When it comes to cruising the high seas, Carnival Cruise Line wants to make one thing abundantly clear: your balcony isn’t the free-for-all you might imagine. From hanging laundry to indulging in “private activities,” cruise staff and rules are cracking down to ensure everyone has a smooth (and respectful) sailing experience.
Let’s start with the laundry fiasco. It might seem harmless to drape a few clothes over your balcony railing to dry in the ocean breeze, but according to Carnival, that’s a big no-no. Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald addressed this issue after photos surfaced of clotheslines strung across balconies.
The reasoning? It’s more than just aesthetics—though Heald pointed out that it “looks bad.” Strong winds can send clothing flying into the ocean, littering the waters, and salty sea air can quickly ruin fabric. Carnival even warns on its website that hanging laundry outside poses safety concerns, emphasizing that cabin attendants will remove any rogue garments immediately.
For guests needing to freshen up their wardrobe, Carnival has onboard washers and dryers available, along with in-room spots to hang wet clothes. So, while it may be tempting to turn your balcony into a drying rack, the cruise line insists on keeping those ocean views clutter-free.
But laundry isn’t the only activity under scrutiny. Heald has also addressed other behaviors that won’t fly on Carnival ships—literally and figuratively. Smoking marijuana? That’s a hard no. Not only are Carnival ships drug-free zones, but getting caught lighting up on your balcony (or anywhere outside designated smoking areas) can result in a $500 fine or even a lifetime ban from the cruise line. And yes, that includes edibles and other cannabis products.
Then there’s the matter of “adult activities.” While a romantic moment on a balcony may seem like a scene straight out of a movie, cruise experts warn against it. For starters, balconies aren’t as private as you might think.
Security cameras, nearby passengers, and even people in port might have a clear view of your intimate escapades. Plus, the risks are real—losing balance on a moving ship could lead to dangerous consequences. Cruise blogger Marissa Wright put it bluntly: “Think twice. It’s not worth the risk.”
Even cabin door decorations have landed in the rulebook. Heald shared that upside-down pineapples—an infamous swinger symbol—are officially banned from guest rooms. If spotted, they’ll be removed by staff.
The overarching theme here is simple: Carnival Cruise Line wants to keep things classy, safe, and enjoyable for all passengers. Whether it’s environmental concerns, safety risks, or preserving a family-friendly atmosphere, the cruise line is drawing firm boundaries.
So, the next time you find yourself on a balcony overlooking the open ocean, maybe just take in the view—and leave the laundry, smoke, and risky behavior for another time.