or Cigar Lounge (if available) and in outdoor zones.
• On some ships, smoking is allowed on the starboard side of the pool deck after 9 PM.

Example: On the Celebrity Edge, the Cigar Lounge (Deck 4) offers a refined space for cigar enthusiasts, complete with humidor storage and premium selections.

Princess Cruises: Traditional Zones with Modern Rules

Princess Cruises maintains a traditional approach with modern enforcement:

• Smoking is banned in all cabins, balconies, and indoor areas.
• Outdoor smoking is permitted on Deck 7 or 8, usually near the adults-only Sanctuary.
• E-cigarettes are allowed in designated outdoor zones only.
• Cigars may be smoked in the same zones or in the Wheelhouse Bar (if available).
• Smoking is allowed on the starboard side of the pool deck after 10 PM.

Tip: Princess’s “Smoking Policy” page on their website includes a printable map of all smoking zones by ship class.

E-Cigarettes, Vaping, and Cigars: Special Considerations

Are E-Cigarettes Treated the Same as Cigarettes?

Yes—in most cases. Cruise lines classify e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and nicotine pods as equivalent to traditional smoking. This means:

• They are banned in cabins, balconies, and indoor areas.
• They are only permitted in designated outdoor smoking zones.
• Using them in non-smoking areas (e.g., near pools or restaurants) can result in the same fines as smoking.

Why? Vaping produces aerosols that can trigger fire alarms, disturb non-smokers, and violate health codes. Additionally, many cruise lines use the same sensors to detect vaping as they do for smoke.

Cigar Smoking: Lounges vs. Open Decks

Cigar smoking is a unique case. While most cruise lines allow cigars in designated outdoor zones, many offer premium cigar lounges for a more refined experience:

• Cigar lounges (e.g., on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and NCL) often feature humidors, lounge seating, and drink service. These are the only indoor areas where cigar smoking is permitted.
• Outdoor zones are ideal for casual cigar smoking, especially at sunset.
• Never smoke cigars on balconies—the smoke drifts to neighboring cabins, and the fine is steep.

Pro tip: Bring your own humidor or use the ship’s storage if available. Many lounges offer cigar purchases, but prices are higher onboard.

Special Events and Exceptions

Some cruise lines host smoking-friendly events:

• Cigar and Whiskey Nights: Offered by Celebrity and Princess, these events allow cigars in specific outdoor areas.
• Late-night smoking zones: On NCL and Princess, smoking is permitted on the starboard side of the pool deck after 10 PM.
• Private parties: Charter groups may negotiate special smoking zones, but this requires advance approval.

Always check with guest services if you’re planning a private event with smoking.

Bermuda’s Local Smoking Laws and Onshore Rules

Smoking Laws in Bermuda

Bermuda has strict anti-smoking laws to protect public health and the environment:

• Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and shops.
• Smoking is banned within 10 feet of building entrances, windows, and ventilation systems.
• Smoking is not allowed on public beaches or in parks.
• Fines for violations start at $100 and can reach $500.

These laws apply to cruise passengers as soon as they disembark. Ignorance is not a defense.

Smoking Zones in Bermuda

While smoking is highly restricted, there are limited outdoor areas where it’s permitted:

• Private balconies or patios at hotels (if allowed by the property).
• Designated smoking areas at some bars and resorts (e.g., the Hamilton Princess Hotel).
• Remote beaches or private property (with permission).

Tip: When in doubt, ask a local or hotel staff. Many Bermudians are happy to point you to the nearest legal spot.

Transit Between Ship and Shore

When docking in Bermuda, cruise ships often enforce a “no-smoking” rule during disembarkation and reboarding. This is because:

• Smoking near gangways can violate Bermuda’s 10-foot rule.
• Cruise lines want to avoid fines or conflicts with local authorities.

Best practice: Finish smoking at least 15 minutes before returning to the ship. Use the designated zone on the dock if available.

