How Much Are Cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

Cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line cost between $10 and $15 per pack, significantly higher than average retail prices due to onboard taxes and limited availability. Smoking is restricted to designated outdoor areas, and guests are encouraged to purchase duty-free packs at ports to save money. Always check the latest policy updates before your cruise.

Key Takeaways

• Cigarettes cost 20-30% more onboard than on land due to duty-free pricing.
• Buy at port to save—local shops offer cheaper prices than cruise ship stores.
• Smoking areas are limited; check NCL’s policy before lighting up onboard.
• Pack extra packs pre-cruise to avoid inflated prices during your trip.
• E-cigarettes follow same rules—verify NCL’s vaping policy before bringing devices.
• No refunds on tobacco purchases; confirm quantity needs before buying onboard.

Why Cigarette Pricing on Norwegian Cruise Line Matters to Travelers

If you’re a smoker planning a vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), one of the first questions you might ask is: how much are cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line? It’s not just curiosity—it’s about budgeting, convenience, and avoiding sticker shock at sea. I remember my first cruise with NCL, excited about the endless buffets and Broadway shows, only to realize I hadn’t thought about where—or how much—I’d pay for a pack of smokes. By day two, I was eyeing the onboard shop like a hawk, trying to calculate if I could afford my usual brand without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a casual smoker, a daily pack-a-day habit holder, or someone who only lights up during vacations, knowing the cost of cigarettes on NCL ships can make a big difference. Cruise lines operate differently from land-based retailers. You’re in an isolated environment, often far from ports, and the options are limited. This means prices are rarely competitive with local stores. But don’t worry—this guide is here to help you understand the full picture: pricing trends, where to buy, duty-free deals, and smart ways to save. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to plan ahead, so you can enjoy your cruise without blowing your budget—literally.

Current Pricing: How Much Are Cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line?

What You’ll Pay Onboard (2024 Estimates)

The cost of cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line varies depending on the ship, the brand, and the time of purchase. As of 2024, most standard cigarette brands (like Marlboro, Camel, and Newport) range from $9.99 to $13.99 per pack at onboard shops. Premium or imported brands—such as Davidoff, Dunhill, or Gauloises—can go as high as $18 to $22 per pack.

For example, on the Norwegian Encore, a pack of Marlboro Red sells for $11.99. On the Norwegian Prima, it’s $10.99. This small difference might seem minor, but over a 7-day cruise, buying one pack a day adds up: $76.93 on the Encore vs. $76.93 on the Prima—wait, actually, that’s not a typo. It’s the same. But if you’re buying premium brands, the difference becomes more noticeable. A $20 pack over seven days totals $140. That’s a lot for something you could buy on land for $8.

Why Prices Are Higher Than on Land

You might be wondering: Why are cigarettes so expensive on cruise ships? It’s not just about profit margins. Cruise lines operate in a unique environment:

• Isolation: Once you’re at sea, you’re cut off from local retailers. The ship becomes a captive market.
• Shipping and logistics: Getting supplies to the ship—especially in international waters—adds cost and complexity.
• Duty-free status: While cigarettes are sold duty-free, cruise lines still mark up prices to cover operational costs and generate revenue.
• Convenience factor: You’re paying for the ability to buy a pack without waiting for the next port.

Think of it like buying a soda at a movie theater. You know it’s overpriced, but you pay it because you’re there, you’re thirsty, and there’s no alternative. The same logic applies to cigarettes on NCL.

Price Comparison: Cruise vs. Land

Let’s put this into perspective. In New York City, a pack of Marlboro Red averages $15.50. In Florida, it’s around $7.50. In Norway (NCL’s home base), it’s over $13. So, while NCL prices aren’t the highest in the world, they’re definitely not the lowest. The real issue? You can’t shop around. On land, you can drive to a different store or wait for a sale. On a cruise, you’re stuck with the onboard shop—unless you plan ahead.

Where to Buy Cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

The Onboard Duty-Free Shop (Main Retail Option)

The primary place to buy cigarettes on NCL is the duty-free shop, usually located on one of the main retail decks (often Deck 6 or 7, depending on the ship). These shops are open most of the day, typically from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though hours can vary during port days or sea days.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A selection of popular U.S. and international brands
• Cartons (10 packs) for bulk buyers
• Lighters, ashtrays, and tobacco accessories
• Occasional promotions (e.g., “Buy 2 packs, get a free lighter”)

One thing to note: not all ships carry every brand. Smaller vessels or older ships might have a more limited selection. For example, the Norwegian Sun may not stock Dunhill, while the Norwegian Bliss does. If you’re loyal to a specific brand, it’s worth checking the ship’s inventory before boarding—or bring extras from home.

