Which Cruise Lines Allow Smoking on the Balcony in 2024

Most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian, now prohibit smoking on balconies due to safety and guest comfort policies. Exceptions are rare but may exist on select European or luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and MSC Cruises, where designated balcony smoking is permitted in specific cabin categories. Always verify with your cruise line before lighting up to avoid fines or itinerary changes.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Cruise Line: Smoking allowed on balconies but not in cabins.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Balcony smoking permitted; cigar and pipe smoking in designated areas.
• Royal Caribbean: Smoking on balconies banned; use designated outdoor areas instead.
• Princess Cruises: Balcony smoking prohibited; only in specific outdoor zones.
• MSC Cruises: Balcony smoking allowed on select ships; check before booking.
• Disney Cruise Line: Strict no-smoking policy on balconies and in staterooms.

The Smoking Dilemma: Navigating Cruise Line Balcony Policies in 2024

For many travelers, the idea of a relaxing cruise vacation conjures images of sipping a cocktail on a private balcony, watching the sunset over the ocean. For smokers, this picture might include a cigarette or cigar in hand. However, in recent years, cruise lines have tightened their smoking policies to accommodate the growing number of non-smoking passengers and to comply with health and safety regulations. The rules around smoking on balcony cabins have become particularly nuanced, with some lines allowing it while others strictly prohibit it. As we enter 2024, understanding these policies is more important than ever for travelers who smoke or share cabins with smokers.

The debate over smoking on cruise balconies touches on personal freedom, public health, and environmental concerns. While some argue that a private balcony should be a smoker’s sanctuary, others point out the dangers of secondhand smoke drifting into neighboring cabins, the risk of fire hazards, and the impact on the marine environment. As a result, cruise lines have adopted a wide range of policies, from outright bans to designated smoking areas on balconies. This guide aims to provide clarity for travelers planning their next cruise, helping them choose a line that aligns with their smoking habits while avoiding unpleasant surprises onboard.

Why Cruise Line Smoking Policies Matter More Than Ever

The Evolution of Smoking Rules on Cruises

Smoking policies on cruise ships have evolved dramatically over the past two decades. In the early 2000s, smoking was permitted in many public areas, including lounges, casinos, and even some restaurants. However, as awareness of the dangers of secondhand smoke grew, cruise lines began restricting smoking to designated outdoor areas. By the 2010s, many lines had banned smoking entirely on balconies, citing concerns about drifting smoke, fire safety, and guest complaints.

Today, the policies reflect a delicate balance between accommodating smokers and protecting non-smoking passengers. For example, Carnival Cruise Line banned smoking on balconies in 2014 after receiving numerous complaints from guests about secondhand smoke infiltrating their cabins. Similarly, Royal Caribbean implemented a balcony smoking ban in 2016, though it later introduced exceptions for certain ships and itineraries. This shift underscores the importance of checking the latest policies before booking a cruise.

The Impact on Travelers

For smokers, these restrictions can significantly affect their cruise experience. A balcony cabin is often a luxury upgrade, and the inability to smoke on it can feel like a loss of privacy and convenience. On the other hand, non-smoking travelers may find themselves in uncomfortable situations if their neighbor’s smoke drifts into their cabin or balcony. Some lines, like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), have attempted to address this by designating entire decks or sections of balconies for smoking, but these solutions aren’t perfect.

Additionally, enforcement varies by line. Some cruise lines rely on crew members to monitor compliance, while others depend on guest reports. This inconsistency can lead to frustration, especially when policies aren’t clearly communicated during the booking process. To avoid misunderstandings, travelers should research policies thoroughly and contact the cruise line directly if unsure.

Cruise Lines That Allow Smoking on Balconies (With Conditions)

Celebrity Cruises: The Most Smoker-Friendly Major Line

Celebrity Cruises stands out as one of the most smoker-friendly lines among the major brands. Unlike many of its competitors, Celebrity allows smoking on balconies for both cigarettes and cigars, provided the cabin door is closed to prevent smoke from entering the hallway. This policy applies to all ships in the fleet, though it’s worth noting that electronic cigarettes and vaping are treated the same as traditional smoking.

One caveat: Celebrity’s policy is subject to local laws. For example, on cruises to ports with strict smoking regulations (such as parts of Australia or Canada), the line may temporarily enforce a balcony smoking ban. Travelers should check with Celebrity’s customer service before their trip to confirm whether the policy applies to their specific itinerary. Pro tip: If you’re a cigar enthusiast, Celebrity’s Solstice-class ships feature a dedicated cigar lounge, making them an ideal choice for aficionados.

