Which Cruise Lines Allow Smoking A Complete Guide for Travelers

Most major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, permit smoking only in designated outdoor areas and select casinos, but policies vary widely by brand and itinerary. For travelers who smoke, it’s crucial to check each line’s specific rules—lines like Princess and Holland America allow smoking on private balconies, while others, including Disney Cruise Line, enforce near-total bans. Always review the latest guidelines before booking to avoid fines or restricted access during your voyage.

Key Takeaways

• Most cruise lines ban smoking in cabins and public areas.
• Royal Caribbean allows smoking only in designated outdoor zones.
• Carnival permits smoking on open decks and in cigar lounges.
• Norwegian Cruise Line restricts smoking to port side of outdoor decks.
• Always check policies pre-booking as rules vary by ship and region.
• E-cigarettes face same rules as traditional cigarettes on most lines.

Which Cruise Lines Allow Smoking? A Complete Guide for Travelers

Imagine this: you’ve saved for months, meticulously planned your dream vacation, and finally boarded a luxurious cruise ship ready to unwind. The sun is setting, the ocean breeze is perfect, and you’re craving that familiar comfort of a cigarette or cigar. But then—you remember the rules. Cruise lines have strict policies on smoking, and violating them can result in fines, being escorted off the ship, or even a ban from future sailings. For smokers and vapers, understanding where and when they can light up is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises during what should be a relaxing getaway.

Smoking policies on cruise ships have evolved significantly over the past two decades. What was once a common onboard activity—smoking in cabins, lounges, and even dining rooms—is now heavily restricted due to health regulations, environmental concerns, and shifting public preferences. Today, most cruise lines allow smoking in designated outdoor areas only, with some exceptions for cigars and e-cigarettes. However, the specifics vary widely between companies, destinations, and even individual ships. This guide dives deep into the policies of major cruise lines, offering a comprehensive breakdown to help you plan your trip without compromising your habits or your wallet. Whether you’re a casual vaper, a cigar aficionado, or a traditional cigarette smoker, this is your go-to resource for navigating the smoke-friendly zones of the high seas.

Understanding Cruise Line Smoking Policies: The Basics

Why Do Cruise Lines Restrict Smoking?

Cruise lines have tightened smoking rules for several reasons. First, health and safety are top priorities. Secondhand smoke poses risks to non-smokers, especially in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces. The confined nature of a cruise ship amplifies these concerns, making smoke dispersion a serious issue. Second, fire hazards are a major risk—improperly disposed of cigarettes or cigars can ignite flammable materials. Third, environmental regulations in certain ports, such as those in Europe and Alaska, require ships to minimize pollution, including smoke emissions. Finally, customer feedback has driven changes; many travelers prefer smoke-free environments, especially in cabins and dining areas.

Common Smoking Zones on Cruise Ships

Despite restrictions, most cruise lines designate specific areas where smoking is permitted. These typically include:

• Outdoor decks: Usually on the starboard (right) or port (left) side, away from dining and pool areas.
• Designated smoking lounges: Found on some older ships or in adult-only sections (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Diamond Lounge).
• Casino areas: Some lines allow smoking at gaming tables, though this is becoming rarer.
• Cigar bars: High-end lines like Regent Seven Seas and Crystal Cruises offer dedicated cigar lounges, often with premium selections.
• Private balconies: Policies here vary widely—some lines allow it, others ban it outright (more on this below).

Pro tip: Always look for official signage. Even if you see others smoking in an area, it doesn’t mean it’s allowed. Cruise staff enforce rules strictly, and violations can lead to a $250–$500 fine.

E-Cigarettes, Vapes, and Heated Tobacco

The rise of e-cigarettes and vaping has complicated policies. While many lines treat vaping like traditional smoking (banned indoors, allowed only in designated outdoor zones), others are more lenient. For example:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Allows vaping in the same areas as cigarettes but bans it in cabins and balconies.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Permits e-cigarettes in designated outdoor smoking areas but prohibits them in all indoor spaces, including staterooms.
• Royal Caribbean: Treats vaping as smoking, with no exceptions for private balconies.

Heated tobacco products (e.g., IQOS) are often classified as traditional smoking by cruise lines, so check your specific carrier’s rules before packing.

Major Cruise Lines: Smoking Policies Compared

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is one of the most smoker-friendly mainstream lines, but with clear boundaries. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is allowed in:

• Designated outdoor areas on Deck 4 (starboard side).
• Smoking lounges on select ships (e.g., Carnival Horizon).
• Casino tables (if the ship has a casino).

