This Thread Is To Be Used For All Discussions About HAL's On Board Smoking Policies

[sammiedawg]

Smoking somewhere, will always bother someone, sometime, somehow.

 

Remember way back when the debate was if HAL should ban smoking in the cabins or on the veranda? Well the cabin folks won. Now it's open season on the veranda's. When (note I said when, not if) HAL decides to ban it on the veranda's the casino crowd will be up in arms. After it's banned in the casino, the outside spaces for smokers will be in the cross-hairs.

 

It's clear to me that Carnival Corp. does not want to risk loosing 18-20 percent of the business by going totally smoke free, so it's been decided that HAL will be the line to have the most lenient smoking policy.

 

I also think the problem is greatly magnified here on CC as apposed to real life on a HAL ship.

 

The smoking problem is not being exaggerated here, include me as someone who paid a premium for an unusable balcony.

I tend to agree Carnival corporation has anointed Holland America as the ashtray line, perhaps because the brand is weak in the mass marketplace.

Every time I read this thread I feel like I'm in a time warp as public smoking in the US was largely banned twenty years ago.

[Drico]

I just love how smokers like to exaggerate how Smokey indoors will become if smoking is banned on balconies. Total scare tactics. It has not materialized.

 

It has materialized on Royal Caribbean and Carnival. I've read several reports of more smoke in the casino, and even smokers in the casino but not gambling as requested.

[HamOp]

With all respect, have you ever had a verandah you could not use because there was constant smoking on both sides of you? My 'real life' experience is we lost total use of our Neptune Suite verandah for one whole week of our b-to-b. The second week we got luckier and we got to use the verandah. When it actually happens to someone on a gorgeous weather Caribbean cruise, the comments here don't feel an exaggeration. ;)

 

 

Sail, I feel your pain, and I'm sorry that one of your weeks was impacted by smokers near your cabin. No, I've never had that problem, but you must remember that until 13 months ago, I was one of "them", so second hand smoke never bothered me.

 

I wonder now if it was I who had a detrimental effect on someones cruise. However, even if I was, I and the passengers who still smoke are within their rights to smoke on the veranda.

 

Perhaps I chose the wrong wording when I said the problem was magnified here on CC. I do however maintain that I've never heard anyone on a ship comment on smoking neighbors.

 

I know you don't like the idea, and I don't blame you, but the only recourse non-smokers have right now is to chose a line that does not allow veranda smoking. Things may change in time. Who knows?

[sail7seas]

 

<snip>.

 

I know you don't like the idea, and I don't blame you, but the only recourse non-smokers have right now is to chose a line that does not allow veranda smoking. Things may change in time. Who knows?

 

Let's see.....

 

I have sailed over 80 cruises with HAL and know people on just about every ship. It would be hard to arrive at an HAL ship and not recognize at least a few stewards/staff/Officers.

 

So, my next cruise will be my first without my beloved DH.

Is it REALLY a choice for me to sail my first cruise alone on a new cruise line where I am unfamiliar with the routine aboard, the way they do things and am sure to not know anyone? That is setting myself up to fail and never travel again.

 

That is not a viable option For ME; maybe you would think that ideal but seeing it is me that you are telling to make that choice, this is my opinion about it.

 

Let's me realistic, please? It's rather dismissive to brush a long time HAL cruiser aside and say go elsewhere. When you were a smoker, how would you have reacted had I said to you, quit smoking? Please don't tell me to quit sailing HAL. I haven't even gotten into the amenties that attach to being a Platinum, Five Star Mariner. I should just give that up?

 

I will continue, as vigorously as possible, to urge HAL to ban verandah smoking.

 

Edited February 17, 2015 by sail7seas

[HamOp]

Let's see.....

 

I have sailed over 80 cruises with HAL and know people on just about every ship. It would be hard to arrive at an HAL ship and not recognize at least a few stewards/staff/Officers.

 

So, my next cruise will be my first without my beloved DH.

Is it REALLY a choice for me to sail my first cruise alone on a new cruise line where I am unfamiliar with the routine aboard, the way they do things and am sure to not know anyone? That is setting myself up to fail and never travel again.

