best staterooms on a cruise ship

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How to Choose a Room: Ultimate Guide to Carnival Staterooms

By Carnival Cruise Line

Before you book your cruise , you will want to know which stateroom you should call your own. Getting familiar with the types of staterooms helps you choose the sleeping space that offers you the most comfort based on your personal preferences and personality. It could also depend on whether you’re cruising solo, plus-one, with the family or as a group.

So how do you select the best stateroom to ensure you’ll have a relaxing, comfortable cruise? We’ll help you put it all together with the following suggestions.

Know the Stateroom Styles

When you’re on a Carnival cruise, you have your choice of stateroom styles and locations designated as Interior, Ocean View, Balcony or Suite.

• Interior staterooms : The most affordable cruise ship rooms ideal for sensitive sleepers who prefer quieter rooms away from activities, making it the perfect spot to curl up after a long day of fun
• Ocean View staterooms : Designed for gazing out at vistas and ocean views. It’s the best place on board to be the first to spot ports of call
• Balcony staterooms : Ideal for enjoying sea breezes and stunning views on a patio with private seating all day
• Suite staterooms: The best rooms on a cruise ship for stretching out and putting up your feet in a space with all the comforts of home, and then some
• Specialty staterooms : Thematic settings that revolve around family, couples and more and are available as interior, ocean view, balcony or suite staterooms

If You’re Cruising Solo

When you’re solo, there’s no having to answer to anyone about where to go or what to do. You can cruise to Belize and explore the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins to fully release your enthusiasm for ancient history. Learn to cook like a chef onboard while meeting new friends. Another perk: having a stateroom all to yourself. Consider these ideas when booking a stateroom of your own.

• Havana: Solo cruisers who also want to be social may like Havana staterooms with private access to the tropical Havana pool and bar area .
• Cloud 9 Spa : If you’re cruising for more of a pampering experience for one, consider a specialty Cloud 9 Spa stateroom. You’ll be right next to the most relaxing place onboard, the Cloud 9 Spa ™ .
• Interior and Ocean View : Choose an interior stateroom for the most quiet or an ocean view stateroom for contemplative views to complement your meditative state of mind.
• Aft: Consider staying in the aft part of the ship where you’ll be nearest to casual dining.
• Lower deck: The lower deck is the best deck on a cruise ship if you want to be one of the first off the ship, exploring all the fun at each port of call .

If You’re Cruising as a Couple

Couples who cruise together stay together, especially when choosing the perfect style stateroom. The perfect getaway means you’ll sail to dreamy ports. What couple wouldn’t enjoy a cruise to Mexico for a VIP Wine Tasting or to Aruba for a Jeep Safari ?

On board, dine in a romantic, floating Italian trattoria . Afterward, slip away to an enchanting stateroom reserved for just the two of you.

• Cloud 9 Spa: Whisk away to the Cloud 9 Spa adjacent to specialty Cloud 9 Spa staterooms with relaxing decor. You’ll get priority spa reservations along with complimentary spa-inspired gifts to use throughout the cruise.
• Balcony: Balcony staterooms are designed with couples in mind. You’ll be able to step onto your own little outdoor oasis at sunset for cocktails or sunrise for coffee in your robes.
• Forward: If you’re seeking relaxation, consider a stateroom in the forward section of the ship. You’ll be close to the fitness center, spa and the show lounge for performances.

If You’re Cruising With Family

Whether you’re cruising as a single parent or times two with kids in tow, you’ll effortlessly pack in more fun activities and bonding time than you ever thought possible on vacation. No matter what age your kids, there’s plenty of onboard entertainment that lets your family interact with favorite childhood characters and games.

Shore excursions with no minimum age limits let you customize experiences for the entire family to enjoy, such as cruising to Alaska and going on a Dog Sled Discovery and Mushing Camp adventure. After a day, and night of fun and kid-friendly dining, head back to a comfy stateroom that suits your family .

