cigars carnival cruise

Cruise Ships With Cigar Lounges 2024

Do you enjoy a cigar-smoking experience as part of your cruise vacation?   

If so, you’ll be pleased to know several cruise lines that allow smoking also offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Cigar Lounges or Cigar Bars.

Some offer an old-fashioned cigar and cognac smoking experience, while others approach from a different, although always a premium experience.

Many cigar rooms also sell a range of premium brand cigars, spirits, and cognacs.

What Cruise Ships Have Cigar Lounges?

Here we list the cruise lines that offer a Cigar Lounge or similar on at least some of their ships.

We then go on to look at cruise lines offering in more depth.

• Crystal Cruises
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Cruises
• Royal Caribbean

Silversea Cruises

Costa cruises cigar lounge.

Costa Cruises are very smoker-friendly Italian cruise line that as well as having a designated Cigar Lounge also allows smoking on balconies .

Below you can see the Cigar Lounge, which is on Deck 9 of Costa Neoromantica:

Although it’s worth noting, it’s not only restricted to cigars as they also allow cigarettes and pipes to be smoked.

Crystal Cruises 

Crystal Cruises is a luxury cruise line with Cigar and Cognac lounges under “Connoisseur Club.”

As well as enjoying your cigars in comfortable surroundings, you can also purchase premium cognacs and cigars.

Cunard Cruises

Cunard Cruises is a luxury British cruise line with three ships:

•  Queen Elizabeth
• Queen Mary 2
• Queen Victoria

 All vessels have smoking lounges under “Churchill’s Lounge”.  They are open to cigar and pipe smokers only.

All other smoking is prohibited inside the ship.

MSC Cruises Cigar Room

MSC Davina is the only ship in the MSC Cruises fleet to have “the Cigar Lounge” onboard.  It is beautifully laid out with an accompanying bar and cabinets selling premium cigars.

You can see some photos here .

Norwegian Cruise Lines Cigar Lounge

Norwegian Cruise lines provide a designated Cigar Lounge onboard their cruise ships.   The lounge is strictly for cigars only.  No cigarettes, pipes, e-cigarettes, or vapes are allowed.

Norwegian cruises also offer indoor smoking. 

Cigar smoking is permitted in the designated cigar lounge . Cigarettes, pipe, electronic cigarettes and vapor smoking devices are not permitted in the cigar lounge. Cigar and pipe smoking on board Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Star and Pride of America is permitted only in designated outdoor areas as there is no cigar lounge onboard. NCL Smoking Policy

As per the policy above, there are no cigar lounges on

• Norwegian Sky
• Norwegian Sun
• Norwegian Star 
• Pride of America

Some Norwegian Cruise ships have smoking available in the casinos. However, they don’t allow cigar or pipe smoking.

Guests who are staying in the premium Garden Villas suites can smoke on the large terrace balcony areas, this includes cigars.

Princess Cruises Cigar Lounges

Princess Cruises often have a Churchills Lounge where you can enjoy a cigar lounge- experience, although it’s not strictly for cigars, as people can smoke cigarettes too.

Smoking is also allowed when sitting and playing designated slot machines, but not table games.

Silversea cruises is a luxury cruise line now owned by Royal Caribbean.

They offer the Connoisseur’s Corner for a cigar smoking experience, although other forms of smoking, including pipes, cigarettes, and vaping , are also permitted.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas are a luxury owned by Norwegian Cruise Line.

Each ship in the fleet has a Cigar Lounge under the name of the “Connoisseur Club”.

• Seven Seas Explorer
• Seven Seas Mariner
• Seven Seas  Navigator
• Seven Seas Splendor
• Seven Seas Voyager

You can see some stunning photos of the Seven Seas Explorer Connoisseur Club photos here .

Only cigar and pipe smoking is allowed in the Connoisseur Club.  

Royal Caribbean Cigar Lounges

A select number of Royal Caribbean ships offer Cigar lounges shown on the deck plans as “Connoisseur  Club.” although the number seems to be diminishing quite quickly.

It’s always worth double-checking the deck plans and contacting the cruise line directly to check that the room is open and used for cigars. Sometimes when ships are refurbished, some that have had Connoisseur Club rooms in the past have had them changed to something else, and the deck plans haven’t been updated quickly enough.

At last check, Freedom of the Seas still had a cigar lounge.

On the outdoor decks, sometimes Royal Caribbean has a “Cigars under the Stars” listed event.  It’s basically an outdoor area, but undercovers where smokers of all kinds, not just cigars, gather for more social smoke.  

The drawbacks are that it can be pretty windy and difficult to light and enjoy your cigar as you would in an indoor cigar lounge.  

Is There Cigar Smoking on Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise does not provide any specific cigar lounges or bars, and they don’t even allow cigars and pipes, for that matter, to be smoked in the casino. However, they allow cigarettes if the guest is seated and playing.

This leaves only the outdoor locations in which to smoke your cigars.    They can be found for each Carnival Cruise ship here .

Is There Cigar Smoking on Celebrity Cruise?

There are no specific cigar-smoking areas on a Celebrity Cruise.  They do now allow smoking of any type indoors on the ship.  The only permitted place to smoke a cigar is within the outdoor designated smoking areas, which can be found on every ship in the fleet.

Does Disney Cruise Have a Cigar Bar?

Disney cruise do not allow any smoking inside the ship.   There is no casino on a Disney cruise either, so that rules out a common smoking location.  

You would only be able to smoke your cigars in the outdoor smoking areas provided.  We have listed the exact locations on our where can you smoke post.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i take a cigar lighter on a cruise ship .

The more powerful torch lighters that cigar smokers typically use to light their cigars are, unfortunately, a prohibited item and not allowed on a cruise ship.

You can take and use normal cigarette lighters, although these don’t work well for lighting cigars, especially in breezy outdoor conditions.

If you try and take a torch lighter onboard, even from a port stop, you can expect to have it confiscated until departure day.

Can You Take A Cigar Cutter On A Cruise Ship?

Cigar cutters are not explicitly listed as a prohibited item, and asking around, we have found people have had no issues taking them onboard via checked or carry-on luggage.  Some have even taken on in their pockets.

What’s your experience of cruise ship cigar lounges, and do you have a favorite?

How much of a factor is a cigar lounge when you choose a  cruise ship?

Can You Smoke A Cigar From The Balcony?

Very few cruise ships left still allowing any smoking from the balconies. 

However, those that do would also allow cigars to be smoked.

We have provided more in-depth information on each of the four cruises lines which still allow smoking on balconies .    

• AIDA Cruises
• Costa Cruise
• TUI Cruises (German company)

Can You Take Your Own Cigars on a Cruise?

Cruise lines allow guests to take their cigars onboard when they embark.  You can also take them on from ports of call.

Let us know in the comments, we love to hear.

