Q: Is smoking allowed in the cabins?

A:

No, smoking is strictly prohibited in all cabin accommodations on our Century and Victoria Yangtze River cruises.

This policy is absolute and uniform across our fleet, regardless of ship class or cabin category. The primary reason is fire safety. Ships are enclosed environments where a fire can have catastrophic consequences. Modern marine safety regulations and our company's stringent protocols mandate that all indoor areas, especially sleeping quarters with bedding and curtains, be smoke-free to eliminate ignition risks. Additionally, we must consider the health and comfort of all our guests. Cabins have complex ventilation systems that can circulate odors to other rooms, and many international travelers have allergies or simply prefer a clean, fresh atmosphere. Upholding a smoke-free cabin environment is a standard expectation for premium hospitality and is non-negotiable for the well-being of everyone on board.

While cabins are entirely non-smoking, designated smoking areas are provided on the open outer decks, typically in specific sheltered sections. These areas are equipped with proper ashtrays and are located away from main dining and activity zones. It is crucial to note that smoking on private balconies, which some cabins feature, is also prohibited. This is because balcony partitions are not always fully sealed, and smoke or embers can easily drift to neighboring balconies or be sucked back into the ship's ventilation intakes, causing discomfort and alarm for other passengers. The crew diligently enforces these rules, and violations can result in significant cleaning fees charged to your onboard account and, in severe cases, may lead to disembarkation at the next port, as stipulated in the cruise contract.

> Director's Note: A ship at sea is one of the most fire-sensitive environments imaginable. Our smoking policy is not merely a preference but a critical safety protocol. The crew conducts regular fire drills, and all smoke detectors in cabins are extremely sensitive and monitored 24/7. Tampering with them, such as covering a detector to smoke, is a serious legal offense and endangers everyone.

For guests who smoke, please plan to use only the designated deck areas. We recommend bringing a lighter, as matches may be ineffective in the windy conditions on the river. If you anticipate discomfort, consider nicotine replacement products like patches or gum for the times you are in your cabin or other indoor spaces. Always dispose of cigarette butts in the provided ashtrays; never throw them overboard, as this is a pollution hazard and a fire risk. For non-smoking guests, please be assured that our policies are rigorously enforced to protect your air quality and safety.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard!