Cruise Lines Enforce New Policies Against Pool Chair Hogging

Chair hogging, a persistent issue on major cruise lines, is now being addressed by several popular companies. Reports indicate that Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is particularly proactive in curbing this behavior.

Traditional Practice

Cruise passengers have long indulged in the habit of using various items to reserve lounge chairs by the pool. Items like towels, flip-flops, and even dolls have been employed to stake a claim, often for hours, without the individuals being present.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Response

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is taking substantial steps to enforce a strict chair-hogging policy, earning praise from passengers. The crew aboard the Norwegian Escape actively marks unoccupied chairs and removes unattended items such as towels and personal belongings.

The method involves placing stickers on reserved chairs starting around 10 a.m. If unoccupied an hour later, crew members clear items to allow access for other guests. This policy has been positively received by cruisers.

Official Policies

NCL’s website states clearly that pool, deck, and theater chairs may not be reserved. It further prohibits topless sunbathing, boom boxes, loud radios, and certain recreational equipment, except for mobility aids verified by the ship’s management.

Passenger Opinions

Cruise passengers have discussed the issue on social media platforms such as Facebook, Reddit, and Instagram. Opinions vary, with some advocating for simply removing unattended items, while others suggest leaving the task to staff members.

A passenger cited personal experience, detailing how her husband removed items to claim a chair. Another responder advised against touching others’ belongings, recommending staff intervention.

User Feedback

Many passengers favor timestamp systems to monitor usage, distinguishing between those actively using facilities and those absent while reserving chairs. This approach aligns with comments from cruisers on Reddit, highlighting entitlement as a contributing factor to chair hogging.

Passengers have responded positively to clear enforcement, appreciating the ability to enjoy shared spaces more freely.