Cruising
6 cruise cabins to avoid
You might not plan to spend much of your time there, but most cruisers will tell you having a decent cabin can make or break your holiday. From shoebox-like rooms to noisy neighbours, here are six cruise cabins you should try and avoid on your next seafaring voyage.
- Tiny rooms – yes, smaller rooms are more economical, but when comfort is a factor, it’s worth forking out a bit of extra money for a slightly larger room. Small cabins are often oddly-shaped, awkward and uncomfortable, so if your trip is longer than a few nights, go for the roomier option.
- Obstructed views – we all love to wake up to the sight of calm blue waters, but panoramic views come at a cost. Obstructed view cabins are a great option for budget travellers, but keep in mind that not all “obstructed” views are equal, so always double check what it is you’re actually getting.
- Noisy cabins – first-time cruisers will often make the mistake of not looking at the ship layout before booking their cabin, only to find they’re stuck right next to the busy restaurant or noisy gym. Always check the deck plans before confirming your room.
- Privacy – no one wants to open the blinds to find a few curious kids looking in, but if you wind up with a promenade deck room, that’s exactly what could happen. If privacy is a priority for you, avoid this deck.
- Seasickness – yes, your cabin choice could affect your seasickness! It’s said that being able to see the horizon prevents nausea, so if seasickness is a concern, ensure you can see the line of the horizon from your room.
- “Guarantee” cabins – the lucky dip of the cruising world, you may end up with a stunner of a room, but you also may end up with a dud. To avoid disappointment, when booking one of these options, always choose the minimum cabin level you’d be happy with.
What tips would you share with first-time cruisers? Let us know in the comment section below.
Related links:
4 cruise lines that let you BYO alcohol
5 reason to stay onboard when your cruise is in port
10 things you didn’t know about cruise ships