Related Posts

Can You Bring a Vape on a Cruise?  (2024)

Can You Bring Curling Irons On a Cruise Ship?

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Duty-Free Allowance

The following procedures pertain to U.S residents and Non-U.S residents returning to the United States.

Guests who have not exceeded the allowance listed below are not required to complete a form but will make an oral declaration to the U.S Customs Border and Protection officers on the last morning of the cruise, declaring if the following are true: 

• The value of goods being brought back does not exceed allowable amount
• No accompanying articles are forwarded in bond
• No articles are being imported for others or for sale

Guests who have exceeded the allowance listed below are required to complete one U.S Customs Declaration Form, per household which includes those family members traveling with them who reside at the same address.

The Head of Household must declare all merchandise purchased or acquired abroad and which he/she is bringing back into the United States. That includes items purchased in duty-free shops (on board) and in port as well as items received as gifts. It also includes items the guests have begun to use or are wearing. All purchases must be listed on the back of the U.S. Customs declaration form. Undeclared merchandise is subject to seizure and/or penalty. If the family has exceeded the U.S. Customs exemptions, the Head of Household must present him or herself with receipts to the U.S Customs Border and Protection officers on the last morning of the cruise. Cash is only accepted for payment of additional taxes exceeding the Duty-Free allowance.

Non-U.S Residents must comply with Customs laws set-up by the Customs Office in their particular country. Specific information will be provided on board the ship. 

Duty-Free Allowance for U.S Residents

Domestic itineraries that include any of the U.S Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John)

• $1600 (retail) of duty-free purchases per person may be spent. No more than $800 can be purchased outside the U.S Virgin Islands or onboard 
• One liter of alcohol per person and an additional four liters if purchased in the U.S Virgin Islands; one of the additional liters must be a product of the U.S Virgin Islands (guest must be at least 21 years old) 
• One carton of cigarettes and an additional four cartons if purchased in the U.S Virgin Islands (guest must be at least 21 years) 
• One hundred cigars (guest must be at least 21 years old; Cuban cigars are allowed) 
• $800 (retail) of duty-free purchases per person may be spent 
• One liter of alcohol per person (guest must be at least 21 years old)    
• One carton of cigarettes (guest must be at least 21 years old) 
• One hundred cigars (guest must be at least 21 years old; Cuban cigars are allowed) 

Duty-Free Allowance for Canadian Residents

• $800 Canadian (retail) worth of tax and duty-free purchases per person may be spent 
• 1.5 liters of wine or 1.14 liters of alcohol per person (guest must be at least 21 years old)    
• 50 cigars (guest must be at least 21 years old) 

Registering Valuables Before Leaving Home It is recommended that guests register their valuables with Customs before leaving home. This should be done well in advance of travel at a Customs office near home. Items that should be registered generally include those not manufactured in their country. If the guest cannot prove that they own an item prior to departure, Customs officials may charge them duty to bring the item back into the country. Customs pays particular attention to cameras (including special lenses and video equipment), binoculars, radios, laptop computers, foreign-made watches and other similar appliances.

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Where Can I Smoke on Carnival?

by Prof. Cruise · Published August 28, 2023 · Updated October 5, 2023

Introduction

If you want to stir things up faster than a hand mixer powered by a 6.3-liter V12 Ferrari engine, just mention smoking on a Carnival related message board or Facebook group. But I’m not here to take a position on such things (cough, cough…KIDDING!), just to present you with the facts so you know where to smoke or avoid smoke on your next Carnival cruise.

What is Carnival’s Smoking Policy?

Carnival’s official smoking policy reads as follows:

Carnival Cruise Line is dedicated to the safety of all guests and crew. We want all our guests to have a safe, fun and memorable vacation.

Smoking is a fire and safety hazard on a ship. Consequently, it is strictly limited to specific exterior deck areas.  All guests are expected to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• All staterooms and suite accommodations, including outside balconies, are NON-SMOKING. This policy applies to all forms of smoking, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vaporizers, electronic cigarettes and marijuana.
• Carnival recognizes that some state and local governments in the U.S., and in the destinations we visit, might allow marijuana use. However, Carnival Cruise Line follows U.S. federal law, which strictly prohibits possession and use of recreational/medicinal marijuana and other illegal controlled substances. 
• Any violation of this policy will result in a $500 charge, per violation, posted on the guest’s Sail & Sign account and may also result in the disembarkation of all guests in the stateroom. 
• Guests who are disembarked for violating our policy will be responsible for all financial charges and expenses to return home, and no refund of their unused cruise fare will be provided. Additionally, they may be prohibited from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future.

What are Carnival’s Rules for Smoking in the Casino?

Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.

What’s the Minimum Age to Purchase Tobacco Products Onboard?

The minimum age to purchase any tobacco product onboard U.S.-based ships is 21 as per federal law.

What Happens if Someone is Caught Smoking in their Cabin or on their Balcony?

Following an investigation by ship security, they will be charged $500 per occurrence. In addition, those found to be in violation of the smoking policy as well as all other guests in their stateroom, may be asked to leave the ship at the next port and may not be allowed to sail on Carnival again.  If removed from the ship, they will be responsible for all expenses to return home, and will receive no refund of any portion of their cruise fare. 

What can I do if I Smell Smoke from my Neighbors?

If you suspect that your cabin neighbors are smoking in their stateroom or on their balcony, immediately contact Guest Services who will contact ship security to investigate. It’s safest not to attempt to directly address the situation yourself.

Is Marijuana Allowed Onboard Carnival Ships?

While legal in many states, all marijuana products are prohibited on Carnival ships.

What about Prescribed Medical Marijuana or CBD Products? Are they Permitted on Carnival Cruises?

No. Marijuana and all CBD products are prohibited, even with a prescription or letter from your doctor. This is because those items are not legal in many ports Carnival visits.

Are there Different Rules for E-Cigarettes and Vapes on Carnival Cruises?

No. The Carnival smoking policies apply to all cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vapes.

Are there Different Rules for Cigars and Pipes on Carnival Cruises?

Yes. Cigars and (tobacco) pipes are only allowed in certain designated outdoor spaces (see the specific areas by ship below).

Carnival Smoking Areas by Ship

Here are the designated smoking areas by each Carnival ship. Note that smoking is not allowed anywhere outdoors while the ship is refueling.

INDEX (skip to):

Breeze Celebration Conquest Dream Elation Firenze Freedom Glory Horizon Jubilee Legend Liberty Luminosa Magic Mardi Gras Miracle Panorama Paradise Pride Radiance Spirit Splendor Sunrise Sunshine Valor Venezia Vista

Breeze Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Winners Luck Casino (Deck 5): Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (port side, aft, outside the Nightclub) and Deck 11 (starboard side, aft).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas.   

