Miss Manners: How would you deal with a bad-smelling couple on a cruise?

"DEAR MISS MANNERS: We are frequent cruisers. That means we share spaces such as elevators, dining rooms, theaters, lounges, etc., with fellow cruisers we don't know. We have always had pleasant times interacting with others. On our most recent cruise, we encountered an older couple sometimes in the elevators, sometimes in our top-tier lounge who either don't shower, don't use deodorant, or both. The body odor was overwhelming."

"GENTLE READER: While you are right that any actions taken will depend on the relationship of the actor to the odiferous couple, let us be clear that there is no positive duty for you to act. It would be rude of you as you do not know this couple or their circumstances to presume to speak to them about the situation, although you are free to ask guest services to reseat you if you find yourself at their table."

Frequent cruisers encountered an older couple whose strong body odor, likely from lack of showering or deodorant, was noticeable within ten feet and caused other passengers to move away. Passengers avoided proximity by leaving areas, selecting different elevator stops, and avoiding shared dining. Confronting unfamiliar strangers about personal hygiene is discouraged as presumptuous and rude given unknown circumstances. Guests may ask guest services to reseat them if necessary. Cruise staff, including senior officers, are expected to remain polite and endure unpleasant odors. Passengers should avoid exchanging knowing looks that the affected individuals could perceive.

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