Can You Smoke on American Cruise Lines A Complete Guide

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor areas and most outdoor spaces on American Cruise Lines, as the company enforces a comprehensive no-smoking policy to ensure a clean, safe environment for all passengers. Designated outdoor smoking zones may be available on select ships, but e-cigarettes and vaping are treated the same as traditional smoking—always check your specific vessel’s rules before lighting up to avoid fines or penalties.

Key Takeaways

• Smoking is banned in all indoor areas and most outdoor decks on American Cruise Lines.
• Designated zones exist on select ships—ask staff for exact outdoor locations.
• Electronic cigarettes prohibited in cabins and public spaces; same rules as tobacco.
• Violations incur fines up to $250 and possible removal from the cruise.
• Pre-boarding checks include luggage scans for prohibited smoking items.

Can You Smoke on American Cruise Lines: A Complete Guide

Imagine gliding along the serene waters of the Mississippi River, the sun setting behind you as you enjoy a cocktail on the deck of a luxurious cruise ship. The gentle sway of the boat, the soft breeze, and the distant call of a riverboat horn create the perfect ambiance. For many travelers, this experience might be enhanced by a cigarette, cigar, or vape. But before you light up, it’s essential to understand the smoking policies on American Cruise Lines. These policies are designed to balance the preferences of all passengers while ensuring safety, comfort, and compliance with health regulations.

American Cruise Lines, known for its small-ship, U.S.-based itineraries, has established clear guidelines regarding smoking aboard its vessels. Whether you’re a casual smoker, a cigar aficionado, or a vape enthusiast, knowing where and when you can smoke is crucial to avoid fines, conflicts, or even being asked to leave the ship. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of the smoking policy, including designated areas, prohibited zones, penalties for violations, and tips for a seamless cruise experience. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to enjoy your cruise without any smoke-related surprises.

Overview of American Cruise Lines’ Smoking Policy

General Smoking Restrictions

American Cruise Lines enforces a strict no-smoking policy in all indoor areas, including staterooms, hallways, dining rooms, lounges, restrooms, and elevators. This rule applies to all forms of smoking: traditional cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices. The policy is in line with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and international maritime health standards, which prioritize air quality and fire safety on board.

• Indoor smoking is prohibited 100% of the time.
• This includes balconies of staterooms, as smoke can drift into adjacent rooms and common areas.
• Smoking is not allowed during tendering operations (when passengers are ferried to shore via smaller boats).

For example, even if your stateroom has a private balcony, lighting up there is still against the rules. The cruise line uses advanced air filtration systems, and smoke can trigger alarms or disturb other guests, leading to immediate enforcement.

Designated Outdoor Smoking Areas

While indoor smoking is off-limits, American Cruise Lines does provide designated outdoor smoking zones on select decks. These areas are typically located at the stern (back) of the ship, away from main passenger traffic, and are marked with clear signage. On most vessels, such as the *American Harmony* or *American Melody*, the smoking area is on the open deck near the fitness center or aft observation deck.

• Smoking is permitted only in these clearly marked zones.
• Smoking is not allowed on open decks, pool areas, or near lifeboats.
• Guests must use ashtrays provided by the cruise line—no littering of cigarette butts.

Tip: If you’re unsure where the designated area is, ask a crew member. They are trained to guide smokers to the correct location and ensure compliance.

Enforcement and Penalties

American Cruise Lines takes its smoking policy seriously. Crew members are authorized to issue warnings, fines, or even remove repeat offenders from the ship. The consequences escalate quickly:

• First offense: Verbal warning and a reminder of the policy.
• Second offense: Written warning and a $250 cleaning fee (charged to your onboard account).
• Third offense: Immediate disembarkation at the next port of call, with no refund.

In 2022, a passenger on the *American Star* was fined and asked to leave in New Orleans after being caught smoking in a stateroom for the third time. This case highlights the seriousness of the policy. Always remember: the cruise line’s primary concern is guest safety and comfort.

Types of Smoking Allowed and Prohibited

Cigarettes and Tobacco Products

Traditional cigarettes are allowed only in the designated outdoor smoking zones. Passengers must bring their own tobacco products, as the ship’s gift shops typically do not sell cigarettes. However, some vessels may offer a limited selection of cigars or vaping supplies.