• Family Harbor: Family Harbor specialty staterooms with whimsical nautical decor have exclusive access to the Family Harbor lounge featuring breakfast, snacks, board games, family movies, video games and more. Kids eat free at Family Harbor restaurants. Plus, kids and parents will love the experience because they have one free evening of Night Owls ® babysitting service at Camp Ocean ™ .
• Family-Friendly: Designed with families in mind, these staterooms accommodate up to five people and thankfully come with an extra bathroom. Great for groups too, thanks to connecting doors.
• Upper deck: Consider a stateroom on the upper deck of your ship. You’ll be closest to the entertainment, fun and outdoor deck areas.
• Midship : You’ll be right near the pool or waterslide areas, a kid’s dream.

If You’re Cruising With a Group

From an old college friend gathering to a ladies-only birthday bash or golfing buddy getaway, cruise ships are the perfect place for group vacations. Whether you have 10 or 20 people in your group, there’s something to do and see even if everyone differs in age, abilities and interests.

Cruise to Bermuda for an extended family reunion and reserve differing shore excursions ranging from the Famous Homes and Hideaway Cruise tour for architecture buffs to Segway Adventures for teens and a Glass Bottom Boat tour for little kids. Book staterooms extra early for groups, ask for connecting rooms and consider these stateroom styles.

If you have health or mobility challenges, Carnival proudly welcomes you on board. You’ll find plenty of accessible staterooms from which to choose, whether you are traveling with a wheelchair, scooter or another device. Consider staying in the midship section where you’ll find extra elevators.

Every stateroom has amenities (including your dedicated room steward) that rival land-locked five-star hotels. Expect soft, cozy linens, in-room safes, plenty of storage space, television, climate control and even bathrobes upon request.

Keep in mind that some staterooms and features are exclusive to specific ships, so be sure to check out the amenities on board the ship you choose. You’ll sleep well knowing you’ve chosen the right spot for snoozing while cruising.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

Related articles

Plan for fun.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

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On a cruise ship, cruiseclout score: 95.0, 20 ultimate staterooms on a cruise ship.

Remember the days when cruise ship suites and staterooms were just cabins ? Modern cruise ships boast elegant, luxurious and sometimes over-the-top opulent suites that rival the rooms at a 5-star resort. 

As we continue with our luxury series on Cruiseable, we thought it would be fun to give readers a visual tour of the top-end suite experiences you’ll find on the major cruise lines.

Many of these rooms come with butler and concierge service, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors leading to a private veranda, private whirlpools, marble bathrooms and much more. These staterooms are ideal for an upscale multi-generational cruise vacation .

Click through the photo gallery at the top and, as always, click the bookmark icon to save to your personal My Planner. Here’s some information about our picks of 20 of the most eye-popping, luxurious staterooms on a cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean: Royal Loft Suite

Ships : Oasis of the Seas , Allure of the Seas 1,599 square feet | Two levels Highlights : Dedicated concierge service. Two bedrooms. Baby grand piano. Indoor and outdoor dining in rooms seating eight. 874-square-foot balcony with its own LCD TV, entertainment area and Jacuzzi. Library. Wet bar.

Norwegian Cruise Line: The Haven Deluxe Owner's Suite

Ships : Norwegian Escape , Norwegian Getaway , Norwegian Breakaway , Norwegian Epic , Norwegian Gem , Norwegian Jade , Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Pearl 1,307 square feet Highlights: Key-card access. Butler & concierge service. Private balcony. Specialty dining delivered to your suite from any restaurant. 24-hour room service. Sun deck with private pool, two whirlpools, sauna, fitness center, private spa entrance. Priority seating for theater shows. Square footage and features vary by ship. Some suites on Norwegian ships come in at more than 5,700 square feet.

Celebrity Cruises: Reflection Suite

Ship : Celebrity Reflection 1,636 square feet | Sleeps up to 6 guests Highlights : Located in a private area at the front of the ship, the suite is accessed with a special SeaPass. Butler service. An all-glass shower extending over the side of the ship (with a switch to block outside viewing). Guests receive exclusive access to private venues such as Michael’s Club and the restaurant Luminae.

Seabourn: Wintergarden Suite

Ships : Seabourn Odyssey , Seabourn Sojourn , Seabourn Quest , Seabourn Encore (debuting in December 2016), Seabourn Ovation (debuting in spring 2018) 1,052 square feet Highlights : Butler service. Two large bedrooms. Glass-enclosed solarium with whirlpool and lounging bed. Wet bar and a dining area for six. Complimentary w-fi. Flat screen televisions. Pantry with wet bar. Complimentary private car transfers between airport and ship. 

