Carnival offers further details on the latest banned item

Just days after official Add Bluetooth speakers to the list of prohibited itemsCarnival Cruise Line has continued to clarify the policy, noting that there are no exceptions to the ban, even if the exact prohibited items are available in onboard stores.

The speaker ban, which includes all Bluetooth, portable and wireless speakers, was quietly instituted several days ago and confirmed by the cruise line’s official brand ambassador, John Heald.

“Bluetooth speakers will be picked up and returned at the end of the cruise as they are not allowed anywhere on the ship,” Heald said in response to initial questions from guests.

In recent days, Heald has continued to make comments and questions about the ban. His answers have made it clear that the ban is a total ban, with no exceptions, even for innocuous loudspeaker use intended only for the stateroom.

“I have a question about sound machines used for sleeping in the cabin. I know the (Bluetooth) speakers are banned (which I’m glad to hear), but I’ve seen sound machines grouped with them,” said one commenter. “My kids use a white noise/sound machine to sleep. This is especially useful when sailing because of all the traffic and noise in the hall. Will we have any problems getting this on board?”

The commenter noted that the sound machine they use cannot play music and only provides white noise. Many cruise travelers use similar devices for… more restful sleepespecially in an unfamiliar cruise ship cabin, when noise from passersby in the concourse or ship operations can cause nighttime disruptions.

Unfortunately, Heald’s answer is not the answer the guest would like to hear, but it may not be the final answer.

“I’m looking into this now to see if there’s anything we can do. At this point I think it will probably be collected,” Heald said.

He notes that white noise machines may be difficult to distinguish from other portable speakers. Because security staff must process guests’ luggage quickly and efficiently, it is best to exercise caution and avoid bringing audio equipment during this time.

Other options may include travelers bringing a small fan – which is not prohibited by the cruise line – for white noise, or downloading a white noise app on their phone for use at night or during children’s naps.

Carnival-branded speakers are also banned

An interesting twist on the speaker ban: what about speakers that happen to be sold as souvenirs in the shops on board Carnival’s ships? This has caused confusion among some travelers.

“People have been arguing that loudspeakers should not be allowed, they will be confiscated and guests will get them back on land. What do they do with the ones sold in the Carnival ship gift shops? one commenter asked.

Speakers wouldn’t be the only technically banned item sold in Carnival’s Fun Shops. For example, guests can purchase large bottles of alcohol on board, but are not allowed to take these purchases into their cabins. Instead, the alcohol is stored until the last night of the sailing, when guests must pack up to disembark.

Heald confirmed that the speakers sold in the gift shops will be treated similarly.

“They will still sell (speakers) but they will hold them and return them to the cabin on the last day of the cruise,” he said.

Also read: What should you not take on a cruise?

At this time, it is unknown whether the cruise line will phase out sales of the speakers. This would certainly be a possibility and would help clear up any confusion.

It is not uncommon for cruise lines to adjust souvenir offerings based on popularity, offering options and other factors. Recently, for example, Carnival Cruise Line discontinued porthole photo frames because they weren’t the most popular option for souvenir photos.

While the ban on Bluetooth speakers is still new, the exact application of the ban is sure to be further refined in the coming weeks.

However, travelers should not expect the ban to be lifted as it will be widely welcomed by many cruisers and make it easier for crew members to maintain a safe and family-friendly atmosphere for everyone on board.