Why did MSC Cruises ban smart glasses on their ships?

MSC Cruises banned smart glasses in public areas to protect guest and crew privacy from potential covert recording or data transmission.

Are smart glasses completely banned on MSC Cruises?

No, smart glasses are permitted on MSC Cruises ships but are only allowed in private cabins, ashore, and other non-public spaces.

What are other cruise lines' policies on smart glasses?

Policies vary; Carnival Cruise Line permits them in public areas with some restrictions, while MSC Cruises has a broader ban in public spaces.

Home / Technology / Cruise Ship Bans Smart Glasses: Privacy or Paranoia?

Cruise Ship Bans Smart Glasses: Privacy or Paranoia?

13 Dec, 2025

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Summary

MSC Cruises banned smart glasses from public ship areas.
The ban aims to protect guest and crew privacy from recording.
Other cruise lines and airlines have varied policies on smart eyewear.

Cruise Ship Bans Smart Glasses: Privacy or Paranoia?

MSC Cruises has instituted a ban on smart glasses and similar data-recording devices in public areas across its fleet. This policy, which took effect recently, restricts the use of such technology to private cabins and ashore, aiming to safeguard the privacy of all passengers and crew members. MSC stated the ban allows security teams to intervene if misuse occurs.

This move by MSC Cruises contrasts with the policies of other travel companies. Carnival Cruise Line permits smart glasses in public areas with specific limitations during gangway operations. Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines prohibits its employees from wearing smart eyewear while working. These varied approaches highlight the evolving considerations around wearable technology in public spaces.

In contrast, Disney is exploring the potential of smart glasses to enhance guest experiences through augmented reality. Walt Disney Imagineering sees opportunities to overlay digital content and provide practical information without distracting visitors. This forward-thinking approach underscores the diverse ways businesses are integrating or restricting smart eyewear.