Smoking on HAL

[Kittycat2009]

First of all WOW I go to work today only to come home and find this thread has exploded! So just to clarify some things. We do not have an issue with designated smoking and non-smoking areas on the various cruise lines. Even for that matter smoking allowed on balconies. We take our chances with that. It is allowing smoking in the cabins that we have a problem with. So HAL has some magic formula that no one else knows about to eliminate the residual smoke smell? We are very skeptical about that, but if anyone can convince us we will consider HAL. We were recently on the Celebrity Solstice and while they do have designated smoking areas, We just simply avoid them. I will say even though we are not big on casinos, we sometimes will play the slot machines a bit, and it was nice to enjoy that on the Solstice without the smoke.Bottom line for us is we have and will continue to cruise with those lines that designate smoking - non-smoking areas, but not in the cabins.

 

I have thoughts on the topic but refuse to feed the troll. That is all I have to say on this thread. ;)

[kjw869]

First of all WOW I go to work today only to come home and find this thread has exploded! So just to clarify some things. We do not have an issue with designated smoking and non-smoking areas on the various cruise lines. Even for that matter smoking allowed on balconies. We take our chances with that. It is allowing smoking in the cabins that we have a problem with. So HAL has some magic formula that no one else knows about to eliminate the residual smoke smell? We are very skeptical about that, but if anyone can convince us we will consider HAL. We were recently on the Celebrity Solstice and while they do have designated smoking areas, We just simply avoid them. I will say even though we are not big on casinos, we sometimes will play the slot machines a bit, and it was nice to enjoy that on the Solstice without the smoke.Bottom line for us is we have and will continue to cruise with those lines that designate smoking - non-smoking areas, but not in the cabins.

 

I noticed your first post on the HAL board was yesterday on this thread and most of your posts are on the X board.

 

If smoking is an issue with you, I agree, you should continue sailing with Celebrity or another cruise line that has the smoking policies you want.

[steelhead1]

I noticed your first post on the HAL board was yesterday on this thread and most of your posts are on the X board.

 

If smoking is an issue with you, I agree, you should continue sailing with Celebrity or another cruise line that has the smoking policies you want.

Our friends who we just sailed with on the Solstice mentioned they might want to try Holland. So, as I always do, I started my research on Holland, Itineraries, the ships, pricing and such. That is how I discovered that they allow smoking in the cabins.So, yes we will cruise for now with other ships, and continue to follow HAL's policy and hope it changes.

[suse]

You have a right to your opinion and although I respect that right, I also repectfully say that the people who pay extra for those balconies also have the right to follow the rules of that cruise line...and if that includes being allowed to smoke on them, then so be it. As they say, "rules are rules".

 

You also ask why they don't smoke in their cabins. All smokers doing that? Wouldn't your stewards then pick up even more stench and bring it to yours? Wouldn't it go through the vents even moreso, thus you AND your cabin would reek from it as well? Is that really what you'd prefer? I think not. I'm not saying you are one, but there are "habitual complainers" out there who just want things their way as well, which smoker or non-smoker, is also very sad.

 

Yes, smoking isn't healthy, but then again, tell that to my 94 year old (smoker) uncle, who still goes on cruises. He'll tell you differently...and if he paid for a balcony and he's allowed to smoke, he most certainly will.

 

Just my opinion....

 

MH

Operative words, here. Reek and stench from the above statement. Some of us gag over it.

It's nice for you that your uncle has lived this long. He would be one of the lucky few.

[mtwingcpa]

When someone posts with 'all or nothing comments' expecting the complete banishment of smoking ( I don't mean to single you out here) but it becomes difficult to place their viewpoint into any meaningful discussion.

 

Speaking for myself as a non-smoker, I don't seek a total ban on smoking aboard ships (although that would be nice). What I seek is the enforcement of rules similar to those adopted in a growing number of the states (and Canadian provinces, at least BC).

