Cruise Lines respond to Non Smokers demands for more Smoke Free zones

Throughout the EU and the US Smokers are being forced to enjoy their vice outside or within a Glass Box somewhere obscure. Until recently though, Smokers could seek relative refuge for their habit on board Cruise Ships, however this situation is changing fast.

Now MSC Cruises has confirmed its joining the bandwagon of Cruise Lines tightening rules related to Smoking and restricting the areas on board where Smoker can enjoy a Cigarette or something stronger.

The Italian styled (Swiss owned with Panama Flags) Cruise Line MSC is in effect expanding the smoke-free area on board the Divina. This initiative is being implemented to cater for North Americans Cruisers for itineraries operated in the Caribbean, which is the worlds most popular Cruise region.

The MSC Divina will implement the new anti Smoking rule when the vessel departs Venice on the second of November 2013 for Miami, which will become its new hub. The Smoking areas on board the 3,502 pax ship will be restricted to merely 2 zones as follows: 

1. Cigar Lounge
2. Port side of designated outside decks (situated away from all bars and food areas.

MSC did report however that Smoking maybe occasionally permitted at the Casino for playing Guests only during certain hours and at the discretion of the Casino Manager. No doubt they will gauge how it affects the gambling revenue first.

This news from MSC comes a after the following Cruise Lines confirmed a tightening of policies and less options for Smokers on board. 

• Seabourn Cruises Line
• Cunard Line
• Disney Cruises 
• Royal Caribbean who banned Smoking on balconies

Clearly the non Smokers are winning their battle to demand more Smoke Free zones on board, however there are still some Smoke flexible Cruise Lines that rely on the Smokers custom.