I, too, appreciate not having this thread "closed" as it was on CC (a similiar thread was started yesterday and closed within hours). Thank you "DougW" for the explanation about not offending advertisers -- they must have tobacco industry backing as they permit endless Regent-bashing on other subjects.

"ChatKat" mentioned that several Oceania passengers were former Regent customers that left because of the smoking policy. This was a bit confusing since Regent's current policy is quite liberal.

While I'm extremely pleased with tne new policy, I understand the other side -- somewhat. One point I don't think has been brought up is the wear and tear on the suites. When I smoked (in my prior life) the windows in my car/house would be covered with a film. Also, no matter how cautious a person is, cigarette burns are almost inevitable on carpeting, wood, etc.

It is refreshing to be able to read all sides. I'm still laughing at "kirkys" post about a person getting drunk, letting the cigarette fall and starting a fire . . . yet, alcohol isn't banned (don't think the fire was funny -- just that it sounded as if alcohol, rather than the cigarette, started the fire). Guess it's one of those things that is better before it's explained.

While I don't feel Regent will be impacted financially from being the first to announce this change, it will be a more even playing field when most ships have similiar policies.