Norwegian Cruise Line Bans Smoking on Balconies

[Out to sea!]

A few years from now this will be another non-issue as far as cruise travel goes. It will just be the norm and both smokers and non-smokers won't think twice about it.

 

People will decide to adjust with the policies or they will adjust their vacation choices.

 

 

Same thing that happened around here when smoking in bars ceased.

 

And if enough people decide to adjust their vacation choices one can only hope the cruise industry can survive.

[jackson bernard]

I am a non smoker and I wish they would still allow smoking on balconies. We were on princess a few months ago and they only allowed smoking on a small deck on the top of the ship where I think was really windy causing the smoke and ashes to blow all over, and in a small room near the center of the ship. That would have been okay, but it looked like it was always full. Because people were constantly walking in and out the stench went all the way down the hallway ti the elevators and stunk up the small atrium.

Maybe they should have re thought that.

 

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[Twiz]

I am a non smoker and I wish they would still allow smoking on balconies. We were on princess a few months ago and they only allowed smoking on a small deck on the top of the ship where I think was really windy causing the smoke and ashes to blow all over, and in a small room near the center of the ship. That would have been okay, but it looked like it was always full. Because people were constantly walking in and out the stench went all the way down the hallway ti the elevators and stunk up the small atrium.

Maybe they should have re thought that.

 

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The same situation happened on the SUN last Feb. they had a small area in the back corner on the pool deck set aside for smoking and because it was in constant use the smell went all through the entrance which amde the spa and gym constantly smell of smoke, they could have selected a better spot for them

[che5904]

The same situation happened on the SUN last Feb. they had a small area in the back corner on the pool deck set aside for smoking and because it was in constant use the smell went all through the entrance which amde the spa and gym constantly smell of smoke, they could have selected a better spot for them

 

IMO that is going to keep happening and only going to get worse.

 

If you clump all of those smokers in one tiny spot, they will remain in that spot longer (because that's the only spot they are allowed to smoke), they will smoke more than normal or one right after the other because they are not going to keep walking back and forth from one end of the ship to the other to have a "quick" smoke. I can't think of a spot on a ship that would be better to clump that many people together that it would not impact someone. So whatever spot they choose you are going to have one massive cloud of smoke because there is always going to be a group there.

 

People should really think past their noses when they ask for things (not directed at you but whoever keeps wanting to push the smokers into tiny designated spots). When smokers were spread out there were chances that you may never be impacted or near a smoker and if you were you could easily avoid one tiny cloud of smoke for the 3 minutes it takes for a smoker to smoke that cigarette. Move a few feet away, problem solved. Not as easy if you want to enjoy an area that is in the vacinity of a naughty spot as you have experienced.

[luvtheships]

IMO that is going to keep happening and only going to get worse.

 

If you clump all of those smokers in one tiny spot, they will remain in that spot longer (because that's the only spot they are allowed to smoke), they will smoke more than normal or one right after the other because they are not going to keep walking back and forth from one end of the ship to the other to have a "quick" smoke. I can't think of a spot on a ship that would be better to clump that many people together that it would not impact someone. So whatever spot they choose you are going to have one massive cloud of smoke because there is always going to be a group there.

 

People should really think past their noses when they ask for things (not directed at you but whoever keeps wanting to push the smokers into tiny designated spots). When smokers were spread out there were chances that you may never be impacted or near a smoker and if you were you could easily avoid one tiny cloud of smoke for the 3 minutes it takes for a smoker to smoke that cigarette. Move a few feet away, problem solved. Not as easy if you want to enjoy an area that is in the vacinity of a naughty spot as you have experienced.

 

You make the same point I have posted several times

 

Let them stay away from the other pax and let them smoke on their balconies

 

Of course this only works for me because I only book insides or ov

 

 

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Edited July 25, 2014 by luvtheships

[che5904]

You make the same point I have posted several times

 

Let them stay away from the other pax and let them smoke on their balconies

 

Of course this only works for me because I only book insides or ov

 

 

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yes many non-smokers have made that same point on here, many times. They have stated they never smelled smoke in their cabins from a previous pax, they've never or rarely been bothered by a smoking neighbor on a balcony and have been able to avoid smoke in most locations throughout the ship (with the exception of the casino).

 

IMO it is not the majority they are trying to please but the loudest. Squeaky wheel gets the grease as the saying goes.

 

Unfortunately the way I see it, this is only making the situation worse for all those who, in the past, have found ways to live harmoniously with the 2 sides are now finding that they can't find a way to avoid it unless they don't go to an area of the ship they may have enjoyed in the past.

