Cruise & Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line Updates a Policy for Crew Members

Image: Norwegian Gem at the new NCL Terminal in PortMiami. (photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
Image: Norwegian Gem at the new NCL Terminal in PortMiami. (photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
Rich Thomaselli
by Rich Thomaselli
Last updated: 1:20 PM ET, Wed July 5, 2023

Depending on where it is and what it says, tattoos are now allowed for crew members on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL).

NCL has updated its grooming policy for crew members, including tattoos, facial hair and jewelry.

The guidelines went into effect on July 1 and pertain to all on board crew.

Tattoos, for instance, can now be visible but not on a conspicuous body part nor can they say anything vulgar. You can’t have tattoos on the face or neck, either.

The rules are explicit and detailed.

There will be no tattoos espousing extremist views or contain racial epithets. Gang colors or symbols are out. Norwegian will decide what is sexist, extremist or vulgar.

As for facial hair, crew members may now have a mustache or goatee or chin or lip hair, as long as it is grooms and kept nicely. All facial hair must be kept trimmed. Mustaches, for example, must be the length of the lip. That means no handlebars or Fu Manchu styles.

It is not known if European female crew members, who sometimes like to go au natural, will be allowed to grow their armpit hair.

As for jewelry, you can wear up to three bracelets on your wrist but food preps and bartenders cannot wear jewelry while working. The same is true for an engaged crew member. A wedding band and engagement ring will count as one piece.

NCL is simply falling in line with other cruise lines that have similar policies. 


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Related Videos

Rich Thomaselli

Rich Thomaselli

Associate Writer

Editor Associate Writer true 9281 14744 Rich Thomaselli has written for TravelPulse since 2014 and has been a professional journalist for nearly 40 years. His work has appeared in USA Today, the New York Times and New York Yankees publications. He is an 11-time writ

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Upcoming Event
Selling More with TAP: Unlock the Value of Portugal StopoverMonday, November 9, 2026, 2:00PM EasternJoin TAP Air Portugal and Visit Portugal for an exclusive webinar dedicated to TAP's Portugal Stopover...
Upcoming Webinar
Wildlife, Culture & Warm-Weather AdventureTuesday, November 10, 2026, 2:00pm EasternFrom extraordinary wildlife encounters to vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes, discover how...
Upcoming Webinar
Black Friday Is Just the Beginning with ALG Vacations®Wednesday, November 11, 2026 2:00pm EasternJoin ALG Vacations® on November 11 for a special webinar featuring Jacki Marks, Jim Tedesco, and Ben...
Upcoming Event
Selling More with TAP: Unlock the Value of Portugal StopoverMonday, November 9, 2026, 2:00PM EasternJoin TAP Air Portugal and Visit Portugal for an exclusive webinar dedicated to TAP's Portugal Stopover...
Upcoming Webinar
Wildlife, Culture & Warm-Weather AdventureTuesday, November 10, 2026, 2:00pm EasternFrom extraordinary wildlife encounters to vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes, discover how...
Upcoming Webinar
Black Friday Is Just the Beginning with ALG Vacations®Wednesday, November 11, 2026 2:00pm EasternJoin ALG Vacations® on November 11 for a special webinar featuring Jacki Marks, Jim Tedesco, and Ben...