Celebration Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Empress Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in a designated outdoor area at Bar 820 on Deck 8 (starboard side, mid).  
• Outdoors: Smoking is permitted in a designated area on Deck 17 (starboard side, aft). 
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the outdoor smoking area on Deck 17 (starboard side, aft).

Conquest Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Tahiti Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed. 
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side) and Deck 10 (starboard side, mid and aft).  
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas. 

Dream Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Jackpot Casino (Deck 5): Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (port side, aft) and Deck 11 (starboard side, aft). 
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas.    

Elation Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Casablanca Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in a designated area on Deck 11 (starboard side, fwd). 
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking area.  

Carnival Firenze Smoking Areas Information not yet available.

Freedom Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Babylon Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side, fwd) and Deck 10 (starboard side, midship).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the outdoor smoking area on Deck 10 (starboard side, mid).

Glory Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Camel Club Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side) and Deck 10 (starboard side).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas.  

Horizon Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Horizon Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (port side and starboard side, forward) and Deck 11 (starboard side, fwd and aft).  
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at outdoor smoking areas on Deck 5 (starboard side, fwd) and Deck 11 (starboard side aft). 

Jubilee Smoking Areas Information not yet available.

Legend Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Club Merlin Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side, fwd), Deck 9 (starboard side, forward) and Deck 10 (starboard side, fwd).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas.

Liberty Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Czar’s Palace Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas. 

Luminosa  Smoking Areas (Cruises from the US) Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Luminosa Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 10 (aft, port side) 
• Note: Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas. 

Luminosa  Smoking Areas (Australia Cruises) Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Indoors: Smoking is not allowed anywhere indoors, including the casino.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 10 (aft, port side).    

Magic Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Hat Trick Casino (on Deck 5): Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (port side, aft) and Deck 11 (starboard side, fwd and aft).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the outdoor smoking areas on Deck 5 (port side, aft) and Deck 11 (starboard side, aft). 

Mardi Gras Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Mardi Gras Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in a designated outdoor area at Bar Della Rosa on Deck 8 (starboard side, midship) and in a designated area on Deck 17 (starboard side, aft). 
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the outdoor smoking area on Deck 17 (starboard side, aft).

Miracle Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Mr. Lucky’s Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed. 
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side), Deck 9 (starboard side) and Deck 10 (starboard side, fwd).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas. 

Panorama Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Panorama Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (port side and starboard side, fwd) and Deck 11 (starboard side, aft and fwd).  

Paradise Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Majestic Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in a designated area on Deck 11 (starboard side, fwd).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking area. 

Pride Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• The Winner’s Club Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side), Deck 9 (starboard side) and Deck 10 (starboard side, fwd).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas.  

Radiance Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Radiance Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side, fwd) and Deck 10 (starboard side, aft).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the outdoor smoking area on Deck 10 (starboard side, aft).  

Spirit Smoking Areas

Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Louis XIV Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side, fwd), Deck 9 (starboard side, forward) and Deck 10 (starboard side, fwd).
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the above outdoor smoking areas.      

Splendor Smoking Areas

• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side, mid) and Deck 10 (starboard side, mid and aft).   

Sunrise Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Sunrise Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only permitted at the outdoor smoking area on Deck 10 (starboard side, aft).  

Sunshine Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Sunshine Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (port side, fwd) and Deck 10 (starboard side, mid).

Valor Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Shogun Club Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed. 
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 3 (starboard side) and Deck 10 (starboard side).

Venezia Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Venezia Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (starboard side, fwd) and Deck 11 (starboard side, aft).  
• Cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed at the outdoor smoking areas on Deck 5 (starboard side, fwd) and Deck 11 (starboard side, aft).

Vista Smoking Areas Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) are allowed in these areas:

• Vista Casino: Smoking is only allowed in the casino for those seated and playing. Smoking is not allowed at the casino bar or anywhere in the casino when it’s closed.
• Outdoors: Smoking is allowed in designated areas on Deck 5 (port side and starboard side, fwd) and Deck 11 (starboard side, fwd and aft).  

And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points): I hesitate in asking this, but what are your thoughts on the smoking policies on Carnival? Share (respectfully) to the comments.

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Our Favorite Cruise Ship Cigar Lounges

Cigar aficionados rejoice! These cruise ship cigar lounges will become your new favorite thing!

Cigar lounges have played an important role in American history from cinema appearances to private lounges in major cities enjoyed by many. Cigars have always been classier than cigarettes and lounges dedicated to the cigar smoker bring up thoughts of leather chairs, a relaxed atmosphere, and one’s favorite alcoholic beverage. As in the past, today’s cigar aficionados talk and learn about cigars, share stories, and enjoy a good smoke during their visit to cigar lounges. For those that enjoy a fine cigar and cruises: are you aware there are a number of cruise ship cigar lounges?

Click here to browse our Caribbean cruises!

These classic spaces are specifically designed for cigar smokers. The true cigar aficionado will immensely enjoy the experience of a cruise ship cigar lounge and will be especially thrilled combining said experience with sights of cigar rollers and history in port stops throughout the Caribbean. CruiseExperts.com has all the information on cruise ships that go to Cuba , Puerto Rico, and other Caribbean destinations where cigars are prevalent, as well as other sailings that have cruise ship cigar lounges available.

Cruise Ship Cigar Lounges

Here at CruiseExperts.com, we want to provide our clients with all the information they need to plan the perfect cruise so we have put together a list of popular cruises with cigar lounges.

• The Holland America Line’s cruise ship Noordam provides the Oak Room for cigar and pipe smokers only.
• Cunard’s offers Churchill’s comfortable cigar lounge on Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and the Queen Victoria. Both Cuban and Dominican cigars are available for purchase.
• The MSC Divina has a large beautiful cigar lounge with comfortable seating, large windows, and a bar where you can purchase your favorite beverage to enjoy while you smoke.
• Royal Caribbean offers the Connoisseur Club on the Freedom of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas for their cigar-smoking guests.
• Norwegian Cruise Lines provides its guest on the Bliss, Joy, Escape, Getaway, and Epic ships with a Humidor room to enjoy their cigars. You can purchase cigars in the lounge.
• Princess Cruise lines has a Churchill’s lounge where guests can relax and enjoy premium cigars in comfort.
• Regent Seven Seas has a Connoisseur Club, which is a cigar and cognac lounge. Once the ship is in international waters, Cuban cigars are also available.
• Crystal also offers a comfortable Connoisseur Club for cigars and cognac where you can purchase premium brands.
• Silversea’s Connoisseur Corner invites guests to enjoy cigars and cognac while seated in very comfortable low-slung leather chairs.

Cigar lounges on the ships that provide them are comfortable and cozy, provide a relaxing atmosphere, premium brands of cigars, and allow you to bring in your favorite beverages to complete the setting. Most have darker masculine decorative tones and some feature wood and leather. They are reminiscent of the private men’s clubs of the last century. Cruise lines try to provide special comforts for all their guests, and cigar lounges are appreciated by many.

