Royal Caribbean bans vaping in all indoor spaces and most outdoor areas

Royal Caribbean does not allow vaping in cabins, public indoor areas, or on balconies. You can bring a vape device aboard, but you cannot use it anywhere except designated outdoor deck areas away from other guests. The policy treats vaping the same as smoking—both are prohibited in nearly all spaces on the ship.

If you are caught vaping in a prohibited area, Royal Caribbean can charge you a cleaning fee (typically $250 or more) and may ask you to leave the ship at the next port. The crew actively enforces this policy, and other guests report violations regularly.

Key Takeaways

  • Vaping is banned in your cabin, all indoor public spaces, restaurants, theaters, and on your balcony.
  • You may vape only in specific outdoor deck areas designated by the crew, away from other passengers.
  • Bringing a vape device onto the ship is permitted, but using it in prohibited areas results in a $250+ cleaning fee and possible removal from the ship.
  • The policy applies to all nicotine and non-nicotine vaping devices, including e-cigarettes and vape pens.
  • Crew members monitor compliance actively, and other guests frequently report violations.

Where you can and cannot vape on the ship

Royal Caribbean allows vaping only in open-air outdoor spaces that the crew designates as smoking and vaping areas. These are typically located on upper decks, away from pools, hot tubs, and seating areas where other guests gather. The exact location varies by ship, so ask the crew at check-in or look for posted signs.

You cannot vape in your cabin under any circumstances. This includes balcony cabins—even though you might be outside, the balcony is considered part of your private cabin space and is off-limits. Vaping is also prohibited in all restaurants, dining venues, theaters, lounges, hallways, elevators, the casino, the spa, and any indoor public area.

If you are unsure whether a specific location is permitted, ask a crew member before you vape. They can point you to the designated areas and explain the boundaries clearly.

What happens if you vape in a prohibited area

If crew members catch you vaping where it is not allowed, you will be charged a cleaning fee. Royal Caribbean's standard fee is $250, though it can be higher depending on the damage or the severity of the violation. This charge appears on your onboard account and must be paid before you disembark.

Beyond the fee, repeated violations or vaping in sensitive areas (like near children or in dining spaces) can result in more serious consequences. The crew may confine you to your cabin, deny you access to certain areas, or require you to leave the ship at the next port of call. You would not receive a refund for the remainder of your cruise.

Other passengers report violations frequently, so the likelihood of being caught is high, especially if you vape near common areas or during busy times of day.

Bringing vape devices through embarkation

You can pack a vape device in your carry-on or checked luggage and bring it through the cruise terminal. Royal Caribbean does not confiscate vaping devices at embarkation. However, you must declare it if asked by security, and you should keep it in your cabin when not in use in a designated area.

Do not attempt to hide a vape device or bring it through security without mentioning it. The embarkation process includes security screening similar to airport procedures, and attempting to conceal items can result in denial of boarding or removal from the ship.

Liquid nicotine and vape juice are subject to the same restrictions as other liquids—they must follow TSA carry-on liquid rules if you are flying to the port. Pack vape juice in checked luggage when possible to avoid complications at airport security.

Comparing Royal Caribbean's vaping policy to other cruise lines

Most major cruise lines—including Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line—have similar vaping bans. All prohibit vaping in cabins and indoor spaces. Some lines are slightly more lenient about designated outdoor areas, while others enforce the policy more strictly.

Disney Cruise Line is notably stricter: vaping is banned entirely on Disney ships, including in outdoor areas. If you plan to cruise with multiple lines, check each line's specific policy before you board, as the rules vary.

Royal Caribbean's policy is middle-ground—you have some outdoor options, but they are limited and clearly marked. The enforcement is consistent across their entire fleet.

Planning your cruise if you vape

If you vape regularly, plan your cruise knowing that your options are limited to brief visits to designated outdoor decks. These areas are often small, exposed to weather, and crowded during peak hours. You may find it difficult to vape as frequently as you do on land.

Some guests choose to use nicotine patches or gum during their cruise as an alternative. Others plan their deck time around vaping breaks. Whatever you decide, budget time for trips to the designated areas and accept that you will have fewer opportunities than you are used to.

If you are traveling with family or friends who do not vape, be aware that leaving the group to vape in a designated area will take time away from activities and meals. Plan accordingly so you do not miss important events or dining reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I vape on my balcony cabin?

No. Even though your balcony is outside, it is considered part of your private cabin space and is subject to the no-vaping policy. Vaping on a balcony results in the same $250+ cleaning fee as vaping indoors. The only outdoor vaping areas are crew-designated open decks away from cabins.

What if I vape in my cabin and no one sees me?

Royal Caribbean uses air quality sensors and smoke detectors in cabins that can detect vaping. Crew members also conduct routine inspections and respond to reports from other guests. The risk of being caught is high, and the $250 fee applies whether or not you are directly observed.

Are there any exceptions to the vaping ban?

No. Royal Caribbean applies the same policy to all guests regardless of age, medical status, or reason for vaping. There are no exceptions for medical vaping devices or nicotine replacement vaping. The only permitted use is in designated outdoor areas.

Can I bring vape juice in my carry-on luggage?

Vape juice follows TSA liquid rules: containers must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit in a quart-sized bag. If you are flying to the cruise port, pack vape juice in checked luggage instead to avoid airport security delays. Once aboard, store it in your cabin.

Will the crew confiscate my vape device?

Royal Caribbean does not routinely confiscate vaping devices at embarkation. However, if you are caught vaping in a prohibited area, the crew may confiscate the device temporarily or permanently as part of the violation response. Repeated violations increase the likelihood of confiscation.