 

That would require the provision of designated non-smoking rooms, a ban on all indoor smoking (except, perhaps, in a specially ventilated smoking lounge), and a ban on smoking within 25 +/- feet of doorways or air intakes (that would effectively protect balconies, except within a designated block of "smoking" rooms). These are essentially the rules followed aboard the Alaska Marine Highway ferries.

 

It would be just as difficult to take seriously a smoker demanding to be able to smoke anywhere and everywhere on the ship just for the fact that smoking is not illegal afterall.

 

Whether smoking is "legal" is an interesting concept. I read a legal treatise a couple of years ago indicating that there is no statute in any of the 50 states (I can't say about Canada) that establishes or protects a "right to smoke." So, according to the treatise, smoking is ALWAYS subject to potential regulation, especially when public health or safety are involved.

[Jemima]

... a ban on smoking within 25 +/- feet of doorways ...

 

That's also the rule in our state. I also would like to see it on cruiseships. On the Statendam we had to walk through smoke going outside to the aft pool deck. I don't have a big problem with smoking being permitted in a portion of the aft pool area, but I do object to the smoking right by the door. It would also eliminate balcony smoking.

[jd1966]

I can count, and I see you no HAL cruises! Hmmmmmm, It figures!!

Not yet but I'm sure I will, I have no prejudices about any cruise line. It comes down to itinerary, price and experiences.

Why would I look on X boards when it doesn't concern me and I certainly wouldn't post on that board? And if I did peruse that board, and someone said that the smoking rules were enforced, it would be in your words, "second hand information".

I visit all boards and will continue. Didn't realize a cruise on HAL was required to comment!

Please don't let the facts get in the way of your denial. I'll sign off on this one and let you get the last reply. It'll make you feel better and a you will feel like hero!!

]Please deal with your own issues first![/color]

Happy Cruising on your upcoming X cruise!!

I will. I enjoy every cruise!

[rochelle_s]

Speaking for myself as a non-smoker, I don't seek a total ban on smoking aboard ships (although that would be nice). What I seek is the enforcement of rules similar to those adopted in a growing number of the states (and Canadian provinces, at least BC).

 

That would require the provision of designated non-smoking rooms, a ban on all indoor smoking (except, perhaps, in a specially ventilated smoking lounge), and a ban on smoking within 25 +/- feet of doorways or air intakes (that would effectively protect balconies, except within a designated block of "smoking" rooms). These are essentially the rules followed aboard the Alaska Marine Highway ferries.

 

 

 

Whether smoking is "legal" is an interesting concept. I read a legal treatise a couple of years ago indicating that there is no statute in any of the 50 states (I can't say about Canada) that establishes or protects a "right to smoke." So, according to the treatise, smoking is ALWAYS subject to potential regulation, especially when public health or safety are involved.

 

 

I agree with you in the fact that I do not believe there is a statute here in Canada that gives a person the 'right ' to smoke. One could in fact argue that the laws designating where it is illegal to smoke imply the 'right' or legality of smoking in other areas. As to being subject to regulation, it already is. Purchasing of cigarettes, by whom, taxation and the aforementioned designated areas to smoke are all regulations currently in place. Regulations are also in place for many other activities people perceive as a 'right' without a law stating it is in fact so, such as driving a car.

 

Nevertheless my point was to show the extreme that could be taken by one side. In this thread and many others of the same topic the extremes seem to come from the non-smoking front. I have never seen a post on the HAL boards from a smoker DEMANDING that they have more areas to smoke. A smoker can state that they smoke in the areas that are permissible under HAL policies and they are often attacked for it, which at this point, whether one agrees or disagrees includes private balconys.

 

The use of extremes and exaggeration to 'prove' ones side of the issue do little if anything to further a meaningful discussion.

