6 Cruise Line Bans That Could Change the Way You Cruise Forever

Gary Bembridge, the host of Tips For Travellers, recently expressed his frustration after one item he has always taken on every cruise was banned by cruise lines. However, he’s not alone in feeling the impact of these new bans.

Three passengers contacted Bembridge, sharing how a lesser-known ban has led to higher costs for their cruises. One cruiser even found themselves banned for life after unknowingly violating a rule!

So what are the bans you need to know about? Here's the video and the little-known new bans listed below:

1. Royal Caribbean's Ban on Multi-Plug Outlets

Royal Caribbean recently banned multi-plug outlets, devices that allow multiple electronics to be plugged in at once, adding them to the long list of prohibited items, including surge protector extension cords and power strips.

These items have been banned across all cruise lines due to safety concerns, as they can interfere with the ship’s electrical system. See examples here:

After some confusion, it was clarified that multi-port USB or USB-C chargers (see example below) are still allowed, but any multi-plug device with an electrical socket is prohibited.

2. Carnival’s Ban on Upside-Down Pineapple Decorations

Carnival Cruise Line made waves when they announced a ban on upside-down pineapple door decorations. These symbols, which are associated with the “swingers” lifestyle, were reportedly removed from cabins.

Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, initially reported the ban, though he later deleted the post. Despite the confusion, the ban remains in effect, adding a new layer to cruise culture restrictions.

3. Bluetooth Speaker Ban

For Bembridge, the most upsetting ban involves Bluetooth speakers, including white noise machines.

Carnival Cruise Line has made it clear that passengers attempting to bring Bluetooth speakers onboard will have them confiscated, and any Bluetooth speaker purchased onboard will be held until the end of the cruise.

The cruise line justifies the ban for safety reasons, ensuring that public announcements are heard clearly.

While Bembridge understands the intent behind the ban, he notes that it severely impacts passengers who rely on white noise machines for sleep, as these devices are often Bluetooth speakers.

4. The Personal Starlink Dish Ban

Another surprising ban that Bembridge discusses is the prohibition of personal Starlink dishes and devices.

This ban stems from an incident where a passenger, YouTuber Richard Shillington, brought his own Starlink device onboard and posted a video using it, only to have the device confiscated by the cruise line.

Now, many cruise lines specifically prohibit personal Starlink dishes, along with any devices used to set up personal Wi-Fi hotspots.

5. Wheelchair Accessibility Restrictions

One of the most impactful bans involves wheelchair accessibility, particularly on UK-based cruise lines such as P&O and Fred. Olsen. These lines now require passengers who use wheelchairs to book accessible cabins in advance.

Previously, passengers could bring a foldable wheelchair and stay in a regular cabin, but these lines have changed their policies to comply with safety regulations outlined in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

As a result, the number of passengers using mobility aids is now limited, and passengers who fail to declare their wheelchair use may be denied boarding.

This new policy has led to increased costs for those requiring accessible cabins, as these rooms are now in higher demand.

6. CBD Products Now Prohibited

Another recent ban involves products containing CBD (Cannabidiol).

While CBD is not psychoactive, it has been increasingly used for medicinal purposes. However, many cruise lines, including Carnival, have now included CBD products on their prohibited items list.

Carnival points out that although CBD products may be legal in some U.S. states, they are not legal in all ports of call, which is why they are considered prohibited.

In one high-profile case, a passenger was denied boarding after CBD gummies were found in their bag, and they were banned for life from cruising with Carnival.

Are hemp products the same as CBD products?

No. Hemp products typically contain hempseed oil, which does not contain CBD or THC. However, sometimes CBD oil (which uses the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the hemp plant) is referred to as hemp oil, so always double-check.

How to Stay Informed About Banned Items

For those looking to stay up to date on the latest cruise line bans, Bembridge recommends searching for the cruise line's name along with the words “prohibited items” to access the most current list.

With these new bans, it’s clear that cruising is becoming more restrictive. For regular cruisers, it’s crucial to stay informed and adjust packing and cruise plans accordingly.

Did any of these bans surprise you? Let us know in the comments below.

Pin this post for later: