All cruise ships allow smoking in certain areas, which are typically designated in outdoor smoking zones and sometimes in casinos, nightclubs, cigar lounges and cabin balconies (depending on the cruise line). The rest of the ship is firmly nonsmoking, however, and that includes all staterooms, restaurants and theaters.

Yes, it is possible to smoke on a cruise, but the rules in 2026 are highly restrictive and strictly enforced due to fire safety and passenger comfort. Smoking of any kind—including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and e-cigarettes/vapes—is strictly prohibited in all staterooms and on private balconies. Violating this rule often results in a "cleaning fee" of $250 to $500 added to your onboard account and can even lead to disembarkation. Instead, cruise lines provide designated smoking areas, which are usually located on specific sections of the open upper decks (often on one side of the ship only) and occasionally in a designated corner of the casino or a specialized cigar lounge. Brands like Carnival and Royal Caribbean have specific "smoking zones" marked on the deck plans. It is important to note that most cruise lines are moving toward completely smoke-free interiors; for example, many casinos now only allow smoking while actively playing at designated tables. Always check the daily "Compass" or "Newsletter" for your specific ship, as designated areas can change depending on local port regulations and wind conditions.