Don't Overpay for Your Cruise

Smoking Policies

Cigarette and E-cigarette smoking is allowed in designated exterior open deck areas, and in certain areas within the casino and casino bar. Cigar and pipe smoking are allowed in designated exterior open deck areas only. Smoking is prohibited in all guest staterooms. All staterooms and suites, including balconies, are entirely smoke-free. This policy includes all forms of smoking, including but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, electronic cigarettes (E-cigarettes), tobacco pipes and personal vaporizers. Guests who violate the smoking policy will be assessed a $500 charge, per violation, on the guest's Sail & Sign account, and may also result in the disembarkation of all guests in the stateroom.

Can You Smoke on a Cruise Ship? The Ultimate Guide

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: January 2, 2022  - Last updated: November 29, 2022

For smokers and non-smokers alike, knowing where smoking is (and isn’t!) allowed on your cruise is so important. In this guide to cruise line smoking policies, I’ll explain the guidelines for where it’s OK to smoke on a cruise and where it’s strictly forbidden.

Whether you’d prefer to steer clear of any secondhand smoke on your cruise vacation, or you’re a smoker looking for the right place to light up on your upcoming cruise, I’ll share all the basics you need to know.

Plus, I’ve included a line-by-line list of smoking policies for 39 cruise lines, as well as a handy chart to see the basic policies at a glance.

Can you smoke on a cruise ship?

In general, you can still smoke on a cruise ship, but only in designated areas. If you’re not sure where the smoking areas are, you can ask any member of the crew and they’ll give you directions.

Cruise lines have significantly tightened up their smoking policies over the last twenty years, but there’s still at least one designated smoking area on just about every ship. In fact, of the 39 cruise lines I researched, only one has any completely non-smoking ships!

Sorry, you’ll have to keep reading to find out which cruise ships are entirely smoke-free!

What can you smoke on a cruise ship?

Cruise lines allow passengers to smoke tobacco in their designated smoking areas. However, no cruise lines allow cannabis or CBD in any form on their ships. This applies to smoking and vaping materials, as well as edibles and topical ointments. Even with a prescription, it’s still not allowed.

Smoking cigars or pipes on a cruise

Most cruise lines allow cigar or pipe smoking, but often only in outdoor smoking areas or special cigar lounges.

If you like to relax with a cigar or a pipe, make sure you ask a crewmember which smoking sections you can use. It might not be all of them!

Vaping on a cruise

Using e-cigarettes (vaping) is usually only allowed in designated smoking areas. But there are a few exceptions!

A handful of cruise lines, including Cunard and Holland America, allow vaping in passenger staterooms. (Princess Cruises also used to allow vaping in staterooms, but that rule has recently changed.)

One cruise line, Regent Seven Seas, actually allows vaping in interior parts of the ship, except in the dining areas.

Smoking on stateroom balconies

With very few exceptions, smoking isn’t allowed on cruise ship balconies anymore. Although some cruisers try to sneak a smoke in the open air, it can be a safety hazard (and annoyed guests on nearby balconies will likely turn you in).

However, there are currently five cruise lines that still allow smoking on your balcony: Costa Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd, TUI, Fred. Olsen, and AIDA.

There are some ships on these lines that have non-smoking balcony sections—or even entire ships where smoking on balconies is prohibited—so be sure you book your stateroom on the right ship and in the correct section.

Smoking at cruise ship bars

Most bars on cruise ships—indoors and on deck—are non-smoking. There are some exceptions, like cigar bars and designated lounges, but not every ship has this feature.

But, many designated smoking areas are located close enough to bars that crewmembers will come around to take drink orders and deliver them right to you.

Smoking in cruise ship casinos

Many cruise lines with onboard casinos allow smoking in at least a section of their casinos. Smoking privileges are usually reserved for active players, and often at slot machines or select table games only.

Some cruise lines have specific times where the casino is entirely non-smoking. If all the ashtrays have suddenly disappeared from what was previously a smoking section, just ask a crew member. Odds are it’s the casino’s non-smoking time.

Today there are many cruise lines that have completely non-smoking casinos. Celebrity Cruises, Azamara, and Regent Seven Seas, among others, don’t allow smoking at any time in the casino.

Smoking during bunkering

If you’re unfamiliar with the term “bunkering”, it’s the ship’s refueling process. During certain port stops, your cruise ship will be topped up with fuel and smoking won’t be permitted on any of the exterior open deck areas.

The process usually lasts a few hours, and on some ships this means there are zero places where smoking is allowed during bunkering.

You may also like: A Cruise Glossary: Cruise Terms You Should Know

What happens if you’re caught smoking in a non-smoking area on a cruise ship?

Cruise lines are very strict with their smoking policies, and can assess hefty fines for people who are caught smoking in non-smoking areas. They can even kick you off the ship at the next port!

And no, you won’t get a refund if you’re disembarked for breaking a cruise line policy. You’ll also need to find your way home at your own expense—not a fun way to end your vacation!

Buying cigarettes or cigars on a cruise ship

Most larger cruise ships sell cigarettes and cigars on board. You can usually ask for cigarettes at any of the ship’s bars. If the ship has an indoor smoking lounge or cigar bar, you can often buy cigars there.

The onboard duty-free shops also usually carry cigarettes by the carton and cigars by the box. However, some cruise lines will hold your duty-free items until the last night of the cruise.

You must be at least 21 years old to purchase, possess, or use tobacco on cruises that begin in U.S. ports. For sailings embarking from most other ports, the minimum age is 18 years old.

Tip: Although you can usually buy cigars or cigarettes, lighters and matches can be hard to come by on board. Be sure to bring extras before you sail.

Best cruise lines for non-smokers

If you’re a non-smoker and you really don’t want to be around cigarette smoke, many cruise lines do a fairly good job keeping the designated smoking areas hidden away.

But smoking areas (especially on large cruise lines with a variety of ship classes) can vary widely from one ship to another. You might find that the smoking area on one ship is so far from the action that you’d never know it was there. But another ship on the very same line might allow smoking on half of the pool deck! (I’ve noticed this on both Carnival’s and Norwegian’s fleets as examples.)

Some cruise lines also allow smoking in their casinos, and that smoke tends to travel. If you’re a non-smoker who likes to play in the casino (or you just want to avoid wafting smoke), these cruise lines have entirely non-smoking casinos:

Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line

Celebrity cruises, celestyal cruises, cunard line, marella cruises, oceania cruises.

• Regent Seven Seas

Virgin Voyages

Overall, the best cruise lines for people who want to avoid smoke on their cruise vacation include:

Disney Cruise Line

Seadream yacht club.

• Viking (Ocean and River)

Windstar Cruises

Remember I mentioned that one cruise line has a couple of non-smoking cruise ships? It’s luxury cruise line Seabourn. They operate two expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit , that are completely non-smoking.

