People are being warned that they could be fined or kicked off a cruise ship for wearing a single luxury item onboard. Several cruise companies have introduced new rules in 2026 to ensure passenger safety and privacy as technology advances.
Smart Glasses Banned on Cruise Ships
With the rise of wearable technology like Meta Glasses, cruise lines have implemented policies to protect privacy. Don and Heidi, a couple with 100 cruises between them, shared updates on TikTok. Don said: "Cruise lines are instituting new policies in 2026. Recording other passengers without consent using Meta Glasses is a serious violation, and fellow cruisers are reporting it."
Royal Caribbean updated its prohibited items list: "Smart glasses that can record video and audio are not allowed in certain areas, including public restrooms, Youth Program areas, medical areas, and the casino." The cruise line's app confirms that violators may have their smart glasses confiscated by the chief security officer or captain.
Other Rules That Can Get You Removed
- Drones: Flying a drone from the ship is banned on nearly every cruise line. Offenders are escorted off at the next port.
- Fights: Physical altercations lead to lifetime bans from certain cruise lines.
- Prohibited Items: Getting caught with banned items in checked luggage results in a security meeting. Serious items may lead to authorities at the next port.
- Muster Drill: Skipping the mandatory safety drill is not optional; crew will track you down. Refusal leads to removal before sailing.
- Smoking: Lighting up outside designated areas, including vaping, can result in fines and repeat violations may get you escorted off the ship.
Don added: "Don't forget to share this with your cruise mates for your next sailing."
