SANTA CLARITA, CA — Princess Cruises is changing its smoking policy and smoking will no longer be allowed in passenger staterooms or on balconies, effective on all sailings departing after Jan. 15, 2012.

The new policy reflects changing customer preferences and the move around the globe – from North America to Europe – to further restrict areas where smoking is allowed, according to the line.

“Our consumer studies now show that smokers are a small minority of our passengers, and that the large majority of passengers value having their primary living space onboard smoke-free,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president.

Swartz added that balconies are included in the new policy because they are a hallmark feature of Princess ships, and the line believes it’s important to keep that peaceful space clear of smoke.

She added that Princess still welcomes passengers who smoke, and will continue to provide special venues around the ship to accommodate smokers. Smoking will continue to be allowed in the Churchill’s cigar lounge, a section of the disco and casino and a portion of the open decks.

Booked passengers are being notified of the new policy, which is also being communicated widely throughout the line’s informational materials.