Your dream cruise cabin is waiting #014

Let’s talk about something that should be easy but weirdly isn’t: picking your cruise cabin.

It sounds simple enough. You're going on vacation, you book a room, done. But then you open the deck plans and suddenly feel like you're playing a game of nautical Tetris. Midship? Forward? Aft? Near the elevators? Above the nightclub? So. Many. Choices.

And here’s the thing no one really tells you until it’s too late: where your cabin is located can seriously impact your cruise experience. A perfect itinerary with the wrong cabin can leave you tired, annoyed, or seasick!

If you’re prone to motion sickness (even just a little), your best bet is a cabin midship on a lower deck. Think of it like being at the center of a seesaw—less up-and-down movement. The front and back of the ship (a.k.a. forward and aft) can feel the waves more dramatically, especially if the water gets choppy.

Now, if convenience is your priority—like, you don’t want to walk a quarter mile to get coffee every morning—then a cabin near the elevators and central to most amenities is your best friend. Midship cabins on higher decks usually fit this bill. But fair warning: being near elevators means you may hear a bit more foot traffic, especially on nights when there are late show going on.

If a quiet and restful environment is important to you, it’s worth checking what’s located directly above and below your cabin on the deck plan. Cabins situated beneath high-traffic areas like the buffet, nightclub, or pool deck may be subject to early-morning noise or late-night activity. For the best chance at uninterrupted rest, look for a cabin that is surrounded by other guest rooms on both sides.

For those who love the view, balcony cabins aft (at the back of the ship) often have larger balconies and amazing sunset views. You’ll trade a bit more walking for those amazing photos, but some cruisers say it’s worth every extra step.

And finally, don’t discount the so-called “obstructed view” cabins—sometimes that obstruction is a lifeboat below your window, not in it. You might score a better price and still get decent natural light or even a peek of the ocean.

Choosing the right cabin location can make a big difference in how your cruise feels. It doesn’t need to be complicated, but it is worth a little planning. When your cabin suits your needs and preferences, the whole trip feels more comfortable and enjoyable.

See you next issue,
—Tara