The Step-by-Step Guide to Picking a Cruise Ship Cabin
- 1. How much time will I spend in the room? Balcony cabins are slightly larger than ocean views. ...
- 2. Is saving money the priority? ...
- 3. Do I need a full view? ...
- 4. Do I need outdoor space? ...
- 5. What part of the ship will I visit the most? ...
- 6. Do any cabin categories offer additional amenities? ...
- 7. How mobile are those in my party? ...
Full Answer
How do I choose the best cabin on a cruise?
When planning your next cruise, study the layout and architecture of the ship's deck plans before selecting your cabin. Query your travel agent and others who have sailed the ship. Think about what is important to you and consider the cost differential. If your vacation time is limited, you might want to spend a few more dollars for a better cabin.
Where is the best room location on a cruise ship?
The most obvious room location for any water-lover is as close to the pool as you can get. On some cruise ships, you can get a cabin on the very same deck as the pool, so it's out your door and a quick stroll to paradise.
What are the different cabins on a cruise ship?
Forward Cabins – the front facing balconied cabins, all are premium or VIP suites Midship Cabins– standard cabins, apart from forward and aft cabins Aft Cabins– located at the back of the ship, almost cabins are suits. The edge cabins at a corner have with a bigger balcony. Upper deck cabins– the topmost decks on a ship
Can you get a cabin next to the pool on cruise ships?
On some cruise ships, you can get a cabin on the very same deck as the pool, so it's out your door and a quick stroll to paradise. On other ships, you might have to get a cabin one deck below the pool, adding a minute or two or more to your cabin-to-pool commute.
Where is the best cabin position on a cruise ship?
Rear-facing balcony cabins are among the best balcony cabins on any ship. Often, their balconies are bigger than balconies on side-facing cabins and they also feel quiet. There are far fewer balcony cabins at the back of a ship than on the sides of a ship, so you don't hear a lot of noise from your neighbors.
Which section of cruise ship is best?
In general, the most popular spot to be on a cruise ship is midship on a higher deck because these rooms are centrally located. Moreover, cabins towards the middle of the ship have the reputation of providing a smoother ride when the ocean is rough.
Is it better to have a room in the front or back of a cruise ship?
The back of the ship tends to be considered the next best cabin position after midships. Whilst the front of the ship gets the most movement the back also does get some. Whilst it's nowhere near as bad as the front of the ship, you may still notice some movement in rough seas.
What is the best deck for a room on a cruise ship?
The higher the deck, the better and, often, more panoramic the view. Cabins on top decks aren't always the best on the ship, but many suites and specialty cabin categories are typically located on upper decks.
Where should you not stay on a cruise?
Cruise Ship Cabins to AvoidCabins with obstructed views. ... Cabins with a connecting door. ... Those that are close to the lifts or stairs. ... Staterooms that are too far from the lifts or stairs. ... Cabins near the laundry room. ... Beware of cabins with little privacy. ... Staterooms directly below public and entertainment areas.More items...•
Which side of the ship is better on a cruise?
The truth, though, is this: There's no “better” side of the ship. It doesn't matter where you're going, or what river you're sailing on, or even what ship you're sailing aboard. Both sides of the ship are created equal. The trouble with trying to pick a side of the ship based on something you'd like to see is this.
What deck prevents seasickness?
lower deckWhat's the best stateroom location to avoid motion sickness on a cruise? To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section.
Is it better to prepay gratuity on a cruise?
Benefits of Prepaying Gratuities By paying the charge at the same time you pay your cruise, it's one less cost that will hit your onboard account while you are cruising. Compared to the price of your cruise as a whole, the extra charge is unlikely to make a big difference financially.
Why are higher decks more expensive on cruises?
Cabins on the upper decks usually cost more than those on the lower decks. Since these cabins are nearer the pool and sun decks, they are more desirable for those on warm weather cruises who plan to use these amenities.
Is it better to be lower on a cruise ship?
More Stable – As mentioned, lower decks are more stable. They experience less motion compared to the upper decks on a ship. Close to Main Lobby – Inquiries can be placed without the need to go very far. There may be service centers that aren't found in the upper decks.
What should you not bring on a cruise?
