Everyone has a different idea of what makes a great vacation, from beach breaks to afternoon naps to delicious dining. For some travelers, uninterrupted sessions with a favorite video game can be a great way to relax.

But why can’t video game systems be hooked up to televisions on cruise ships? While some guests would like that connectivity, it just isn’t possible, and Carnival Cruise Line is explaining why.

The explanation comes following a guest’s question to John Heald, the cruise line’s official brand ambassador.

“Why don’t you people at Carnival allow the use of the HDMI port [on the television]? Why are we banned from plugging in a game system or laptop to play or watch something?” the guest asked.

“I can’t be the only one whose cruise experience is blighted by this. 76% of adults in the USA played video games on at least one platform last year. Carnival is stopping 76% of adults cruising with Carnival then?”

Wow. Well, let’s see… “you people” may not be the most polite way to address anyone, but Heald still manages to respond with his characteristic British politeness.

“Thank you mate and you are correct, we do not have the HDMI facility on our cabin televisions,” he said.

It does not matter what type of game system, account stick, or other device guests may want to hook up to their stateroom televisions, such connections are not permitted.

“I suspect that there are reasons that include safety, liability, and perhaps protection against viruses,” Heald noted as explanation.

Other commenters have mentioned several other considerations that might also be explanations for why guests cannot hook up their own game systems or other equipment. Compatibility can be a concern and complaints to guest services or crew members if systems don’t work might be too troublesome.

The overall amount of available bandwidth for streaming, potential signal interference, and physical damage to ports could also be reasons why hookups aren’t permitted.

Furthermore, many stateroom televisions are too small for a truly exceptional gaming experience anyway.

Of course, the original poster’s assertion that 76% of US adults play video games does seem a bit overstated, another comment Heald mentioned.

“Another percentage which perhaps seems a little high,” he said, before asking his more than 600,000 followers about gaming. “Are you a gamer on your cruise and do you watch videos you have downloaded?”

It is possible the 76% is meant to include any and all types of video games, from simple cell phone games or free games online to massive multi-player immersive games. I do play a few older games myself, but have no interest in doing so on a cruise ship.

Other guests tend to agree, and while some might enjoy playing games, many note that a cruise is a great time to unplug and enjoy time with family doing things you aren’t able to do at home.

What About the Onboard Arcade?

Heald followed up on the conversation with his daily poll, suggesting the onboard video game arcade as an option for gaming-minded guests. Specifically, he inquired whether or not adults are interested in the arcades.

“Adults do not want to play the games that you have in the arcade. Adult gamers are different, which is why we must have the hook up,” one poll choice stated. “I am an adult and I never use the arcade because of the selection of games there.”

Just two percent of the more than 43,000 votes cast – roughly 870 votes – agree that the hookups are necessary and the arcades don’t have a good selection.

In contrast, 10% of adult voters – approximately 4,300 votes – do enjoy the onboard arcade now and then. This is where my vote is cast, because I enjoy the occasional game of air hockey, Skeeball, or classic (I refuse to admit “vintage”) games.

Did You Know? – Carnival Arcade Package Offers Significant Savings

A full 20% – roughly 8,700 votes – note that they really don’t care to play in the arcade on a cruise anyway.

“It’s not really my thing,” the vote choice confirmed.

It’s true that the onboard arcades can be fairly small so the selection of games is somewhat limited. Additional games, including popular gaming systems, may be available in the Circle C or Club O2 youth clubs, but adults are not permitted to spend time in those spaces.

Of course, guests can also opt to purchase internet packages to enjoy whatever online fun they like on their own devices, no television hookup required.

Carnival Cruise Line Explains Why TV Hookups Are Not Permitted