Sea voyages are indeed dull, especially when the White Gem enters the northbound route. The outdoor temperature begins to gradually lower, making the deck unsuitable for activities. Being cooped up in the cabin feels even more tedious and boring.
Although Perfikot and the members of the exploration team still need to analyze data to prepare for the upcoming field investigation, it is clear that they can't spend all their time working.
Even Langton's most exploitative factory owner has to give workers time to go home, sleep, and eat.
So naturally, more passengers on the ship gather in the restaurant or some cabins, starting entertainment activities like playing cards.
As for smoking, they do want to, but smoking is not permitted freely on board. One must go to designated smoking areas to smoke, which are usually crowded, so one must queue to smoke.
