Costa Cruises is facing backlash online after reports surfaced that guests could be charged a €60 cleaning fee, roughly $70, for taking buffet food back to their cabins.

According to cruise blog Crew Center, the policy was communicated to guests on select sailings as part of what the company describes as a preventive measure tied to existing onboard rules.

The cruise line, which operates under Carnival Corporation, confirmed the communication and addressed the situation in a statement to Fox News Digital, emphasizing that guest safety and well-being remain a top priority. 

A spokesperson explained that on a limited number of sailings, onboard notices were shared “as a preventive and deterrent measure” aimed at encouraging responsible behavior, suggesting the rule is not entirely new but more strictly enforced in certain cases.

The policy has sparked mixed reactions from travelers, especially as many passengers assumed buffet access included the flexibility to take food back to their cabins. Critics argue the message was not clearly communicated, while others say cruise lines have the right to enforce cleanliness standards in shared spaces.

The debate continues to grow online as guests question where the line is drawn between convenience and cruise ship policy enforcement.