Crystal Cruises: Penthouse Suite

Ship : Crystal Serenity 1,345 square feet Highlights : Butler service, including course-by-course dinner service. Separate dining area with ocean view. Expansive teak veranda. High-end Duravit spa flotation tub. Italian marble master bathroom with a heated floor. Guest bathroom.

Oceania Cruises: Owner’s Suite

Ships : Marina , Riviera 2,000 square feet Highlights : 24-hour butler service. Dramatic foyer with grand piano. Spacious living with high-end Ralph Lauren Home furnishings. Separate dining room. Indoor and outdoor whirlpools on 626-square-foot private balcony. Exclusive access to Canyon Ranch SpaClub’s private Spa Terrace, priority reservations at restaurants, including world-renowned Jacques.

Regent Seven Seas: Master Suite

Ship : Seven Seas Mariner 2,002 total square feet Highlights : Personal butler, expansive living room, 2 private balconies, 2 spacious bedrooms with European king-size bed, 2 1/2 marble bathrooms, free wi-fi, free air fare. 

MSC Cruises: Yacht Club Royal Suite

Ships : MSC Divina ; other Yacht Club Suites on MSC Fantasia, MSC Splendida, MSC Preziosa 562 square feet Highlights: Prime location at top of ship. 24-hour butler service. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Fine-wood touches and marbled bathrooms. Egyptian cotton sheets on European king-size bed and pillow menu. Spacious private veranda. Exclusive access to Top Sail Lounge and the pool deck, with private pool, whirlpools and bar.

Disney Cruise Line: Concierge Royal Suite with Veranda

Ships: Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy 1,781 square feet | Sleeps up to 5 Highlights: Family friendly. Personal veranda. Private master bedroom. Two bathrooms, with luxurious rain shower. Two whirlpools (one on the balcony). Concierge service. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the living area. Exclusive access to a dedicated Concierge Lounge and sun deck. Frette 100% Egyptian cotton linens & plush towels.

Silversea Cruises: Grand Suite

Ship : Silver Spirit 1,879 square feet | Two bedrooms Highlights : Butler service. A 702-square-foot wraparound veranda with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Italian marble bathrooms with separate shower & whirlpool. Pratesi bed linens. Television with DVD and satellite reception.

Cunard Line: Queens Grill Suite

Ship : Queen Mary 2 506 to 2,249 square feet Highlights: Butler service, art deco decor, crisp, contemporary interiors, stylish appointments, private balcony. Choice of 9 pillow types. Access to the well-regarded Queens Grill restaurant. Queen Mary 2 is undergoing a refurbishment this month. 

Note : The Grand Duplex Suite on Queen Mary 2 is even more sumptuous: A two-level duplex of 2,249 square feet, it offers butler service, two marble bathrooms , a l arge balcony overlooking the pool deck, glass-enclosed solarium boasting a tub and a day bed, art deco décor, Biedermeier furniture, a frosted-glass staircase  and d ining for six.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Regent Suite

Ship: Seven Seas Explorer 3,875 square feet Highlights: When Explorer launches in July 2016, its Regent Suite will overlook the bow. Two grand bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Huge living room. 2 1/2 bathrooms. Lavish appointments featuring the finest marble, handcrafted furnishings and rich exotic woods. Custom-made Steinway Arabesque piano designed by Dakota Jackson. Private spa retreat with personal sauna, steam room and treatment area in the suite.

Holland America: Pinnacle Suite with Veranda 

Ship : Koningsdam 1,357 total square feet Highlights : Living room characterized by light, space and elegance. Bedroom with 1 king-size bed, oversize whirlpool bath & shower & additional shower stall, dining room, dressing room, private veranda with whirlpool, pantry, sofa, private stereo system, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Viking Ocean Cruises: Owner’s Suite

Ships : Viking Star , Viking Sea 1,448 square feet Highlights : Large veranda. Luxurious appointments. King-size bed with luxury linens & cashmere blanket. 24-hour room service. Large LCD TV. Complimentary mini-bar, replenished daily. Complimentary wi-fi. Access to high-end spas and fine cuisine.

