This is your ultimate guide to picking the perfect cruise cabin, from finding the best sailings to how to pick the best location onboard.
The perfect cruise cabin isn't just a place to rest your head: it's your personal retreat at sea. Part art, part science, there’s more to cabin selection than meets the eye. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options, sprawling luxury suites (champagne and caviar included) or something in between, this guide will help you find your voyage’s perfect retreat.
Ready to get sea-rious? Read on to discover how to pick the perfect cruise cabin.
How to pick the perfect cruise cabin type
Cruise ships offer accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from cosy economical cabins to suites that rival the finest hotels. Here’s what you need to know.
Interior cabins
The most affordable option, these windowless rooms are tucked away along the ship's inner corridors. They’re compact and ideal for those who want to spend most of their time exploring the ship. Some, like those on Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line, even feature "virtual balcony" projections displaying live feeds of the ship’s wake, offering interior guests a connection to the outside world.
Oceanview cabins
With a window or porthole, oceanview cabins offer natural light and are generally more spacious than interior rooms. On modern ships, these rooms are typically found lower down, as balcony cabins occupy the majority of the ship's upper decks. When booking an oceanview cabin be wary of obstructed views – some cabins might have lifeboats or structural elements blocking your vision of the sea beyond.
Balcony cabins
These rooms feature private balconies where you can relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Perfect for those who like to take a morning coffee while watching the horizon, balcony cabins are the most popular accommodation at sea and can be found all over the ship. The priciest cabins – like those with wraparound views at the aft (the ship's rear) – tend to book up fast. Keep in mind that the balcony's size is often included in the cabin’s total square meterage, and some ships offer cabins with direct access to the promenade deck; many of the largest ships, including the massive MSC World Europa, offer balconies overlooking an internal courtyard or promenade, rather than the ocean.
Suite cabins
The crème de la crème of cruise accommodation, suites are the most spacious and luxurious cabin type, offering extra amenities and services, perfect for those seeking an especially indulgent experience at sea. Common features include separate bedrooms, expansive wraparound balconies and even personal butlers. Suites often come with perks like upgraded toiletries, the ability to make more dining reservations at specialty restaurants, laundry services, expedited embarkation and disembarkation, alcoholic minibars replenished daily, concierge services and entry to exclusive lounges reserved only for suite guests, such as Cunard Cruise Line’s Queens Grill or The Retreat onboard Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge.
Picking the perfect cruise cabin location
Beyond the type of cabin, where you stay on the ship matters.
Top or bottom
Lower-deck cabins are often more affordable and experience less motion, making them ideal for travellers prone to seasickness. However, they’re usually farther from key amenities, so be prepared for additional time spent walking or waiting for elevators. Higher deck cabins offer superior views from your balcony or suite, plus have easier access to many of the ship's facilities – just keep in mind that you’re more likely to feel the ship’s movement.
Middle deck
For the best of both worlds, middle decks provide easy access to the ship's attractions while reducing the chance of feeling too much movement in rough seas.
Front, centre or back
Cabins at the front or rear of the ship will experience more motion, especially in choppy seas. If your voyage itinerary has a lot of sea days, mid-ship cabins are your best bet for a smoother ride. Plus, you'll be closer to the ship's restaurants, pools and theatres.
Starboard or port
In cruise terms, "port" refers to the left side and "starboard" the right when facing the ship’s front. While it’s hard to predict which side will have the best view at every port, certain itineraries make choosing a side more important. On Alaskan or Mediterranean cruises, for instance, picking the right side could mean watching whales breach from the comfort of your balcony.
How to pick a cruise cabin for travellers with mobility needs
For guests with mobility assistance, or those needing to be closer to the ship's facilities, choose a cabin near central lifts or main amenities. These cabins are great for those with mobility requirements. The only downside is that these areas can be a bit noisier due to higher foot traffic.
Before booking, check the ship’s layout online to find the cabin that works best for your needs, ensuring your cruise is as enjoyable as possible.
How much time will you spend in your cabin?
When choosing your cabin, think about what you want from your cruise. Your cabin is your home base – no matter where or when you’re sailing, it’s essential to be comfortable. Consider the space you'll need to feel at ease – if you're used to city living and compact spaces, a smaller cabin might suit you just fine, whereas those accustomed to more room may prefer a more spacious suite.
Also worth consideration is how you’ll use your cabin. If you’re planning to unwind with a good book in the afternoons or retreat to your room after dinner, extra space may be an important consideration. But if you intend to spend most of your time by the pool or enjoying the ship’s nightlife, size might not be your top priority – save your extra budget for shore excursions, spa treatments or specialty dining.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out Which Cruise Line is the Best for You?
Feature image: Cunard Cruise Line's Britannia Stateroom.