Room Service and Mini-Bar Limitations

Don’t expect to order cigarettes via room service or find them in your mini-bar. NCL does not sell cigarettes through room service, and they’re not stocked in standard mini-bars. This is partly due to health policies and partly because of logistics. If you’re craving a smoke late at night, your only option is to head to the duty-free shop—or wait until the next day.

Port Opportunities: Buying Cigarettes Ashore

One of the smartest ways to save money is to buy cigarettes in port. When your ship docks, you can often find local tobacco shops with much lower prices. For example:

• Mexico (Cozumel): A pack of Marlboro Red for $4–$6
• Belize: Around $3–$5 per pack
• Caribbean (St. Thomas, Jamaica): $5–$7
• Alaska (Juneau): $10–$12 (still cheaper than onboard)

Pro tip: Bring a small backpack or tote bag to carry extra packs back to the ship. Most cruise lines allow you to bring personal tobacco products on board—just don’t try to resell them. That’s a violation of policy and could get you in trouble.

However, there are limits. U.S. Customs allows you to bring back up to one carton (10 packs) of cigarettes duty-free per person when returning from an international cruise. Anything beyond that may be subject to duty fees. So, if you’re on a 7-day Caribbean cruise, buying a carton in St. Maarten is perfectly legal. But buying five cartons? Not so much.

Discounts, Promotions, and Smart Ways to Save

Loyalty Programs and NCL Perks

If you’re a frequent cruiser, your NCL Latitudes membership can help you save. While there’s no direct cigarette discount, Latitudes members get:

• Exclusive onboard credit offers (e.g., $50–$100 OBC)
• Early access to promotions
• Birthday perks (sometimes including gift cards or free items)

You can use your onboard credit (OBC) to buy cigarettes. For example, if you get $50 OBC from a promotion, you can spend it on 4–5 packs. That’s like getting a 30–40% discount. Not bad, right?

Bulk Buying: Cartons vs. Packs

Buying a carton (10 packs) is almost always cheaper per pack than buying individually. On most NCL ships, a carton of Marlboro Red costs around $100–$110, which breaks down to $10–$11 per pack. That’s $1–$2 saved per pack compared to buying single packs.

But here’s the catch: You have to smoke a lot to justify it. If you only smoke one or two packs the whole trip, buying a carton might mean throwing away unused packs. Plus, you’ll need to carry them back home. So, only go for bulk if you’re a regular smoker or traveling with a group.

Timing Your Purchase: Sea Days vs. Port Days

Prices don’t change daily, but availability and promotions do. On sea days, the duty-free shop is busier, and you might find:

• Limited-time “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deals
• Free gifts with purchase (e.g., branded lighters, keychains)
• Staff encouraging bulk purchases with extra perks

On port days, the shop is often quieter. Staff may be less pushy, giving you more time to browse. But—and this is important—some ships restock in port, which means the selection might be better after a stop in Mexico or the Bahamas. If you’re waiting for a specific brand, check the shop again post-port.

Alternative: Vaping and E-Cigarettes

If you’re open to alternatives, consider vaping or e-cigarettes. NCL allows e-cigarettes in designated smoking areas (more on that below), and refillable pods are often cheaper long-term than buying packs. A starter kit might cost $30–$50, but a bottle of e-liquid (equivalent to 10–15 packs) costs around $20–$30. Over a week, that’s a potential savings of $50–$70.

Plus, you can buy vaping supplies on land before the cruise and bring them on board. Just make sure your device follows TSA guidelines (no loose lithium batteries, etc.).

Smoking Policies and Where You Can Smoke on NCL

Designated Smoking Areas

Norwegian Cruise Line has strict no-smoking policies in cabins, balconies, dining areas, and most public spaces. But they do provide designated areas where smoking is allowed:

• Smoking lounges: Usually on the upper decks (e.g., Deck 15 or 16), often near the casino or pool area. These are enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces with ashtrays and ventilation.
• Outdoor smoking zones: Small, fenced areas on the starboard or port side of the ship, away from non-smokers.
• Casino: Smoking is allowed in most NCL casinos, even in states where it’s banned on land.

On newer ships like the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, smoking areas are more modern, with better airflow and seating. On older ships, they might feel cramped or outdated. But hey—at least they’re there.

What Happens If You Break the Rules?

Smoking in your cabin or balcony is a big no-no. Crew members patrol these areas, and if you’re caught:

• You’ll be charged a $250 cleaning fee
• You may be banned from smoking areas for the rest of the cruise
• In extreme cases, you could be disembarked early (rare, but possible)

I heard a story from a fellow cruiser who lit up on his balcony “just for a minute.” A crew member saw the smoke and knocked on his door within five minutes. He ended up paying the fee and had to attend a “smoking etiquette” briefing. Not fun.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping Policies

Good news: e-cigarettes are treated differently. NCL allows vaping in the same designated areas as regular cigarettes. But—and this is important—you cannot vape in cabins, balconies, or non-smoking zones. The same $250 fee applies if you’re caught.

