Carnival's vaping policy bans vaping in all indoor spaces and most outdoor areas

Carnival Cruise Line prohibits vaping in all cabins, all interior public spaces, and on all verandas and balconies. The only place you can vape on a Carnival ship is in designated outdoor smoking areas on the open deck — typically a roped-off section on one of the upper decks away from the main pool and dining areas. If you vape in a cabin or interior space, you will face a cleaning fee (usually $250 or more) and possible removal from the ship at the next port.

Vaping devices are treated the same as cigarettes under Carnival's smoking policy. This means e-cigarettes, vape pens, and similar devices fall under the same restrictions as traditional tobacco products. The policy applies to all guests, regardless of age or cabin type.

Key Takeaways

  • Vaping is only permitted in designated outdoor smoking areas on open deck, not in cabins or any interior space.
  • Using a vaping device in your cabin or indoors will result in a cleaning fee of $250 or more charged to your account.
  • Vaping devices are treated identically to cigarettes under Carnival's smoking rules.
  • The designated smoking area is usually a small, roped-off section on an upper deck away from pools and restaurants.
  • Crew members enforce the policy and can ask you to leave the area or the ship if you violate it.

Where the designated smoking area is located

The exact location of the designated outdoor smoking area varies by ship and deck layout. Most Carnival ships have a single smoking area on one of the upper decks, often near the back of the ship or on a side area away from main guest traffic. When you board, your cabin paperwork or the ship's information packet will show the location on a deck map.

You can also ask crew members at guest services or your cabin steward where the smoking area is located. The area is clearly marked with signage. Because it is a small, confined outdoor space, it can become crowded during peak times, especially in the evening.

What happens if you vape in your cabin

If you vape in your cabin and crew members detect it — either through smoke detectors, a cabin inspection, or a report from another guest — Carnival will charge a deep cleaning fee to your onboard account. This fee typically ranges from $250 to $500 depending on the ship and the extent of the cleaning required. The charge appears on your final bill and must be paid before you disembark.

Repeat violations or vaping in other interior spaces can result in more serious consequences, including being asked to leave the ship at the next port of call. You would not receive a refund for the remainder of your cruise, and you would be responsible for your own transportation home.

Vaping in other interior spaces and public areas

Vaping is not permitted in dining rooms, theaters, casinos, bars, lounges, hallways, elevators, or any other interior public space. It is also prohibited on verandas and balconies attached to cabins. Crew members monitor these areas and will ask you to stop when ready if they see you vaping.

The policy is enforced consistently across all Carnival ships. If you are caught vaping indoors, you will be asked to move to the designated outdoor area or stop vaping entirely. Repeated violations can lead to removal from the ship.

Bringing vaping devices onboard

Carnival allows you to bring vaping devices and e-liquids in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. There is no restriction on the number of devices or amount of liquid you can bring for personal use. However, vaping devices with lithium batteries should be kept in your cabin and not left unattended in public areas.

Do not attempt to purchase or sell vaping products onboard. Carnival does not sell vaping devices or e-liquids in the ship's shops, and bringing products to resell is prohibited.

How Carnival's vaping policy compares to other cruise lines

Most major cruise lines — including Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line — have similar policies that restrict vaping to designated outdoor areas only. Some lines are slightly more restrictive and do not allow vaping on verandas at all. A few smaller or specialty cruise lines may have different rules, so it is worth checking the specific policy of your cruise line before you board.

Carnival's policy is middle-of-the-road among major cruise operators. If you are a regular cruiser, the designated outdoor area approach is what you will encounter on most ships.

Tips for vaping on a Carnival cruise

Locate the designated smoking area on your first day aboard and visit it during off-peak hours if you prefer fewer crowds. Early morning and late evening tend to be quieter times. Bring enough e-liquid and devices for your entire cruise, since you cannot purchase them onboard and the designated area may be inconvenient to reach frequently.

Be respectful of other guests in the smoking area and do not vape in any other location, even if you think crew members are not watching. Smoke detectors in cabins are sensitive, and other guests will report violations. The cleaning fee is not worth the risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I vape on my cabin balcony or veranda?

No. Carnival prohibits vaping on all verandas and balconies, even though they are technically outside. The only outdoor vaping location is the designated smoking area on the open deck. Vaping on your balcony will result in a cleaning fee.

What if I vape in my cabin and no one finds out?

Cabin smoke detectors are monitored, and crew members conduct inspections. Other guests may also report it. Even if you are not caught when ready, the charge can appear on your final bill days after you disembark. It is not worth the risk.

Can I vape in the casino or bars?

No. Vaping is prohibited in all interior spaces, including the casino, bars, lounges, and restaurants. You must go to the designated outdoor smoking area if you want to vape.

Do I need to bring my own vaping supplies, or can I buy them onboard?

Carnival does not sell vaping devices or e-liquids onboard. Bring everything you need for your entire cruise in your carry-on luggage. There is no limit on the amount you can bring for personal use.

Will I get in trouble if crew members catch me vaping indoors?

Crew members will ask you to stop and direct you to the designated smoking area. A first violation typically results in a warning. Repeated violations or vaping in your cabin will result in cleaning fees and possible removal from the ship.