Azamara Club Cruises: Club World Owner’s Suite

Ships : Azamara Quest , Azamara Journey 560 square feet | 2 bedrooms Highlights : Butler service. Huge private balconies. spacious living/dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs. Complimentary dining at Aqualina and Prime C restaurants. It's all part of the new-look Azamara for 2016.

SeaDream: Owner's Suite

Ships : SeaDream I , SeaDream II 447 square feet Highlights : Comfortable rather than opulent, the Owner's Suite features a roomy living area with sofa, two armchairs. Master bath with a deep soaking tub. Two flat-screen TVs, iPod docking station, a Nespresso machine, fresh flowers.

Princess Cruises: Owner’s Suite

Ships : Royal Princess , Regal Princess 705 square feet Highlights : Separate living room. Luxurious appointments. Extra-wide balcony with high-end furnishings; the balcony wraps around two sides of the ship. Master bath boasts dual sinks and marble floors and countertops. Access to the dedicated Concierge Lounge. Note: Suites are available on other Princess ships, as depicted above.

Scenic: Royal Panorama Suite

Ship : Scenic Spirit 861 square feet Highlights : Scenic Spirit, which recently launched on the Mekong River, boasts the largest suite of any river cruise ship in the world. Butler service. Spacious main living room. Nearly a 1:1 passenger-crew ratio . 

Uniworld: Owner's Suite

Ship : River Beatrice 300 square feet Highlights : River Beatrice has the largest number of suites among Europe's riverboats. The Owner's Suite comes with a butler, tastefully decorated living area with armchairs, large French balcony windows, bathroom with soaking tub and shower, entertainment system, English Savoir bed, built-in closet, flat-screen TV and breakfast room service.

Royal Caribbean: Royal Suite

Ship : Adventure of the Seas 1,304 total square feet Highlights : Royal Suites on Adventure of the Seas have a separate bedroom with king-size bed, private balcony with hot tub, whirlpool bathtub, living room with queen-size sofa bed, baby grand piano, concierge service. Royal Caribbean is rolling out Royal Suites on many of its ships, with many of the same luxury amenities. 

Interested in an upscale cruise?

Interested in staying in any of these dreamy suites? Contact a travel advocate in Cruiseable’s Business Department via email or by phone: 1-877-322-3773.

Cruiseable team The Cruiseable editorial team consists of award-winning travel writers, cruise bloggers and journalists.

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How to Choose the Best Cabin on a Cruise Ship

TripSavvy /  Lara Antal

Planning a cruise vacation involves many decisions. One of the most difficult is how to choose the best cabin type and location for your budget and lifestyle interests. When looking at cruise ship layouts and decks either online or in brochures, those planning a cruise will quickly notice the many different cabin categories. Sometimes there are over 20 different categories on a ship! Travel agents and journalists often get asked two questions:

• How do you find the right cabin to meet your needs and budget?
• How do you get an upgrade on a cruise ship cabin ?

Let's review the different types of cruise accommodations to help you pick the best cabin on a ship according to your needs and style.

What Is the Best Cruise Ship Cabin?

Choosing the best cabin on a cruise ship is definitely a matter of personal choice, with cost and location being the primary factors in making a decision. You can have a great time in an inside cabin on the lowest level. However, an outside cabin with a window, or better yet a balcony, makes the cruise experience much better and more enjoyable. Sitting on the balcony with a good book or just being able to step outside and breathe in the sea air helps differentiate cruising from a resort vacation. Having a cabin as a retreat after a busy day ashore can add something special to the cruise experience for those who enjoy quiet time on their cruise vacation.

Although many people recommend to new cruisers that they book the cheapest inside cabin since, "they won't be spending much time in there anyway", it's not really true for everyone. If you are on a seven-day or longer cruise, you will have days at sea that you might want to spend relaxing in your room, watching a movie, or taking a nap. On a cruise ship, your cabin is the one place you can get away from everything and everybody. Selecting a cabin type is as personal as deciding where to cruise and which ship to cruise on. Everyone is different, and what is not important to one person might well be important to you.

Is Cabin Price Important?