Read more about what Seabourn has to offer in my article Which Cruise Lines Have All-Inclusive Cruises?

Smoking on a cruise: a line-by-line guide

I’ve compiled the current smoking policies for all the larger cruise lines, and it’s a pretty long list! But you can jump right to the cruise line you’re planning to sail by using the quick links below.

AmaWaterways

American cruise lines, avalon waterways, carnival cruise line, costa cruises, croisieurope, fred. olsen, hapag-lloyd cruises, holland america line, hurtigruten, msc cruises, norwegian cruise line, p&o cruises, paul gauguin cruises, princess cruises, quark expeditions, regent seven seas cruises, royal caribbean cruise line, saga cruises, uncruise adventures, uniworld boutique river cruises, viking ocean, viking river cruises.

Or, for my at-a-glance breakdown of the basic smoking policies on all of these lines, you can jump to my cruise smoking policy chart .

Note: Check with your cruise line for their most up-to-date smoking rules, as they can change at any time.

All AIDA cruise ships have designated smoking areas, and smoking is also allowed on most stateroom balconies. However, select balconies on AIDAperla and AIDAprima are non-smoking.

E-cigarettes are permitted in limited areas on all AIDA ships.

AmaWaterways only allows smoking in one area on each of their ships: the aft of the Sun Deck.

Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on American Cruise Lines ships. Smoking is strictly prohibited in staterooms and on private balconies.

All Avalon Waterways ships have non-smoking interiors. Smoking is allowed in a designated outdoor area of each ship.

All of Azamara’s ships have a designated smoking area on the port side forward section of the pool deck. Smoking is prohibited in all other areas.

Azamara also prohibits smoking on the land tour portion of all cruise tours, including the use of electronic cigarettes.

All interior sections of Bahamas Paradise cruise ships are non-smoking, including the casino. Each ship has designated smoking sections on the exterior decks on the port side.

All Carnival ships have at least one designated outdoor smoking area, allowing cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, and pipes.

Carnival’s casinos have both smoking and non-smoking sections, with the exception of cruises sailing from or in Australia. On these cruises, the casino is entirely non-smoking.

Guests who smoke outside of the designated areas may be charged $500 per violation, and also may be disembarked with no refund of their unused cruise fare. Additionally, violators may be prohibited from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future.

Read more: Carnival Smoking Areas by Ship – Where You Can Smoke on a Carnival Cruise

Celebrity Cruises has designated smoking areas on each ship, allowing cigarettes, e-cigarettes, pipes, and cigars in these sections only.

Casinos on Celebrity are entirely non-smoking.

Guests who smoke in their stateroom or veranda will be assessed a $250 cleaning fee.

Celestyal Cruises prohibits smoking in all interior spaces on their ships. Designated smoking areas are provided on the open decks.

Costa does not allow smoking in any internal areas of their ships, with the exception of inside cigar lounges.

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes is allowed at clearly-marked outdoor smoking areas and on guest cabin balconies.

E-cigarettes can be used inside guest cabins and on cabin balconies, as well as at any designated smoking area.

Smoking is not allowed in any indoor area on CroisiEurope ships. An outdoor smoking section is available on the Sun Deck of each ship.

Indoor areas on Cunard ships are non-smoking except in designated sections. Cigar lounges are reserved for cigar and pipe smoking only.

Outdoor smoking areas are clearly marked on each ship.

Guests can use e-cigarettes in their staterooms (not on the balcony) as well as in designated outdoor areas.

Violations to the smoking policy will result in a $250 cleaning fee per violation. Repeated violations may result in disembarkation without refund.

Disney allows smoking and the use of e-cigarettes only in the following locations and times on their ships:

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

• Deck 4, outdoors, starboard side from 6 PM to 6 AM
• Deck 9, forward, portside, any time

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

• Deck 4, port side, aft, on the outside Promenade Deck from 6 PM to 6 AM
• Deck 12, port side, aft, the outdoor area accessible through the Meridian Lounge at any time
• Deck 13, port side, forward, near Currents Bar, at any time

Guests who have smoked in their staterooms or on their verandahs will be charged a $250 stateroom recovery fee.

Fred. Olsen cruise ships are nonsmoking in all indoor areas. Smoking is permitted in designated areas on the open deck, as well as on most cabin balconies.

Terrace balconies on Bolette and Borealis are non-smoking.

All Hapag-Lloyd cruise ships have designated outdoor smoking areas, and some have indoor smoking areas as well.

On some ships, smoking is allowed on stateroom balconies.

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes is allowed in the following areas:

• Sansibar (in the outdoor area only)
• In the outdoor areas of the decks and in the smoking area of the Lido terrace (not under the Magrodome)

MS EUROPA 2

Smoking is allowed in the following areas:

• All external decks (except the Magrodome area and the outer terrace of the Yacht Club Restaurant)
• Cigars, cigarillos and pipes may only be smoked in the Collins and in the outside area on the starboard side of the Sansibar

HANSEATIC nature , HANSEATIC inspiration, and HANSEATIC spirit

• Invisible Lounge (Deck 4)
• Outdoor smoking area on the port side near the pool (cigarettes only)

MS EUROPA , MS EUROPA 2 , HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC inspiration, and HANSEATIC spirit

• Designated outdoor smoking areas
• Stateroom verandas

Holland America cruise ships offer designated smoking and non-smoking areas in most lounges, as well as in select sections of the outdoor decks.

Cigar and pipe smoking is permitted on the outside decks only.

Electronic cigarettes are permitted both in staterooms (except on verandas) and in designated smoking areas.

Smoking areas on Hurtigruten ships are located on outdoor decks, but smoking is prohibited when ships are in port.

Hurtigruten’s Expedition ships are usually non-smoking, but smoking may be allowed in certain areas on outside decks.

Smoking inside a cabin will result in a 1500 NOK (approximately $180 USD) cleaning charge.

Marella’s ships allow smoking only in designated areas of the open deck.

MSC allows smoking only in designated areas, indicated by signage and ashtrays.

Guests who smoke in non-designated areas may be fined, and repeatedly smoking in non-smoking areas can lead to disembarkation.

All indoor areas of NCL ships are non-smoking, with the exception of cigar lounges and the casino. All ships have designated smoking areas on the open decks.

Cigar Lounges:

Cigar smoking is permitted in designated cigar lounges on select ships. Cigarettes, pipes, and electronic cigarettes are not permitted in the cigar lounge. Cigar and pipe smoking on Norwegian Sky , Norwegian Sun , Norwegian Star , and Pride of America is permitted only in designated outdoor areas as there is no cigar lounge on board.

Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Encore each have a designated smoking room within the casino. On all other ships, players may smoke cigarettes or e-cigarettes in the Casino during gaming hours. Cigar and pipe smoking are not permitted in the casino.

