Weeks after Royal Caribbean quietly updated its list of prohibited items to bolster onboard safety and cybersecurity, the cruise line clarified that certain smart glasses are now restricted in specific areas of its ships.
Like other cruise lines, Royal Caribbean has a long list of prohibited items that are prohibited on its fleet. Many of these items, including illegal drugs and explosives, are common knowledge.
Sometimes, however, the line between prohibited content and content deemed harmless by guests isn't exactly clear. For example, many passengers think they can bring extension cords and boats, but these items are actually prohibited on Royal Caribbean cruise ships.
Recently, Royal Caribbean updated its wording List of prohibited items Read: “'Smart' glasses from any manufacturer capable of recording video and audio are not permitted in certain areas of the ship, including, but not limited to, public restrooms, youth program areas, medical areas, and casinos.”
While the change was only recently officially announced on Royal Caribbean's website, passengers began noticing the updated policy online in late January.
“Right now the RCL clearly does not allow the use of smart glasses, even if they are used only as prescription glasses or sunglasses,” love cat hidden flower Posted in r/royalcaribbean Reddit topicand a screenshot of the cruise compass on the Royal Caribbean mobile app.
“Smart glasses with video and audio recording capabilities no Allowed to board. The Chief Security Officer and Captain have the authority to confiscate smart glasses if guests do not comply with this policy,” the discreet notice reads.
(Source: @catlovingcryptofella/Reddit)
Because smart glasses can discreetly record video and audio, these devices infringe on the privacy of passengers and crew in public areas on ships, especially in spaces where people may not realize they are being filmed.
The list of prohibited items continues by stating that guests with prescription smart glasses should bring a spare pair that does not support smart features.
Royal Caribbean tightens rules on cybersecurity and electronic jamming devices
Sometime after Dec. 10, 2025, Royal Caribbean updated its previously vague “cybersecurity and deliberate electronic criminal devices” provision to include “satellite dishes, routers and other network equipment, and any other deliberate electronic interference that could constitute criminal activity.”
Since cruise ships rely on high-tech digital systems for navigation, communication and entertainment, this clarification ensures critical systems are protected from accidental (or intentional) interference.
For example, the precise wording specifically targets equipment designed to attack, disrupt, or manipulate airborne systems. These include signal jammers, hacking kits and unauthorized travel Wi-Fi routers.
While some equipment, such as satellite dishes, routers and other network equipment, have previously been included on the list of prohibited items, the latest additions target the purpose of the item.
For example, travel routers were once used to save money by extending the connection of one internet package to multiple devices. Although seemingly harmless, they can also be used to create malicious networks, interfere with shipboard Wi-Fi systems, and even bypass security controls.
according to a opinion poll Consulting firm Protiviti said cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses.
Network security driver According to the report, business leaders, including board members, chief financial officers, and chief operating officers, are “increasingly aware that cyber resilience must be embedded in corporate strategy.”
“This broad prioritization underscores the near-universal understanding that cybersecurity is no longer an isolated IT issue but a strategic enterprise risk with implications for brand reputation, operational continuity and regulatory compliance,” Protiviti said.
Royal Caribbean's latest policy therefore highlights the company's recognition that cybersecurity at sea is just as important as on land.
Read more: Royal Caribbean adds cyber threat devices to list of prohibited items on cruise ships
Royal Caribbean isn't the first cruise line to ban smart glasses
In December, MSC Cruises confirmed that smart glasses would be banned on its ships. website Rules: “The use of devices capable of recording or transmitting data covertly or discreetly (such as smart glasses) is prohibited [the ship’s] Common areas. “
The news comes as no surprise, given MSC's reputation for keeping strict restrictions on on-board filming. 2024, popular YouTube users Ben and David Photography is prohibited on the MSC World Europa cruise ship. The trip was not sponsored by the cruise line as the couple paid for the voyage themselves.
While MSC eventually apologized to Ben & David, the incident highlighted how seriously the cruise line takes privacy and why smart glasses, including Meta Ray-Bans or Google Glasses, are suddenly on the banned list.
Read more: MSC Cruises' surprise ban angers passengers