Prohibited items:Firearms & Ammunition, including realistic replicas.Sharp Objects, including all knives and scissors. ... Illegal Drugs & Substances.CBD Oil / CBD Products.Candles, Incense, Coffee Makers, Clothes Irons, Travel Steamers & Hot Plates. ... Hoverboards.More items...
What should I bring on my first day of cruise?
5 Things to Pack for Your First CruiseExtra Bags. A day pack, a bag for dirty laundry, a plastic bag for wet bathing suits, Zip-Loc bags for snacks ... ... First-Aid Kit. ... Your Favorite (Nonalcoholic) Beverage. ... Laundry Alternatives. ... Power Strip.
What is the best location on a cruise ship to avoid seasickness?
To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section. Although it may seem counterintuitive, if you're worried about seasickness on a cruise, book a stateroom with a window or a veranda.
Which part of the cruise ship is safest?
Lower Decks This is because this part of the ship, its lowest and most central area, is the most stable during rough sea conditions.
Why are higher decks more expensive on cruises?
Cabins on the upper decks usually cost more than those on the lower decks. Since these cabins are nearer the pool and sun decks, they are more desirable for those on warm weather cruises who plan to use these amenities.
Is aft facing balcony better?
Due to their location, aft balconies can be less breezy and, therefore, hotter than regular balconies as the ship's structure blocks the wind. The view from an aft balcony is of the ship's wake; the view from side balconies is better for viewing the port (and late-returning pier runners).
Where to surround yourself on a cruise ship?
However, a general rule of thumb is to surround yourself with other passenger cabins -- on either side of you, across from you and above and below you.
Where are the aft cabins on a cruise ship?
In particular, aft cabins located on the corners of the ship often have wraparound balconies, creating enough space for chairs, loungers and sometimes a small dining table.
What to expect on accessible cruises?
Related: Accessible Cruising: What to Expect. Cabins on decks that also host passenger services or public spaces are usually harder to traverse; there will often be people milling around, blocking the walking area, so selecting a deck that only has cabins on it is advisable.
What is the penthouse suite on Celebrity Reflection?
The Penthouse Suite on Celebrity Reflection (Photo: Cruise Critic) It's that moment in the cruise booking process that requires you to select your cabin. You know you want a balcony (or inside or suite), but now you need to choose the specific room you want.
Which cruise ships have the largest balconies?
Select Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line ships fall into that category. Aft cabins typically have some of the largest balconies on a cruise ship as there are usually just a few rooms lined up along the back of a ship giving each one more space for a bigger balcony.
How do you feel the movement of a ship in the water?
The closer to the edges (top, front and back -- but not bottom) of a sea-going vessel you are, the more likely you are to feel the movement of that ship in the water. It's worst at the front of the ship, which hits the waves first and rebounds upward. (How high the resulting bounce is depends on how rough the water is.) The higher on the ship you are, the more exaggerated the up and down motion of the ship hitting the waves feels.
Can you avoid people on a cruise ship?
Best for the Mobility Impaired. Crowds are the bane of cruisers with any type of mobility impairment, and while you can't avoid people all the time on a cruise ship, you certainly can choose a cabin in a location that's easier to navigate to or from. Related: Accessible Cruising: What to Expect.
Which cruise ships have cabins at their fronts?
Some cruise vessels — particularly river ships — have cabins clustered at their backs with public areas at their fronts. Other vessels, such as those operated by Seabourn and Silversea, have cabins clustered at their fronts with public areas at their backs.
What is the best balcony cabin on a ship?
Rear-facing balcony cabins are among the best balcony cabins on any ship. Often, their balconies are bigger than balconies on side-facing cabins. And they also feel quiet. There are far fewer balcony cabins at the back of a ship than on the sides of a ship, so you don’t hear a lot of noise wafting from your neighbors.
What cabins are good for seasickness?
Midship cabins. These are the cabins that you should seek out if you’re particularly prone to seasickness. The big allure of a midship cabin is its stability. You won’t feel the rocking of the sea in a midship cabin nearly as much as you will in a cabin toward the front or back of a vessel.
Which cruise lines have spa cabins?
Lines that have designated spa cabins on all or some ships include Celebrity Cruises, Carnival, Holland America, Azamara and MSC Cruises.
Which cabins are the most stable in rough seas?
Cabins that are toward the middle of a cruise ship and low to the water are generally the most stable in rough seas. (Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)
What does it mean to be at the back of a ship?