 

That is not a viable option For ME; maybe you would think that ideal but seeing it is me that you are telling to make that choice, this is my opinion about it.

 

Let's me realistic, please? It's rather dismissive to brush a long time HAL cruiser aside and say go elsewhere. When you were a smoker, how would you have reacted had I said to you, quit smoking? Please don't tell me to quit sailing HAL. I haven't even gotten into the amenties that attach to being a Platinum, Five Star Mariner. I should just give that up?

 

I will continue, as vigorously as possible, to urge HAL to ban verandah smoking.

 

 

I do understand your comfort level with HAL, and no where in my post did I tell you to go else where. I would never do that. Knowing so many of the crew and officers is wonderful and I'm sure it will be of benefit when you do take that first solo cruise.

 

I was incorrect when I said the only option for non smokers was to go to a line that does not allow veranda smoking. The other option is to continue to book with HAL with the full knowledge that smoking on the veranda is permitted and resign yourself to the fact that you may well be surrounded by smokers that will impact your enjoyment.

 

I applaud your attempts to change the existing smoking regulations, but have my doubts as to how effective they will be.

[cruz chic]

Without a doubt, smokers days of smoking on balconies are numbered.

[freestyling]

I hope it occurs before I have to cancel my Great Barrier Reef cruise but doubtful :(

[taxmantoo]

Without a doubt, smokers days of smoking on balconies are numbered.

 

Sincerely hope you are right!

[sail7seas]

I do understand your comfort level with HAL, and no where in my post did I tell you to go else where. I would never do that. Knowing so many of the crew and officers is wonderful and I'm sure it will be of benefit when you do take that first solo cruise.

 

I was incorrect when I said the only option for non smokers was to go to a line that does not allow veranda smoking. The other option is to continue to book with HAL with the full knowledge that smoking on the veranda is permitted and resign yourself to the fact that you may well be surrounded by smokers that will impact your enjoyment.

 

I applaud your attempts to change the existing smoking regulations, but have my doubts as to how effective they will be.

 

 

 

 

Really?

 

Of course, the third option is to stop cruising.

Thank you for your kind understanding.

 

[LindaM]

Let's see.....

 

I have sailed over 80 cruises with HAL and know people on just about every ship. It would be hard to arrive at an HAL ship and not recognize at least a few stewards/staff/Officers.

 

So, my next cruise will be my first without my beloved DH.

Is it REALLY a choice for me to sail my first cruise alone on a new cruise line where I am unfamiliar with the routine aboard, the way they do things and am sure to not know anyone? That is setting myself up to fail and never travel again.

 

That is not a viable option For ME; maybe you would think that ideal but seeing it is me that you are telling to make that choice, this is my opinion about it.

 

Let's me realistic, please? It's rather dismissive to brush a long time HAL cruiser aside and say go elsewhere. When you were a smoker, how would you have reacted had I said to you, quit smoking? Please don't tell me to quit sailing HAL. I haven't even gotten into the amenties that attach to being a Platinum, Five Star Mariner. I should just give that up?

 

I will continue, as vigorously as possible, to urge HAL to ban verandah smoking.

 

 

Sail,

 

I am so glad you have those 80 cruises with HAL and familiar faces onboard. Hopefully, that will make it slightly easier to sail without your husband. The first step is always the hardest. I've met quite a few women who sail alone and they are my heroes. I am pretty gutless and hope I will have the courage to travel alone when that day comes. I think it would be a huge mistake to change to another line at this point!

[sail7seas]

Sail,

 

I am so glad you have those 80 cruises with HAL and familiar faces onboard. Hopefully, that will make it slightly easier to sail without your husband. The first step is always the hardest. I've met quite a few women who sail alone and they are my heroes. I am pretty gutless and hope I will have the courage to travel alone when that day comes. I think it would be a huge mistake to change to another line at this point!

 

Thank you, Linda. There's no question but the only cruise line I'll sail is HAL. :)

 

Verandah smoking that could push me off my verandah when I needt that private time, will be bothersome at best.

 

[hrhdhd]

I was incorrect when I said the only option for non smokers was to go to a line that does not allow veranda smoking. The other option is to continue to book with HAL with the full knowledge that smoking on the veranda is permitted and resign yourself to the fact that you may well be surrounded by smokers that will impact your enjoyment.