• Do not smoke near ventilation intakes—smoke can be pulled into indoor areas.
• Never toss cigarette butts overboard. This is both a fire hazard and an environmental violation.
• Use the ship’s ashtrays, which are emptied regularly by crew.

Example: On the *American Jazz*, the smoking deck has a windscreen to prevent smoke from drifting into non-smoking areas. Use it responsibly, especially on windy days.

Cigars and Pipes

Cigar and pipe smoking is permitted in the same outdoor zones as cigarettes. However, due to the stronger odor and longer burn time, the cruise line encourages guests to be considerate of others.

• Smoke cigars at least 10 feet away from non-smokers.
• Avoid lighting up during peak hours (e.g., after dinner) when more guests are on deck.
• Bring your own humidor or storage case—the ship does not provide cigar accessories.

Tip: Some cruise ships host “Cigar Socials” on select evenings, where aficionados can gather in the smoking area for a curated experience. Check the daily newsletter for details.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are treated the same as traditional cigarettes. They are prohibited indoors and allowed only in designated outdoor smoking zones.

• Do not charge vaping devices in your stateroom if they use lithium batteries—this is a fire risk.
• Avoid using high-nicotine or flavored e-liquids that may irritate nearby guests.
• Vaping is not permitted in tenders or during shore excursions.

Note: Some passengers mistakenly believe vaping is “smoke-free” and therefore allowed everywhere. This is a myth—American Cruise Lines does not distinguish between vaping and traditional smoking.

Hookahs and Water Pipes

Hookahs, water pipes, and similar devices are strictly prohibited on all American Cruise Lines vessels. The reasons include:

• Fire hazard due to charcoal or heating elements.
• High risk of secondhand smoke exposure.
• Difficulty in containing smoke and odors.

Even if you plan to use a hookah in the designated smoking area, it will be confiscated. The policy is non-negotiable.

Smoking During Shore Excursions and Port Visits

Onshore Smoking Regulations

When you disembark for shore excursions, smoking rules vary by destination. American Cruise Lines provides a port-specific smoking guide in your daily newsletter, but here are general tips:

• Always check local laws—some cities (e.g., New Orleans, Portland) have strict outdoor smoking bans.
• Smoking is often prohibited in national parks, historic sites, and public transit.
• Be respectful of local customs—in some cultures, smoking is frowned upon.

Example: In Juneau, Alaska, smoking is banned within 20 feet of building entrances. In contrast, Savannah, Georgia, allows outdoor smoking in most public areas.

Smoking on Tenders and Small Boats

Smoking is not allowed on tenders (the small boats that ferry passengers to shore). This rule applies to all forms of smoking, including vaping. The reasons include:

• Tenders are enclosed spaces with limited ventilation.
• High flammability due to fuel and engine proximity.
• Risk of smoke drifting back to the main ship.

Tip: If you need to smoke during a tender ride, wait until you reach the shore and find a legal smoking area.

Smoking-Friendly Ports

Some ports are more accommodating to smokers. For instance:

• Memphis, TN: Allows smoking in outdoor bars and patios.
• New Orleans, LA: Permits vaping in designated areas, but not traditional smoking in bars.
• Portland, OR: Bans smoking in all public parks and trails.

Always ask your tour guide or port agent about local rules before lighting up.

Special Considerations for Different Cruise Itineraries

River Cruises vs. Coastal Voyages

American Cruise Lines offers both river cruises (e.g., Mississippi, Columbia, and Snake Rivers) and coastal voyages (e.g., Alaska, New England). Smoking policies are consistent, but the designated smoking areas may vary:

• River ships (e.g., *American Eagle*) have smaller decks, so smoking zones are compact.
• Coastal ships (e.g., *American Constellation*) may have larger open decks with more space for smokers.

Example: On a 7-day Mississippi River cruise, the smoking area is on Deck 3, while on an Alaskan voyage, it might be on Deck 5 with ocean views.

Alaska and Pacific Northwest Cruises

Alaska cruises often include stops in remote areas with strict environmental regulations. Key points:

• Smoking is prohibited in Glacier Bay National Park.
• Do not dispose of cigarette butts in the ocean—Alaska has heavy fines for littering.
• Some ports (e.g., Sitka) have designated smoking areas near the cruise terminal.

