The Best Cruise Ships for Non-Smokers

Smoking is a hot topic which often causes extreme views at both ends of the smoking debate. Those who are planning a long awaited cruise vacation may want to shop around before putting the first cruise deposit down. Not all cruise lines have the same smoking policies onboard.

In addition to those who are allergic to cigarette smoke, there are others with medical conditions or children who may want to investigate the smoking policy for the particular ship they plan to cruise on. The range of restrictions for smoking vary widely among cruise lines, and in addition to looking up ship size, itineraries, and cabin selections, non-smokers are encouraged to take a moment before booking a cruise to read reviews and current cruise line policies for smoking.

The Most Restrictive Cruise Lines

The cruise lines in this category will appeal most to non-smokers and those who are bringing children aboard. Though, no major cruise line is completely smoke free, these cruise lines have the most restrictive policies for smoking. One key factor that a few of the cruise lines share is that they prohibit smoking in cabin rooms and balconies. This will be a breath of fresh air to any non-smoker who has been given the unlucky draw of getting a cabin previously used by smokers. The smoking areas on these ships are also more restrictive, often limiting smokers to a few outdoor areas outside.

Celebrity
Celebrity is one of the most restrictive cruise lines today for smoking. New policies have made it more difficult for smokers to violate rules, with a $250 fine punishment for those who break the rules. Celebrity limits smokers to one small area in the casino on most ships, and a few select areas on specific decks outside. Smoking is prohibited in both cabins and on balconies. There is also no smoking indoors in any of the public areas.

Azmara
Azmara cruise line is one of the rare cruise lines which has taken the next step with smoking policies and banned smoking in all areas except for a designated starboard side in the forward area of the Pool Deck. In addition, all land excursions booked through Azmara Club Cruises are now non-smoking.

Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is one of the major cruise lines for couples and families alike. New policies for smoking have made it somewhat better for non-smokers aboard their fleet of cruise ships. Smoking is prohibited in all cabins, but permitted on balconies. There are some designated areas in public bars and lounges for smokers and all the starboard open deck areas allow smoking.

MSC
MSC cruises have a no smoking in cabins or balconies policy. A designated lounge on each ship allows smoking, as well as any casinos. Smoking areas are located on one side of the outer decks.

Disney Cruise Line
Disney is a family favorite for cruisers with children and for the most part Disney has taken steps to keep smokers away from public areas. Smoking is prohibited in cabins, but is allowed on balconies at this time. The starboard side of decks and pool areas have designated smoking areas.