Norwegian Cruise Line to Build Separate Smoking Area in Casino on its New Cruise Ship

[tel2]

If NCL is serious, and they invest in high quality ventilation systems, the smoke even in the room will be far less noticeable than it is now, and it wont escape. I would have quarreled with that statement a few months ago, but I recently had to attend an event in a cigar bar in my City, which was grandfathered into the no smoking ordinance. They invested in top notch air filtration systems, and I was astonished that although I was looking through a set of glass push doors at a bunch of people smoking big cigars, there was no haze of smoke even in the room where the smoking was going on, and in the food area, just steps away and separated by only that glass door, you could not smell the smoke at all. I was beyond surprised.

 

Terry

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

Well that was a "fluff over" explanation.

 

Thanks for your comment.

 

Tom

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

That's really kind of rude. I as a smoker hate those smoking boxes so don't make such a rude comment

 

Personally, I'd hate to be relegated to a box as well !

 

I say that but, in all honesty, if they had a "boxed" area in the casino where I could be guaranteed smoke-free air, I'd be up for it.

 

The reason for this new segregated area of the casino is to keep the stench of cigarette smoke from invading other areas of the ship - having only an unintended benefit to non-smoking gamblers.

 

I think that they'll need a fair number of machines in the smokers area, as it's been my experience that slot players seem more likely to be smokers than table players.. but there's still plenty of those too.

 

 

Tom

Edited October 30, 2015 by Tom-n-Cheryl

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

No worries G. Watch people like that flip out when the doctors and lobbyists go after all the foods that are bad for you. I can see them banning all you can eat buffets in the future which by the way would include the buffets on ships and hotels.

It would be for their own good ya know, and good for you & me also because we won't have to help subsidize their high insurance premiums and then you and I can use that surplus of cash to smoke all we want in the casino.

See how everything has a way of coming full circle?

 

I think that there's an inherent difference between what we do, or don't do, to our bodies (food, smoking, exercising, drinking, risky sports, etc) in terms of whether it directly, and negatively, impacts someone else.

 

In those cases where it's only oneself who's put at risk or harmed - go for it, I'm all for freedom. In cases where it endangers someone else, that's where I feel one's "rights" end.

 

Granted, there'd be no end to what might be considered harmful, or how directly - so I think everyone just needs to exercise common sense.

 

Wait a minute... common sense is relative... nevermind! :eek:

 

Tom

[MaryLS]

As a smoker, I agree with the separate smoking/nonsmoking areas. However, is the smoking area going to be a "High Roller" area? Will it include low limit table games? If that's the case, it doesn't seem quite fair.

 

Also, have been confused lately with the problem of running into the smoking casino for a quick smoke. Since the ships are 99% smoke free inside with the casino and cigar bar being the only indoor smoking areas and limited smoking areas on outdoor decks, what is the problem with a smoker stepping into the casino for a cigarette even if they are not playing?

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

As a smoker, I agree with the separate smoking/nonsmoking areas. However, is the smoking area going to be a "High Roller" area? Will it include low limit table games? If that's the case, it doesn't seem quite fair.

 

...

 

I agree - there will no doubt be "greener grass" from time to time in one of the two areas. Unless they basically duplicate all the offerings, there will be something that some people will feel they're missing out on.

 

Of course, there's nothing to prevent someone from going into the other area, as long as they respect the "house rules" there. Smokers going to the non-smoking areas simply need to abstain. Non-smokers going into the smoking area need to realize that there will be subjected to smoke, and perhaps even more of it than they would have experienced in the typical open casino environment - unless significant ventilation is employed.

 

I know at Aria (Vegas) they do a great job of ventilating the whole place. Even with smoking tables right beside a table I might be playing at, I've rarely even caught a whiff of smoke.

 

...

 

Also, have been confused lately with the problem of running into the smoking casino for a quick smoke. Since the ships are 99% smoke free inside with the casino and cigar bar being the only indoor smoking areas and limited smoking areas on outdoor decks, what is the problem with a smoker stepping into the casino for a cigarette even if they are not playing?