[LAKECLIFF]

IMO that is going to keep happening and only going to get worse.

 

If you clump all of those smokers in one tiny spot, they will remain in that spot longer (because that's the only spot they are allowed to smoke), they will smoke more than normal or one right after the other because they are not going to keep walking back and forth from one end of the ship to the other to have a "quick" smoke. I can't think of a spot on a ship that would be better to clump that many people together that it would not impact someone. So whatever spot they choose you are going to have one massive cloud of smoke because there is always going to be a group there.

 

People should really think past their noses when they ask for things (not directed at you but whoever keeps wanting to push the smokers into tiny designated spots). When smokers were spread out there were chances that you may never be impacted or near a smoker and if you were you could easily avoid one tiny cloud of smoke for the 3 minutes it takes for a smoker to smoke that cigarette. Move a few feet away, problem solved. Not as easy if you want to enjoy an area that is in the vacinity of a naughty spot as you have experienced.

Very well stated and I agree 100%. And not having a place to sit and have a beverage with an ash try should be addressed. The careless smokers will always ruin it for the responsible smokers by grinding out cigs on the decks, throwing butts overboard etc. if ash trays aren't available. I will miss my gals cruises and the casino...:D...But have always enjoyed my land trips and spending money in places that I can control my comfort levels. I am too old to be trapped on a ship looking for a space to be comfortable and relaxed. Vegas and New Orleans have been missing me, but I am headed back.

[Nisky18]

There is scientific evidence that second hand smoke is dangerous and cruise staff are subjected to it far worse than passengers. I'm an ex smoker but my addiction was so long ago it barely matters. I'm a liberal person but after watching my beloved brother pass from smoking related lung cancer, I advocate for educating smokers about their addiction and ensuring they know where to get help to kick their habit. That said, I truly believe that smokers think they choose to smoke but only their first cigarette was a choice - the rest due to addiction. And the right they think they have to smoke does not extend to infiltrating my personal space when they exhale the smoke's toxins. I do not envy the cruise industry about this issue. Trying to keep every one happy is not possible and I suspect some smokers were in fact using the ocean as their personal ashtray. I have seen cigarette butts when looking over board on a cruise ship. This is certainly a volatile issue with strong feelings on both sides. I feel badly for those who are addicted to the toxic nicotine in cigarettes. But I confess that I feel for those of us who are affected by smokers around us.

Edited July 25, 2014 by Nisky18

[sjbdtz]

IMO that is going to keep happening and only going to get worse.

 

If you clump all of those smokers in one tiny spot, they will remain in that spot longer (because that's the only spot they are allowed to smoke), they will smoke more than normal or one right after the other because they are not going to keep walking back and forth from one end of the ship to the other to have a "quick" smoke. I can't think of a spot on a ship that would be better to clump that many people together that it would not impact someone. So whatever spot they choose you are going to have one massive cloud of smoke because there is always going to be a group there.

 

People should really think past their noses when they ask for things (not directed at you but whoever keeps wanting to push the smokers into tiny designated spots). When smokers were spread out there were chances that you may never be impacted or near a smoker and if you were you could easily avoid one tiny cloud of smoke for the 3 minutes it takes for a smoker to smoke that cigarette. Move a few feet away, problem solved. Not as easy if you want to enjoy an area that is in the vacinity of a naughty spot as you have experienced.

 

 

This is something I don't really understand.

 

When I used to have to work at an office (instead of on a plane, or at home), we all took occasional, quick smoke breaks, to a designated spot outside, which was a good trek from our work area...and everybody did it, and it was perceived as normal.

 

This new policy seems to institute that same scenario, with a back-up of the casino inside.

[JulieAF]

There is scientific evidence that second hand smoke is dangerous and cruise staff are subjected to it far worse than passengers. I'm an ex smoker but my addiction was so long ago it barely matters. I'm a liberal person but after watching my beloved brother pass from smoking related lung cancer, I advocate for educating smokers about their addiction and ensuring they know where to get help to kick their habit. That said, I truly believe that smokers think they choose to smoke but only their first cigarette was a choice - the rest due to addiction. And the right they think they have to smoke does not extend to infiltrating my personal space when they exhale the smoke's toxins. I do not envy the cruise industry about this issue. Trying to keep every one happy is not possible and I suspect some smokers were in fact using the ocean as their personal ashtray. I have seen cigarette butts when looking over board on a cruise ship. This is certainly a volatile issue with strong feelings on both sides. I feel badly for those who are addicted to the toxic nicotine in cigarettes. But I confess that I feel for those of us who are affected by smokers around us.

