Norwegian Cruise Line Bans Smoking on Balconies

[vinnytman]

That's an enforceable rule! With that being said, NCL isn't CCL and NCL doesn't have a totally non-smoking ship.

 

That situation you described seems bizarre: why would a smoker travel on a non-smoking ship?

 

Or was it there wasn't smoking allowed in rooms and on balconies but in other places on the ship?

 

 

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[hawkeyetlse]

The $250 "cleaning charge" is kind of a joke.

NCL is rebranding this charge as the "Ultimate Smoking Package" :D

 

Seriously, I don't think they will kick first offenders off the ship. They will happily fine them $250, but immediate disembarkation for anyone who gets caught smoking is not something they will set down as policy. That would commit them to kicking dozens of passengers off every cruise starting in November (I'm guessing).

 

The most they can say is that violation of the smoking policy may get you kicked off, but they don't have to say that, because it's already in the passenger contract: anyone can be kicked off at any time for dangerous or disruptive behavior.

[vinnytman]

Sorry, but it is very hard to clean a room to purge all the residue. Of course, smokers are addicts, we must not be hard on them.

 

That's why I stated the $250 is kind of a joke. It's not that much money and I'd be surprised if it really covered the time and cleaning supplies to really clean a cabin.

 

I don't know why they don't have a $1000 fine. That would really deter people.

 

Personally, I don't care. I have friends that smoke and it doesn't bother me.

[NLH Arizona]

Per NCLs policy:

"Smoking inside your stateroom or on your balcony will result in a $250 cleaning charge added to your onboard account. If cigarette burns on furniture, linens, towels or carpeting are detected; guests will be advised and charged for the damages."

 

If people want to smoke that bad on their balcony, pay the extra $250 and call it a day! Just don't burn anything with your cig or you'll pay for it.

 

I'm not sure how this "cleaning charge" enforces anything. If NCL really wants to enforce this new policy they should fine people AND state they will kicked off the ship at the next port. That's how you enforce a policy like this -- and that very well may be the case. But if that's what they plan on doing and not just fining people, then they should state that.

 

The $250 "cleaning charge" is kind of a joke.

 

I don't smoke but I have plenty of friends that do, and if they said they would just pay the "cleaning charge".

 

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I really don't think $250 is enough either, it should be more like $500 or more to be effective.

 

This is Celebrity's policy: If you are in violation of this policy, a cleaning fee of $250 USD will be applied to your SeaPass® account and you may be subject to further action pursuant to the "Consequences Section" of the Guest Conduct Policy. In other words, they will kick you off the ship if you continue to smoke in a non-smoking area.

Edited July 18, 2014 by NLH Arizona

[RDC1]

That's an enforceable rule! With that being said, NCL isn't CCL and NCL doesn't have a totally non-smoking ship.

 

That situation you described seems bizarre: why would a smoker travel on a non-smoking ship?

 

Or was it there wasn't smoking allowed in rooms and on balconies but in other places on the ship?

 

 

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I expect that prior to the implementation date NCL will update their cruise contract to include similar language that other lines have added. Basically language about the fine and potential from removal from the ship.

Edited July 18, 2014 by RDC1

[JulieAF]

That's an enforceable rule! With that being said, NCL isn't CCL and NCL doesn't have a totally non-smoking ship.

 

That situation you described seems bizarre: why would a smoker travel on a non-smoking ship?

 

Or was it there wasn't smoking allowed in rooms and on balconies but in other places on the ship?

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

 

The Paradise was 100% non-smoking. It was the teenage son who was smoking but the family was disembarked with all their belongings.

[vinnytman]

Ouch!

 

 

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[Siora7777]

I wonder if they will stop selling cigs in their stores on board.........

I also did not get the no smoking email.

 

Maybe it went into your junk email. It went out. I got one.

[smokie36]

Dear Non-Smokers,

This is a sad day for me ... my next cruise in Sept. will be my last with NCL due to the new smoking policy. As you, I work hard all year to spend a week aboard a marvelous ship. I do respect your opinions.

I believe myself to be a considerate smoker. I would not smoke on my balcony if a neighbor was offended with the smoke. I would not smoke on my balcony when my neighbors were reciting their morning prayers. I would not smoke on my balcony if I hear a neighbor's child outside. I would not smoke on the balcony while enduring neighbor's foul language, arguing, excessively loud music, and children endlessly banging the furniture against the divider.

While I'm sure my absence from NCL is applauded by (as a previously noted percentage) 80% of the postings on this thread, I wish you all the best and happy cruising. If NCL losses 20% of their cruisers to other lines, who will make up the difference? (This will also give me concern on my NCLH stock shares - which contrary to what I'd expect after reading this thread - went down today..)