 

My guess is that the cruise line does not want the casino to become a smoking lounge - for fears that such a level of smoking might cause the (non-players) to run off some of the non-smoking players.

 

Tom

Edited October 30, 2015 by Tom-n-Cheryl

[skiwee]

I could have sworn our first ever cruise which was on the Dawn had a seperate non smoking area. The main casino was smoking. Off to the side and up some steps was a small casino room that was non smoking. The machines in there were really just video poker and a few slots. It was always empty when we went in there. I'm a non smoker but smoke doesn't bother me. My husband does smoke so hopefully the smoking section will be a lot bigger then the non smoking.

[bobg529]

In the 1960's the percentage of American adults that smoked is estimated to have been approximately 66%. Today, that percentage has dropped to about 17%. If these numbers are correct, it would seem that in say 10 years they will ban smoking altogether as it will become financially disadvantageous to continue. I just wonder what magic # will cause them to finally pull the trigger and say enough is enough. I understand that smokers have rights too, and that they have every right to do what they like with their own bodies, but it is all about money. Smokers would be well advised to enjoy their shipboard cigarettes while they may because before too long they will just be a cloudy memory. The new smokers lounge will be a measuring stick for the cruise lines. As long as they are busy they'll stay open, but once they start to empty out, they will close them. It's just a matter of time.

[NLH Arizona]

I could have sworn our first ever cruise which was on the Dawn had a seperate non smoking area. The main casino was smoking. Off to the side and up some steps was a small casino room that was non smoking. The machines in there were really just video poker and a few slots. It was always empty when we went in there. I'm a non smoker but smoke doesn't bother me. My husband does smoke so hopefully the smoking section will be a lot bigger then the non smoking.

The reason the non-smoking section was probably always empty, is because it just had video poker and a few slots and my guess is that the few slots were not the popular ones.

 

The walled off smoking room is the perfect solution. My only hope is that it is truly well ventilated for the crew members who have to be in there's sake.

[Fido Chuckwagon]

That's what I have been saying all along. The smoking section of the Breakaway is always packed, non smoking side.....eh not so much

 

That's because the non-smoking side still stinks of smoke.

[EyeSeaEwe]

I think that there's an inherent difference between what we do, or don't do, to our bodies (food, smoking, exercising, drinking, risky sports, etc) in terms of whether it directly, and negatively, impacts someone else.

 

In those cases where it's only oneself who's put at risk or harmed - go for it, I'm all for freedom. In cases where it endangers someone else, that's where I feel one's "rights" end.

 

Granted, there'd be no end to what might be considered harmful, or how directly - so I think everyone just needs to exercise common sense.

 

Wait a minute... common sense is relative... nevermind! :eek:

 

Tom

 

There you go using facts, logic, and reasoning in a discussion where others are using emotions, opinions, and BS! :eek:

[missintuitive]

There is a certain line of land-based casino's that are affiliated with NCL. In that casino line, there are quite a few locally-based casinos (i.e. not in Vegas). At the casino closest to me, there is no smoking inside the casino...which is beautiful. The table games are all on the inside.

 

However, all of the outside smoking areas have gaming areas with a variety of machines. This layout is a real hit with the smokers because they can still play the games while smoking.

[LMaxwell]

The problem with the militant, uncompromising smokers on this thread is that even when the company makes a concession to provide them dedicated space it is not enough. The concept of winning with dignity escapes more than a few people here.

 

The reason for the design of the smoking sections to be added on versus built in from the start is that in a few years they won't be necessary at all, so removing add on walls is significantly easier than the stranded costs of built in infrastructure.

 

It is always the "considerate smokers" who refuse to accept the space provided to them and put down anyone that doesn't want to be around smoke. Doesn't sound considerate to me at all. Does anyone else see the humor in that situation?

Edited October 30, 2015 by LMaxwell

[Frick_&_Frack]

As a smoker, I'm happy about the room being added. I always wind up asking players who sit next to me (at machines - that's all I play) or looking to see if people are not happy with my smoking.

 

So, now I can go into the other area and not worry. Will make me much more comfortable playing if I wish to smoke at the same time.

