Princess Cruises is banning smoking in all cabins and balconies from next year. The strict new policy comes into force on all sailings from January 15, 2012.
The company said the move reflects “changing customer preferences” and the move around the globe – from North America to Europe – to further restrict areas where smoking is allowed.
Smoking will continue to be allowed in the Churchill’s cigar lounge, a section of the disco and casino, and a portion of the open decks.
Executive vice president Jan Swartz said balconies were included in the new policy because they are a “hallmark feature” of Princess ships, and the line believes it’s important to keep that peaceful space clear of smoke.
This is despite UK sister company P&O Cruises continuing to allow passengers to smoke on cabin balconies.
Swartz said: “Our consumer studies now show that smokers are a small minority of our passengers, and that the large majority of passengers value having their primary living space onboard smoke-free.”
She added that Princess still welcomes passengers who smoke, and will continue to provide special venues around the ship to accommodate smokers.