Avoid These Cruise Ship Cabins for a Better Experience: A Comprehensive Guide 

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Imagine going on a journey across the ocean while standing on the deck and watching the sunset; you will feel relieved. After enjoying the mesmerizing view of the ocean, you will retreat to your cabin. But wait, choosing the wrong cruise ship cabin can literally ruin your entire journey. So, we have given a complete breakdown of which cruise ship cabins you should avoid.

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Interior Cabins on Lower Decks

Interior cabin on lower deck
AleWi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It is true that interior cabins on lower decks are budget-friendly, but it is not a good deal for you personally. Lower decks are close to the ships’ engines, which increases the chances of getting motion sickness.

Also, all the fun activities, including pools, spas, and restaurants, are usually on the upper deck of cruise ships, which can be hectic for you to reach. Moreover, interior cabins on lower decks lack windows, which destroys the very purpose of a relaxing cruise! 

Why You Should Avoid👎:   

  • Motion sickness 
  • Less scenic views 
  • Noisy atmosphere 
  • Limited access to the ship’s amenities 

Tip💡: The best way to avoid an interior cabin on the lower deck is to pre-book in advance and secure a sea-facing stateroom. You can also talk to your cruise line operator and request an upgrade. 

Cabins Close to Casinos and Clubs 

Cabin close to Casino on cruise ship
Image by steve estvanik/shutterstock

The worst thing about getting a cabin close to a casino or a club is the noise disturbance. People are constantly talking and dancing till late at night with music blasting. This is not what you want to listen to before going to bed. 

Moreover, in certain casinos, smoking is allowed, which can create a lingering smell that gets to your cabins. You should definitely avoid cruise ship cabins that are close to casinos and clubs.

Why You Should Avoid👎:   

  • Noise disturbance 
  • Smoke exposure 
  • Lack of privacy 

Tip💡: Before selecting a cabin, check for “Quiet Zone” or “Serenity Deck Area.” Also, please request a cabin away from the entertainment zone.  

Rooms near Elevators or Stairwells 

Cabin near elevator
Image by Solarisys/shutterstock

The constant movement of people through elevators and stairwells will make you cover your ears. The sound of elevator doors opening and closing, as well as footsteps during peak hours, will make you regret selecting such rooms.  

Some rooms that are close to elevators or stairwells are near cleaning closets or crew-only access points. So, the chances are high that you will hear staff moving equipment, restocking supplies, or other disturbances. 

Why You Should Avoid👎:   

  • Noise disturbance 
  • Lack of privacy 
  • Crowded area 
  • Constant crew activity  

Tip💡: Check the ship’s deck plan well before booking. Look at the map and select cabins that are close to the upper deck and away from elevators and stairwells. 

Cabins with Obstructed Views 

Cruise cabin with obstructed view
AleWi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Now, saying that cruise ships are all about amenities would be a lie. Most people simply want to sit in their sea-facing room and enjoy the beautiful, vast ocean views.  

For this, it is crucial that you get a room with no obstruction. Another problem with obstructed cabins is that there is no natural light, which makes the room dull.  

In some ships, cabins with obstructed views are close to service areas, lifeboat stations, or other ship infrastructure. Hence, there will be more disturbances and less privacy. 

Why You Should Avoid👎:   

  • Limited natural light 
  • Noisy atmosphere 
  • Less privacy 
  • Boring ambience 

Tip💡: Ask for details about the views from the specific cabins you are looking for. Check the deck plan and request images of the room. 

Read More: How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Cabins near the Engine Room Area 

Cabin near engine room
Image by Ihor Koptilin/shutterstock

The engine room is where all the heavy ship machinery is working 24/7. If your cabin is located near this area, you’ll likely experience constant noise from the engines and the rumbling sound of motors, which can ruin your sleep.  

Also, the engine room is like a microwave, generating a lot of heat, which could reduce air circulation. Another reason for not selecting this cabin is that you may be farther away from key amenities like the pool, restaurants, and lounges. Now you know why you should avoid cruise ship cabins close to the engine room area.

Why You Should Avoid👎:   

  • Noise from heavy machinery 
  • Disturbance while sleeping 
  • Distance from ship amenities 
  • Poor air circulation 

Tip💡: Avoid cabins on the lower deck of the ship. Look for balconies or veranda cabins. 

Cabins with No Windows 

Cruise Cabin with no windows
AleWi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One of the biggest downsides to a cabin with no windows is the absence of scenic ocean views. Also, the lack of natural light will make you feel dull; getting to a cabin with no windows is one of the worst things to do on a cruise ship. 

With no windows, you could lose track of time, and it could be difficult to tell whether it’s morning or night. A windowless cabin can also give you serious claustrophobic vibes, which is the last thing you want on a cruise journey. 

Why You Should Avoid👎:  

  • Lack of natural light 
  • Absence of scenic views 
  • No natural ventilation 
  • Time confusion  
  • Claustrophobia 

Tip💡: Select rooms with “ocean view” or “balcony” while booking. You can also check the cabin location and look for pictures of that particular cabin. 

Read More: What Are the Best Cruise Ship Casinos?

Some Commonly Asked Questions About Cruise Ship Cabins 

What is the best cabin position on a cruise ship? 

The best cabin position on a cruise ship is the midship/mid-deck cabins, which offer a good balance of accessibility, relaxation, and privacy.  

What is the best cabin type on a cruise ship? 

Suites are the best cabin type on a cruise ship. Suites offer a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience. 

What is a cabin on a cruise? 

A cabin on a cruise is similar to a hotel room with amenities and extra facilities.  

How to buy a cabin on a cruise ship? 

You can either buy a permanent residence on a residential cruise ship or book directly with the cruise line or through a travel agency. 

Alex Kingston

Alex Kingston is a car and cruise connoisseur. He is also an expert in soccer analysis and has written numerous MLS articles. With nearly two years of experience in the industry he goes an extra mile for his readers. When he is not writing you will usually find him gardening!  

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