Where you can and cannot smoke on a Carnival ship

Carnival allows smoking in designated outdoor areas only — primarily on the open deck in a roped-off section, usually toward the aft (rear) of the ship. You cannot smoke anywhere indoors, including cabins, hallways, dining rooms, theaters, casinos, or any enclosed public space. The specific location of the smoking deck varies by ship size and design, but crew will direct you to it when you board.

Smoking is also prohibited on the pool deck, even in outdoor areas, because of the concentration of families and children. If you violate the smoking policy, Carnival charges a $250 cleaning fee to your onboard account on the first offense, and the fee increases for repeat violations. The policy applies to all tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and vaping devices.

Key Takeaways

  • Smoking is only allowed in one designated outdoor area per ship, usually a roped-off section on the aft deck.
  • All indoor spaces, cabins, and the pool deck are smoke-free, with no exceptions.
  • A first violation results in a $250 charge to your onboard account; repeat violations cost more.
  • The smoking policy covers cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and vaping devices equally.
  • Crew members can direct you to the designated smoking area when you board or ask at guest services.

Smoking in your cabin

You cannot smoke in your cabin under any circumstances. Carnival treats cabins as non-smoking rooms across the entire fleet. If you smoke in your cabin, the $250 fee is applied when ready, and Carnival may also charge additional cleaning and damage fees if smoke odor lingers or affects neighboring cabins.

Some guests have reported that crew members conduct cabin inspections during the cruise or at the end of the voyage to check for smoking violations. If evidence of smoking is found — such as smoke smell, cigarette butts, or burn marks — you will be charged. The safest approach is to use only the designated outdoor smoking area.

Designated smoking area details

The designated smoking area is typically a small, roped-off section on the aft deck, away from main foot traffic and dining areas. It is exposed to the elements and wind, which helps disperse smoke. The exact location depends on your ship; some larger vessels may have a slightly larger area, while smaller ships have a more compact space.

The smoking area is not heated or covered, so you will be outside in whatever weather the cruise encounters. Ashtrays are provided in the designated zone. If you cannot find the smoking area, ask any crew member or visit guest services on your first day aboard — they can point you directly to it and confirm the hours it is available (it is typically open during the same hours as the rest of the ship).

What counts as smoking under Carnival's policy

Carnival's smoking ban covers cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and electronic cigarettes (vaping). All of these are prohibited everywhere except the designated outdoor smoking area. Some guests assume vaping is permitted indoors because it produces vapor rather than smoke, but Carnival treats it the same as traditional smoking.

Marijuana, whether legal in your home state or the ports you visit, is not permitted anywhere on the ship. Federal law applies at sea, and Carnival's policy prohibits it entirely. Possession can result in serious consequences, including removal from the ship at the next port and potential legal action.

How the policy is enforced

Crew members monitor public spaces and cabins for smoking violations. If you are caught smoking in a non-designated area, a crew member will approach you and inform you of the violation. The $250 fee is added to your onboard account, which you settle when you leave the ship or have already paid if you prepaid your account.

Repeat violations result in higher fees and can lead to removal from the ship at the next port at your own expense. Carnival takes the policy seriously because smoke travels through ventilation systems and affects other guests' cabins and experiences. If a neighboring cabin reports smoke coming from your room, Carnival will investigate and charge accordingly.

Preparing for your cruise if you smoke

If you smoke, plan to use the designated outdoor area during your cruise. Bring enough cigarettes or tobacco products for your trip, as prices at sea are typically higher than on land, and availability may be limited. Some guests find it helpful to check the ship's deck plan before boarding to mentally locate the smoking area.

Consider the weather and your comfort level when planning smoking breaks. Cruises to Alaska or northern routes will be colder and windier; Caribbean cruises will be warmer but more humid. The designated area is small and can become crowded during peak hours, so you may want to smoke during off-peak times if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I smoke on the balcony of my cabin?

No. Carnival prohibits smoking on all cabin balconies, even though they are technically outdoors. Smoke drifts into neighboring cabins and the ship's ventilation system. Smoking on a balcony results in the same $250 violation fee as smoking indoors.

What if I need to smoke and cannot find the designated area?

Ask any crew member or visit guest services when ready. They will direct you to the smoking area and confirm its location. Do not smoke in any other outdoor space, as you may still be in violation of the policy.

Are there any exceptions to the smoking ban for medical reasons?

No. Carnival does not make exceptions to the smoking policy based on medical or personal reasons. The only place you can smoke is the designated outdoor area.

Do I have to pay the $250 fee if someone else in my cabin smokes?

If you are listed as the cabin occupant and smoking is detected, you are responsible for the fee. If you are traveling with someone who smokes, make it clear that smoking in the cabin will result in charges to your account.

Can I smoke in the casino or other adult-only areas?

No. The smoking ban applies to all indoor spaces, including the casino, adult-only lounges, and nightclubs. The only exception is the designated outdoor smoking area.