 

I don't agree with a smoker writing, "If you don't like it find another cruise line". It's extremely harsh, although I believe I understand their intended meaning. The pax either stay with HAL or have started cruising with HAL because the smoking policies aboard these ships are ones they can live with. They have found the 'fit' for them in this respect and are not asking or demanding change. Whereas others, who don't like the policies, are free to find a cruiseline that is a better 'fit ' for them also without asking or demanding change. The same arguments can be made for the never ending formal attire threads, regardless of which side of the issue you are on.

 

As to your suggestions or wish list, I don't think you can necessarily use the same regulations that apply to the Alaskan Ferries to also apply to cruiseships, as they are two very different types of vessels with different purposes. The Alaskan ferries are relatively short haul whereas a cruiseship is more long haul.

 

Two examples of flaws with applying the same regulations ; if smoking were only allowed on outside decks, what would you do with the smokers when outside decks are closed, such as can happen on a Transatlantic crossing ( 6, 7, 8 or more days at sea). What would you do with the crew who smoke and are not allowed on public decks?

 

I think your suggestions for seperately ventilated lounges is a wonderful idea. Also designated non smoking or smoking cabins, designated cabin areas for both and designated balconys would be a positive step forward for both sides of the issue. These 'hot topic' threads should contain more ideas and possible ways to impliment rather than being an attack of one side against the other.

 

To really make change possible while still pleasing the greatest number of people all angles or sides of the issue need to be looked at and considered. Again extremes from either side do little in the way of positive resolution, but I believe it is possible.

 

I think I'm past my 2 cents on the topic.

 

Rochelle

[rpach10115]

What about the serious farting problem that occurs when you have mature digestive systems processing very rich food?:eek:

If you've EVER been around 3 or 4 "mature" people on a HAL ship 30 minutes after dinner, you know what I'm referring to. I think 2nd hand smoke would be a welcomed aroma compared to a few of those raisens letting loose after a nice cabbage dinner.:rolleyes:

[kjw869]

What about the serious farting problem that occurs when you have mature digestive systems processing very rich food?:eek:

If you've EVER been around 3 or 4 "mature" people on a HAL ship 30 minutes after dinner, you know what I'm referring to. I think 2nd hand smoke would be a welcomed aroma compared to a few of those raisens letting loose after a nice cabbage dinner.:rolleyes:

 

 

Thanks for sharing!

 

Darn, we seem to miss everything on our HAL cruises. Never any smoke that we have detected, perfume odors, body odors or the odor from flatulence.

 

When I see cabbage dinners on the menu, we'll opt for room service. Thanks for the heads up!!!

[PattiG]

Whenever I see another smoking thread, I always say "No, not again". However, I must say that it is the most entertaining thread to read on CC. The comics all come out to give their opinions and I love reading them.

[DizzyDallasDi]

I agree with you in the fact that I do not believe there is a statute here in Canada that gives a person the 'right ' to smoke. One could in fact argue that the laws designating where it is illegal to smoke imply the 'right' or legality of smoking in other areas

 

US laws and regs are written to let people know what they are not allowed to do. They are not written listing the things that are allowed...our Bill of Rights take care of that. In other words, you won't find a statute stating one has the right to walk on the sidewalk but you will find a statute stating one cannot spit on the sidewalk.

 

So, unless a law is enacted stating something cannot be done, you have the right to do it....even if it's completely insane. It's those "completely insane" acts that spur the enactment of laws prohibiting them. No one can imagine all the crazy things people might try so the statutes are written reactively rather than proactively.

 

Enough of my ramblings regarding the US legal system.

 

Since smoking has not been deemed illegal, it is something that must be dealt with by using business decisions (in accordance with local rules and regs, of course.) HAL's current business decision is what it is and those traveling on HAL's ships should be aware of them so they can make a personal decision regarding their comfort level with those decisions.

 

Wishing and hoping that HAL's smoking policy should change is fine and dandy. However, until it changes to suit your personal preference, I hope you don't book a trip hoping for something that might not be. I know I would be disappointed if I did. There are other cruiselines that surely offer the whole package you are seeking....why book on one that falls short?