Passengers who have smoked inside their stateroom or on the balcony will be charged a $250 USD cleaning fee.

Guests in the Garden Villas may smoke in their private garden and on their private sun decks.

Smoking and vaping are only permitted on Oceania ships on Deck 9 in the forward starboard corner of the pool deck, and on Deck 10 in the aft port corner of Horizons.

Cigar and pipe smoking are only permitted on the forward starboard corner of the pool peck.

Guests who violate the smoking policy will be disembarked at the next port, and may also be subject to fines.

Smoking and vaping are permitted on P&O cruise ships in designated areas of the open deck.

Each Paul Gauguin cruise ship has multiple outdoor areas where smoking is permitted. These include the forward outdoor areas on Deck 5 (starboard and port sides), La Palette (outside area, starboard side only), and Bar Du Soleil (starboard side only).

Smoking and vaping are permitted on Ponant cruise ships in designated areas of the open deck.

Princess’ ships have both indoor and outdoor smoking areas on board, including cigar lounges and specific areas of the open decks.

The casino has designated slot machines where guests are permitted to smoke while playing at those machines. All table games are non-smoking. The casino will also have one or more non-smoking nights (6 pm to closing), depending on the length of sailing.

Princess Cruises prohibits smoking or vaping in guest staterooms and balconies. Violations will result in a $250 fine for each occurrence.

Note: Until recently, Princess allowed the use of e-cigarettes in guest staterooms. This policy has changed, and vaping in your cabin is no longer allowed.

Quark has a no smoking or vaping policy in all interior sections of their ships. Smoking or vaping is only allowed in the designated outside smoking area.

Smoking and vaping also are not allowed near Zodiacs (inflatable boats) or during shore landings.

RSSC permits smoking in designated parts of the outdoor pool area. Additionally, smoking is allowed in the following areas of their ships:

• Seven Seas Voyager : Connoisseur Club, Horizon Lounge (outdoor one side designated area), pool area (designated area opposite side of the Pool Bar)
• Seven Seas Mariner : Connoisseur Club, Horizon Lounge (outdoor one side designated area), pool area (designated area opposite side of the Pool Bar)
• Seven Seas Navigator : Connoisseur Club, Galileo’s (outdoor one side designated area), pool area (designated area opposite side of the Pool Bar)

Electronic cigarette smoking is permitted throughout Regent ships with the exception of the dining areas.

Regent allows cigar smoking only in the Connoisseur Club and the designated area on the opposite side of the Pool Bar. Pipe smoking is only permitted in the Connoisseur Club.

Guests who don’t comply with the smoking policy will be asked to disembark without a refund.

RCCL permits cigarette, e-cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoking in designated outdoor areas.

The casino on many Royal Caribbean sailings allows smoking and has a designated area for non-smoking guests (cruises departing from China and Hong Kong do not have a non-smoking area in the casino). Smoking is not permitted in the casino for any ships departing from Australia and the UK.

Smoking is not permitted inside any stateroom or on stateroom balconies. Guests who violate this policy will be charged a $250 USD cleaning fee and may be subject to further action.

Smoking and vaping are only permitted in the designated smoking area on Saga ships. On Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure, the smoking area is on the port side of Deck 11 aft.

Seabourn has a completely non-smoking policy (including e-cigarettes) on their two expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit . This policy also extends to shore landings.

On all other Seabourn ships, cigarette smoking is permitted in the designated smoking area on the starboard half of the Sky Bar open deck.

Cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoking are allowed on the starboard half of the Seabourn Square outside deck.

Any guest who smokes inside a stateroom or on the adjoining veranda will be charged a $250 USD cleaning fee per day of violation.

SeaDream permits smoking only in designated areas on the outside deck.

Cigarette, cigar, e-cigarette, and pipe smoking is permitted only in the Connoisseur’s Corner and in select other areas, including designated tables and seating outside of the Panorama Lounge and the Pool Bar.

Other smoking areas include:

• Silver Spirit , Silver Whisper , Silver Shadow , Silver Muse and Silver Moon : on open Decks 9 and 10
• Silver Cloud and Silver Wind : on open Deck 9
• Silver Explorer : in designated outside areas on Decks 5 and 6
• Silver Origin : in designated outside areas on Deck 7

TUI (Mein Schiff)

Smoking on TUI’s Mein Schiff ships is only permitted on private balconies and in designated areas.

Designated areas on Mein Schiff 1 and Mein Schiff 2 include:

• Deck 5: Casino & Lounge
• Deck 5: Front area on the promenade deck (starboard and port)
• Deck 5: Promenade deck in front of the show bar (port)
• Deck 5: Outdoor area of ​​the Creative Kitchen
• Deck 14: Overview Bar
• Deck 14: Outer Alster Bar & Grill (starboard side)
• Deck 15: X-Sundeck (aft area, port side)
• Deck 15: High Air Bar (port side)

Designated areas on Mein Schiff Herz include:

• Deck 8: Unschlag Bar
• Deck 6: Front part of the promenade
• Deck 7: Rear part of the promenade deck, terrace of the show bar
• Deck 11: Indispensable bar, terrace of the outer Alster bar (port only)
• Deck 12: Overview bar

Designated areas on Mein Schiff 3 include:

• Deck 5: Smoking lounge
• Deck 5: Front part of the promenade deck, port side of the Schau Bar, Champagner Treff
• Deck 14: Port side of the Outer Alster Bar & Grill, Overview Bar

Designated areas on Mein Schiff 4 , 5 , and 6 include:

• Deck 14: Port side of the Outer Alster Bar & Grill, Overview bar

Vaping or smoking tobacco products is prohibited anywhere inside UnCruise ships. Vaping and smoking are only allowed on the outer aft deck in a designated smoking area.

Uniworld allows smoking only on the sun decks of their ships. This policy applies to all forms of smoking materials including e-cigarettes.

The cruise line also asks guests to refrain from smoking on shore excursions and tours.

Smoking is allowed on Viking Ocean ships only in the designated outdoor smoking area.

Viking River Cruises only allows smoking in the designated outdoor smoking area.

Virgin Voyages provides various designated smoking areas around their ships.   

Passengers found smoking or vaping in their stateroom or on a stateroom balcony will be fined $500 USD and may be disembarked from the voyage.

Windstar allows smoking and vaping on outside decks in designated smoking areas only.

Cigar smoking is permitted only in a specific designated area on each yacht.

Cruise line smoking policies at-a-glance

Cruise ship smoking faq.

Where can you smoke on a cruise ship?

Almost all cruise ships have at least one designated outdoor smoking area. Some ships also have an indoor smoking lounge and/or allow smoking in at least one part of the casino.

Are any cruise ships non-smoking?

Seabourn has a completely non-smoking policy (including e-cigarettes) on their two expedition ships,  Seabourn Venture  and  Seabourn Pursuit . This policy also extends to shore landings.