When I cruised on the BA last year, I noted that the poolside smokers' lounge only had six chairs - a very small space. I don't consider this an option. I would have adjusted better if NCL allowed e-cigs on balconys - as I am attempting to transition from smoke to vapor.

It is sad to read so many unkind comments. It is sad that someone will resort to carrying a cell phone camera to catch "offenders." It is sad that NCL will charge $250 to clean a balcony if someone smokes there. It almost seems like another "money maker" for the cruise line.

As others have noted, I believe smokers will "sneak-around" causing potential for more fire hazards. Instead of putting a cigarette out in a balcony ashtray, heck, just throw it overboard - with no concern or control on where it lands. Out of sight; out of mind.

I would hope a more balanced solution was available - obviously for my benefit.

In the meantime, happy cruising, all - I will miss NCL.

Edited July 18, 2014 by smokie36

[mommyto2girls]

I wonder if they will stop selling cigs in their stores on board.........

I also did not get the no smoking email.

 

Every ship sells cigarettes regardless of their smoking policy.

Edited July 18, 2014 by mommyto2girls

[hawkeyetlse]

I expect that prior to the implementation date NCL will update their cruise contract to include similar language that other lines have added.

The smoking policy is not in the cruise contract. The cruise contract only contains this general statement which is already sufficient:

The Guest agrees to abide by the rules of the Carrier, including, but not limited to, the rules and regulations particularly set forth below, and to follow the lawful instructions of the vessel's officers and crew, at all times. The Guest accepts that failure to do so constitutes a material breach of this Contract which may subject the Guest, as well as any accompanying Guest(s), to involuntary disembarkation without liability whatsoever to the Carrier for any refund or any other related loss or expense to the Guest, and any accompanying Guest(s).

The smoking policy is stated in the Guest Conduct Policy, which has already been updated to reflect the upcoming changes.

[Siora7777]

I find it hard to believe that so many people are saying they are not going to cruise because they can't smoke on their balconies? Is the only reason to cruise to smoke on a balcony? Sounds like a very expensive place to light up. I guess nothing else on a cruise matters if you can't light up on a balcony. Guess you won't miss the wonderful memories, amenities, and amazing ports of an inexpensive, all inclusive vacation with your loved ones. I personally treasure all the memories I get with the people around me. Some of these experiences have been priceless and I've been able to go to places I would have never been able to see without cruising. I guess cigarettes are more important than anything else. If this ban makes you stop cruising then I guess you and the people who you cruise with will be missing out. I guess you have to do what's right for yourself.

[catlady461]

It seems not everyone received the email concerning the smoking policy changes since as I stated in an earlier post I did not receive one and we had

suites booked for 3 different cruises and we didn't receive one.

 

It seems the reformed smokers have the say about what smokers rights should be.

 

I hope you all enjoy your cruises and we will enjoy our AI stay in Punta Cana.

 

The old saying is "Reformed smokers and drinkers are the worse". Looks like this is the case here.

 

ENJOY!!!!

[emcelh]

Dear Non-Smokers,

This is a sad day for me ... my next cruise in Sept. will be my last with NCL due to the new smoking policy. As you, I work hard all year to spend a week aboard a marvelous ship. I do respect your opinions.

I consider myself a considerate smoker. I would not smoke on my balcony if a neighbor was offended with the smoke. I would not smoke on my balcony when my neighbors were reciting their morning prayers. I would not smoke on my balcony if I hear a neighbor's child outside. I would not smoke on the balcony while enduring neighbor's foul language, arguing, excessively loud music, and children endlessly banging the furniture against the divider.

While I'm sure my absence from NCL is applauded by (as a previously noted percentage) 80% of the postings on this thread, I wish you all the best and happy cruising. If NCL losses 20% of their cruisers to other lines, who will make up the difference? (This will also give me concern on my NCLH stock shares - which contrary to what I'd expect after reading this thread - went down today..)

When I cruised on the BA last year, I noted that the poolside smokers' lounge only had six chairs - a very small space. I don't consider this an option. I would have adjusted better if NCL allowed e-cigs on balconys - as I am attempting to transition from smoke to vapor.

It is sad to read so many unkind comments. It is sad that someone will resort to carrying a cell phone camera to catch "offenders." It is sad that NCL will charge $250 to clean a balcony if someone smokes there. It almost seems like another "money maker" for the cruise line.

As others have noted, I believe smokers will "sneak-around" causing potential for more fire hazards. Instead of putting a cigarette out in a balcony ashtray, heck, just throw it overboard - with no concern or control on where it lands. Out of sight; out of mind.