 

I shalll now step off my soapbox.

 

Peace and love,

Diane

 

P.S. I was not opposed to your post, I was only offering my thoughts in order to add mine to your very well written post.

[NH Cruisers]

I agree with you in the fact that I do not believe there is a statute here in Canada that gives a person the 'right ' to smoke. One could in fact argue that the laws designating where it is illegal to smoke imply the 'right' or legality of smoking in other areas. As to being subject to regulation, it already is. Purchasing of cigarettes, by whom, taxation and the aforementioned designated areas to smoke are all regulations currently in place. Regulations are also in place for many other activities people perceive as a 'right' without a law stating it is in fact so, such as driving a car.

 

Nevertheless my point was to show the extreme that could be taken by one side. In this thread and many others of the same topic the extremes seem to come from the non-smoking front. I have never seen a post on the HAL boards from a smoker DEMANDING that they have more areas to smoke. A smoker can state that they smoke in the areas that are permissible under HAL policies and they are often attacked for it, which at this point, whether one agrees or disagrees includes private balconys.

 

The use of extremes and exaggeration to 'prove' ones side of the issue do little if anything to further a meaningful discussion.

 

I don't agree with a smoker writing, "If you don't like it find another cruise line". It's extremely harsh, although I believe I understand their intended meaning. The pax either stay with HAL or have started cruising with HAL because the smoking policies aboard these ships are ones they can live with. They have found the 'fit' for them in this respect and are not asking or demanding change. Whereas others, who don't like the policies, are free to find a cruiseline that is a better 'fit ' for them also without asking or demanding change. The same arguments can be made for the never ending formal attire threads, regardless of which side of the issue you are on.

 

As to your suggestions or wish list, I don't think you can necessarily use the same regulations that apply to the Alaskan Ferries to also apply to cruiseships, as they are two very different types of vessels with different purposes. The Alaskan ferries are relatively short haul whereas a cruiseship is more long haul.

 

Two examples of flaws with applying the same regulations ; if smoking were only allowed on outside decks, what would you do with the smokers when outside decks are closed, such as can happen on a Transatlantic crossing ( 6, 7, 8 or more days at sea). What would you do with the crew who smoke and are not allowed on public decks?

 

I think your suggestions for seperately ventilated lounges is a wonderful idea. Also designated non smoking or smoking cabins, designated cabin areas for both and designated balconys would be a positive step forward for both sides of the issue. These 'hot topic' threads should contain more ideas and possible ways to impliment rather than being an attack of one side against the other.

 

To really make change possible while still pleasing the greatest number of people all angles or sides of the issue need to be looked at and considered. Again extremes from either side do little in the way of positive resolution, but I believe it is possible.

 

I think I'm past my 2 cents on the topic.

 

Rochelle

 

You are just ridiculous! No just kidding, very well stated!

[CtheW0rld]

i never realized how funny nannies are. now i get it!

 

[oratheeexplorer]

Our good friends on Volendam, could not get a cabin trade due to the smokers in the next cabin. They could not use their balcony for 28 day cruise, and the non helpful staff would not change the cabin. So mid way of the cruise, they packed their bags, and at the gangway, the security stopped them and then, only then did the big thinkers find another cabin for them. Writing to HA is a waste of time, we did, and our friends did and we got a useless letter from some clerk who was full of bs.

HA does not care of your needs, note here, the ducting to their room was admitting smoke from the other room. HA is really slow on this and they do not see, a very large group of our friends will not go with them again. :mad:

 

 

We had cigarette smoke coming through the ventilation system in our cabin on a Princess cruise.......it was our first cruise.....we are booked with Princess for our 2nd cruise, because they gave us each a credit after I commented about our problem on the survey.......hope this isn't a problem on our upcoming cruise or we will be trying a different line for our 3rd.....