 

I think this is win-win - all the way (except there's usually not much winning in the casino :rolleyes: :p ).

 

Happy Cruising! :)

[Casino Comp Chick]

The problem with the militant, uncompromising smokers on this thread is that even when the company makes a concession to provide them dedicated space it is not enough. The concept of winning with dignity escapes more than a few people here.

 

The reason for the design of the smoking sections to be added on versus built in from the start is that in a few years they won't be necessary at all, so removing add on walls is significantly easier than the stranded costs of built in infrastructure.

 

It is always the "considerate smokers" who refuse to accept the space provided to them and put down anyone that doesn't want to be around smoke. Doesn't sound considerate to me at all. Does anyone else see the humor in that situation?

 

Ever notice how many smoking threads are started by non-smokers?

I do

[LadySpoilt]

Ever notice how many smoking threads are started by non-smokers?

I do

 

Wow that is a new one....Even Laura Sterling isn't apparently supposed to START a post about "smoking". Note below to see who started this thread

 

LauraS

Sr. Manager, Community

Cruise Critic

Edited October 30, 2015 by LadySpoilt

[LMaxwell]

Ever notice how many smoking threads are started by non-smokers?

I do

 

Well, this thread was started by Cruise Critic themselves and is informational in its purpose. There is no indication whether the CC employee smokes or has an opinion one way or the other.

 

The fact is that special accommodation is being made for smokers. No accommodation is required to be made. Smokers will still be able to smoke IN the casino, which is exactly what they had been asking for all along. Putting a dividing wall/glassed in area with its own air handling is also reason for non-smokers to be happy.

 

You gotta stop a moment and realize this is a win-win. Both sides get what they want. Pretty much all the non-smokers in here are saying hey, that's a great solution. We are happy and we appreciate that smokers are being looked after too. Good job NCL.

 

But the smokers in here keep throwing out straw arguments and insisting on inserting arguments where none was made. If the smokers would stop trying to create a fight where one does not need to exist, they will realize they got a huge win here and should accept it while it exists. I mean, if you only consider a win to be the expansion of smoking areas, well, nevergonnahappen.com, but in this instance you what you wanted to the letter.

[LadySpoilt]

Well, this thread was started by Cruise Critic themselves and is informational in its purpose. There is no indication whether the CC employee smokes or has an opinion one way or the other.

 

The fact is that special accommodation is being made for smokers. No accommodation is required to be made. Smokers will still be able to smoke IN the casino, which is exactly what they had been asking for all along. Putting a dividing wall/glassed in area with its own air handling is also reason for non-smokers to be happy.

 

You gotta stop a moment and realize this is a win-win. Both sides get what they want. Pretty much all the non-smokers in here are saying hey, that's a great solution. We are happy and we appreciate that smokers are being looked after too. Good job NCL.

 

But the smokers in here keep throwing out straw arguments and insisting on inserting arguments where none was made. If the smokers would stop trying to create a fight where one does not need to exist, they will realize they got a huge win here and should accept it while it exists. I mean, if you only consider a win to be the expansion of smoking areas, well, nevergonnahappen.com, but in this instance you what you wanted to the letter.

 

I agree with LMAXWELL, both are being accommodated, so why aren't the smokers ok with that? Without being snide, why exactly do some of the smokers (not all of them) still seem to feel that they somehow got shafted?

[Casino Comp Chick]

Wow that is a new one....Even Laura Sterling isn't apparently supposed to START a post about "smoking". Note below to see who started this thread

 

LauraS

Sr. Manager, Community

Cruise Critic

 

Do they smoke? j/k

Ok this thread was started by a mod but if you want to be quite honest most smoking threads are started by non smokers. Have you ever really seen a smoker start a thread outside of asking where are the smoking sections or what is the price/brands sold on a particular ship.

The non smokers start threads that complain about smokers.

Edited October 30, 2015 by iimmie

[Casino Comp Chick]

Well, this thread was started by Cruise Critic themselves and is informational in its purpose. There is no indication whether the CC employee smokes or has an opinion one way or the other.