 

Thank you for this thoughtful post.

 

I am very sorry about your brother. My mom (cruise partner) died two years ago from COPD, due to many years of smoking. Senseless and preventable tragedies.

 

I hope the cruise lines will closely monitor the smoking areas to ensure safety for all passengers & crew.

[che5904]

This is something I don't really understand.

 

When I used to have to work at an office (instead of on a plane, or at home), we all took occasional, quick smoke breaks, to a designated spot outside, which was a good trek from our work area...and everybody did it, and it was perceived as normal.

 

This new policy seems to institute that same scenario, with a back-up of the casino inside.

 

Yes you are right, although when I worked in an office it was back when people could smoke right at their desk :eek: But what you are talking about has now changed again and they have moved these groups far away from where they may impact an indoor space, an entrance or a main walking area.

 

You were not confined on a ship where there was very limited space to put a large group of people, if there was a large group of people where you worked. There really is no one place on a ship that I can think of that would not impact another space with the naughty spot. So again in my opinion go back to keeping it spread out, where it's far easier to avoid.

 

And if you are comparing the balcony situation to where you worked, it's not the same at all since I may go to my cabin for a few hrs to just sit and chill and relax, I don't want to keep jumping up to run to the other end of the ship. Hopefully you didn't go to work to just sit and relax ;)

Edited July 25, 2014 by che5904

[Out to sea!]

Very well stated and I agree 100%. And not having a place to sit and have a beverage with an ash try should be addressed. The careless smokers will always ruin it for the responsible smokers by grinding out cigs on the decks, throwing butts overboard etc. if ash trays aren't available. I will miss my gals cruises and the casino...:D...But have always enjoyed my land trips and spending money in places that I can control my comfort levels. I am too old to be trapped on a ship looking for a space to be comfortable and relaxed. Vegas and New Orleans have been missing me, but I am headed back.

 

I cannot speak for other NCL ships but I can tell you, the Epic has just that. Covered smoking area, port side, next to the pool, with tables and chairs right next to the port bar. Sometimes you have to walk to the bar, sometimes they come over and get you your order from the table.

[Out to sea!]

There is scientific evidence that second hand smoke is dangerous and cruise staff are subjected to it far worse than passengers. I'm an ex smoker but my addiction was so long ago it barely matters. I'm a liberal person but after watching my beloved brother pass from smoking related lung cancer, I advocate for educating smokers about their addiction and ensuring they know where to get help to kick their habit. That said, I truly believe that smokers think they choose to smoke but only their first cigarette was a choice - the rest due to addiction. And the right they think they have to smoke does not extend to infiltrating my personal space when they exhale the smoke's toxins. I do not envy the cruise industry about this issue. Trying to keep every one happy is not possible and I suspect some smokers were in fact using the ocean as their personal ashtray. I have seen cigarette butts when looking over board on a cruise ship. This is certainly a volatile issue with strong feelings on both sides. I feel badly for those who are addicted to the toxic nicotine in cigarettes. But I confess that I feel for those of us who are affected by smokers around us.

 

And on this point you are completely incorrect (as far as balcony smoking goes). NCL is the only one that can grant or remove the right to smoke on balconies and until 01 Nov, they have granted that right. So, the balcony smoker most definitely does have a right to smoke there and where that smoke goes after leaving his/her lungs is up to the winds.

[CasinoCruzGirl]

Yes you are right, although when I worked in an office it was back when people could smoke right at their desk :eek: But what you are talking about has now changed again and they have moved these groups far away from where they may impact an indoor space, an entrance or a main walking area.

 

You were not confined on a ship where there was very limited space to put a large group of people, if there was a large group of people where you worked. There really is no one place on a ship that I can think of that would not impact another space with the naughty spot. So again in my opinion go back to keeping it spread out, where it's far easier to avoid.

