Do Cruise Ships Provide Hair Dryers in Cabins? 

Planning a cruise and wondering whether you need to pack a hair dryer? You’re not alone as hair care is a concern for many travelers stepping aboard. The good news? Most cruise ships come equipped with hair dryers in their cabins, much like standard hotel rooms. But before you toss that bulky dryer out of your suitcase, let’s dive into what you can expect, where to find them, and whether they’ll meet your styling needs.

Hair Dryers: A Cruise Ship Standard

Across major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and Celebrity, hair dryers are a staple in nearly every stateroom. You’ll typically find them in one of two spots:

• Mounted on the Wall: Often in the bathroom or near the vanity, these are compact and convenient, with a short spiral cord designed for safety and space efficiency.
• In a Drawer: Some ships stash portable hair dryers in the desk or vanity drawer. Check there if you don’t spot one right away.

For example, on Carnival’s newest ships, expect a 1250-watt dryer tucked into the dressing area, while Royal Caribbean offers wall-mounted units near the desk. Norwegian stands out with slightly more powerful models (up to 1800 watts in some cases), adjustable for heat and speed—a rarity among cruise-provided dryers.

Exceptions to the Rule

While hair dryers are standard, there are outliers. Older ships, like Carnival’s Ecstasy or Elation, might not have them in every cabin due to dated designs. No need to panic—loaner dryers are usually available on each deck; just ask your cabin steward. Viking Cruises also muddies the waters: their prohibited items list bans most heat-producing devices but allows curling irons, leaving hair dryers in a gray area. That said, Viking cabins typically include decent 220-volt dryers, so you’re covered.

Quality Check: Will They Work for You?

Cruise ship hair dryers are functional but basic; think budget hotel quality. Most clock in at 1100–1800 watts with low to medium heat, adequate for quick drying if you’ve got short or fine hair. However, if you have long, thick, or curly locks, you might find them underpowered. Styling options are limited too. There are no cool-shot buttons or diffuser attachments here. Passengers on X have noted mixed experiences: one cruiser raved about Norwegian’s “surprisingly strong” dryer, while another called Carnival’s “a glorified fan.”

Can You Bring Your Own?

Yes! All major cruise lines permit personal hair dryers in 2025, alongside other grooming tools like curling irons and straighteners. Safety will be key. Any damaged cords or high-wattage models (over 2000 watts) might raise eyebrows at security. 

Tip: Pack a compact travel dryer (like the Conair 1600W with a folding handle) to save space and ensure compatibility with cabin outlets (usually 110V in the U.S., 220V on European lines). Some cruisers on newer ships, like Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, report finicky outlets rejecting high-powered devices—so test yours early.

Why It MattersA reliable hair dryer can make or break your cruise vibe. Between pool dips, humid ports, and formal nights, you’ll want your hair on point. 

Cruise lines know this, hair dryers are as expected as towels or soap these days. Still, if you’re picky about heat settings or need a diffuser for curls, bringing your own guarantees peace of mind.

Pro Tips for Hair Care at Sea

Check Ahead: Contact your cruise line or peek at their FAQ to confirm your ship’s setup—refurbished vessels often upgrade amenities.

Outlet Strategy: Cabins are notorious for sparse plugs. A non-surge-protected power strip with USB ports (cruise-approved) can charge your phone and power your dryer.

Low-Maintenance Looks: Embrace braids or buns for humid days; they’re chic and dryer-free.

The Verdict

In 2025, you can count on a hair dryer in your cruise cabin 9 times out of 10. They’re not salon-grade, but they get the job done for most. If you’re a styling aficionado or just can’t risk a weak blowout, pack your trusty dryer from home. Either way, you’ll step off the gangway looking fabulous, because a cruise is all about feeling your best, from bow to stern.