Smoking is restricted to specific outdoor areas on Disney ships
Disney Cruise Line allows smoking only in designated outdoor spaces on their ships. You cannot smoke in cabins, inside any public area, on balconies, or in any enclosed space. The only places where smoking is permitted are a small outdoor area on Deck 9 (or the equivalent deck on smaller ships) and certain designated spots near the pool deck, depending on which ship you are sailing on.
These outdoor smoking areas are clearly marked with signage when you board. Disney enforces these rules strictly, and crew members monitor the designated zones. If you smoke outside a permitted area, you may be asked to leave the ship at the next port, and Disney will not refund your fare.
The policy applies to all forms of smoking: cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and electronic cigarettes or vaping devices. There are no exceptions for guests in premium cabins or suites.
Key Takeaways
- Smoking is only allowed in one or two small outdoor areas on each Disney ship, marked with signage when you board.
- You cannot smoke in your cabin, on your balcony, or anywhere inside the ship, including restaurants, bars, and theaters.
- Electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are subject to the same restrictions as traditional cigarettes.
- Violating the smoking policy can result in removal from the ship without a refund.
What happens if you smoke in a cabin or prohibited area
If you smoke in your cabin, Disney will charge you a deep-cleaning fee of several hundred dollars to your onboard account. This fee is separate from any other consequences. The charge covers the cost of removing smoke odor and residue from the cabin so it can be rented to other guests.
If crew members catch you smoking in a prohibited public area, you will be asked to stop when ready. A second violation typically results in a meeting with the ship's captain or senior officer. A third violation or refusal to comply can lead to removal from the ship at the next port of call, with no refund of your cruise fare or any onboard charges you have already paid.
Disney takes these rules seriously because smoke affects other guests' cabins and shared spaces. The ventilation systems on ships do not isolate smoke the way building systems on land can, so even one cabin smoking can affect neighboring cabins.
Designated smoking areas vary by ship
Disney operates four main cruise ships: the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy. Each ship has at least one designated outdoor smoking area, but the exact location and size differ. On most ships, the primary smoking area is on Deck 9 aft (toward the back), away from the main pool and dining areas.
When you board your ship, your cabin key card or the Disney Cruise Line app will show you where the smoking areas are located. You can also ask crew members at Guest Services for directions. The areas are small—typically just a few benches or standing room—so they do not interfere with other guests' experience.
If you are sailing on a Disney ship for the first time, plan to locate the smoking area during your first hour aboard so you know where to go if you need it.
Planning ahead if you smoke
If you smoke, budget extra time into your daily schedule to visit the designated area. The smoking zones are outdoors and exposed to weather, and they are not always near your cabin or the areas where you spend most of your time. You may need to walk several decks to reach them.
Consider the length of your cruise when you book. On a 3-day cruise, you will have limited time to use the smoking area. On a 7-day or longer cruise, you will have more flexibility to step outside when you want to smoke.
If you are traveling with family or friends who do not smoke, be aware that leaving to use the smoking area means stepping away from group activities. Plan bathroom and smoking breaks together if possible so you do not miss dining reservations or scheduled events.
Nicotine replacement options on the ship
If you want to reduce or stop smoking during your cruise, the ship's onboard shops sell nicotine gum and patches. These products are available at the retail stores on the ship, though prices are higher than you would pay on land. You can also bring your own nicotine replacement products in your luggage without restriction.
Some guests use their cruise as an opportunity to cut back on smoking by using nicotine gum or patches instead of visiting the smoking area. The limited access to smoking areas naturally reduces consumption for many people.
International waters and port policies
Disney's smoking policy applies everywhere the ship travels, including international waters and when docked at ports. You cannot smoke on the ship in any location other than the designated areas, even when the ship is in port or in international waters where different laws might explore.
When you go ashore at a port, local smoking laws explore instead of Disney's policy. Some ports have strict smoking bans in public areas, while others are more permissive. Check the local rules for each port you plan to visit so you know where you can smoke on land.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke on my cabin balcony?
No. Smoking is not permitted on balconies, even though they are technically outside. Disney considers balconies part of the cabin space, and smoke can drift into neighboring cabins. Violating this rule can result in a cleaning fee and further penalties.
Are electronic cigarettes and vaping allowed in the designated smoking areas?
Yes, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are treated the same as traditional cigarettes and are only permitted in the designated outdoor smoking areas. They are prohibited everywhere else on the ship, including cabins and balconies.
What if I did not know about the smoking policy before I booked?
Disney's smoking policy is listed on their website and in the terms and conditions you agree to when you book. If you have questions before your cruise, contact Disney Cruise Line directly. If you discover the policy does not work for you, you may be able to cancel your reservation, though refund may be able to access depends on your booking terms and how close you are to your sail date.
Can I smoke in the adult-only areas of the ship?
No. The smoking policy applies to all areas of the ship, including adult-only lounges, bars, and the adults-only pool deck. The only exception is the designated outdoor smoking area.
What if I have a medical condition that I think should exempt me from the policy?
Disney does not grant exceptions to the smoking policy for any reason. If you have concerns about your specific situation, contact Disney Cruise Line before you sail to discuss your needs and explore what accommodations might be possible.