Being both an avid non-smoker and Libertarian, I find this thread most interesting. I really could argue both sides and think you all make good points.

I found this article on line .... it may give insight into Regent's decision and the way the entire cruise industry may go..

"Mark Conroy: There is currently legislation pending in the U.K. and Europe that may ban smoking on balconies and even in the staterooms.

(NOTE: Mr. Conroy's comment about pending legislation in the U.K. and Europe that could affect smoking regulations on balconies is most intriguing, as it could lead to dramatic changes for ships sailing within those areas. Whether such legislation could be enforced on ships sailing in international waters, and which are registered in other countries, could certainly lead to some interesting legal arguments.)

The bottom line is that smoking policies on ships are most certainly in a state of flux, with a significant trend to more areas onboard being designated smoke-free. We'll have to wait and see if this ever evolves into a rebirth of Carnival's earlier attempt at a totally smoke-free cruise ship."

Here is another article:
On a related "wellness" note, Deilmann has also announced that it will be expanding the no-smoking policy on its nine river ships to include all areas inside the vessels, beginning in 2008. Smoking will now be permitted only on the open decks.

"We are happy to have our river ships smoke free now that the laws in Europe are evolving to ban smoking indoors," said Ron Santangelo, Deilmann's North America president. "This change fits surprisingly well with the growing interests of the majority of Americans, who seem to prefer non-smoking environments."