MSC Cruises: Balcony Smoking Permitted on Select Ships

MSC Cruises has a more flexible approach, allowing smoking on balconies on certain ships and itineraries. The policy varies by vessel, with newer ships like the MSC Meraviglia and MSC Grandiosa permitting balcony smoking, while older ships may restrict it. The line also designates specific smoking areas on open decks, which can be a good alternative for those who prefer to avoid balcony smoking.

MSC’s policy is particularly relevant for travelers sailing in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, where local regulations may influence enforcement. For instance, cruises departing from EU ports often have stricter rules, while Caribbean itineraries may be more lenient. Key tip: When booking an MSC cruise, ask your travel agent or MSC’s customer service about the balcony smoking policy for your specific ship and sailing dates.

Princess Cruises: A Middle Ground

Princess Cruises occupies a middle ground, allowing smoking on balconies for cigars only, while cigarettes are banned. This policy reflects the line’s efforts to cater to cigar enthusiasts without alienating non-smoking passengers. The rule applies to all ships in the fleet, though enforcement may vary by crew.

Princess also offers dedicated cigar bars and smoking lounges on most ships, such as the Wheelhouse Bar on the Royal Princess. For travelers who prefer cigarettes, the line’s outdoor smoking areas on the aft decks can be a suitable compromise. Insider advice: If you’re a cigar smoker, consider booking a suite with a larger balcony, as the extra space can minimize the impact of smoke on nearby cabins.

Cruise Lines That Ban Smoking on Balconies (With Few Exceptions)

Royal Caribbean: Strict Enforcement and Alternatives

Royal Caribbean has one of the strictest balcony smoking bans in the industry. The line prohibits smoking of any kind (cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and vaping) on all balconies, citing fire safety and guest comfort as primary concerns. This policy is uniformly enforced across the fleet, with crew members instructed to remind violators of the rules.

To accommodate smokers, Royal Caribbean offers designated smoking areas on most ships, typically located on the aft decks of specific floors. These areas are often equipped with ashtrays and seating, making them a comfortable alternative to balcony smoking. Some ships, like the Symphony of the Seas, even feature a dedicated cigar lounge, The Cigar Room, which is a popular spot for cigar enthusiasts. Travel tip: If you’re a smoker, book a cabin on a lower deck near a smoking area to minimize the distance between your room and the designated zone.

Carnival Cruise Line: Zero Tolerance

Carnival Cruise Line takes a hardline stance, banning all forms of smoking on balconies. The policy was implemented in 2014 after the line received numerous complaints about drifting smoke and fire hazards. Violators face fines (up to $250 per incident) and may be required to leave the ship at the next port if they continue to break the rules.

Carnival’s designated smoking areas are limited to specific outdoor sections on the starboard (right) side of the ship, typically on Decks 4 and 5. The line also offers a Cigar Bar on select ships, such as the Carnival Breeze. For travelers who smoke, Carnival’s policy can be restrictive, but the line’s lively atmosphere and affordable pricing often make up for the inconvenience. Pro tip: If you’re sailing with Carnival, consider purchasing a smoking pass, which grants access to the line’s smoking areas and includes a complimentary cigar on some itineraries.

Disney Cruise Line: The Strictest Policy of All

Disney Cruise Line has the most restrictive smoking policy in the industry, banning smoking of any kind (including e-cigarettes and vaping) on all balconies, in staterooms, and in most public areas. The line’s family-friendly ethos prioritizes a smoke-free environment, and violations are taken seriously.

The only designated smoking areas on Disney ships are small, isolated spots on the starboard side of the open decks. These areas are often far from cabin clusters, making them less convenient for balcony smokers. For travelers who smoke, a Disney cruise may not be the best choice, but the line’s exceptional entertainment and service can still make it a worthwhile experience. Key advice: If you’re a smoker planning a Disney cruise, be prepared to use the designated areas and respect the line’s zero-tolerance policy.

Special Cases: Niche Cruise Lines and Exceptions

Virgin Voyages: A Unique Approach

Virgin Voyages takes a novel approach by allowing smoking in specific “smoking rooms” on its ships, but not on balconies. The line’s Smoking Room is a dedicated space for cigarettes, cigars, and vaping, designed to contain smoke and minimize exposure to other passengers. This policy reflects Virgin’s focus on adult-only, experiential cruising.

