Exploring a destination on two wheels is a fantastic way to see the sights, but whether you can bring your own bicycle on board depends entirely on the cruise line’s specific safety and space policies.
While most mainstream cruise lines prohibit standard, full-sized bicycles, several lines are "bike-friendly" and permit compact, folding bicycles. Below, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the cruise lines sold by Iglu Cruise and their current status regarding guest bicycles.
| Cruise Line | Status for Bringing Your Own Bicycle | Note |
|---|---|---|
| P&O Cruises | Prohibited | Explicitly bans electric bicycles; standard bikes are generally not permitted. |
| Princess Cruises | Prohibited | Banned all bicycles from guest luggage in 2019. |
| Norwegian (NCL) | Prohibited | Listed as a "Wheeled Recreational Equipment" ban. |
| Disney Cruise Line | Prohibited | Strictly forbidden along with scooters and skateboards. |
| Marella Cruises | Prohibited | "Unfortunately, you won't be able to bring your own bike onboard." |
| Carnival Cruise Line | Prohibited | All bicycles (except those for mobility assistance) are banned. |
| Costa Cruises | Prohibited | Bicycles are not permitted in guest luggage. |
| MSC Cruises | Prohibited | Generally banned from use and storage in cabins. |
| Royal Caribbean | Case-by-Case | Officially lists "Sporting Equipment" as allowed if stored in cabin, but "Recreational Vehicles" are banned. Folding bikes in cases are often tolerated, but check first. |
| Celebrity Cruises | Case-by-Case | Often allowed if stored in the cabin (ideally a veranda), but requires guest relations' permission in advance. |
| Virgin Voyages | Prior Approval | Bicycles are on the prohibited list but allow for "exceptions with company approval pre-voyage." |
| Holland America | Allowed (Folding) | Specifically allows portable folding bikes with tires up to 20 inches. |
| Saga Cruises | Provided Onboard | Does not encourage bringing your own, as they provide 60+ MATE X e-bikes per ship for free use. |
| Seabourn | Provided Onboard | Expedition ships (Venture class) carry their own e-bikes and mountain bikes for guest use. |
| Azamara | Provided Onboard | Typically carries a fleet of ~16 bikes for "Bike Local" excursions. |
| Silversea | Provided Onboard | Many ships are currently being upgraded with e-bike fleets for guest use. |
| River Cruises | Allowed / Provided | AmaWaterways, Scenic, and Uniworld typically provide bicycles for guests and sometimes allow you to bring your own if space permits (contact required). |
Important considerations for cyclists
Before packing your bike, please keep the following safety and operational rules in mind:
1. The "Folding" rule
On lines where bicycles are permitted (such as Cunard or Fred. Olsen), they must be folding bicycles that can be stored entirely within your stateroom. Bicycles are strictly prohibited from being stored on balconies, in corridors, or in public areas as they represent a trip hazard and a fire safety risk.
2. Electric bicycles (E-Bikes)
Due to strict maritime safety regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries, many cruise lines that allow standard folding bikes may still prohibit e-bikes. If you plan to bring an electric bicycle, you must contact our Customer Care team or the cruise line directly to verify their current battery safety policy.
3. Tendering ports
Even on bike-friendly cruise lines, you may not be able to take your bicycle ashore at "tender ports" (where the ship anchors offshore and uses small boats to reach the pier). For safety reasons, bicycles are usually only permitted to be taken off the ship when it is docked alongside a quay.
4. Onboard facilities
If you cannot bring your own bike, many modern ships offer high-spec stationary bikes in their fitness centres. Additionally, several luxury and river cruise lines provide a fleet of bicycles for guests to use free of charge during port visits.
Note: Cruise line policies are subject to change. We recommend confirming with your specific cruise line at the time of booking if you intend to travel with a bicycle.
5. Alternatives
For those cruise lines that don't allow you to take your own bike on board, many ports will offer bicycle hire. Or why not check whether you can book a cycling shore excursion with Venture Ashore?