Price is certainly a consideration, but if your vacation time is limited, you might be willing to pay more to get a cabin better suited to your lifestyle. The best advice is to be informed about cruise ship cabins and make the right decision for you.

A balcony (veranda) cabin will cost you from 25 percent more to almost double the price of an inside cabin. Some cruisers would prefer to go twice as often and stay in an inside cabin. Others with more limited time might prefer to splurge on a balcony or a suite. Balcony cabins are sometimes smaller than those with just a window since the balcony is replacing the inside space. Be sure to check when booking your cruise if room size is more important to you than a balcony.

What Are the Different Types of Cruise Ship Cabins?

The price of a cruise ship cabin or stateroom (the terms are interchangeable) is dependent on its size, layout, and location. Cabins on large mainstream cruise ships are often advertised as standard inside, ocean view, balconied, or suite. The smallest cabins on luxury lines are sometimes much larger than those on mainstream lines and are either ocean view or balconied, making the quality of accommodations one of the biggest differences between cruise lines. Cabin and balcony size and cabin location can vary significantly within the same price range on any ship.

Standard Cruise Ship Cabins - Inside Cabins (No Porthole or Window)

Many cruise ships today have standard cabins of similar size and amenities, with the price differential being the location. The least expensive, inside standard cabins on a mainstream cruise ship run from about 120 square feet to 180 square feet. Since most cruise ships are relatively new or have been refurbished, the cabins usually are tastefully decorated with twin beds that can be pushed together to make a queen-sized bed for couples. The staterooms have wall-to-wall carpeting, individually controlled air conditioning/heating, dresser or storage space, closet, telephone, and satellite television. The television usually has news, sports, local on-ship channels for broadcasting information on shore excursions or from guest lecturers, and movies. Some cabins have VCRs or DVD players, and some televisions also have radio/music channels. The cabins also usually have a night table, reading lamps, and a chair. Most modern cruise ships come with a hairdryer, so you won't have to bring one from home. Some standard staterooms feature personal safes, table, desk with chair, convertible loveseat, mini-refrigerator, and even Internet access, although it is often much more costly than in the common Internet lounge. The cruise line brochure or website usually specifies which amenities are in each cabin.

The standard cabin bathrooms are usually tiny and most only have a shower (no tub). The shower often has good water pressure, with the only complaint being its small size. Don't be surprised if the shower curtain keeps trying to attack you! The bathroom also has a sink, toiletry shelves, and a noisy vacuum toilet like on an airplane. Often there is a small step up between the bedroom and bathroom, perfect for stubbing your toe. The bathrooms also usually have a retractable clothesline for drying your swimsuit or hand laundry.

Standard Cruise Ship Cabins - Outside Ocean View Cabins (Porthole or Window)

Oftentimes the ocean view standard cabins and the inside standard cabins are almost identical in size and layout. The only difference is the window. Most modern ships have large picture windows rather than portholes, but these windows cannot be opened. So, if you want to have a sea breeze in your room, you will need to get a balcony. Some ships have both porthole cabins and those with windows. The porthole cabins are on the lowest decks and are less expensive. About the only view, you have from a porthole is whether it is daylight or dark. Sometimes you can also see the ocean waves splash against the porthole while sailing—it's almost like looking into a front-loading washing machine.

Cabins with Balconies or Verandas

The next step above an outside cabin is one with a balcony (veranda). These cabins have sliding glass or French doors giving you access to the outside. The sliding doors also mean you can see outside from anywhere in the cabin, i.e. lie on the bed and still see the ocean outside. Usually, the balcony cabins are also larger than the standard cabins, and some qualify as mini-suites. which means they have a small sitting area with a loveseat or convertible sofa. The mini-suites also usually have a curtain that can be drawn to separate the sleeping and sitting areas. This feature is ideal for couples (or friends) who have different sleeping habits. Early risers can sit in the sitting area or balcony, and enjoy the early morning sunrise without waking up their significant other.

Most balconied cabins do not have verandas large enough for a lounge chair where you can lie down and sunbathe in private. The balconies are often narrow, just wide enough for two chairs and a small table. If you want a larger balcony, look for a cabin on the rear of the ship. The balconies on some ships offer no privacy. These balconies would definitely not be appropriate for daytime nudity.

