The Unexpected Celebratory Decoration That's Banned From Most Cruise Lines

If you don't want to land yourself in hot water (no pun intended) on your cruise, it's important to learn the rules enforced on your ship before setting sail. For example, there might be a dress code in place at dinner, and there could even be a rule against shaking hands with the captain. If you plan to celebrate a birthday or other special occasion on board, you should also be mindful of any party decoration bans enforced by your cruise line.

Balloons in particular are often forbidden on cruise ships, whether they're packed from home or purchased during an excursion. Though inflatable balloons might seem harmless, they can create serious issues when brought on board. Firstly, balloons have a tendency to float away, which, when used on a cruise, means they'll likely end up in the water. This can harm marine life, especially if an animal ingests or gets caught in the balloon. Moreover, a balloon bobbing in the water can sometimes be mistaken for a person. This can prompt the navigation crew to respond as they would if someone went overboard on a cruise, leading to delays and an anxiety-inducing experience for the commanders.

If you're commemorating a special day during your cruise voyage, balloon bans are just the beginning. Many cruise lines don't allow passengers to bring cakes or homemade foods, nor birthday candles. Party poppers and sparklers are also a no-no on most ships.

That said, there are plenty of other ways to get festive for a birthday, anniversary, or other celebration. Most cruises allow guests to decorate their cabin doors and interiors, so get creative with banners, streamers, and other fun adornments. You can also book a reservation for a fancy meal on board or join an exciting excursion to make the day memorable.

If you don't mind splurging a little, most cruises offer special perks and party packages. You may be able to order a cake on the ship, get pampered at the spa, or arrange for flowers to be delivered to your (or your loved one's) room. In fact, you can even order balloons directly from the cruise line on some ships — just be sure to keep yours away from the water if you choose this option. If you're on a budget, simply mention your special occasion to the crew during your trip. You may be treated to cheap or free cruise upgrades.