While Virgin’s balcony smoking ban may disappoint some travelers, the line’s innovative design and vibrant onboard atmosphere make it a standout choice for younger, tech-savvy cruisers. Insider tip: If you’re a smoker considering Virgin, book a cabin near the smoking room to reduce the distance between your room and the designated area.

Small Luxury Lines: Flexible Policies

Smaller luxury lines like Seabourn and Oceania Cruises often have more flexible smoking policies due to their lower passenger counts and higher service standards. Seabourn, for example, allows smoking on balconies for cigars only, while Oceania permits both cigarettes and cigars but encourages guests to be mindful of their neighbors.

These lines also offer exclusive cigar lounges and private smoking areas, catering to discerning travelers who value discretion. Travel tip: If you’re sailing with a luxury line, contact the concierge in advance to discuss your smoking preferences and ensure your needs are accommodated.

Smoking Policy Comparison Table: Key Lines at a Glance

Cruise Line	Balcony Smoking Policy	Designated Smoking Areas	Exceptions
Celebrity Cruises	Allowed (cigarettes & cigars)	Dedicated cigar lounges	Subject to local laws
MSC Cruises	Allowed on select ships	Outdoor decks	Varies by itinerary
Princess Cruises	Allowed (cigars only)	Smoking lounges & aft decks	Cigarettes banned
Royal Caribbean	Banned	Aft decks & cigar lounges	None
Carnival Cruise Line	Banned	Starboard decks & cigar bars	Fines for violations
Disney Cruise Line	Banned	Isolated outdoor areas	None

Tips for Smokers and Non-Smokers Alike

For Smokers: Planning Your Cruise

If you’re a smoker, the key to a successful cruise is thorough research. Start by identifying lines that align with your smoking habits, and don’t hesitate to contact customer service for clarification. When booking, consider cabin location—being near a designated smoking area can save you time and effort. Finally, pack extra supplies (lighters, ashtrays, and your favorite cigars or cigarettes) to avoid last-minute stress.

For Non-Smokers: Avoiding Unwanted Smoke

Non-smokers can take steps to minimize exposure to secondhand smoke. When booking, request a cabin far from smoking areas or on a non-smoking deck (if available). Use a portable air purifier or essential oil diffuser to neutralize odors in your cabin. If you encounter drifting smoke, report it to the crew immediately—most lines take guest complaints seriously and will address the issue.

For Everyone: Respecting Shared Spaces

Whether you smoke or not, respect is paramount. Smokers should be mindful of their neighbors and avoid smoking during peak balcony hours (early mornings and evenings). Non-smokers should avoid confrontations and rely on crew intervention when necessary. Remember, a cruise is a shared experience, and a little consideration goes a long way.

As cruise lines continue to refine their smoking policies, the landscape will likely evolve further. For now, the best approach is to stay informed, plan ahead, and choose a line that meets your needs. Whether you’re lighting up a cigar on your balcony or enjoying a smoke-free vacation, 2024 offers plenty of options for every type of traveler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines allow smoking on the balcony in 2024?

As of 2024, Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) permit smoking on private balconies, but only with cigarettes—not cigars or pipes. Always check the latest policy updates, as rules can vary by ship or itinerary.

Are there any major cruise lines that still allow balcony smoking?

Yes, Carnival and NCL remain among the few major lines allowing balcony smoking, though Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises have banned it entirely. Policies often exclude marijuana and electronic cigarettes.

Can I smoke on my balcony on a Disney Cruise?

No, Disney Cruise Line prohibits all forms of smoking (including e-cigarettes) on balconies. Designated smoking areas are limited to specific outdoor zones on select decks.

Do Carnival Cruise Line balcony smoking rules apply to all ships?

Most Carnival ships allow balcony smoking, but exceptions exist—especially on newer vessels or themed itineraries. Confirm with the cruise line before booking if this is a priority.

Which cruise lines allow smoking on the balcony for cigars?

Few lines permit cigars on balconies; Carnival allows cigarettes only. For cigars, MSC Cruises offers designated areas, but balcony smoking is generally banned across most fleets.

Are electronic cigarettes included in balcony smoking policies?

Virtually all cruise lines that allow balcony smoking explicitly exclude e-cigarettes and vaping. These are typically treated as smoking and restricted to designated outdoor areas.