I would hope a more balanced solution was available - obviously for my benefit.

In the meantime, happy cruising, all - I will miss NCL.

 

The entire market went down today and I doubt it was because of the change in NCL's smoking policy. I really wouldn't worry about your stock because it's unlikely they will loose 20% of their cruisers to other lines. Where are they going to go unless they stop cruising altogether? It appears that most of the lines are adopting the same policy and those that haven't yet done so will probably follow before too long.

 

This is the same concern people had when smoking was banned in restaurants and bars. No one went out of business. In the town I live in one restaurant on the main street was non smoking even before an ordinance was passed banning smoking indoors. The restaurant was always busy. Now that it's an even playing field, people have adapted and the bars and restaurants are always busy. Some places people avoided before because of the smoke inside have new customers and the old customers are still coming in. They just step outside into an area where they can smoke if they want to.

Edited July 18, 2014 by emcelh

[Island Tripper]

As a smoker I have always been considerate of friends and neighbors. None of my friends or family smoke except my husband. We do not smoke in our home nor restaurants, or friends homes however we pay two to three times the price available on a cruise to have a balcony so we can smoke outside, drink our champagne and enjoy our precious week of vacation together alone. If a neighbor comes out we usually go in to allow "fair time" to enjoy the balcony. I have never thrown a cig overboard nor do I throw them out of the car window but I do not think we will continue to pay the price of a penthouse if we can not enjoy a smoke while on VACATION. :confused:I am glad that our next cruise is in September. Smoking is a choice, just as cruising on vacation is a choice. We have visited many beautiful islands. Until we choose to stop smoking it looks as if many more islands are in our future...

[smokie36]

The entire market went down today and I doubt it was because of the change in NCL's smoking policy. I really wouldn't worry about your stock because it's unlikely they will loose 20% of their cruisers to other lines. Where are they going to go unless they stop cruising altogether? It appears that most of the lines are adopting the same policy and those that haven't yet done so will probably follow before too long.

 

This is the same concern people had when smoking was banned in restaurants and bars. No one went out of business. In the town I live in one restaurant on the main street was non smoking even before an ordinance was passed banning smoking indoors. The restaurant was always busy. Now that it's an even playing field, people have adapted and the bars and restaurants are always busy. Some places people avoided before because of the smoke inside have new customers and the old customers are still coming in. They just step outside into an area where they can smoke if they want to.

 

 

Yes, some bars did go out of business when the smoking ban hit them. As a quick example, one friend had a long-time, successful NYC bar - they we're hit very hard with the ban and not much later closed the doors.

 

Regarding the stock, based on the overwhelming support (on this thread) of the smoking policy and all the returning cruisers, I anticipated it to do a little better - maybe, tomorrow!

Edited July 18, 2014 by smokie36

[smokie36]

I find it hard to believe that so many people are saying they are not going to cruise because they can't smoke on their balconies? Is the only reason to cruise to smoke on a balcony? Sounds like a very expensive place to light up. I guess nothing else on a cruise matters if you can't light up on a balcony. Guess you won't miss the wonderful memories, amenities, and amazing ports of an inexpensive, all inclusive vacation with your loved ones. I personally treasure all the memories I get with the people around me. Some of these experiences have been priceless and I've been able to go to places I would have never been able to see without cruising. I guess cigarettes are more important than anything else. If this ban makes you stop cruising then I guess you and the people who you cruise with will be missing out. I guess you have to do what's right for yourself.

 

Obviously, the "only reason to cruise to smoke on a balcony" is sarcasm - I didn't get it at first read. (I also don't need a cruise to acquire priceless memories with my loved ones - this happens every day!)

I enjoy a cigarette with my morning coffee on the balcony. It is not the "end all" of a vacation. I have no intention to stop cruising, I will cruise on a line that is more accommodating to my preferences. That is what's right for me.

[LMaxwell]

I have no intention to stop cruising, I will cruise on a line that is more accommodating to my preferences. That is what's right for me.

 

Who will that be? HAL will be making their notice in a relatively short period of time. No other mass market line will be allowing this. I certainly can understand the simple pleasure of a coffee with cigarette two steps out from your room; I am not bashing you. If you enjoy NCL you should stick with them/their rewards because you will not find other lines to have any more of a liberal policy unless you are talking some that cater to non-English speaking guests or originate in foreign countries.

[cruznbelle]

Sigh... just got the smoking email... I actually have a casino at sea offer for a free cruise on epic,sun,jewel,breakaway or getway any week from Oct-2nd week Dec... and we have New Years Eve booked on Getaway and Norway Fjords on Star in June.... now I'm back to square one...

