Booking a cabin for a cruise is not a simple matter. As I have said many times here on the blog, choosing the right cabin is essential to enjoying your vacation to the fullest.
Unfortunately, some people underestimate this and book a cruise without thinking too much about it, without doing research, and sometimes even accepting the cabin that is suggested to them directly by the cruise line.
However, since you’re here and because I want your cruise to be as amazing as possible, I’d like to suggest 10 things you should always consider before booking a cabin.
1. The location
Location is the first key thing to consider. As you probably know, each cabin on a cruise has a specific deck and a unique cabin number.
With that number, you can check the location of the cabin on the ship’s deck plans.
What do you need to consider? First of all, the cabin should not be located near or under too noisy areas, such as discos, theaters, restaurants, or swimming pools.
Try to book a cabin that has above, below, and beside only other cabins. This will ensure that you will not hear too loud noises or loud music late at night.
2. The external view
The second key thing, if you book a window or balcony cabin, is to check what the outside view will be like.
Some cabins may have a partially or totally obstructed view, and of course, we want to avoid those.
For example, below I will put a photo of a cabin with the view partially obstructed by lifeboats.
It’s not the end of the world, but since you’re paying (sometimes a lot) isn’t it better to have the view completely clear?
Cabins with obstructed views are marked on the ship plans. Remember to check for any asterisks or small symbols that might have this meaning.
If you are unsure, ask your travel agent for confirmation or call the cruise line’s customer service to have them confirm that the cabin has no obstructed view.
3. The cabin category
The third point is about the cabin category. As you probably know on each ship there are completely different cabins.
You can usually choose between inside, window, balcony, and suite cabins.
Do not make the mistake of believing that a higher-category cabin is necessarily better. You must evaluate according to your budget and consider that you will probably spend little time in your room.
That’s why a while back I wrote an article about why the inside cabin may be the best choice for some people.
4. Size and layout
One thing not many people know is that even cabins in the same category can have different sizes and layouts.
It happened to me once that two cabins that looked identical and had the same price were actually completely different in size.
How can you tell that from your home? Simply by looking at the square meters or square feet of the cabin.
You can usually find them listed during the reservation process, but if they are not there, don’t be afraid to ask for them before confirming the booking.
5. Proximity to elevators or stairs
Another thing I recommend you evaluate is the proximity of the cabin to elevators or stairs.
Modern cruise ships can be very large and can require a lot of walking. Especially if you are elderly or have mobility difficulties, having an elevator nearby can be a lifesaver.
Obviously, do not book the cabin right next to the elevator (to avoid noises) but still stay nearby.
6. Possible motion sickness
Not all cruise passengers get seasick, but if you have this misfortune you should consider it when choosing your cabin.
My advice is: if you get seasick, choose a low deck and a cabin in the middle of the ship. That’s the point where you feel the oscillation the least.
In addition, remember to bring some remedies from home. I have already told you about how much a woman had to pay for seasickness on a cruise.
7. Amenities and facilities
Another thing you should check is the cabin amenities and facilities.
You can usually find a short description of the cabin while booking. Check what you’ll find in the bathroom (shower or bathtub), how many beds are there and what kind are they (double, bunk, sofa bed).
In addition, check if the cabin has a TV, a mini-fridge, a hair dryer, a kettle, and a coffee maker (if some of them are essential for you).
Also, remember that for safety reasons some things cannot be brought on board. I recommend that you check the list of items that are always confiscated at cruise embarkations.
8. Cancellation and refund policies
Before booking, always check the cancellation and refund policies.
I know it’s not a nice thing to think about, but unforeseen events can happen, and in some cases, you may have to cancel your vacation.
Some cruise lines offer reimbursement only in case of serious illness or death of a close relative. This is why I often recommend additional travel insurance, you can compare the best cruise-specific ones by clicking here.
9. Reviews and ratings
Some people also like to take a look at reviews before booking. You can do this but it’s not always easy to find reviews on a specific cabin.
Perhaps the most effective method is to ask in Facebook groups.
Another thing I’ve done is to book the same cabin that a friend of mine had been on and had enjoyed, but again you don’t always know someone who has been on the same ship.
10. Cost and hidden fees
Last but not least, look closely at the price and any hidden costs.
As you know, the price of the cabin is the biggest expense for a cruise and therefore it’s crucial not to rush.
You can compare different websites, ask a few travel agents, and look for discounts or promotions.
The first thing I recommend is to join my newsletter, I often send the most interesting offers, even for last-minute cruises.
The second thing you can do is to look at these 20 tips & tricks to save money on a cruise.
