Adults only (18+)

Can You Vape on a Cruise Ship

Cruising is one of the most relaxing ways to travel, combining leisure, luxury, and exploration. Many passengers who vape, especially those who have switched from smoking, often wonder if they can bring their e-cigarette and use it while at sea. The good news is that you can usually vape on a cruise ship, but there are strict rules about where and when you can do it. Each cruise line sets its own policy, and while vaping is allowed in designated areas, it is never permitted in cabins or most indoor spaces.

Is Vaping Allowed on Cruise Ships?

Vaping is permitted on most major cruise lines, but only in specific areas. These areas are generally the same as smoking zones located on outdoor decks or other open-air sections of the ship. Cruise companies treat vaping and smoking under the same policy to keep enclosed spaces free from vapour and odours.

While vaping produces vapour rather than smoke, cruise lines restrict it for similar reasons that apply to smoking bans on land. Vapour can affect air quality indoors and trigger sensitive fire detection systems. Therefore, all passengers must follow the ship’s designated rules to avoid fines or disciplinary action.

Can You Vape in a Cruise Cabin?

No, you cannot vape inside your cruise cabin or on your private balcony. All major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises, have strict no-smoking and no-vaping policies in cabins.

This rule exists primarily for safety reasons. Cruise ships have highly sensitive smoke detectors that can be activated by vapour, leading to false alarms and emergency responses. If you are caught vaping in your cabin, you could face a fine, usually several hundred pounds, and in some cases, you might even be removed from the ship.

You can, however, use your vape in designated outdoor areas that are clearly marked for smoking and vaping. These spaces are often located on upper decks, away from restaurants and family zones.

Where You Can Vape on a Cruise Ship

Each cruise line provides designated areas where smoking and vaping are permitted. These are usually open-air spaces with proper ventilation and ashtrays. Some ships have specific sections of outdoor bars or lounges where vaping is allowed, but you should always check the onboard policy before using your device.

Staff will direct you to the correct areas, and signs are posted throughout the ship to help guests understand where vaping is permitted. Using your vape outside these zones is not allowed and can result in warnings or penalties.

Vaping Indoors on a Cruise Ship

Vaping is not permitted inside any enclosed area on a cruise ship. This includes restaurants, theatres, cabins, corridors, elevators, and entertainment lounges. The ban applies to both passengers and crew members. Cruise operators maintain these rules to protect non-vaping guests, avoid triggering alarms, and ensure a clean and pleasant onboard environment.

Even if you use a small pod device that produces minimal vapour, it is still considered vaping and subject to the same rules. The safest approach is to step outside to a designated area if you wish to use your device.

Bringing Your Vape on Board

You can bring your vape and e-liquids on a cruise ship, but they must be packed and handled correctly. Vape devices, batteries, and chargers should be carried in your hand luggage during embarkation, as lithium-ion batteries are not allowed in checked baggage.

E-liquids can be brought on board in small bottles, ideally under 100ml each, and stored securely to prevent leaks. Most cruise lines have no limit on the total quantity of e-liquid for personal use, though it is best to bring only what you expect to use during your trip.

You will pass through security before boarding, where your bags are scanned. Vape devices are common and generally not an issue, but any attempt to conceal them could raise unnecessary questions.

Charging Your Vape on a Cruise Ship

If you plan to use your vape regularly, you will need to recharge it. Cruise cabins have standard plug sockets suitable for charging small devices, including vapes. However, you should only charge your device when you are present in the room, as cruise lines prohibit leaving electronic items plugged in unattended for safety reasons.

Never charge your vape using bathroom outlets or through USB ports connected to the ship’s television, as these are not designed for high-voltage devices. Always use the original charger and unplug it once your device is fully charged.

Vaping on Balconies

Most cruise lines specifically forbid vaping on private balconies. Although it may seem like an open space, vapour can drift into neighbouring cabins or back inside through ventilation systems. Fire safety regulations are also strict at sea, so even outdoor balcony vaping is included in the ban.

Some passengers have reported being fined after staff spotted vapour from balconies, even when they assumed it would go unnoticed. Always use designated outdoor decks instead.

Vaping in Ports and Terminals

Vaping policies extend beyond the ship itself. Cruise terminals and ports around the world have their own rules. In the UK, vaping is banned inside port terminals but permitted in designated outdoor smoking areas. The same applies to most international ports, though rules can vary depending on the country.

If your cruise stops at several destinations, always check local laws before vaping ashore. Some countries, such as Qatar and Thailand, have strict bans on vaping, and being caught with a vape can result in fines or confiscation.

Can You Buy Vape Products on a Cruise Ship?

Most cruise ships do not sell vape products onboard. Duty-free shops may offer cigarettes, cigars, and tobacco, but vaping items are rarely stocked. For this reason, it is best to bring your own supplies, including spare coils, batteries, and enough e-liquid to last the duration of your trip.

If your cruise travels to multiple destinations, you might find vape products for sale at some ports, but local availability and legality can differ. Always check the rules before purchasing or refilling while abroad.

Vaping Etiquette on a Cruise Ship

Even in areas where vaping is allowed, good etiquette is important. Always be aware of others around you, and avoid blowing vapour near people who are eating, sunbathing, or relaxing. Choose discreet devices or lower wattage settings to produce smaller vapour clouds, and avoid using strong-scented e-liquids that might bother others.

Respecting the ship’s rules and your fellow passengers helps maintain a positive experience for everyone and ensures that vaping remains allowed on future cruises.

Health and Safety Regulations at Sea

Cruise lines operate under strict international safety laws, and fire prevention is a top priority. This is one of the main reasons why vaping and smoking are restricted to certain areas. Vapour can set off sensitive smoke alarms, and any fire-related incident at sea is treated extremely seriously.

Crew members receive specific training to monitor and enforce smoking and vaping policies. Ignoring these rules can result in fines, warnings, or removal from the ship at the next port of call. It is always best to follow staff instructions and use your vape responsibly.

Environmental Responsibility

When vaping on a cruise ship, dispose of used pods, coils, and bottles responsibly. Never throw them overboard or into open bins. Many ships provide proper waste disposal containers, including recycling options for batteries. Keeping vaping waste out of the ocean helps protect marine life and maintains the environmental standards most cruise lines promote.

Final Thoughts

You can vape on a cruise ship, but only in designated outdoor areas. Vaping indoors, in cabins, or on balconies is strictly prohibited for safety and comfort reasons. Always check your cruise line’s policy before travelling, bring your own supplies, and store your device safely during your journey.

By following the rules, vaping discreetly, and respecting other guests, you can enjoy your cruise without issue and make the most of your time at sea while still being able to use your vape responsibly.