Tip: Bring a portable ashtray or use a sealed container to store butts until you find a proper disposal bin.

Historic and Cultural Itineraries

On cruises to historic cities (e.g., Charleston, St. Augustine), smoking may be restricted near landmarks. For example:

• Charleston’s historic district bans smoking on sidewalks.
• St. Augustine’s Castillo de San Marcos prohibits smoking within 50 feet of the fort.

Always follow signage and respect local heritage sites.

Tips for Smokers to Enjoy Their Cruise

Plan Ahead and Pack Smart

• Bring enough tobacco or e-liquids to last the entire cruise—ship stores have limited supplies.
• Pack a windproof lighter or matches for outdoor use.
• Consider nicotine patches or gum as a backup if you miss a smoking opportunity.

Respect Non-Smokers

• Smoke only in designated areas and avoid lingering near ventilation systems.
• Apologize if your smoke drifts into someone’s space—courtesy goes a long way.
• Avoid smoking during crowded deck events (e.g., sunset cocktails).

Use the Cruise Line’s Resources

• Attend the “Smoking Briefing” during the safety orientation.
• Ask crew members for updates on smoking area availability (e.g., if it’s closed for cleaning).
• Check the daily newsletter for changes to the smoking policy.

Alternative Relaxation Techniques

If you’re trying to reduce smoking, consider:

• Joining onboard wellness activities (yoga, meditation).
• Exploring ports on foot—walking can reduce cravings.
• Using the ship’s library or game lounge to distract yourself.

Data Table: Smoking Policy Summary by Vessel Type

Vessel Type	Designated Smoking Area	Indoor Smoking	Vaping Allowed	Hookah/Pipe	Penalty for Violation
River Cruise Ships (e.g., *American Star*)	Deck 3, Stern	No	Yes (outdoor only)	No	$250 fine + disembarkation
Coastal Cruise Ships (e.g., *American Constellation*)	Deck 5, Aft	No	Yes (outdoor only)	No	$250 fine + disembarkation
Alaska Voyages	Deck 4, Port Side	No	Yes (outdoor only)	No	$250 fine + disembarkation

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Cruise, Smoke Responsibly

Navigating the smoking policies on American Cruise Lines doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the rules, respecting designated areas, and planning ahead, you can enjoy your cruise without compromising your habits—or the experience of fellow passengers. Whether you’re sailing down the Mississippi, exploring Alaska’s glaciers, or soaking up the history of the East Coast, the key is to smoke responsibly.

Remember: the cruise line’s policies are in place for everyone’s safety and comfort. A little awareness goes a long way. Bring your favorite tobacco products, use the designated outdoor zones, and always follow crew instructions. And if you’re ever in doubt, ask! The crew is there to help, not to judge. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to set sail—cigarette in hand, but only where it’s permitted. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you smoke on American Cruise Lines?

Smoking policies on American Cruise Lines are generally strict and limited to designated outdoor areas only. This rule applies to both cigarettes and cigars, with no smoking permitted in staterooms, balconies, or interior public spaces.

Where can I smoke on an American Cruise Lines ship?

Smoking is only allowed in specific outdoor areas, such as a designated section of the open deck or a dedicated smoking zone. The exact location is typically marked onboard and shared in the cruise line’s daily newsletter or announcements.

Does American Cruise Lines allow vaping or e-cigarettes?

Vaping and e-cigarettes are treated the same as traditional smoking and are only permitted in the same designated outdoor areas. They are strictly prohibited in cabins, balconies, and indoor public spaces.

Are there any exceptions to the smoking policy on American Cruise Lines?

No, American Cruise Lines enforces a consistent no-smoking rule in all indoor and private outdoor areas, including balconies. Exceptions are not made for medical or personal reasons, so plan accordingly if you’re a smoker.

What happens if I violate the smoking policy on American Cruise Lines?

Breaking the smoking policy may result in a fine, confiscation of smoking materials, or even removal from the ship at the next port. The cruise line prioritizes guest safety and comfort, so compliance is strictly monitored.

Can you smoke on American Cruise Lines while docked or in port?

Even when docked, the same smoking rules apply—smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas on the ship. However, you may be able to step ashore to smoke in local areas, depending on port regulations.