A "suite" can mean you have (1) a small sitting area, (2) a curtain to separate the bed from the sitting area, or (3) a separate bedroom. It's important to ask and look at the cabin layouts before booking since the name can be somewhat misleading. Suites almost always have balconies. The suites are larger, and many have bigger bathrooms with tubs. A suite will have all the amenities found in the other cabin categories, and you might even have butler service. Suites come in all shapes, sizes, and locations. They are a wonderful treat, especially if you have a lot of sea days or want to spend a lot of time together in your cabin. Some luxury lines have all of their cabins as mini-suites or suites.

Cabin Locations

The cabin location is the third major factor in cruise category other than size and type. Sometimes cruise ships will offer passengers a "guarantee" cabin, which means you are paying for a category rather than a specific cabin. A guarantee cabin can be less expensive than choosing a specific cabin, but it might not give you the location you desire. You are taking a chance and leaving it up to the cruise line to assign you a cabin in a given category. Be sure to do your research before you book a "guarantee" cabin (or any cabin). You might be delighted in the value you get for your dollar, but you might also be disappointed if other cabins in the same category are in much better locations. When reviewing deck plans be sure to check out what is above, below, or next to your cabin. For example, a cabin can be very noisy if it is located under a dance floor! Also, an ocean view cabin on a promenade deck will have lots of foot traffic passing by.

Lower Deck Cabins

The inside cabins on the lowest decks are usually the least expensive cruise ship cabins. Although the lower deck cabins will give you a smoother ride in rough seas, they are also the furthest from the common areas such as the pool and lounges. You will be hiking the stairs or riding the elevators more from a lower deck, but you can also work off some of those extra calories. Therefore, even though standard inside cabins might be are all the same size and layout on a ship, you can save a few hundred dollars by choosing to be on a lower deck. The same applies for standard ocean view cabins, but you might want to inquire about the size of the window since the lower deck ocean views might only have portholes or a smaller window. Two problems that you might experience with cabins on the lower decks are engine noise and anchor noise. If your cabin is near the front of the ship, it can sound like the ship has hit a coral reef when the anchor is dropped. The racket will wake anyone up, so the only good thing about the noise is it can serve as an alarm. Newer ships tend to have less engine noise and their stabilizers suppress the ship's motion, but you might get that anchor noise a couple of times a day at ports where the ship must use a tender.

Higher Deck Cabins

Cabins on the upper decks usually cost more than those on the lower decks. Since these cabins are nearer the pool and sun decks, they are more desirable for those on warm weather cruises who plan to use these amenities. They also offer better panoramic views. However, you will get more rocking motion up high, so on smaller ships, those who are prone to becoming seasick might want to avoid a higher deck cabin.

Midship Cabins

Sometimes midship standard cabins are a good choice due to their central location and less motion. They are excellent for those who have mobility problems or who are seasick prone. However, a midship cabin can have more traffic outside in the hallways since other passengers will often be passing by. Some cruise ships charge slightly more for midship cabins or even have them in a separate category. If you are thinking of a midship cabin, be sure to check out the location of the tenders or lifeboats. They can block your view and be noisy when raised or lowered. Most cruise lines will tell you if a cabin has a blocked or limited view, but it is wise to check for yourself.

Bow (Forward) Cabins

Cabins on the front of the ship get the most motion and appeal to those who feel they are "real" sailors. You will get more wind and spray on the front. In rough seas, a bow cabin can definitely be exciting. Note that the windows on cabins on the front are sometimes smaller and slanted or recessed, meaning you can't see as much as you might on the side or rear of the ship. Cruise ships often put suites on the front of the ships to take advantage of the unusual shape and use the opportunity to provide the passengers with larger balconies.

Aft (Rear) Cabins

If you want a large balcony with your cabin, look to the rear of the ship. These cabins also provide a panoramic view of where you have sailed. Cabins in the aft of the ship have more motion than centrally located cabins, but less than those forward. One disadvantage—depending on the shape of the ship, sometimes passengers in the lounges or restaurants can look down on the balconies of the aft cabins. Not much privacy!