 

Indeed. That about sums it up.

 

That someone doesn't want to try a new cruise line doesn't mean it isn't a viable option for those who would like to ensure use of a balcony.

[babyher]

Let's see.....

 

I have sailed over 80 cruises with HAL and know people on just about every ship. It would be hard to arrive at an HAL ship and not recognize at least a few stewards/staff/Officers.

 

So, my next cruise will be my first without my beloved DH.

Is it REALLY a choice for me to sail my first cruise alone on a new cruise line where I am unfamiliar with the routine aboard, the way they do things and am sure to not know anyone? That is setting myself up to fail and never travel again.

 

That is not a viable option For ME; maybe you would think that ideal but seeing it is me that you are telling to make that choice, this is my opinion about it.

 

Let's me realistic, please? It's rather dismissive to brush a long time HAL cruiser aside and say go elsewhere. When you were a smoker, how would you have reacted had I said to you, quit smoking? Please don't tell me to quit sailing HAL. I haven't even gotten into the amenties that attach to being a Platinum, Five Star Mariner. I should just give that up?

 

I will continue, as vigorously as possible, to urge HAL to ban verandah smoking.

 

 

 

 

Sail, I am glad that you are considering getting back to cruising. Do you have anything definite booked yet? I know you were planning one with friends and that fell through. I know on one thread another poster , and I agreed sailing on another line that isn't so familiar , the first time out , might be a good idea .

There wouldn't be all that "Where is your husband ?" and then having to rehash it all over again. Not saying the crew and staff aren't well meaning and generally concerned , but it would be tougher.

 

Obviously you know what is best for you and I am glad you are taking the step.

 

I know it will be tough . My mom went through it after my dad passed . Every "first' was a hurdle . Some were smooth and some were not. But after the "first" , the "second" is a little easier and then the "third".

 

My mom has always been this "Hello Dolly" , "Auntie Mame ", "Mama Rose" from Gypsy personality. And even she got thrown back for a loop in the beginning.

 

But she came back.....God help us *LOL*

[sail7seas]

You're right that what one thinks is best for them isn't necessarily right for another. The old 'walk in my shoes' etc ........ :) I know you are trying to help and while you and someone else agreed going to a different cruise line was best for me, I have to disagree. ;)

 

THAT would not be best for me though I get your point.

Maybe the reason I want to sail at least once more is to say my goodbyes to the extensive HAL history my DH and I shared? Maybe to say personal goodbyes to friends? Maybe to have closure on the chapter of my life?

 

I don't have those answers, yet, so certainly no one else does.

Cruising is very different for all of us and my experiences are likely particularly different than the majority here for an abundance of reasons, which I will not go into.

 

However, I do think I will sail HAL at least once to seek those answers.

 

AND when doing so, I hope there are no smoking neighbors beside me. :D

That will be a bummer as I will need to use that verandah.

Obviously, if I find it doesn't go well for me on my HAL cruise, I will also be leaving CC and both sadden me so I sincerely hope I plan well and do not sabotage my chance to find a new way to enjoy cruising and can enjoy many more times aboard. :)

Edited February 18, 2015 by sail7seas

[cruisemom42]

In the end, I assume HAL will make their decision re: veranda smoking based on business reasons, however many posts we may make here or letters we may send or stories we have to tell. There are folks with many days and great experiences on HAL who are smokers and who are nonsmokers alike.

 

I have yet to see any concrete evidence that HAL is planning a change, despite a lot of assertions to that effect. Selfishly (if hoping for my parents is selfish), I hope the day is not as close as others think. But I don't kid myself that HAL is looking at "my" wishes with any intent. They will look at the numbers and decide.

[HamOp]

In the end, I assume HAL will make their decision re: veranda smoking based on business reasons, however many posts we may make here or letters we may send or stories we have to tell. There are folks with many days and great experiences on HAL who are smokers and who are nonsmokers alike.

 

I have yet to see any concrete evidence that HAL is planning a change, despite a lot of assertions to that effect. Selfishly (if hoping for my parents is selfish), I hope the day is not as close as others think. But I don't kid myself that HAL is looking at "my" wishes with any intent. They will look at the numbers and decide.

