Jump to full article: Easier Media (uk), 2008-10-14
Intro: Cruise ships, one of the last bastions of freedom for smokers, are joining the rest of the travel industry in introducing draconian measures to restrict use of the “evil weed”. Ships on the high seas are not subject to the same smoking laws as hotels, restaurants bars and other public places are on land. Nevertheless the winds of change are blowing in favour of non-smokers.
The Cruise line P&O recently changed its policy, designating only one indoor public area for smokers to light up and making the rest of their ships off limits. Another UK based cruise line, Fred Olsen, announced last month that it is kicking the habit in the New Year and will introduce a totally smoke-free environment - at least indoors - on all five of its vessels in early 2009. . . .
Cruise smokers however are refusing to give up quietly and have been mounting what could be the last stand for tobacco and travel. Much of the battle is being fought in the virtual world of travel blogs, forums and reviews. Said editor in chief of cruise news and reviews site, Carolyn Spencer Brown, “This is probably the most hotly debated cruise topic ever – it makes fuel surcharges seem likely a minor irritant.
“Cruisecritic.co.uk has been inundated with e-mails and postings from both the pro and anti groups. Tempers are running high the tone is often passionate if not strident and vicious.
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