As the cruise industry continues to evolve, major cruise lines regularly update their policies to address new challenges. They usually do it to enhance security measures and improve the overall travel experience for all passengers.
This guide explores the latest restrictions and bans implemented in various cruise lines. You’ll also find some practical alternatives that I normally use when I travel.
Naturally, these policies may vary for each cruise line, so always remember to check the ship’s specific guidelines before departure.
1. Social Media Live Streams
Livestreams can inadvertently reveal sensitive information about the ship’s operations and, even worse, can compromise the privacy of other guests, especially minors.
That’s why live broadcasting now faces significant restrictions in various cruise lines.
The current policy prohibits live streaming in security zones, check-in areas, children’s activity centers, pools, theatrical shows, and entertainment venues. Even dining areas and specialty restaurants have restrictions on continuous streaming.
Passengers aren’t left without options though. Traditional photos and videos are perfectly acceptable.
Additionally, cruise lines often provide professional photo services, and some ships also have designated social media spots.
Do I recommend professional cruise photos? Well, I talked about it in the article on the things that are always overpriced on cruise ships, so you can imagine what I think about it!
2. Cabin Decorations
What started as a fun tradition of decorating cabin doors with magnets has evolved into a significant maintenance issue for cruise lines.
Sometimes, paint gets damaged from prolonged use, and residue accumulates, especially when some passengers use duct tape instead of magnets.
Consequently, a ban now extends to all decorations and removable decals, both inside and outside the cabin.
From what I have been told, Princess Cruises is among the cruise lines that have banned them completely.
While Carnival, for the moment, has banned only the Pineapple-shaped ones for the reason I explained in this article.
3. Flying Drones
Drones come with various passenger privacy concerns, and they don’t always comply with port security regulations. They can also interfere with the ship’s navigation systems and emergency helicopter operations.
As a result, the skies and seas around cruise ships have become completely drone-free zones.
The only exception is for those who use drones for professional filming, but in that case, you have to submit a request and get specific permission from the cruise line.
4. Balcony Smoking
The expansion of smoking restrictions reflects growing health and safety concerns. Most cruise lines already prohibit smoking on private balconies, but now they also restrict e-cigarettes and vaping.
For now, the only cruise line where smoking on balconies is still allowed is Costa Cruises. While Fred. Olsen will ban smoking on balconies from April 1, 2025.
As you probably already know, there are still designated smoking areas with specific deck locations that are chosen for optimal ventilation and safety.
Also, remember that most cruise lines have strict enforcement protocols to ensure full compliance and sensitive fire detection systems. Not following the rules is among the 7 things that can get you banned from a cruise ship.
5. AI Technology
As AI technology becomes more prevalent, cruise lines have implemented specific guidelines for their use onboard.
The restrictions primarily target devices capable of continuous recording. The list includes AI glasses, digital personal assistants, AI-powered translation devices, and smart jewelry with recording features.
As an alternative, ships provide translation services and some specific AI features through their apps or onboarding services.
6. Single-Use Plastics
Cruise lines are actively working to reduce ocean pollution and increase waste management efficiency.
Recent bans target items previously considered essential. This includes disposable toiletry containers, condiment packs, and even water bottles.
To ease the transition, many cruise lines now offer refillable bathroom amenities and paper disposables.
You can discover the other things that have changed in the article about things you won’t find on a cruise anymore.
7. Smart Luggage
In most cases, smart suitcases are banned, and you should not take them on cruise ships.
There are a few reasons behind this decision. First, they usually have non-removable lithium batteries, and second, they can hide other non-compliant electronic parts.
Fire safety concerns drive these restrictions, as lithium batteries in confined spaces are a pretty risky matter. Just to be clear, the same ban on smart luggage is also in effect for air travel.
Passengers can still use traditional luggage or approved ones with removable electronic parts.
8. Travel Irons and Steamers
Fire safety regulations have led to stricter controls on personal clothing care appliances. Current restrictions prohibit all travel irons, portable steamers, and any heated devices.
Even creative DIY pressing solutions face scrutiny under these comprehensive safety measures. These policies stem from fire hazard prevention needs and electrical system protection requirements.
To accommodate passengers’ needs, cruise lines provide professional pressing services. To avoid mistakes, check the list of items that are always seized before boarding the cruise.
9. Powerful Speakers
On cruise ships, sound management has become a priority for maintaining a peaceful environment.
It’s important to ensure quality sleep for all guests and to allow people to relax on the pool deck.
To that end, the newest bans target large Bluetooth speakers and portable sound systems.
In particular, this ban was recently added to Carnival’s policy, which now states that boom boxes, radios, and all types of speakers (including Bluetooth, portable, and wireless) are not allowed on board.
Of course, the solution in this case is very simple: bring with you a good pair of earphones.
10. Bottles with Liquids
Security measures concerning beverage containers have become more stringent in recent years.
Some lines now require water to be carried in clear containers only. In addition, there’s a strict limit on quantity per passenger. This also addresses concerns about smuggling alcohol in water bottles (a practice that seems to be increasingly common).
My Experience: I personally have never been told anything, even when traveling with a reusable stainless steel bottle. However, if you need to buy a new one, consider choosing a clear one.
To ensure passenger comfort, cruise lines offer several compliant options. It’s easy to stay hydrated thanks to the filtered water stations all around the ship that provide easy access to fresh drinking water.
Many passengers also choose to rely on drink packages so that they have all drinks available for them (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic).
In some cases, they are a good solution, but also remember to have a look at the list of drinks that are always free on cruise ships; too many passengers don’t take advantage of them!
I have tried several of them but these are the most durable and sturdy.