[mtwingcpa]

As to your suggestions or wish list, I don't think you can necessarily use the same regulations that apply to the Alaskan Ferries to also apply to cruiseships, as they are two very different types of vessels with different purposes. The Alaskan ferries are relatively short haul whereas a cruiseship is more long haul.

 

The Alaska ferries are not simply commuter vessels. They have cabins, bars and restaurants. I've done two "cruises" aboard same. One was 3 nights, the other was a north-south B2B totaling 7 nights.

[Kini12]

This is like beating a dead horse to death all over again. Lord only knows how many posts there have been with people whining about smoking on HAL ships. I am darn sick and tired of hearing this over and over again.

 

My DH and I are both smokers. However, we DO NOT smoke in our cabins -- only on our balcony or in the areas designated by HAL. Period, end of statement.

 

My suggestion to you is if you don't want to be around smokers regardless of where smoking is allowed, then go to another cruise line where smoking is totally prohibited. I have seen people walk through an approve smoking area and cover their mouths, nose, etc. and start coughing and cast such hateful looks. If you don't like it, then don't walk through those areas. There are other ways to get around the smoking -- especially if it is outdoors.

 

We all realize smoking isn't good for us, but it is an addiction. You have no idea how many of us have tried to quit, but to no avail. My hat is off to those who have quit.

 

But for your non-smokers, go somewhere else. Try Oceania, Crystal, or some other high-end cruise line. Yes, they're more expensive, but that way you won't have to deal with us. Quit the d___n whining!:mad:

 

Then why read the post in the first place?

[rochelle_s]

The Alaska ferries are not simply commuter vessels. They have cabins, bars and restaurants. I've done two "cruises" aboard same. One was 3 nights, the other was a north-south B2B totaling 7 nights.

 

Point taken. :)

 

Rochelle

[rafinmd]

As to your suggestions or wish list, I don't think you can necessarily use the same regulations that apply to the Alaskan Ferries to also apply to cruiseships, as they are two very different types of vessels with different purposes. The Alaskan ferries are relatively short haul whereas a cruiseship is more long haul.

 

Rochelle

 

I also have several "cruises" on the Alaska Marine Highway, including this summer:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?p=27061368#post27061368

 

Where they are different from HAL is that they are subject to Alaska state law. Applying the restrictions that that come out of being a state enterprise will not necessarily work for a private cruise line.

 

Roy

[mtwingcpa]

Where they are different from HAL is that they are subject to Alaska state law. Applying the restrictions that that come out of being a state enterprise will not necessarily work for a private cruise line.

 

Why not? :-) They are basically the same rules followed by "private" hotels all up and down the West Coast, including BC and Alaska.

[rochelle_s]

Why not? :-) They are basically the same rules followed by "private" hotels all up and down the West Coast, including BC and Alaska.

 

 

A cruise ship, for the most part, sails in international waters. HAL ships are registered in Holland. Depending on the time of year and itinerary many go for great lengths of time without entering an American port. Other than Alaskan cruises most American ports are for embarkation and disembarkation only. Is it fair to think that American regulations is how they should govern themselves? Always?

 

Rochelle

[suse]

What about the serious farting problem that occurs when you have mature digestive systems processing very rich food?:eek:

If you've EVER been around 3 or 4 "mature" people on a HAL ship 30 minutes after dinner, you know what I'm referring to. I think 2nd hand smoke would be a welcomed aroma compared to a few of those raisens letting loose after a nice cabbage dinner.:rolleyes:

Disgusting. So, do you think gas causes lung cancer? Just saying. Oh, what do you mean about "mature" people? Do you mean old? What a post. Who said anyone had serious farting problems anywhere on this thread? Mature digestive systems. What on earth are you getting at?:eek:

[Bill B]

What on earth are you getting at?:eek:

I think he means HAL ships are full of old farts.

[suse]

I think he means HAL ships are full of old farts.

Haha! Or total windbags. Too funny.:p

[E-500]

I think he means HAL ships are full of old farts.

 

Best response of the week!