Most cruise lines prohibit vaping in cabins and public spaces, but a few allow it in designated outdoor areas

You cannot vape in your cabin or inside any public area on most cruise ships. Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line all ban vaping indoors and in staterooms. Some lines permit vaping only in specific outdoor deck areas — usually a roped-off section away from other passengers — but you must check your exact cruise line's policy before you board, because the rules vary and change by ship.

The core issue is that cruise ships treat vaping the same way they treat cigarette smoking: as a health and safety concern in an enclosed environment. Unlike a hotel where you can step outside freely, a ship has limited outdoor space and shared ventilation systems. Violations can result in fines ranging from $250 to $500 per incident, confiscation of your device, or removal from the ship at the next port at your own expense.

Key Takeaways

  • Vaping is banned in all cabins and indoor public spaces on every major cruise line, with no exceptions for e-cigarettes or vape pens.
  • A small number of cruise lines permit vaping in designated outdoor areas only, but you must confirm this with your specific ship before boarding.
  • Violations result in fines of $250 to $500 per incident, and repeat offenses can lead to removal from the ship.
  • Security staff monitor designated smoking and vaping areas, and other passengers can report violations to guest services.

Vaping policies by major cruise line

Royal Caribbean prohibits vaping everywhere except in designated outdoor smoking areas on certain ships. These areas are typically on upper decks and clearly marked. You must use them during designated times, which are posted on your cabin television or available at guest services.

Carnival bans vaping in all cabins and public indoor spaces. Vaping is not permitted in any designated smoking area — the line treats vaping differently from cigarette smoking and does not allow it anywhere on the ship.

Disney Cruise Line prohibits vaping throughout the entire ship, including all outdoor decks. This policy applies to all guests regardless of age.

Norwegian Cruise Line bans vaping in cabins and public spaces. Some Norwegian ships have designated outdoor smoking areas, but vaping is not permitted in these areas — only cigarettes are allowed.

Princess Cruises prohibits vaping in cabins and public areas. Designated smoking areas exist on some ships, but vaping is not permitted in them.

What happens if you vape in your cabin

If you vape in your stateroom, crew members can detect it through smoke detectors or reports from neighboring cabins. The first violation typically results in a warning and a fine of $250. A second violation incurs a $500 fine. A third violation can result in removal from the ship at the next port, and you will be responsible for your own transportation home.

The cruise line may also charge you a cabin remediation fee — typically $200 to $500 — to cover the cost of deep cleaning and odor removal. This charge appears on your final bill after the cruise ends. You will not receive a refund for the remainder of your cruise.

Designated vaping areas and how to use them

If your cruise line permits vaping in designated outdoor areas, these spaces are usually small, roped-off sections on upper decks. They are separate from designated smoking areas on some ships, or combined with them on others. Check your daily program or ask at guest services for the exact location and hours of operation.

Designated areas are monitored by crew members, and you must follow posted rules about timing and behavior. Do not vape outside these areas, even on open decks. Crew members and other passengers can report violations, and enforcement is consistent across all ships in the fleet.

What to do before you board

Contact your cruise line directly before your sailing date to confirm the vaping policy for your specific ship. Policies can differ between ships in the same fleet, and some lines update their rules seasonally. Call the cruise line's guest services number or check the "Policies" or "Guest Information" section of their website.

Write down the policy details and the name of the person you spoke with. If you receive conflicting information at check-in, you will have documentation to reference. Do not assume that because vaping was permitted on a previous cruise that it will be permitted on your upcoming one.

Bringing a vape device through security and customs

Vape devices and e-liquid are permitted in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. They must pass through the same security screening as any other personal item. Lithium-ion batteries in vape devices are subject to airline regulations if you are flying to the cruise port, so pack them in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.

If your cruise visits international ports, be aware that some countries prohibit vaping or restrict the import of vape devices and e-liquid. Research the laws of each port before you travel. Customs officials can confiscate devices and e-liquid, and violations can result in fines or legal consequences in that country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I vape on the balcony of my cabin?

No. Balconies are considered part of your cabin, and vaping is prohibited there on all major cruise lines. The ban applies even if your balcony is private and faces the ocean. Crew members can see violations from adjacent balconies or from deck patrols.

What if I vape in a designated smoking area?

Most designated smoking areas permit cigarettes only, not vaping. If you vape in a cigarette-only smoking area, you will be asked to stop and may receive a fine. Check with guest services about whether your specific ship has a separate vaping area before you use any designated space.

Will my vape device be confiscated if I violate the policy?

Yes. Crew members can confiscate your device on the first violation. You will not receive it back until the end of your cruise, and you will still be charged the fine. Repeat violations may result in permanent confiscation.

Can I vape in my cabin if I close the door and open a window?

No. Cruise ship cabins have shared ventilation systems, and smoke detectors will trigger regardless of whether you open a window or close the door. The policy has no exceptions for ventilation or privacy.

What if I'm under 18 — can I vape in designated areas?

Vaping is prohibited for anyone under 18 on cruise ships, even in designated areas. This applies regardless of the vaping laws in your home state or country. Minors found vaping face the same fines and consequences as adults.