Prohibited areas: Cabins, balconies, indoor public spaces, and dining areas. Carnival explicitly warns that smoking on balconies will result in a $250 fine and potential removal from the ship. However, their outdoor zones are spacious and well-ventilated, making them a good option for smokers.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean’s policy is strict and consistent across its fleet. Smoking is permitted only in:

• Outdoor areas on the starboard side of Deck 4 or 5 (varies by ship).
• Smoking lounges on Oasis-class ships (e.g., Symphony of the Seas).
• Casino tables (if the ship has a casino).

Important: No smoking is allowed in cabins, balconies, or any indoor area. Royal Caribbean uses advanced air filtration systems, and violations are taken seriously. In 2022, a passenger was fined $500 for smoking on their balcony, highlighting the line’s zero-tolerance stance.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL’s policy strikes a balance between flexibility and control. Smoking is allowed in:

• Designated outdoor areas on Deck 4 (starboard side).
• Smoking lounges on Breakaway- and Breakaway Plus-class ships.
• Casino tables (if the ship has a casino).

Unique rule: NCL allows cigars in outdoor smoking areas but bans cigarettes on balconies. However, cigar smoking on balconies is sometimes tolerated if done discreetly—though this is not official policy. Always ask staff first.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises, popular in Europe and the Caribbean, has a moderately strict policy. Smoking is permitted in:

• Outdoor areas on Deck 4 (starboard side).
• Smoking lounges on select ships (e.g., MSC Meraviglia).
• Casino tables (if the ship has a casino).

Key difference: MSC allows electronic cigarettes in outdoor smoking areas but bans them in cabins and balconies. Traditional cigarettes are never allowed on balconies. MSC’s European routes often have stricter enforcement due to EU regulations.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises, a premium line, has a no-smoking policy in all indoor areas, cabins, and balconies. Smoking is allowed only in:

• Designated outdoor zones on Deck 4 (starboard side).
• Smoking lounges on Edge-class ships (e.g., Celebrity Beyond).

Note: Celebrity’s Edge-class ships feature a “Smoking Lounge” with high-end ventilation systems, catering to cigar enthusiasts. However, cigarettes are still restricted to outdoor areas only.

Luxury and Niche Cruise Lines: Premium Smoking Experiences

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas is renowned for its luxury smoking amenities. Smoking is permitted in:

• Outdoor areas on Deck 5 (starboard side).
• The Connoisseur Club: A dedicated cigar lounge with premium selections, humidors, and professional staff.
• Casino tables (on ships with casinos).

Perk: The Connoisseur Club offers a curated menu of Cuban and Dominican cigars, with prices ranging from $25 to $150 per cigar. Smoking is also allowed in the lounge’s outdoor terrace, making it a top choice for cigar lovers.

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises (now relaunched as Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity) offers a high-end smoking experience. Smoking is allowed in:

• Outdoor areas on Deck 5 (starboard side).
• The Crystal Cigar Bar: A sophisticated lounge with leather chairs, a walk-in humidor, and a selection of rare cigars.
• Private dining rooms (if reserved in advance).

Tip: Crystal’s cigar bar hosts weekly tastings and events, often featuring guest experts from premium brands like Davidoff and Cohiba.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises, known for its gourmet dining, also caters to smokers. Smoking is permitted in:

• Outdoor areas on Deck 5 (starboard side).
• The Connoisseur’s Corner: A cigar lounge with a curated selection and expert staff.
• Casino tables (if the ship has a casino).

Unique feature: Oceania’s cigar lounge offers pairing sessions, where sommeliers recommend wine or spirits to complement your cigar.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea’s ultra-luxury ships provide a refined smoking environment. Smoking is allowed in:

• Outdoor areas on Deck 6 (starboard side).
• The Smoking Lounge: A quiet, well-ventilated space with premium cigars and accessories.
• Private suites (with balcony smoking, if requested in advance—varies by ship).

Note: Silversea’s policy on balcony smoking is more flexible than other lines, but it’s not guaranteed. Always confirm with the cruise line before departure.

Regional and Destination-Specific Rules

Europe and Mediterranean Cruises

European ports, especially in countries like Italy, France, and Greece, enforce strict anti-smoking laws. Cruise lines must comply with local regulations, which often ban smoking in outdoor areas within 10 meters of public spaces. For example:

• MSC Cruises: Reduces smoking zones in Mediterranean ports to avoid fines.
• Royal Caribbean: Prohibits smoking on balconies in EU waters, even if the ship allows it elsewhere.

Tip: If you’re sailing in Europe, expect more restrictions. Plan to smoke during sea days or in designated lounges.

Alaska and Canada

Alaska’s pristine environment means cruise lines must follow eco-friendly policies. Smoking is often banned in outdoor areas near glaciers, wildlife habitats, or indigenous lands. For example:

• Princess Cruises: Allows smoking only in designated zones, far from sensitive areas.
• Holland America Line: Prohibits smoking on balconies in Alaska to protect the environment.

Pro tip: Check the cruise line’s Alaska-specific policy—it may differ from their general rules.