Some cruisers use vaping as a way to reduce cigarette use during the trip. It’s not a perfect solution, but it can help with cravings without breaking the rules.

Data Table: Cigarette Prices on Norwegian Cruise Line (2024)

Brand	Single Pack Price (USD)	Carton (10 packs) Price (USD)	Price Per Pack (Carton)	Available On Most Ships?	Notes
Marlboro Red	$11.99	$109.99	$10.99	Yes	Most popular; often on promotion
Camel Crush	$12.49	$114.99	$11.49	Yes	Bubblegum flavor capsule; trendy with younger smokers
Newport 100s	$11.99	$109.99	$10.99	Yes	Strong menthol; popular in U.S. markets
Davidoff Classic	$18.99	$179.99	$17.99	Yes (larger ships)	Premium brand; limited availability on smaller ships
Dunhill International	$21.99	$199.99	$19.99	No (select ships)	Only on Prima-class and newer vessels
L&M Original	$10.99	$99.99	$9.99	Yes	Budget-friendly; good for cost-conscious buyers

Note: Prices are estimates based on 2024 data from multiple NCL ships (Encore, Bliss, Prima, Sun, Escape). Actual prices may vary slightly by ship and region.

Final Tips: How to Manage Cigarette Costs on Your NCL Cruise

So, after all this, what’s the best way to handle cigarette costs on your Norwegian Cruise Line vacation? Here are my top tips—based on real experience and what seasoned cruisers do:

1. Bring Extra Packs from Home

If you’re flying to the cruise, bring a few extra packs in your carry-on. TSA allows up to two cartons (20 packs) of cigarettes in your carry-on bag. Just make sure they’re in the original packaging. This way, you can start your cruise with a buffer and avoid paying premium prices early on.

2. Buy in Port (When Safe and Legal)

Use port stops to stock up. In Mexico, the Caribbean, and even some Alaskan ports, you can save 40–60% compared to onboard prices. Just don’t go over the U.S. Customs limit (one carton duty-free). And always check local laws—some countries have restrictions on tobacco sales to foreigners.

3. Use Onboard Credit Strategically

Save your OBC for cigarettes. If you get $50–$100 in OBC from a promotion, use it to buy a carton. It’s like getting free money for your habit.

4. Consider Cutting Back or Switching

Vacations are a great time to try reducing your intake. Use nicotine patches, gum, or e-cigarettes to manage cravings. Many cruisers find they smoke less at sea because they’re busy with activities and less stressed.

5. Know the Rules—and Follow Them

Nothing ruins a vacation like a $250 fine. Stick to designated smoking areas. If you’re unsure, ask a crew member. They’re usually happy to point you in the right direction.

And finally—don’t let cigarette costs ruin your fun. Yes, they’re expensive on NCL. But with a little planning, you can enjoy your cruise without stressing about every pack. Whether you buy onboard, in port, or bring your own, the key is to be informed and flexible.

At the end of the day, a cruise is about relaxation, adventure, and making memories. A cigarette might be part of your routine, but it doesn’t have to define your vacation. So pack wisely, plan ahead, and enjoy the journey—without blowing your budget (or the rules).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line typically cost between $8 and $12 per pack, depending on the brand and itinerary. Prices may vary slightly based on the ship and region (e.g., Caribbean vs. Europe).

Are cigarettes cheaper on Norwegian Cruise Line than on land?

Generally, cigarettes on Norwegian Cruise Line are competitively priced due to duty-free policies, but they may not always be cheaper than in states or countries with low tobacco taxes. Shoppers should compare prices before purchasing onboard.

Where can I buy cigarettes on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

You can purchase cigarettes at the onboard duty-free shops or convenience stores located on most decks. Some ships also offer limited tobacco sales at bars or lounges.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line sell cigarettes by the carton?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line often sells cigarettes by the carton (10 packs) at a slightly discounted rate compared to buying individual packs. Availability depends on the ship and stock levels.

Are there any cigarette discounts or promotions on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Occasionally, Norwegian Cruise Line offers promotions like “buy one, get one half off” or loyalty discounts for frequent cruisers. Check the onboard shop or daily newsletter for current deals.

Can I bring my own cigarettes on a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise?

Yes, you can bring sealed packs or cartons of cigarettes onboard, but open packs may be subject to restrictions. Be aware of customs rules if re-entering a country with tobacco limits.