There’s something mesmerizing about being at the back of a ship overlooking its wake. When you are in the open ocean, you can see the long trail of churned up water behind you, stretching seemingly forever like a road in the sea. It is tangible evidence of your journey. When you are pulling away from a port, you have the best view in the house.
How many ships has Gene Sloan sailed?
He’s sailed on more than 150 ships.
What is the cabin on the new Princess cruise ship?
The new Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess (June 2020) and Discovery Princess (Expected 2021) cruise ships now feature a cabin called the Sky Suite . The Sky Suite by Princess cruises are about 1870sq ft, and accommodate up to five passengers. Furthermore, it features a 270-degree wrap-around balcony with front row seating to the Movies Under The Stars. incredible service provided by a concierge.
What is an obstructed ocean view cabin?
Obstructed ocean view cabins are the same size as the inside, but they have a window. To be sure, the window does not open Also, in this category, something (tenders, cranes, rafts, etc.) obstructs the view.
What is a junior suite on a cruise?
Some cruise lines call these cabins Junior suites. These cabins are in between a balcony and a regular suite. For example, they have a larger sitting area, usually with a pull-out couch. Also, they are ideal for families with kids that can use the pull-out sofa as a bed, and the all family can share the cabin.
Do cruise ships have cabins?
Inside cabins on cruise ships cost less, much less. As a result, for longer cruises, booking inside cabins can be an excellent way to save money. Moreover, by booking an inside cabin, you can likely cruise more (think budget). Interior cabins on a cruise ship are also very dark, making them ideal to sleep-in.
Do VIP suites have the same layout as the VIP suites?
VIP Class Mini-Suites generally have the same layout of the previous type. However, the best areas on the cruise ship have the VIP Class Mini-Suites. Additionally, they may have a dedicated space at the main restaurants that allow guests to skip the line.
How to find cabins on Princess Cruises?
Go to Princess Cruises >> Select your ship >> Click the allow. Find the cabin locations and get some general ideas about the deck plans.
What is important to you and your partner when choosing a cruise ship cabin?
What is your priority is fundamental in choosing the best cruise ship cabin. Firstly and importantly, make sure the following 2 things: Motion sickness – if you have, keep the lower deck and the ship’s central staterooms for low motion.
How much difference is there between cabins on a cruise ship?
Cruise ship cabin rates are more than 25% differences between with or without a balcony. It is also the same between the balcony and window staterooms. If you do not need views from your stateroom balcony, book an inside stateroom. You can save money.
What to avoid on a cruise?
Avoid cabins under a disco, sports playground, a gym and the Lido deck (a pool and a buffet restaurant deck). The area is lively and can feel the real air of cruise. But then for sensitive people, the noise will be merely a disturbance. Imagine thousands of people are accessing, in and out day and night, at the activity decks.
Why is cabin pricing important on a cruise ship?
Cruise ship cabin pricing is absolutely important. Different people have different ideas about money to spend on a vacation. More importantly, deciding a budget is the first thing to do. Budget is a comfortable amount of money you can spend on a vacation.
What happens if you are not happy with your cruise?
If you are not happy with certain things about a stateroom on a cruise ship or even your partner isn’t, your cruise vacation turns out a disaster.
Which is cheaper, upper deck or lower deck?
The lower deck cabins are cheaper than the upper deck cabins. The cheapest cabins are the lower deck interior room on a cruise ship. The cabin size is also the smallest. If you plan to save money, the interior lower deck cabin is the best. The upper deck cabins are most cool and are more expensive.
How to choose a cabin on a cruise ship?
If scenery is important to you, take a good look at your cruise itinerary before selecting your cabin, specifically if you are choosing an outside or balcony . On a roundtrip Caribbean cruise or a transatlantic crossing, for example, the side of the ship you are on doesn't really matter. If, on the other hand, you are doing a one-way sailing (such as a southbound Alaska cruise or a trip from Barcelona to Rome), you might want to consider choosing a cabin on the side of the ship that faces the land. Sometimes the views can be breathtaking, and you won't get those views from the cabins that face out to the open sea.
Where to find cabins on a ship?
The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balconied stateroom, choose the lowest level and the most midship one you can find. The higher decks and cabins at the very front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.
What is the difference between a cabin and a balcony?