Caribbean and Bahamas

The Caribbean is generally more lenient, but policies still apply. For example:

• Carnival: Allows smoking in outdoor zones, but bans it in Nassau’s port area.
• Norwegian: Permits cigar smoking on balconies in Freeport, Bahamas, if done discreetly (unofficial policy).

Reminder: Always follow local laws when ashore. Smoking on beaches or in public spaces may be restricted in certain islands.

Smoking on Balconies: The Gray Area

Which Lines Allow Balcony Smoking?

Balcony smoking is one of the most controversial topics in cruising. Most lines ban it outright, but a few make exceptions:

• Silversea Cruises: Allows balcony smoking in suites if requested in advance (varies by ship).
• Windstar Cruises: Permits cigar smoking on balconies, but not cigarettes.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Unofficially tolerates cigar smoking on balconies if done discreetly (no official policy).

Lines that ban balcony smoking entirely: Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, Celebrity, and most mainstream lines.

Why Is Balcony Smoking Restricted?

• Fire risk: Wind can blow embers onto adjacent balconies or into the ship.
• Secondhand smoke: Smoke drifts into nearby cabins, disturbing non-smokers.
• Environmental impact: Butts and ash can fall into the ocean, harming marine life.

Tip: If your line bans balcony smoking, use designated outdoor areas. They’re often just a short walk from your cabin.

How to Avoid Fines and Conflicts

• Read the policy carefully: Check the cruise line’s website and pre-cruise emails.
• Ask staff: If unsure, consult a crew member—they’ll direct you to the nearest smoking zone.
• Use ashtrays: Never toss butts overboard; use provided ashtrays or portable ones.
• Be discreet: Avoid smoking during peak hours or near families.

Data Table: Smoking Policies by Cruise Line

Cruise Line	Outdoor Smoking	Balcony Smoking	Cigar Lounge	E-Cigarettes	Casino Smoking
Carnival	✅ (Deck 4)	❌	✅ (Select ships)	✅ (Same as cigarettes)	✅
Royal Caribbean	✅ (Deck 4/5)	❌	✅ (Oasis-class)	✅ (Same as cigarettes)	✅
NCL	✅ (Deck 4)	❌ (Cigars: sometimes)	✅ (Breakaway-class)	✅ (Same as cigarettes)	✅
MSC Cruises	✅ (Deck 4)	❌	✅ (Select ships)	✅ (Outdoor only)	✅
Regent Seven Seas	✅ (Deck 5)	❌	✅ (Connoisseur Club)	✅ (Same as cigarettes)	✅
Silversea	✅ (Deck 6)	✅ (Suites only)	✅ (Smoking Lounge)	✅ (Same as cigarettes)	✅

Conclusion: Planning a Smoke-Friendly Cruise

Choosing a cruise line that accommodates your smoking habits doesn’t have to be a headache—but it does require research. Whether you’re drawn to Carnival’s flexible outdoor zones, Regent Seven Seas’ luxury cigar lounges, or Silversea’s balcony-friendly suites, there’s a cruise line that fits your needs. The key is to plan ahead: read the fine print, pack appropriate gear (e.g., portable ashtrays), and respect designated areas. Remember, cruise lines are increasingly prioritizing smoke-free environments, so flexibility and discretion go a long way in ensuring a stress-free vacation.

As smoking policies continue to evolve, staying informed is your best defense against fines and conflicts. Use this guide to compare options, ask questions before booking, and—most importantly—enjoy your trip without compromising your comfort or the experience of others. Bon voyage, and happy (responsible) smoking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines allow smoking in 2024?

Most major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, permit smoking in designated outdoor areas like lido decks and cigar lounges. However, policies vary, so always check the latest guidelines before booking.

Can I smoke in my cabin or on my balcony on a cruise?

No, virtually all cruise lines prohibit smoking in cabins and private balconies due to fire hazards and guest comfort. Exceptions may exist for select luxury lines with dedicated smoking staterooms.

Where are the designated smoking areas on cruise ships?

Smoking is typically allowed in outdoor sections of the lido deck, dedicated cigar lounges, and sometimes casino areas (while gaming). Lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America clearly mark these zones onboard.

Do any cruise lines allow vaping or e-cigarettes?

Most lines treat vaping like smoking, restricting it to designated tobacco-smoking areas. Disney Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises are notably stricter, banning vaping in all outdoor areas.

Are there cruise lines with completely smoke-free policies?

Yes, Virgin Voyages and select river cruise lines enforce strict no-smoking policies ship-wide. These are ideal for travelers seeking a smoke-free environment.

Which luxury cruise lines allow smoking onboard?

Upscale lines like Regent Seven Seas and Seabourn permit smoking in specific areas, including cigar lounges and open-air decks. Their policies often accommodate premium cigar and pipe smokers.