"Sick of Being Treated Like Third Class Cruisers": Carnival Defends Vaping Policy

Photo byCruise Fever

The debate over vaping and smoking on cruise ships isn't going away. While cigarette smoking rates have declined significantly, vaping has seen a surge.

This has led to discussions about whether vaping should be treated the same as traditional smoking, especially onboard cruise ships.

One guest, a vape user, recently expressed frustration with Carnival Cruise Line's policy of treating vaping and smoking equally.

“Why are people who vape put in the same category as smokers on cruises. Vape smoke ones don’t set off the alarms and there is no lasting smell or evidence that it was done,” the passenger asked. “Vapers should be treated different to smokers and given the freedom to smoke where they wish. We are sick of being treated like third class cruisers.”

Carnival's Brand Ambassador John Heald, replied to the comment on his Facebook page, maintaining that Carnival's policy would remain unchanged.

"Vaping is considered smoking and it can only be used while in the outdoor smoking areas or while playing in the smoking sections of the casino," he stated.

He emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of non-vapers and adhering to designated smoking areas.

Carnival Cruise Line offers several smoking areas on its ships, including designated areas on open decks and parts of the casino.

A complete list of smoking areas for each ship is available on the cruise line's website. Smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited in other areas, such as private balconies and staterooms.

Additionally, smoking and vaping are not allowed during refueling operations, typically on embarkation or debarkation days. Announcements are made when refueling is complete and smoking areas are reopened.

Guests who violate Carnival's smoking policy face a $500 fine and potential debarkation. The cruise line's smoking policy is outlined in the Guest Ticket Contract, which all travelers agree to when booking a cruise.

Heald's response to the vaping query sparked a poll on his Facebook page, asking guests if they were satisfied with the non-smoking spaces provided onboard. Over 11,000 people responded, with 85% stating that they do not smoke or vape.

Twelve percent of respondents said they smoke or vape but are content with the designated areas. Only 3% expressed a desire for more smoking or vaping areas.

As the debate over vaping and smoking continues, cruise lines face the challenge of balancing the rights of smokers and vapers with the needs of non-smoking passengers.

It's never an easy issue to tackle as there are strong view points on both sides of the issue. And a cruise ship carries a vast array of demographics.

Making everyone happy is almost impossible. But cruise lines will certainly try.