Can I bring cigarettes or vapes on royal caribbean cruise?

Smoking policies are one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of cruising. Many first-time and even repeat cruisers ask the same question before sailing:

What are the smoking rules onboard Royal Caribbean cruises?

The short answer is: Smoking is allowed only in designated areas, with strict restrictions and enforcement. However, the full policy is more detailed—and understanding it properly can help you avoid fines, confiscation, or even removal from the ship.

This in-depth guide explains Royal Caribbean’s smoking rules using official cruise line policies, international maritime safety standards, and public health guidance from organizations like the WHO and CDC. Whether you smoke cigarettes, cigars, or vape—or simply want to avoid smoke exposure—this article gives you clear, practical answers.

1. Quick Answer: Is Smoking Allowed on Royal Caribbean Cruises?

Yes—but only in designated areas.

Royal Caribbean allows smoking only in specific, clearly marked locations onboard. Smoking anywhere else—including staterooms, balconies, and most public spaces—is strictly prohibited.

This policy applies to:

• Cigarettes

• Cigars

• Pipes

• E-cigarettes and vaping devices

Royal Caribbean reserves the right to change designated smoking areas based on ship class, itinerary, weather, and local regulations.

Official source:Royal Caribbean – Smoking Policyhttps://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/onboard-smoking-policy

2. Why Cruise Ships Regulate Smoking So Strictly

Fire Safety at Sea

Fire is one of the most serious risks onboard a ship. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), even small onboard fires can escalate rapidly due to confined spaces and limited evacuation options.

Discarded cigarette butts are a known cause of maritime fires, particularly on balconies.

Source:International Maritime Organization – Fire Safetyhttps://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/FireProtection.aspx

Public Health and Secondhand Smoke

The World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. CDC both confirm that secondhand smoke exposure increases risks of:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Lung cancer

Cruise ships host thousands of passengers, including children, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions.

Sources:WHO – Tobacco and Healthhttps://www.who.int/health-topics/tobacco

CDC – Secondhand Smokehttps://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/secondhand_smoke

International Laws and Port Regulations

Cruise ships visit multiple countries, many with strict indoor smoking laws. Royal Caribbean enforces standardized onboard rules to ensure compliance across jurisdictions.

3. Royal Caribbean’s Official Smoking Policy Explained

Royal Caribbean defines smoking as:

“The use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices.”

Core Policy Principles

• Smoking is permitted only in designated areas

• Smoking is never allowed in staterooms or balconies

• E-cigarettes follow the same location rules as traditional smoking

• Violations may result in fines or disembarkation

The ship’s posted signage and daily Cruise Compass determine where smoking is permitted.

4. Where Smoking Is Allowed Onboard

Designated smoking areas vary by ship but commonly include:

Outdoor Smoking Areas

• One side of the open pool deck (usually starboard)

• Designated outdoor lounges

• Certain open-air sections near bars

These areas are clearly marked and equipped with ashtrays.

Casino Smoking Areas (Select Ships)

• Smoking may be allowed only while actively gaming

• Policies vary by ship and region

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data that smoking is allowed in casinos on all Royal Caribbean ships; policies are ship-specific.

5. Where Smoking Is Strictly Prohibited

Smoking is not allowed in the following areas:

• All staterooms (including bathrooms)

• All private balconies

• Dining venues and restaurants

• Theaters and entertainment venues

• Elevators and stairwells

• Most indoor bars and lounges

• Hallways and common areas

Balcony smoking violations are treated particularly seriously due to fire risk.

6. Cigars, Pipes, and Specialty Tobacco Rules

Cigar and pipe smoking is subject to additional limitations:

• Often restricted to specific outdoor smoking areas

• Not permitted in indoor lounges unless explicitly designated

• Cigar lounges exist on some ships but are not guaranteed fleet-wide

Travelers should check ship-specific deck plans before sailing.

7. Vaping and E-Cigarette Policies

Royal Caribbean treats vaping and e-cigarettes the same as smoking.

Key Rules

• Vaping is allowed only in designated smoking areas

• Vaping is prohibited in cabins and balconies

• Devices may be confiscated if used improperly

This aligns with public health guidance from the WHO, which notes uncertainty around long-term health impacts of vaping and supports precautionary regulation.