On many ships, basic inside and outside cabins are usually the same size, the difference being that one has a porthole or picture window to let in natural light. Balcony cabins can also be the same size as standard insides and outsides, with the addition of the outdoor space on the verandah; sometimes the interior space is larger.
What do cabins come with?
All cabins come with basic amenities, such as the services of a cabin steward to clean your room and turn down the beds, soap and shampoo in the bathroom, individual climate control, etc. But certain categories of stateroom come with added perks.
What is a cruise cabin called?
Your room on a cruise ship is called a cabin (or stateroom) and is akin to a hotel room, but typically much smaller. Choosing a cruise ship cabin can be fun and challenging at the same time, and not just a little bit frustrating on occasion. Cabins fall into different types or "categories," and some cruise lines will present as many as 20 ...
What are the pitfalls of cabins?
Other pitfalls include service areas adjacent to or above your stateroom; show lounges or bars adjacent to, above or below your stateroom; and self-service launderettes across from your cabin. Other cabins that can be problematic are those that are situated low and at the back (because of their proximity to engine noise, vibration and anchor) or low and forward (because of bow thrusters).
What is a suite cabin?
Suite: a larger cabin, often with separate living and sleeping areas, and a wide variety of extra amenities and perks. It's the permutations (size, view, location, amenities and price, for example) of the four basic cabin types that can make choosing difficult.
What is the most important decision you make when planning a cruise?
When planning your cruise, choosing a stateroom is one of the most important decisions you will make. There are secrets to discovering the best cruise ship cabins - DeckPlanGenius.com helps you discover:
Who is responsible for obtaining the proper documentation for travel?
All passengers regardless of their home country, citizenship or country of residency are responsible for obtaining the proper documentation for travel. This includes passports
Do cruise lines sell to non-US residents?
Unless you are considering one of our custom cruise itineraries, certain cruise lines prohibit US-based travel agencies from selling to non-US residents.
How long before cruise ship to see cabins?
Sixty to 90 days out is often the sweet spot, when final payments have come due and cruise lines can see which cabins remain empty. Start your deal hunt three months before departure, knowing it might be weeks before you start to see deals on unsold cabins.
What tactic do cruise lines use to fill unsold cabins?
Another tactic cruise lines use to fill unsold cabins is to offer upgrades. Upgrade offers can show up in various ways.
What does "upgraded" mean on a cruise?
When a mid-level cabin category is selling out, but higher-category cabins have availability, some cruise lines will reach out individually to booked passengers and offer them an upgrade for a reduced price. Cruise fans refer to these offers as calls from the Upgrade Fairy.
How to find out about cruise deals?
You’ll only find out about these deals if you’re on the agency’s email list. Sometimes, the discounts are so secret, you can only find out by calling or having an agent reach out to you because they know your travel interests.
What is a guarantee cabin?
In most cases, a guarantee cabin offers a reduced cruise fare in exchange for the cruise line picking your specific cabin location.
How to get discounts on cruises?
Set yourself up to receive these discounts by joining the loyalty program of every cruise line you sail and subscribing to promotional emails. The more you sail on one line, the better chance you have of being offered exclusive discounts.
How many passengers can you have on Oasis of the Seas?
For example, Oasis of the Seas has a capacity of 5,606 passengers at double occupancy, but has a maximum guest capacity of 6,699 passengers. When cruise lines talk about sailing full, they are generally referencing the double-occupancy number, which refers to the number of cabins that are booked.
What are the different types of cabins I can book on a cruise?
When you book a hotel or resort, your choices might include one king bed or two queen beds; garden view or beach view; a standard room, suite or perhaps a villa or casita. On cruise ships, the basic cabin categories are inside, outside (often called ocean view), balcony and suite — but there are subcategories, as well.
What are the cheapest cruise ship cabins?
If you’re on a budget, windowless inside cabins are nearly always the cheapest option. But how do you find the most affordable rooms within other cabin categories?
What specialty cabins should I know about?
Within each basic type of cabin, you will find specialty cabins aimed at certain types of cruisers. These tend to be a little more expensive than the basic cabin in the same category, but come with perks that can enhance your vacation.
Does it matter where my cabin is on the ship?
For some cruisers, any room will do. For others, scoring the best cabin location is vitally important because your enjoyment of the cruise is at stake.
