Understanding Cruise Cabin Categories: What to Expect
Choosing the destination for your cruise is only one of the decisions that you’ll face when it comes to making a booking. One of the other things that you will need to think about is the category of cabin that you want, which can be quite the task.
The prices of the cruise cabins may have some impact on your choice, but it’s important to consider what it is that you’re paying for to ensure you get the best one for your budget. In this short guide, we will look at the different cruise cabin categories and what you can expect from each. This should help you find the best option for your needs.
General cruise cabins
Like a good hotel room, all cruise cabins have an en-suite bathroom, together with the normal fixtures and fittings you might expect in a bedroom. The size and amenities will vary from one cabin type to another within the same ship.
Interior cabins
Interior cabins are defined by a lack of windows, being built into the bulk of the ship. This may be an issue for some travellers but there is plenty to do onboard, meaning you may not spend much time in your cabin anyway. Interior cabins are usually smaller so are less expensive than other cabins onboard. It’s worth considering looking at unsold interior cruise cabins if you’re looking for a budget break. You’ll likely find that there are some steal options if you book close to departure.
Oceanview cabins
An oceanview, or sea view cabin has a porthole or a window allowing views of the ocean and landscape outside. They are often similar in layout to an interior cabin, however with the benefit of natural light. This makes them a more popular choice with many travellers who prefer the idea of being able to see out. The additional light does mean that these cabins cost a bit more than interiors.
Balcony Cabins
Sometimes referred to as veranda cabins, these cabins have a small outside space accessed through a sliding door. This area will usually have some form of seating. Balcony cabins are larger than interior and outside cabins, have more natural light and fresh air, therefore being more expensive.
Suite cabins
These are the most luxurious and the best cabins you will find on a cruise ship. They are larger and more expensive than other cabin types. You will often find that they have separate living and sleeping areas, large balconies, and a range of additional amenities that you will not find with the other cabin types, such as butler service etc..
General information on cabin location
The location of your cabin will have an impact on how much motion you will feel. Cabins on the lower decks, located towards the centre of the ship, will be the most stable. The forward part of the ship is where you will experience the most movement and the higher the deck the more pronounced any motion might be. This is something you may want to consider when choosing a cabin. You might also wish to look at cruise line cabin reviews to see what you’d expect from each type. These can differ between lines.
In addition to considering your budget, you should think about your space requirements, how important natural light is to you and how much the motion of the ship may affect your comfort during your cruising experience. You should be able to see where different cabins are placed on a plan of a cruise ship to help you make the best choice possible.