Is smoking allowed in casinos on cruise ships?

Many cruise lines have banned smoking on their onboard casinos. Some cruise ship casinos allow smoking at slot machines for active players. Others have designated smoking and non-smoking slot machine sections.

Is smoking allowed on cruise ship stateroom balconies?

A very small number of cruise lines still permit smoking on some stateroom balconies. These include Costa Cruises, Fred. Olsen, AIDA, Hapag-Lloyd, and TUI (Mein Schiff).

Can you smoke cigars or pipes on a cruise?

Most cruise lines permit cigar and pipe smoking in designated areas. However, smoking cigars and pipes may not be allowed in every smoking section.

Can you buy cigarettes on a cruise ship?

Most large cruise ships sell cigarettes at the bar areas, as well as in the duty-free shops. Duty-free purchases may be held until the last night of the cruise, depending on your cruise line’s policy.

If you have any questions about smoking policies on cruise ships, feel free to pop them in the comments below. Or, if you’ve noticed that a cruise line smoking policy has changed, please let me know so I can update the post!

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Wednesday 8th of March 2023

What ships have the most smoking areas

Hi Linda, the cruise lines that have the most smoking areas on their ships are Costa Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd, TUI, Fred. Olsen, and AIDA - simply because they permit smoking on stateroom balconies. If you're a smoker and you're not planning to cruise on one of these lines, consider looking at Carnival, Princess, NCL, Royal Caribbean, or Holland America. You'll generally find at least a couple of smoking areas on each of their ships, and most of their ships allow smoking in the casino (with the exception of Australia-based ships). Hope this helps!

• Carnival Cruise Lines

Bringing Cigars on board ship

By ROPD184 , October 7, 2006 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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OK guys here is my question for ya...I know about what you can and cant bring on board as far as alcohol is concerned....but what about Cigars.....is there a limit on how many cigars or what type of cigars you can carry on the ship??? sounds like a dumb question but I am really curious...thanks for the helps guys..

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I'm sure there's NO LIMIT on how many cigars you can bring on board (set up a little kiosk and start selling them - different story). :D

baseballdad

I never saw anything about cigars being limited. Of course, you can't Cubans into the country (wink, wink) but even those you can bring on board to enjoy on your balcony... I always bring along two cigars for each day of sailing, and have never encountered any issues about them.

That being said, smoking them anywhere but the cigar bar or a private balcony is probably pretty rude... and I tihkn pipes and cigars are only allowed on the portside balconies, but I am not sure about that. I alwys book aft cabins so it's not an issue - the smoke trails off behind the ship and never impinges on any non-smokers' delicate sensibilities. (That would be sarcasm...)

caribbean dreams

.   That being said, smoking them anywhere but the cigar bar or a private balcony is probably pretty rude... and I tihkn pipes and cigars are only allowed on the portside balconies, but I am not sure about that. I alwys book aft cabins so it's not an issue - the smoke trails off behind the ship and never impinges on any non-smokers' delicate sensibilities. (That would be sarcasm...)

I think it is VERY rude to smoke them on your balcony!!! Go up high on deck and smoke them!!! We just returned from the Miracle and someone was smoking them on the balcony near us and it made me sick!! It was the only part of my cruise that I hated. Seemed to be a lot of people smoking on our cruise. I think that is the drawback of having a balcony cabin, having to put up with all the smoke.

Tightlinerods

Keep in mind if you go up to the Funnel Deck you can not only smoke a Cuban Cigar but you can look for Cuba while up there !!!!!

Just watch where you purchase the "Cubans" from in port. A good shop showed me the difference in the packageing...

There is no limit to the cigars you can bring aboard, but I would recommend only bringing enough to smoke and share for the cruise. I bring about 24 cigars(the limit of my travel humidor) and usually bring back about 10 or so. I was randomly checked by customs 3 years ago, and I had 11 non-cuban cigars left in the humidor. They never said anything, but had they been Cubans..............they would have taken them.

Hey thanks everyone...I get the Cigar International Mag and was going through and pricing some cigars...its going to be me and my wife (we both smoke a couple a day at least), my FIL-MIL (they will probably smoke a couple the whole trip)...and our couple friend ( they smoke as much as we do).....SO i was thinking about getting a case of 50...to share amongst ourselves....that sounds pretty reasonable I think....anyway...wasnt sure IF there were any restrictions..so THANKS FOR THE HELP!:D

If cigar smoke "makes you sick," then why are you reading this thread? If you have a problem with people exercising their freedom to smoke on their private balconies, I suggest you take it up with Carnival.

It would be rude to be a guest on YOUR balcony and smoke. Not on mine. Please understand that we (smokers) are at least being courteous enough NOT to smoke in the more public areas. I plan to burn a little Incesnse while doing so and hope this doesn't bring up another issue with the "offended camp". I can't be any more courteous than that.

Hardly rude. Smokers pay to use their balconies the same as everyone else. Did you try to work out a compromise with your neighbors so that you weren't both out there at the same times? If not, don't complain! :rolleyes: I plan to smoke on my aft balcony on the Miracle in three weeks. I expect this will cause few if any problems since it IS on the aft of the ship. Should someone have a problem and approach me politely, I will be happy to work out a compromise. If they approach me rudely, all bets are off!

Should someone have a problem and approach me politely, I will be happy to work out a compromise. If they approach me rudely, all bets are off!

Very well said.........I too have always compromised when asked politely to do so, but I am less likely to do so when they scream, curse, and make demands.............

had they been Cubans..............they would have taken them.

I purchase my “everyday” sticks in bundles. They are usually factory seconds. As such, they do not have any bands on them. If you buy Cubans or what you think to be Cubans (a lot of counterfeits out there like in Mexico) just remove the bands. They can’t prove where they came from therefore………

I agree with you Jeanneful - I get very sick from cigar smoke. So hoping that my neighbors are curtious enough to smoke in the room that is provided for that. Or, at least curtious enough not to smoke when they hear someone on the deck next door.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

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Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

7 - Day Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: cozumel, day 4: costa maya, day 5: mahogany bay.

Day 6 & 7: Fun Day at Sea

Day 8: port canaveral (orlando).

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I don't gamble, but I used a casino status match to get a cheap cruise

As I sat on my balcony looking at the Rock of Gibraltar in the distance, I couldn't believe I'd paid just $72 per night for me and my husband to take a 14-night transatlantic cruise.

Like many other passengers I talked to during the crossing, I'd booked my cheap cruise through a Carnival Players Club offer. My specific offer gave me a "free" balcony room, $50 of casino credit and complimentary drinks while playing in the casino.

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But unlike many passengers who booked Carnival Players Club offers, I hadn't gambled my way to a cruise. Instead, I'd used a chain of status matches to get casino status and sign up for a Carnival Fun Match. Then, I obsessively checked the Fun Match cruise offers until I found one I couldn't resist.

