MSC Cruises has updated its onboard security policies to prohibit the use of smart glasses and other discreet recording devices in public areas across its fleet, citing privacy and safety concerns.
According to the cruise line’s luggage and prohibited items policy, devices capable of covert or unobtrusive recording, including smart glasses, are not permitted in shipboard public spaces.
The restriction applies regardless of brand and includes wearable technology such as Google Glass, Meta Ray-Ban Stories, and AI-enabled glasses.
Hard Line Drawn
While guests may still carry smartphones, cameras, and other visible recording devices, MSC Cruises draws a distinction between traditional equipment and wearable technology that may record without the knowledge of nearby passengers or crew.
Port security teams are authorized to confiscate prohibited items during screening or onboard inspections.
MSC notes that these measures are intended to prevent unauthorized recording in sensitive or communal environments, including spa facilities, restrooms, and restricted operational areas.
The policy change follows broader industry discussions about privacy as wearable technology becomes more advanced and less noticeable.
Cruise lines have increasingly emphasized passenger comfort and consent, particularly in crowded shared spaces where recording may be difficult to detect.
MSC Cruises has not indicated whether guests may store smart glasses in their cabins for personal use outside public areas, and travellers are advised to review the most current prohibited items list prior to embarkation.
Cruise Lines Crack Down On Prohibited Items
Cruise lines are constantly updating their rules on permitted and prohibited items as new tech becomes more widespread, but also as new complaints become apparent.
A recent move by Carnival saw portable speakers banned from cruises due to their misuse, with several cruisers complaining about the music others were playing at high volume.
Some cruisers pushed back against the ban and called it unfair, although the cruise line justified its decision by saying that portable speakers could drown out important announcements over the ship’s own speaker system.
The ban on smart glasses from MSC is likely to spread to other cruise lines, and cruisers should always check the latest list of banned items when packing for any sailing to avoid awkward conversations at security.
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