Can You Bring a Vape on a Cruise Ship?

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In the era of travel and exploration, cruising stands as a premier choice for many vacationers. Yet, as more people are embracing the vape culture, a common query that arises is how to navigate the complex world of vaping regulations on cruise ships.

This comprehensive guide aims to answer the most frequently asked questions about bringing a vape on a cruise ship.

Can You Bring a Vape on a Cruise Ship?

We’ll delve into the specifics of vaping policies, the impacts of international law, and the ins and outs of packing and using your vape while on board.

Can I bring a vape on a cruise ship?

The answer to this question largely depends on the specific policies of the cruise line with which you’re traveling.

Most cruise lines permit passengers to bring vapes, but they often place restrictions on where you can use them.

For instance, vaping may be allowed only in designated smoking areas and is generally prohibited in staterooms, dining areas, theaters, and other public spaces.

However, it is essential to review the policies of your specific cruise line before bringing your vape gear onboard.

Can I vape in my cabin or on my balcony?

Most cruise lines, like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess, have strict policies against vaping in staterooms or on private balconies.

They enforce this rule to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers, as the vapor can be intrusive to other guests and potentially set off smoke detectors.

What are the policies of different cruise lines regarding vaping?

Different cruise lines have different policies when it comes to vaping.

Here is a brief overview of some of the major cruise lines and their policies:

Carnival Vape Policy

The stance of Carnival Cruise Line towards e-cigarettes and vaping mirrors its treatment of traditional tobacco cigarettes.

The use of these devices is restricted to certain specifically designated public zones on the ship.

Any form of marijuana, including weed vapes, is strictly prohibited on the cruise line, regardless of medical prescriptions.

Carnival’s smoking policy stipulates that a $500 fine will be levied on the onboard account of guests found smoking in their cabins.

Before setting sail, guests can consult a list of public smoking areas available on Carnival ships.

The use of vapes on Carnival cruises is allowed, but only in predetermined outdoor smoking areas.

Patrons in the casino are also allowed to vape, provided they are seated and actively participating in a game.

Royal Caribbean Vape Policy

Royal Caribbean permits the use of electronic cigarettes and vape pens exclusively in specified smoking zones on-board.

Usage of these devices in staterooms or any indoor public spaces is strictly forbidden.

A cleaning fee of $250 will be imposed on guests found smoking in their stateroom, and they may face additional penalties.

The smoking policy of Royal Caribbean provides details about the locations of the smoking areas on-board.

For guests who wish to vape on Royal Caribbean cruises, they are restricted to doing so only in the designated outdoor smoking zones.

Norwegian Vape Policy

As per the smoking policy of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the regulations for e-cigarettes and vaping are identical to those for traditional cigarettes.

Usage is only permitted within certain specified smoking areas on the ship.

Guests found vaping in their rooms will incur a fixed charge of $250, in addition to costs for any repairs needed due to fume-inflicted damage to the furniture.

A comprehensive list of indoor and outdoor smoking zones is provided in NCL’s smoking policy.

On Norwegian cruise ships, vaping is permitted in appointed outdoor smoking areas.

Indoor vaping is permissible within the cigar lounge and the casino.

Furthermore, passengers residing in the Garden Villas have the liberty to vape in their private gardens and on their sundecks.

Princess Cruises Vape Policy

In addition to specified outdoor smoking zones, Princess Cruises allows vaping in certain areas of the nightclub, the cigar lounge, and at select slot machines within the casino.

However, there may be occasions where the casino declares non-smoking nights based on the duration of the journey, during which vaping is not permitted.

Princess Cruises restricts the use of e-cigarettes and vape pens to the designated smoking areas, which include portions of the nightclub and the cigar lounges.

A $250 cleaning fee will be imposed on guests caught smoking in their stateroom or on their balcony.

Although the casino is predominantly non-smoking, Princess’ smoking policy permits smoking and vaping at some slot machines while engaged in gameplay.

Cruise Line Vaping Policy
Carnival Vaping is permitted in designated areas only. Not allowed in staterooms or on balconies.
Royal Caribbean Vaping is allowed only in designated smoking areas. Not allowed in staterooms or on balconies.
Norwegian Vaping is allowed in certain smoking areas. Not allowed in staterooms or on balconies.
Princess Vaping is permitted in designated smoking areas. Not allowed in cabins or on balconies.

Remember, these policies can change, and it’s always recommended to check with the cruise line before your trip.

Can I bring vape juice on a cruise ship?

Yes, you can typically bring vape juice on a cruise ship.

However, there might be restrictions on the amount you can bring, depending on the cruise line’s policies.

For example, some cruise lines may limit the amount of vape juice you can bring, while others may not.

It is recommended to pack vape juice in your checked luggage in a leak-proof container to avoid any potential spillage.

As always, check the specific policies of your cruise line before packing.

Are there specific areas where vaping is allowed?

Yes, most cruise lines designate specific areas for vaping and smoking.

These areas are often outdoors and away from general public spaces to prevent exposure to secondhand vapor or smoke.