Read on to learn how I did it and how you can, too.

How I got casino status without gambling

To get a Carnival Fun Match, I needed to submit proof of status in another casino's players club or loyalty program.

I have Caesars Rewards Diamond status, but I don't believe I've ever gambled at a Caesars casino — although I have earned reward credits on hotel stays, shopping and dining in Las Vegas. The truth is my activity with Caesars is far too limited to have earned Diamond status with the program. Instead, I have Caesars Diamond status via a match from Wyndham Rewards Diamond status .

You can earn Wyndham Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year if you stay with Wyndham for at least 40 qualifying nights in a calendar year. However, the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card offers automatic Wyndham Diamond status for as long as you have the card.

I initially held Wyndham Diamond status through a series of status matches that are no longer available, but after using my Wyndham status for the Carnival Fun Match, my status expired. Now, I hold Diamond status as a Wyndham Business cardholder.

The information for the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Caesars now requires you to "have earned Tier Status with your current loyalty program in order for your status to be matched." But Diamond status from holding the Wyndham Business card counts as an earned status to match to Caesars Rewards.

To summarize, I got Wyndham Diamond status via a no-longer-available status match — but you can still get it by holding the Wyndham Business card. Then, I matched this status to Caesars Rewards online. In previous years, it has taken a few weeks for my match to go through, but this year, it took about a month.

Leveraging status matches

With Caesars Diamond status in hand, it was time to request a Carnival Fun Match in the hopes of scoring a free or cheap cruise.

You can register for the Carnival Players Club Fun Match program if you are 21 or older and a legal resident of one of the 50 U.S. states or Washington, D.C. Once you do so, you won't get elite status, but you might get discounted cruise offers. Even if you already are a member of Carnival Cruise Line's VIFP Club loyalty program , you can still register for a Fun Match.

To register, you'll need to input your VIFP Club number and email; if you don't have a VIFP account, you can create one. Either way, check the box for "I would like to receive emails for special offers and/or information from Carnival" to get offers in your inbox.

I submitted proof of my Caesars Rewards Diamond status by taking photos of both sides of my physical Caesars Diamond card I'd picked up in Las Vegas. If I had more casino statuses, I could have uploaded more than just one and might have gotten better offers. You'll likely get better offers if you go that route and submit proof of status with other casino loyalty programs.

Related: How to earn free cruises and perks with casino loyalty programs on land and at sea

Carnival Fun Match offers

Once you register for a Carnival Players Club Fun Match, you might see offers via email within a week. However, some travelers have reported registering for Fun Match and only receiving discounted cruise offers. You might go through all the effort of status matching and still not get any offers for a "free" cruise.

When I wrote this story, the Carnival Fun Match website said travelers who register will get "drinks included + upgrades + $50 to spend in the casino." You should get at least whichever offer is currently on the Fun Match registration page.

Otherwise, there are no rules or official guidance regarding the types of Fun Match offers you might receive or how long you might receive offers. Each offer you let expire could be the last offer you see. Once you book a Fun Match offer, the flow of offers into your email inbox will likely end ... at least, until you've gone on your cruise and Carnival has assessed your level of play in its onboard casino.

I started getting Fun Match emails in my inbox within a week of registering in January 2022. Until I booked a Fun Match offer in March 2023, I got one to four emails with Fun Match offers per week.

Some Fun Match offers were for cruises starting at $55 per person, per day (plus taxes, fees and gratuities), based on double occupancy. With these offers, I could have gotten complimentary drinks in the casino and bonus cash from Carnival based on how many points I accrued in the casino during my cruise. For reference, you'll earn 1 point for every $2.50 you wager through slot machines.

Other offers included a "free" cruise with complimentary drinks in the casino and a $50 FunPlay credit. Some offers even included balcony rooms, although these were more limited than ocean-view rooms, which in turn were more limited than windowless inside rooms.

A "free" cruise, mind you, isn't really free. You'll still need to pay a deposit (which you'll get back in onboard credits), plus taxes, fees and gratuities.

After a while, I forgot about the Fun Match offers, as they got hidden in the Promotions tab of my inbox. But once I rediscovered them in late 2022, I checked my cruise offers daily.

You might find hundreds of offers when you click through to see the eligible cruises for a specific offer. Most are usually for cruises to the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Mexico in inside cabins. You can filter by cruise destination, departure port, length of cruise and sail date.

You can select an ocean-view room, balcony or suite if they're available for the sailing, but you will often need to pay more to upgrade to these room types.

Carnival is not in the business of giving away free cruises if it believes it could sell them for more. The best Fun Match deals will likely be on shoulder-season sailings, last-minute cruises and other itineraries that are unlikely to sell out. Don't expect to find a "free" offer on a popular Christmas cruise or a summer cruise on the line's newest ship.

With this understanding, my husband and I decided that if we were going to accept a Fun Match offer, we wanted a "free" balcony cabin on a transatlantic , transpacific or Panama Canal full transit cruise . We had high hopes and were willing to risk not booking an offer for the chance to book one of these extended cruises with a balcony.

After a few months of daily checks, we saw a Fun Match "free" cruise offer for an April 2024 transatlantic cruise from Barcelona to Port Canaveral (near Orlando) in a balcony cabin. This offer perfectly fit our criteria — a balcony cabin on a transatlantic cruise — so we booked it with a $200 deposit before it disappeared. After all, months of searching had taught me that offers can go away quickly.

As you can see, our "free" cruise wasn't free. But even after the $391 in taxes and fees and $406 in prepaid gratuities, we got a great deal on our transatlantic voyage. It cost just $36 per person, per night — and that included meals in the ship's multiple complimentary restaurants, onboard entertainment and transportation across the Atlantic.

Plus, about six months before our cruise, a Chase Offer appeared for Carnival that let us get some cash back while paying for the remainder of our cruise cost.

Related: I earned a 'free' cruise in a ship casino — here's what it cost, plus tips for getting comped

Was it worth it?

The Carnival Fun Match was worth it for me. I enjoyed our extended cruise on Carnival Glory and would certainly book another casino offer. It takes patience and stubbornness to wait for the perfect offer that might never come, but I was happy we waited to use my Fun Match offer for a balcony cabin on a 14-night transatlantic cruise.

Once on board, I felt no pressure to gamble despite cruising on a casino offer. You could theoretically never visit the cruise ship casino while sailing on a Fun Match cruise. But since my husband and I had complimentary drinks when playing in the casino as part of our Fun Match offer, we did spend some time at Carnival Glory's Camel Club Casino. I stuck to 1-cent slots, ended up about even and enjoyed a few hard seltzers most evenings.

My limited casino play was enough. I've now started getting new "free" inside cabin cruise offers from Carnival Players Club and am considering booking another cruise if I find the right offer. Panama Canal, here we come!

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