Source:WHO – Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systemshttps://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/tobacco-e-cigarettes

8. Smoking Rules in Staterooms and Balconies

Zero-Tolerance Balcony Policy

Smoking on balconies is strictly prohibited.

Why?

• Wind can carry embers into other cabins

• Balcony fires have caused serious maritime incidents

Cleaning and Damage Fees

If evidence of smoking is found in a stateroom or balcony, Royal Caribbean may charge a cleaning fee of up to USD $250 or more.

Based on publicly available information, exact fee amounts may vary by ship and itinerary.

9. Casino Smoking Policies by Ship and Region

Casino smoking policies differ depending on:

• Ship class

• Local regulations

• Guest demographics

Common Casino Rules

• Smoking allowed only while seated and playing

• No smoking at casino bars

• No smoking during certain hours

Royal Caribbean has gradually reduced indoor smoking areas in response to passenger feedback and evolving public health standards.

Consumer insight:Consumer Reports – Cruise Ship Health and Safetyhttps://www.consumerreports.org/travel/cruises/

10. Health, Fire Safety, and Legal Reasons Behind the Rules

Health Evidence

Studies indexed on PubMed consistently link secondhand smoke exposure to cardiovascular and respiratory harm, even with brief exposure.

Fire Risk Statistics

Maritime safety investigations repeatedly identify smoking materials as ignition sources in shipboard fires.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Cruise operators must comply with:

• ISPS Code requirements

• Port authority regulations

• Maritime insurance risk controls

11. What Happens If You Break the Smoking Rules?

Consequences may include:

• Verbal or written warnings

• Confiscation of smoking materials

• Cleaning and damage fees

• Removal from the ship at the next port

• Denial of future cruise bookings

Royal Caribbean’s Guest Conduct Policy grants broad enforcement authority in the interest of safety.

12. Step-by-Step: How to Smoke Responsibly on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Step 1: Review Ship-Specific Policies

Check your ship’s deck plan and Cruise Compass.

Step 2: Use Only Designated Areas

Follow signage and crew instructions.

Step 3: Dispose of Cigarettes Properly

Never throw cigarette butts overboard.

Step 4: Respect Non-Smokers

Avoid smoking near children or crowded areas.

Step 5: When in Doubt, Ask Crew

Policies may change during the voyage.

13. Comparison Table: Smoking Allowed vs. Prohibited Areas

Area	Smoking Allowed?
Designated outdoor decks	Yes
Casino (select ships)	Limited
Staterooms	No
Balconies	No
Dining venues	No
Theaters	No
Indoor lounges	Rare / ship-specific
Elevators & hallways	No

14. Expert Tips for Smokers and Non-Smokers

For Smokers

• Choose ships with outdoor smoking decks near your cabin

• Bring windproof lighters (where allowed)

• Monitor daily updates for location changes

For Non-Smokers

• Book cabins away from designated smoking zones

• Choose newer ships, which typically have fewer smoking areas

• Report violations discreetly to guest services

15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I smoke on my balcony?

No. Balcony smoking is strictly prohibited.

2. Is vaping allowed onboard?

Yes, but only in designated smoking areas.

3. Are cigars treated differently from cigarettes?

Often yes—cigar smoking may be further restricted.

4. Can I smoke in the casino?

Sometimes. Policies vary by ship and region.

5. Is there a fine for smoking in the cabin?

Yes. Cleaning fees may apply.

6. Are smoking areas the same on every ship?

No. They vary by ship class and itinerary.

7. Can policies change during the cruise?

Yes, due to weather or port regulations.

8. Are marijuana or cannabis products allowed?

No. They are prohibited regardless of local legality.

9. Are smoking rules enforced strictly?

Yes. Violations are taken seriously.

10. Where can I find the latest policy?

On Royal Caribbean’s official website and onboard materials.

16. Final Thoughts

Royal Caribbean’s smoking rules balance fire safety, public health, and international compliance. Smoking is permitted—but only in tightly controlled, designated areas. Whether you smoke or not, understanding these policies helps ensure a smoother, safer cruise experience.

By following posted rules, respecting fellow passengers, and staying informed through official sources, you can focus on what cruising is meant to be: relaxing, enjoyable, and safe for everyone.