 

And if you are comparing the balcony situation to where you worked, it's not the same at all since I may go to my cabin for a few hrs to just sit and chill and relax, I don't want to keep jumping up to run to the other end of the ship. Hopefully you didn't go to work to just sit and relax ;)

 

Che not sure if you sail in suites. I have not done that yet I just started cruising again recently. My next cruise on the breakaway is a comped balcony on breakaway from CAS. I had a cabin on deck 11 (one of the angled balconies) as soon as I heard about the balcony smoking ban even before it was official I changed my cabin to 8780 that's a balcony cabin right next to the waterfront on starboard side where smoking is allowed. So basically I downgraded myself but for a more convenient location. I guess instead of opening the balcony door I will open our cabin door and turn to the left probably no more than 20 feet and be able to have my morning coffee with my smoke as I enjoy it at that time the most. So what I'm trying to say if you do sail in balcony cabins I think this option might work well. I'm gonna give into shot and see how it works out.

[LAKECLIFF]

I cannot speak for other NCL ships but I can tell you, the Epic has just that. Covered smoking area, port side, next to the pool, with tables and chairs right next to the port bar. Sometimes you have to walk to the bar, sometimes they come over and get you your order from the table.

The ship I am booked on and considering cancelling is the NCL Jewel. Wish I could find out for sure where they plan to accommodate the smokers and how. Last cruise on the Jewel I didn't really look for the areas since I had my balcony and casino to enjoy.

[che5904]

Che not sure if you sail in suites. I have not done that yet I just started cruising again recently. My next cruise on the breakaway is a comped balcony on breakaway from CAS. I had a cabin on deck 11 (one of the angled balconies) as soon as I heard about the balcony smoking ban even before it was official I changed my cabin to 8780 that's a balcony cabin right next to the waterfront on starboard side where smoking is allowed. So basically I downgraded myself but for a more convenient location. I guess instead of opening the balcony door I will open our cabin door and turn to the left probably no more than 20 feet and be able to have my morning coffee with my smoke as I enjoy it at that time the most. So what I'm trying to say if you do sail in balcony cabins I think this option might work well. I'm gonna give into shot and see how it works out.

 

I cruised in regular balconies only, I don't really have a need for the suite life. I also am not drawn to the large ships and the smaller ships would require an elevator ride from the balconies to wherever they are sticking the naughty spot on them.

 

DH is self-employed, we rarely get vacation time or see a lot of each other during the year. So when we take a vacation it is for some total relaxation and reconnect time. It's how we have kept our marriage strong for 35 years with our lifestyle (he's a workaholic). I would not walk to wherever the naughty spot is for a quick puff, so I would be spending longer amounts of time in crowded areas, totally defeating the purpose for spending hard earned money on a vacation to suit our needs. It is just much better for us to go back to other vacation forms that meet our needs. On land has more options to spend quiet, off the beaten path areas together without so strict guidelines.

 

But thank you for trying. And it may work fine for people with different needs than ours.

[CasinoCruzGirl]

I cruised in regular balconies only, I don't really have a need for the suite life. I also am not drawn to the large ships and the smaller ships would require an elevator ride from the balconies to wherever they are sticking the naughty spot on them.

 

DH is self-employed, we rarely get vacation time or see a lot of each other during the year. So when we take a vacation it is for some total relaxation and reconnect time. It's how we have kept our marriage strong for 35 years with our lifestyle (he's a workaholic). I would not walk to wherever the naughty spot is for a quick puff, so I would be spending longer amounts of time in crowded areas, totally defeating the purpose for spending hard earned money on a vacation to suit our needs. It is just much better for us to go back to other vacation forms that meet our needs. On land has more options to spend quiet, off the beaten path areas together without so strict guidelines.

 

But thank you for trying. And it may work fine for people with different needs than ours.

 

 

Thought I would give it a try. I can so relate to what your saying about your DH mine to is self employed and is a workaholic I had to threaten his life to take this next cruise with me lol. He didn't come last time with me he didn't come to Punta can with me. Owning his own business is extremely demanding so I totally understand your dilemma.

[che5904]

Thought I would give it a try. I can so relate to what your saying about your DH mine to is self employed and is a workaholic I had to threaten his life to take this next cruise with me lol. He didn't come last time with me he didn't come to Punta can with me. Owning his own business is extremely demanding so I totally understand your dilemma.

 

LOL well maybe you and I should just leave those silly guys at home and go party together :D :D

 

BTW we actually work a little bit while on vacation, that's how I get him to agree.

Edited July 25, 2014 by che5904

[CasinoCruzGirl]

LOL well maybe you and I should just leave those silly guys at home and go party together :D :D

 

Lol great idea. I'm heading to Las Vegas August 14 but he's going for work so I tag along. He's out at work all day and towards the end of the trip he's out all day and night. Come meet me in Vegas lol we can smoke :-)

Edited July 25, 2014 by FootballParent

[Fokis]

I haven't posted here yet but just want to throw it out there..

