CRUISE SHIP CABINS

What do you expect when you take a cruise?  How much time will you spend in your cabin?  Those questions are not easy to answer until you have taken a cruise and know what to expect.  Not all cruise ships are created equal.

The cruise ship cabins can vary from small, economical inside cabins to elaborate penthouse suites, with everything in between.  Most cruise lines and cruise ships offer a wide variety of cabin choices with different levels of luxury, depending on the ship and cruise line.

What should I look for in a cruise ship cabin?

Usually, your want to know where you will be located on the ship.  On most ships, the cabins centrally located offer less motion both vertically and horizontally, which could be a consideration for those passengers that are prone to motion sickness. Some of the other important choices may be your cabin’s proximity to elevators, children’s areas, public areas, restaurants, and lounges. Most cabins are well insulated, but, you will still pick up noise if you are by a busy traffic area.

There are many categories or grades of ship cabins on each cruise ship. While the size of the cabin and its specific amenities may vary, there are no class distinctions based on cabin-type.  All of the cruise passengers are treated with the same courtesy and excellent service.  Some cabin categories allow for those guests in a higher priced cabin to avoid the long lines and disembark early when your cruise is finished.

The ship cabins are either interior cabins or exterior cabins.  Interior cabins or staterooms are generally the smallest type of cabin with most basic furnishings.  Many people prefer interior cabins because they are less expensive and dark.  When sleeping, the interior rooms are dark and as comfortable as the exterior cabins.  Some cabins may have the beds in bunk configuration which helps to maximize floor space in the cabin.

Ocean view cabins are usually larger and include either a window or a porthole, depending on the location on the ship. Most of these windows will NOT open. There are usually several categories of ocean view cabins on the same ship, depending on their location on the ship.  Some cabins will offer sofas, and bunks for additional persons and space.

Balcony cabins will provide access to private balconies for that cabin's passengers to enjoy. On some ships, exterior furnishings such as lounge chairs or a small table will be available for the guests comfort. There will be different categories of Balcony cabins and they will depend on price, category and ship location.  Some of the larger suites will have balconies that are twice and three times the normal size.

The onboard ship suites are larger cabins with luxurious furnishings.  Some of the little extras can include a small refrigerator, king-sized bed, or additional storage space, and more spacious sitting areas. Most suites include a private balcony but some of the older ships may only offer windows. Suites are usually located in prime locations of the ship, such as along central decks for less disturbance or on upper decks with less passenger traffic.

Luxury suites will be the best of the best.  They are the cabins that will or may have multiple rooms that can sleep more than five passengers, these family type suites are ideal for families or group vacations. Large sitting areas are very common place in most luxury suites, and many amenities are available, including private balconies, concierge service, private butlers, individual whirlpools, and other small to large luxuries. On the premium lines, the upper luxury suite category will be limited to a handful of suites.

These are just a few of the cabins types and styles and doing a little research will help when you book your next cruise.  For more information, please fill in our cruise quote and we will start the booking process.  No matter which type of cabin you choose, you should be aware of details that may affect the enjoyment of your cruise onboard.

Adjoining Cabins: Most ships offer a limited  number of adjoining cabins. While this is convenient for families or groups, it may be undesirable for other passengers.

Accessible Cabins: All ships offer some variety of handicap-accessible cabins that feature larger bathroom facilities and fewer barriers. Always ask a cruise line agent for details if such accommodations are required.

Obstructed Views: Because of lifeboats and other safety features, most ships have several cabins with obstructed views. They may be either ocean view or balcony cabins, and it is up to the individual line whether or not to offer those cabins at a reduced rate.

Bed Types: Types of beds differ in different cabins. Most twin beds can be converted to a single king-sized bed, and you can request this service when you book your cabin. Other beds may be either upper or lower bunks or convertible sofas. Limited cabins offer queen-sized beds.

The general types of cabins will be:

• inside cabins

• outside cabins

• balcony cabins

• suites

The amenities on each ship will differ and they will also differ widely by cruise lines.  The premium ships will try to one up each other with little things while the upscale luxury lines are in a world of there own when it comes to pampering their guests.  Some have private butlers to enrichment series to private shore excursions.  Find a cruise that fits your budget today.