Smoking Zones: A Data Table by Cruise Line

Cruise Line	Designated Outdoor Smoking Zones	E-Cigarettes Allowed?	Cigar Lounge?	Late-Night Pool Deck Smoking?	Typical Fine for Violation
Carnival	Deck 5 or 10 (starboard, aft)	Yes (outdoor only)	No	No	$250
Royal Caribbean	Deck 5 or 6 (near Solarium)	Yes (outdoor only)	Yes (on select ships)	No	$250–$500
Norwegian (NCL)	Deck 7 or 8 (starboard)	Yes (outdoor only)	Yes (on select ships)	Yes (after 10 PM)	$250
Celebrity	Deck 5 or 6 (starboard)	Yes (outdoor only)	Yes (Cigar Lounge)	Yes (after 9 PM)	$250–$300
Princess	Deck 7 or 8 (starboard)	Yes (outdoor only)	Yes (Wheelhouse Bar)	Yes (after 10 PM)	$250

Note: Policies may vary by ship class and itinerary. Always verify with your cruise line before sailing.

Tips for Smokers: Enjoy Your Cruise Without Breaking the Rules

Plan Ahead and Pack Smart

• Download the cruise app to locate smoking zones instantly.
• Bring a portable ashtray (many cruise lines provide them in smoking zones).
• Pack extra lighters or matches—smoking zones often have limited supplies.
• Consider nicotine patches or gum to reduce cravings in non-smoking areas.

Know the Consequences of Breaking the Rules

• Fines: $250–$500, charged to your onboard account.
• Loss of privileges: Smoking bans, restricted access to lounges.
• Disembarkation: In extreme cases, you may be removed from the ship.

Respect Non-Smokers and Crew

• Always smoke in designated areas—never near pools, restaurants, or kids’ zones.
• Dispose of butts properly; littering is a major offense.
• Be courteous to crew members enforcing rules—they’re just doing their job.

Alternative Activities for Smokers

• Join a cigar-tasting event or whiskey-pairing dinner.
• Relax in the adults-only retreat (e.g., Serenity on Carnival, Solarium on Royal Caribbean).
• Explore Bermuda’s historic sites and gardens during shore excursions.

By following these tips and understanding the policies, you can enjoy your cruise to Bermuda without sacrificing your smoking habits—or your peace of mind.

So, can you smoke on all cruise lines going to Bermuda? No—but with careful planning, you can still light up responsibly. Each major cruise line offers designated zones, cigar lounges, and flexible late-night rules to accommodate adult smokers. Just remember: know the rules, respect the boundaries, and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re puffing on a cigar under the stars or vaping in a quiet corner, your Bermuda cruise can be as relaxing as it is unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you smoke on all cruise lines going to Bermuda?

No, smoking policies vary by cruise line and ship. While some lines allow smoking in designated outdoor areas, others have stricter rules, especially on newer vessels. Always check your specific cruise line’s policy before booking.

Where can I smoke on a cruise to Bermuda?

Most cruise lines permit smoking only in designated outdoor areas, like specific sections of the pool deck or promenade. Indoor smoking, including in cabins and balconies, is typically prohibited due to fire hazards and health regulations.

Are electronic cigarettes allowed on Bermuda-bound cruises?

E-cigarette policies differ by cruise line, but many treat them the same as traditional cigarettes—restricted to designated outdoor smoking zones. For example, Royal Caribbean and Carnival prohibit vaping on balconies, so confirm your line’s rules ahead of time.

Do all cruise lines enforce the same smoking rules in Bermuda ports?

No, while onboard rules are set by the cruise line, local laws in Bermuda apply once you disembark. Smoking is banned in public spaces like restaurants and buses, but permitted in outdoor areas away from crowds.

What happens if I smoke in a non-designated area on a cruise to Bermuda?

Violating smoking policies can result in fines, confiscation of smoking materials, or even removal from the ship. Cruise lines like Norwegian and Disney enforce strict penalties to maintain safety and guest comfort.

Are there smoke-free cruise lines sailing to Bermuda?

Some lines, like Virgin Voyages, have near-total smoking bans, permitting it only in a single, isolated outdoor zone. Others, like Carnival, allow smoking in multiple areas—so if you’re a non-smoker, research policies to avoid unwanted exposure.