 

Thank you NCL for considering other people's health and freedom. Why should non smokers freedom to keep their lungs healthy and body healthy be infringed upon by someone who decides to harm themselves in public?

 

Makes no sense that smokers are allowed to do it anywhere in public. It's proven that second hand smoke not only negatively affects humans around the smoker, but now they are finding animals are being harmed as well. What other thing in life allows someone to physically abuse everyone else around you, legally.

 

Smokers should be happy their favorite cruise line banned smoking. Maybe one day they will realize to stop harming themselves and trashing their own body. Sorry but it's true. Why would you pay 10 dollars for a box that is going keep you from living your life to the fullest? Why would you pay to inflict harm on yourself?

 

I smoked when I was 17-20. Gave it up because I couldn't figure out why I would wanna do that to my body. Respect yourself. Quit the smokes. Save the dough. I know, this post does nothing at all and will never convince anyone to stop smoking, but I just had to say it because I'm a bit sickened by the smokers responses to this change. Get a grip on yourselves and make some healthy choices in life. There is a reason parks, cruises, planes, indoor buildings don't want you smoking. It's cause you're killing yourself and others around you! Hello!

 

/end rant

[LAKECLIFF]

Lol great idea. I'm heading to Las Vegas August 14 but he's going for work so I tag along. He's out at work all day and towards the end of the trip he's out all day and night. Come meet me in Vegas lol we can smoke :-)

I want to join you both as my hubby doesn't like casinos and goes on fishing trips when I go with the gals cruising..lol. Maybe we should start a Roll Call for "Gals Land Trips"...

[CasinoCruzGirl]

I want to join you both as my hubby doesn't like casinos and goes on fishing trips when I go with the gals cruising..lol. Maybe we should start a Roll Call for "Gals Land Trips"...

 

 

Ohhhh I like it. Ummm I actually have an extra free room at the Gold Coast in Las Vegas. Long story as to why but we do. Pack your bags let's go.

Edited July 25, 2014 by FootballParent

[NLH Arizona]

IMO that is going to keep happening and only going to get worse.

 

If you clump all of those smokers in one tiny spot, they will remain in that spot longer (because that's the only spot they are allowed to smoke), they will smoke more than normal or one right after the other because they are not going to keep walking back and forth from one end of the ship to the other to have a "quick" smoke. I can't think of a spot on a ship that would be better to clump that many people together that it would not impact someone. So whatever spot they choose you are going to have one massive cloud of smoke because there is always going to be a group there.

 

People should really think past their noses when they ask for things (not directed at you but whoever keeps wanting to push the smokers into tiny designated spots). When smokers were spread out there were chances that you may never be impacted or near a smoker and if you were you could easily avoid one tiny cloud of smoke for the 3 minutes it takes for a smoker to smoke that cigarette. Move a few feet away, problem solved. Not as easy if you want to enjoy an area that is in the vacinity of a naughty spot as you have experienced.

I think the thought, and honestly I agree, is that when the smokers are lumped into one or two areas or three areas, many will be able to avoid those (sure there are going to be some folks that have to walk through the areas coughing, etc., but they are really just jerks). On Celebrity where the smoking area is on one side of the pool deck, I don't have a problem walking past the smoking section, but if it bothered someone that bad, they can always walk on the other side of the ship.

 

I certainly understand why smokers feel that they are being pushed into smaller and smaller areas, but I also understand that the majority of folks are non-smokers and don't want to have to be around smoke, especially on a balcony that they paid for. It was quite a time after I quit (smoked 3 packs a day), when I realized how my smoking affected others.

 

BTW, glad you are continuing to post here.

[LAKECLIFF]

Ohhhh I like it. Ummm I actually have an extra free room at the Gold Coast in Las Vegas. Long story as to why but we do. Pack your bags let's go.

Wish I could, but when you live on a Lake the summers are booked with company and activities of all kinds. I used to get monthly "free rooms" from the Orleans and at random times from Harrah's and the "Station" casinos. Haven't been in a while to build up my freebies in Vegas, so it really is time to go back. AND machines in Vegas have much higher pay outs than the NCL machines anyway...so win-win. :D

[mein18]

At some point we should start a thread that will benefit both smokers and non-smokers where we can outline by ship the designated smoking areas. I am sure each ship will change as we approach 11/1 but never too early to start and see how each ship is evolving/changing (if they change at all).

 

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