 

The fact is that special accommodation is being made for smokers. No accommodation is required to be made. Smokers will still be able to smoke IN the casino, which is exactly what they had been asking for all along. Putting a dividing wall/glassed in area with its own air handling is also reason for non-smokers to be happy.

 

You gotta stop a moment and realize this is a win-win. Both sides get what they want. Pretty much all the non-smokers in here are saying hey, that's a great solution. We are happy and we appreciate that smokers are being looked after too. Good job NCL.

 

But the smokers in here keep throwing out straw arguments and insisting on inserting arguments where none was made. If the smokers would stop trying to create a fight where one does not need to exist, they will realize they got a huge win here and should accept it while it exists. I mean, if you only consider a win to be the expansion of smoking areas, well, nevergonnahappen.com, but in this instance you what you wanted to the letter.

 

I am very happy that both sides are being accommodated, I have said that more then once. I hope that it ends the wars on here.

[LMaxwell]

I am very happy that both sides are being accommodated, I have said that more then once. I hope that it ends the wars on here.

 

Agreed. Great

[CasinoCruzGirl]

The problem with the militant, uncompromising smokers on this thread is that even when the company makes a concession to provide them dedicated space it is not enough. The concept of winning with dignity escapes more than a few people here.

 

The reason for the design of the smoking sections to be added on versus built in from the start is that in a few years they won't be necessary at all, so removing add on walls is significantly easier than the stranded costs of built in infrastructure.

 

It is always the "considerate smokers" who refuse to accept the space provided to them and put down anyone that doesn't want to be around smoke. Doesn't sound consiuderate to me at all. Does anyone else see the humor in that situation?

 

Im a smoker and to be honest if you read through this thread there are more non smokers complaining than smokers complaining. Take your post as an example....complaining about smokers complaining. I as a smoker made a comment to someone who said to shove us in a box other than that have not been complaining doesn't do any good. Once the Miami cruises are set the half smoking half non smoking on escape will be in effect so no need to complain. If I was a passenger on the TA Escape cruise and found out about the smoking situation well then yes I would be very upset. I spend most of my time in the casino but that's not the case for me so it is what it is. And why would you make such a nasty comment about the "considerate" smokers? Should I generalize about the non smoker complainers? I won't do that because not all non smokers have the attitude you showed in your post.

[LMaxwell]

Im a smoker and to be honest if you read through this thread there are more non smokers complaining than smokers complaining. Take your post as an example....complaining about smokers complaining. I as a smoker made a comment to someone who said to shove us in a box other than that have not been complaining doesn't do any good. Once the Miami cruises are set the half smoking half non smoking on escape will be in effect so no need to complain. If I was a passenger on the TA Escape cruise and found out about the smoking situation well then yes I would be very upset. I spend most of my time in the casino but that's not the case for me so it is what it is. And why would you make such a nasty comment about the "considerate" smokers? Should I generalize about the non smoker complainers? I won't do that because not all non smokers have the attitude you showed in your post.

I think you should calm down because I am not complaining at all. If you read further into the thread you will see that I applaud NCL's decision and point out to smokers that special accommodation has been made for them and that really it is a compromise that should make both sides happy. I haven't made a single nasty comment at all. If you feel I have you are misreading my statements and opinions.

 

You can search back as far as I have been a member and I have always been an advocate for the cruise lines to provide comfortable areas to accommodate smokers. This goes across all lines. I can want balcony smoking banned and casino smoking relegated to a separate area, while still wanting those that smoke to have some accommodation when none is required. I have never said to put anyone in a box, or go to another line, or said one single nasty comment to or about any smoker.

 

I have empathy for your situation, but my empathy does not top my desire to not have to deal with smoke.

[Crusin6]

I just have to say it........yet again something I've said over the years on cc.....said to staff on the ship as well.....and it was my simple suggestion that a logical solution would be to put up a partition!

 

 

FYI....staff of course just smiled and thanked me for the suggestion

 

Cc posters of course said it would never ever happen

 

 

Lol

 

 

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[Host Star]

this smoking thread has gone up in smoke and is now closed.. but open for reading only