Can Yiu Smoke onCruise Ship?

Going on a cruise offers the chance to relax, explore, and enjoy life at sea—but what if you’re a smoker? Can you smoke on a cruise ship? The answer is yes, but only in certain places. Most cruise lines have strict rules about where and when you can smoke, and some forms—like cannabis—are banned altogether, even in international waters.

Here’s what you need to know about smoking on cruise ships, including rules for cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and cannabis.

Are You Allowed to Smoke on a Cruise?

Yes, but only in designated smoking areas. These areas vary by cruise line but are usually found in:

• Outdoor areas on certain decks

• Specific lounges or casinos (on some ships)

• Occasionally in designated smoking cabins (rare)

Smoking is generally not allowed in cabins, on private balconies, or in public indoor spaces. Doing so could result in fines—or even being removed from the ship.

What Types of Smoking Are Allowed?

Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically permitted:

Cigarettes and Cigars

Permitted in designated smoking areas. Some ships allow cigars in cigar lounges or specific bars, but cigar smoking is usually more restricted than cigarettes.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping

Most cruise lines treat e-cigarettes the same as regular cigarettes. You must use them only in designated smoking zones. Don’t assume vaping is allowed in cabins or indoors—it often isn’t.

Cannabis (Weed/THC)

Cannabis is not allowed on any major cruise line, regardless of its legal status in certain countries. That includes:

• Medical cannabis

• CBD products containing THC

• Edibles or vape cartridges

Even if you have a prescription, cruise lines must follow maritime and international drug laws, and cannabis remains a banned substance at sea. Bringing it on board could result in being denied boarding, fined, or reported to authorities.

Cruise Line Smoking Policies (Examples)

Here’s how some major cruise lines handle smoking:

• Royal Caribbean: Smoking allowed in designated outdoor areas and parts of the casino. Not permitted in cabins or balconies.

• Carnival: Designated outdoor smoking zones and casino areas. Fines apply for smoking in non-designated spots.

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Smoking permitted in cigar lounges, casinos, and designated deck areas. Balconies are smoke-free.

• MSC Cruises: Designated indoor lounges and outdoor areas. E-cigarettes allowed in cabins, but not regular smoking.

• P&O Cruises (UK): Outdoor smoking areas only. No smoking inside cabins or on balconies.

Always check your cruise line’s policy before sailing.

What Happens If You Break the Rules?

Cruise lines take smoking rules seriously. If you smoke in your cabin or on the balcony:

• You may be charged a cleaning or deodorising fee (often £200 or more)

• You could receive a warning or formal complaint

• Repeat offences may result in being removed at the next port

• In serious cases, future cruises could be refused

Smoke alarms are fitted in cabins and public areas—so it's very risky to bend the rules.

Final Word

Yes, you can smoke on a cruise ship—but only in clearly marked areas. Whether you smoke cigarettes, cigars, or vape, make sure you understand your cruise line’s policy before setting sail. And remember: cannabis, even for medical use, is not allowed, and bringing it on board could land you in serious trouble.

Respect the rules, be mindful of non-smokers, and you’ll avoid unnecessary issues—so you can relax and enjoy the journey.