carnival pool deck with bluetooth speaker

Carnival Says “Leave Your Bluetooth Speakers At Home”

November 20, 2024 Randy Young

Nothing is better than listening to the sounds of a cruise ship slipping effortlessly through the water while sitting on your balcony, but that can be hard to do if the cabin next to you is blaring their own music. To combat that, Carnival Cruise Line recently implemented a new policy: Bluetooth speakers are no longer welcome on board.

Increasingly, Bluetooth speakers have been popping up on pool decks and in common areas. Their usage leads to competing tunes in main areas and disrupts the peace for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.

Bluetooth Speakers Added To Carnival’s Prohibited Items List

Previously, guests were allowed to bring Bluetooth speakers onboard but were asked not to use them in public areas. Unfortunately, guests weren’t cooperating with this policy. John Heald, Carnival Brand Ambassador, said, “we received so many many complaints from people who had to put up with people being very respectful with them [speakers]. Playing inappropriate music, playing loudly in public areas and, it’s just not something we are going to allow any more.”

Heald went on to explain that people also need to be able to hear announcements but that seems like much less of a consideration and more “corporate” speak.

Bluetooth Speakers Will be Confiscated and Returned

Like other items on Carnival’s prohibited list, Bluetooth speakers will be confiscated upon boarding the ship. Guests can pick up their speakers at the end of the sailing by visiting what is affectionately referred to as the “naughty room.”

See Carnival’s Prohibited Items List

Guests Are Mostly Happy to Hear This News

As expected, the ban has generated a mixed response. Most cruisers are praising Carnival for taking action to minimize noise pollution and foster a more serene environment. They argue that the constant barrage of personal music can disrupt the overall ambiance, making it difficult to enjoy conversations, relax by the pool, or simply soak in the sounds of the sea. In fact, in a poll by John Heald on Facebook, 88% of guests favored banning the speakers.

However, some passengers are voicing their disappointment and frustration. Some people say they like music to set the mood while getting ready for dinner or providing a personalized soundtrack for going to sleep. Also, some guests want to use these speakers while on shore.

A Sign of the Times?

It’s unfortunate that cruise lines have to resort to policing personal music choices. Ideally, passengers would be mindful of others and keep their music at a reasonable volume. However, as many have pointed out, the concept of shared space and respecting others’ peace seems to have faded.