The exact locations of these areas can vary from ship to ship, even within the same cruise line.

Some common places include certain sections of the open decks, specific bars, or designated rooms.

The ship’s crew will be able to guide you to these areas once you’re onboard.

It’s important to only vape in these areas to respect the other passengers and adhere to the cruise line’s policies.

How should I pack my vape for a cruise?

When packing your vape for a cruise, consider the following steps to ensure safety and avoid any issues during the security check:

  1. Disassemble your device: It’s a good idea to disassemble your vape device for the journey. This will prevent any accidental activation and potential leakage of vape juice.
  2. Pack carefully: Pack your vape device, batteries, and e-liquids separately. Use a hard case for the device and batteries to protect them from any damage.
  3. Leak-proof containers for e-liquids: Pack your e-liquids in leak-proof containers and consider putting them in separate plastic bags for extra protection against leaks.
  4. Follow airline rules for batteries: If you’re flying to your port of departure, remember to follow airline rules for vape batteries. They should be carried in your hand luggage and not checked in.

Can I charge my vape on a cruise ship?

Yes, you can typically charge your vape device on a cruise ship.

Most staterooms are equipped with standard electrical outlets where you can plug in your charger. However, it’s crucial to practice safety when charging:

  • Never leave a charging battery unattended.
  • Don’t charge your device overnight while you sleep.
  • Always use the charger that came with your device. Using a different charger can potentially cause damage or an accident.

Are there penalties for violating vaping policies?

Yes, penalties for violating a cruise ship’s vaping policy can be quite severe.

These can range from fines added to your shipboard account, confiscation of your vape gear, or even being asked to leave the ship at the next port of call. In some cases, violators can also be banned from sailing with that cruise line in the future.

It’s important to remember that these policies are in place for the comfort and safety of all passengers.

Adhering to them ensures a pleasant cruising experience for everyone onboard.

Can I bring CBD vape oil on a cruise ship?

This is a gray area and heavily depends on the specific policies of the cruise line and the laws of the countries your ship will be visiting.

While some cruise lines may allow CBD products, others may strictly forbid them.

Furthermore, even if a cruise line allows CBD products, they may be illegal in some of the ports your ship visits.

Therefore, it is highly recommended to research the laws of your destination countries and check with the cruise line directly before bringing any CBD products onboard.

Can I buy vape supplies on a cruise ship?

The availability of vape supplies varies widely across different cruise lines.

Some cruise lines may carry a limited selection of vape products in their onboard shops, such as vape pens or e-liquids.

However, many do not, given the variability of vaping laws in different jurisdictions.

Additionally, even if your cruise line does sell vape supplies, the selection might not be to your liking, or the prices could be significantly higher than what you would pay on land.

It’s a good idea to bring enough supplies to last for your entire trip to avoid any issues.

How does international law affect vaping on a cruise ship?

International laws can greatly affect vaping on a cruise ship.

While at sea, the ship generally follows the laws of the country whose flag it flies.

When the ship is in port, it must follow the laws of the host country.

These laws can vary widely.

Some countries have very restrictive laws on vaping, which could lead to penalties if you’re found vaping where it’s not allowed.

What do I do if my vape is confiscated at security?

If your vape is confiscated at security, you might not have many options.

The confiscation likely means that the item is prohibited by the cruise line’s policies.

You can ask for information about the cruise line’s procedure for returning confiscated items.

Some might return the item at the end of the trip, while others might dispose of the item immediately.

It’s best to familiarize yourself with your cruise line’s vaping policy to prevent such situations.

Always check the rules before you pack to ensure all of your items are allowed.

Do cruise ships sell vape pens?

As stated earlier, some cruise lines may sell vape pens in their onboard shops, but many do not.

The availability of vape pens and other vaping supplies largely depends on the cruise line’s specific policies and the laws of the jurisdictions the ship is registered in or sailing to.

Even if a cruise line does sell vape pens, it’s essential to remember that the selection may be limited, and prices can be higher than average due to the captive market onboard the ship.

It’s generally recommended to bring your own vape gear that you’re comfortable using and enough supplies to last the entire cruise.

Is it better to disclose that I’m bringing a vape onboard?

While not all cruise lines specifically require passengers to disclose they’re bringing a vape onboard, it’s generally a good idea to do so.

Disclosing can help avoid any potential misunderstandings or issues at security checkpoints.

It also provides an opportunity to clarify the cruise line’s vaping policies, ensuring you know where and when vaping is permitted.

Being open about your intentions to vape can also make the experience smoother and more enjoyable, as the crew will be aware and can guide you accordingly.

In Summary

Navigating the myriad regulations related to vaping on a cruise ship can seem daunting.

However, armed with the right information, you can plan ahead and ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip without sacrificing your vaping routine.

Remember, each cruise line can have its unique policies, and international laws can affect your vaping experience on your journey.

It’s essential to do your homework and be familiar with these guidelines before embarking on your cruise.

Happy vaping and bon voyage!


Photo of author

Dan Claydon