 

Yes, some posters are yelling from the roof tops that "change is near, change is near!". Almost as if they say it enough it will become a self fulfilling prophecy.

 

The bottom line $$ will determine when and if HAL changes the smoking policy.

[freestyling]

I do agree that the bottom line numbers will steer the final decision. As a long time stakeholder (22yrs) I do not disagree with this methodology but as someone who will only travel as a veranda passenger I do :D

[cruz chic]

Yes, some posters are yelling from the roof tops that "change is near, change is near!". Almost as if they say it enough it will become a self fulfilling prophecy.

 

The bottom line $$ will determine when and if HAL changes the smoking policy.

Do you have information to the contrary that it won't change? Wishing it won't doesn't make it true.

[cruz chic]

In the end, I assume HAL will make their decision re: veranda smoking based on business reasons, however many posts we may make here or letters we may send or stories we have to tell. There are folks with many days and great experiences on HAL who are smokers and who are nonsmokers alike.

 

I have yet to see any concrete evidence that HAL is planning a change, despite a lot of assertions to that effect. Selfishly (if hoping for my parents is selfish), I hope the day is not as close as others think. But I don't kid myself that HAL is looking at "my" wishes with any intent. They will look at the numbers and decide.

 

Every business does everything for business reasons. To think otherwise would be foolish.

[babyher]

Do you have information to the contrary that it won't change? Wishing it won't doesn't make it true.

 

 

 

 

Wishing it will doesn't make it true either

[KevInPitt]

 

AND when doing so, I hope there are no smoking neighbors beside me. :D

That will be a bummer as I will need to use that verandah.

 

Sail:

 

Until the policy is changed, I would hope you would have someone beside you like me, who with a simple request would not smoke on the balcony if they know you are there and it is bothersome for you.

 

As a smoker, I know it can be bothersome to others. Would I like to smoke on my balcony? Yes. Do I understand how a change in policy would potentially pacify a larger percentage of the cruising population? Yes.

 

I truly and honestly hope you are able to fully enjoy your next cruising experience - regardless of this discussion topic.

[sail7seas]

Sail:

 

Until the policy is changed, I would hope you would have someone beside you like me, who with a simple request would not smoke on the balcony if they know you are there and it is bothersome for you.

 

As a smoker, I know it can be bothersome to others. Would I like to smoke on my balcony? Yes. Do I understand how a change in policy would potentially pacify a larger percentage of the cruising population? Yes.

 

I truly and honestly hope you are able to fully enjoy your next cruising experience - regardless of this discussion topic.

 

What a nice post. Thank you.

I so hope someday we will be verandah neighbors and co-operate with each other so we can both enjoy our time outside our cabins. :)

 

[HamOp]

Do you have information to the contrary that it won't change? Wishing it won't doesn't make it true.

 

I don't wish one way or the other. I don't smoke, but don't really care if those around me smoke or not. Being a former smoker, I understand all too well how enjoyable it is, and hold no ill will for those who chose to indulge.

 

I have no knowledge of if or when HAL will adjust the policy, but I do believe that the edict has come down from Carnival Corp that HAL will continue to capture the smoking population.

[sail7seas]

I don't wish one way or the other. I don't smoke, but don't really care if those around me smoke or not. Being a former smoker, I understand all too well how enjoyable it is, and hold no ill will for those who chose to indulge.

 

I have no knowledge of if or when HAL will adjust the policy, but I do believe that the edict has come down from Carnival Corp that HAL will continue to capture the smoking population.

 

I think you are right. For whatever reason, it seems Carnival Corp. has decided HAL will be the smokers' cruise line. Perhaps there are some people who have 'inside scoop' but I don't as to this subject. I can only hope. :)

 

[HamOp]

I think you are right. For whatever reason, it seems Carnival Corp. has decided HAL will be the smokers' cruise line. Perhaps there are some people who have 'inside scoop' but I don't as to this subject. I can only hope. :)

 

 

Oh come on, Sail. Stop beating around the bush and tell us how you really feel:D:D:D