Is smoking permitted on a cruise?

2 min. readlast update: 06.14.2025

Yes, smoking is permitted on most cruises, but only in designated areas—and policies vary by cruise line. Here’s what you should know:


🚬 1. Where You Can Smoke

Designated Outdoor Areas:

  • Most cruise lines allow smoking in specific outdoor areas on certain decks.

  • These areas are usually marked with signage and include ashtrays or smoking stations.

  • Some ships separate cigarette smoking from cigar and pipe smoking zones.

Casinos (Sometimes):

  • On many ships, smoking is allowed in designated areas of the casino, especially if you're actively playing.

  • Some cruise lines have non-smoking casino nights or completely smoke-free casinos on select ships.


🚫 2. Where You Cannot Smoke

  • Staterooms and balconies – Smoking is strictly prohibited in cabins and on private balconies on nearly all cruise lines.

  • Indoor public spaces – Restaurants, bars, theaters, and lounges are typically smoke-free.


🚭 3. E-Cigarettes & Vaping

  • E-cigarettes and vapes are generally subject to the same rules as regular smoking. They’re only allowed in designated smoking areas.


🔥 4. Penalties for Violations

  • Violating smoking policies—especially in your cabin or balcony—can lead to:

    • Fines (often $250–$500)

    • Cleaning fees

    • Possible removal from the ship for repeated violations


🚢 Examples by Cruise Line:

Cruise Line Smoking Allowed In Smoking in Cabins?
Royal Caribbean Certain outdoor decks & casino (select ships) ❌ No
Carnival Outdoor areas & casino (while playing) ❌ No
Norwegian Outdoor areas & some casino areas ❌ No
Celebrity Designated outdoor areas only ❌ No
MSC Outdoor areas & some casino areas ❌ No
Disney Very limited outdoor areas only ❌ No

Summary

Yes, you can smoke on a cruise—but only in clearly marked, designated areas. Smoking is not permitted in cabins or on balconies, and violating that rule could cost you. Always check your cruise line’s specific policy before you sail to avoid surprises.

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