 

Hubby is a smoker, I am not. In 20 cruises we've always done suites. We moved away from Princess/RCCL to NCL/HAL just because hubby prefers the solitude and quiet of the suite and nightcaps on balcony.

 

I, like others, think the casino will be horrible now... and certainly am not going to take that free cruise - I was on the fence to begin with - but this really seals the deal I'm sad to say. :(

 

What this does give me - is more options to go back to RCCL which I enjoy and hated giving up. Not sure if we'll bother cancelling our current cruises - although I did look today at what else is available - nothing really hit me as better. Hubby will simply use his e-cig on the balcony and we'll see what comes of it. I know crew certainly won't say anything - it's vapor - you can't clean vapor outdoors afterall and anyone straining to lean over the dividers to take pics when there is no smell or effect - well that's just being a busy body/peeping tom IMHO. Still it's not comfortable - it's vacation - and breaking 'rules' is not our thing. We are low-key. Oh well... sad for hubby but again - I do miss that Irish Bar on RCCL - but hate the thought of giving up the brazilian restaurant - it's our favorite of all dining venues. Time will tell - guess it's back to all about the itinerary... may the best cruise line win!

[karoo]

Sorry... smoke hater, I am kinda thrilled that the smokers are jumping ship with their NCL bookings. :p ;) :D

 

 

Just wish there was a like button. I definitely hate the smell of smoke. Never come across the smell at home as we have very strict smoking laws and only 17% of people smoke. Even less where I live- our two major cities. If the smokers stop cruising and start goIng to AIs that equals less smokers on board. I'm definitely one doing the happy dance.

 

 

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[luvtheships]

It is really a shame the smokers are actually canceling their cruises over this

 

As a non smoker who booked BA on July 2 before the changes were announced I never even considered canceling

 

Now remember at round the time I booked or shortly thereafter carnival announced the changes and all the smokers were saying off to Ncl I go

 

Still as a non smoker I never cancelled my Ncl cruise and I was only to happy to have the smokers segregate themselves on their balconies

 

Now with Ncl banning it I still didn't cancel but did have a concern about excessive Casino smoke as it is the BA

 

However it looks like it will be somewhat limited there as well

 

Point being is that even when smokers were flocking to Ncl I never thought to cancel and I despise smoke and rude smokers. Notice I said rude smokers not all smokers

 

So I guess I am just sad that people let smoking rule their lives so much

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[gemsm]

Probably from their own forum. John Heald HATES Cruise Critic big time lol

 

Yes he does but the beards at Carnival apparently pay attention over here

[newmexicoNita]

The Paradise was 100% non-smoking. It was the teenage son who was smoking but the family was disembarked with all their belongings.

 

you are completely right and the ship was even built with the understanding no smoking around the ship while it was being built.

[boopsahoy]

Maybe it went into your junk email. It went out. I got one.

 

 

I didn't get it either

[gemsm]

Sigh... just got the smoking email... I actually have a casino at sea offer for a free cruise on epic,sun,jewel,breakaway or getway any week from Oct-2nd week Dec... and we have New Years Eve booked on Getaway and Norway Fjords on Star in June.... now I'm back to square one...

 

Hubby is a smoker, I am not. In 20 cruises we've always done suites. We moved away from Princess/RCCL to NCL/HAL just because hubby prefers the solitude and quiet of the suite and nightcaps on balcony.

 

I, like others, think the casino will be horrible now... and certainly am not going to take that free cruise - I was on the fence to begin with - but this really seals the deal I'm sad to say. :(

 

What this does give me - is more options to go back to RCCL which I enjoy and hated giving up. Not sure if we'll bother cancelling our current cruises - although I did look today at what else is available - nothing really hit me as better. Hubby will simply use his e-cig on the balcony and we'll see what comes of it. I know crew certainly won't say anything - it's vapor - you can't clean vapor outdoors afterall and anyone straining to lean over the dividers to take pics when there is no smell or effect - well that's just being a busy body/peeping tom IMHO. Still it's not comfortable - it's vacation - and breaking 'rules' is not our thing. We are low-key. Oh well... sad for hubby but again - I do miss that Irish Bar on RCCL - but hate the thought of giving up the brazilian restaurant - it's our favorite of all dining venues. Time will tell - guess it's back to all about the itinerary... may the best cruise line win!

 

doubt anyone will notice anybody using an e-cig on the balcony. THe vapor dissipates so quickly in the wind the busybody neighbors won't have time to notice it because it just won't be there