Over the last few weeks, we’ve seen a number of announcements by cruise lines detailing a tightening of their smoking policy and now Royal Caribbean has become the latest line to get tough, announcing a smoking ban on all cabin balconies, except for on ships based in Asia.
The ban becomes effective at the very start of 2014 and will see a fleet-wide ban on balcony smoking. Smoking in staterooms was already banned by the line and is also prohibited in all the ships’ public areas apart from the Casino, Connoisseur Club and the starboard side of outer decks.
In a statement on its website, the line commented: “After careful consideration and review of guest feedback, Royal Caribbean International has adjusted its smoking policy on its fleet of 21 ships. Effective January 1, 2014, all indoor public spaces will be smoke-free on all ships with the exception of those sailing in Asia. Smoking will not be permitted in any interior space, including but not limited to restaurants, theater, bars, lounges, corridors, elevators, staterooms and stateroom balconies.”
Any passengers found violating the ban will be subject to a fine of $250.
The announcement comes after Cunard, P&O Cruises and Disney Cruise Line announced bans recently, meaning that of the remaining mainstream lines, only Carnival Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line permit smoking on their ships’ balconies.
By Simon Brotherton
Google
Its a shame they don't ban it in the casino.our last trip was spoiled with smokers on navigator of the seas. My husband had lung desease and couldn't cope with smokers around him.
Hi Carol, thanks for the comment and I'm sorry to hear that cigarette spoke spoiled the enjoyment of your cruise. Yes, it's unfortunate that if you're a non-smoker and like to spend time in the casino, you will have to put up with some level of cigarette smoke, as it is one of the very few indoor areas of a Royal Caribbean's ships which permits smoking. However, it's worth noting that there is a designated non-smoking area within the Casino Royale on each vessel.