MIAMI, Dec. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Vacationers who light up on Carnival Cruise
Lines' new smoke-free ship, the MS Paradise, which set sail from Miami
yesterday on its inaugural Caribbean cruise, may find it's the most expensive
cigarette they've ever smoked. Not only will it result in a premature end to
their vacation, but also in a payment of $250 in "liquidated damages" -- for
each infraction.
"We made it clear eighteen months ago that Paradise would be completely
smoke-free and we intend to be very stringent in enforcing that policy," said
Carnival President Bob Dickinson. He added that there are 12 other ships in
the Carnival fleet on which smoking is allowed.
Guests who violate the no-smoking policy will be required to disembark at
the next port of call and return home at their own expense. They will not be
entitled to any refund of their cruise fare. Also, for every infraction, $250
in "liquidated damages" will be charged to the guest's Sail & Sign account.
"Liquidated damages" is a legal term which, in this instance, refers to an
agreed upon reasonable estimate for damages Carnival will incur as a result of
a violation of the no-smoking policy.
Guests who sail on the Paradise will receive with their cruise tickets an
agreement letter which defines the non-smoking policy and requires the guest's
signature. Additionally, the Paradise passenger ticket contract includes a
clause on the no-smoking policy and violation penalties.
The Paradise began year-round service Dec. 6, 1998, operating seven-day
cruises from Miami, alternating weekly to the eastern and western Caribbean.
Eastern Caribbean ports include San Juan, Virgin Gorda/Tortola and St. Thomas,
while the western route visits Playa del Carmen/Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Ocho
Rios.
For additional information contact any travel agent or call
1-800-CARNIVAL. Information may also be obtained via Carnival's Web site at
http://www.carnival.com .
SOURCE Carnival Cruise Lines
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