If all of this information is confusing, it just demonstrates how much diversity there is among cruise ship cabins. When planning your next cruise, study the layout and architecture of the ship's deck plans before selecting your cabin. Query your travel agent and others who have sailed the ship. Think about what is important to you and consider the cost differential. If your vacation time is limited, you might want to spend a few more dollars for a better cabin.

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I worked on cruise ships for 6 years. Here are the 5 best and 5 worst rooms to book for your trip.

• When I worked on cruise ships , I learned that choosing the right cabin can make a big difference.
• Staterooms vary in view and location, and each cruiser should select the best one for their needs.
• Avoiding certain staterooms can minimize outside noise, extra fees, and other inconveniences.

During my six years working for two different cruise lines, I learned how much a cruiser's cabin can affect their onboard experience.

Although I ultimately ended up as an entertainment host, I started my career in guest services, where I frequently dealt with passengers' room complaints .  

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Here are what I consider to be the best and worst staterooms to book on a cruise. 

BEST ROOMS TO BOOK ON A CRUISE

Ocean-level cabins.

• If you're prone to seasickness, the center of the ship, also called the midship, is the place to be. It's the closest you can get to water level, where you'll feel the least amount of rocking . 
• The smaller the ship is, the more movement you're likely to feel, so those who feel queasy on the water may want to consider booking one of these rooms on a mega ship, which is a vessel with at least 1,500 cabins. 
• Passengers who suffer from seasickness should avoid sailing during hurricane season, which loosely runs from June to November, or traveling on rough bodies of water, such as the Drake Passage.

Studio rooms 

• Certain cruise lines — such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Virgin Voyages — offer single-occupancy staterooms. 
• In the past, cruise lines expected solo cruisers to pay a single supplement , a surcharge for individuals staying in staterooms designed to accommodate more than one person. I've never seen a single supplement required for those staying in a studio or solo cabin, which are intended for one person. It's always a good idea to check for extra fees ahead of booking though.
• Some cruise lines, like NCL , have lounges near these cabins that are only accessible to people staying in single-occupancy rooms. There, solo cruisers can mingle and enjoy social events hosted by the entertainment staff .

Port or starboard staterooms

• You might want to consider your ship's route before booking a stateroom with a window or balcony.
• If you're going down a scenic coastline in one direction, know which side of the ship will face it. That way, you'll know whether to choose a port room, which is on the left side of the ship, or a starboard room, which is on the right side of the ship, to get the best views.

Cabins close to popular attractions

• If you expect to spend a lot of your time in one place — such as the spa, pool deck, or casino — you may want to book a nearby stateroom, or at least one that's on the same side of the ship.
• As an entertainment host who was often running around the ship to host different activities, I found that it was a lot easier to move around vertically than horizontally. 
• Having a cabin on the same side of the ship as your favorite attractions will save you a lot of time, especially on bigger vessels.

Rooms by elevators

• Those who don't want to walk far or are physically unable to do so may want to book a room close to the elevators so they don't have to travel far to get to the ship's public areas. 
• Even though all US-based cruises are somewhat accessible because of the US Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) , travelers with disabilities should always check each specific ship's layout, features, and accessibility beforehand.
• Potential downside: Being located near an elevator may be convenient, but the extra foot traffic in the hallway can result in noise directly outside your room.

WORST ROOMS TO BOOK ON A CRUISE

Staterooms directly above or below busy areas .

• Not every ship has noise issues, but if it does, those problems tend to originate from public areas rather than other staterooms. 
• Look at deck plans before booking to make sure your cabin isn't above or below the casino, buffet, galley, main theater, bar, gym, or pool deck. When I worked in guest services, noise complaints often came from people staying in staterooms located near these busy areas.
• Staterooms surrounded by other staterooms tend to be the quietest. If noise issues do arise there, guest services can send security to deal with noisy neighbors .  

Obstructed ocean-view rooms 

• Partially obstructed ocean-view staterooms have a window that's usually at least a little blocked by a lifeboat. 
• Although many people book these rooms because they're slightly cheaper than ocean-view rooms, the view ends up being more obstructed than expected most of the time.
• I've heard many complaints about heavily obstructed ocean-view rooms, so I suggest saving your money with an interior stateroom or splurging on an ocean-view room to manage your expectations.

Cabins near the anchor

• If your cruise goes to a tender port , where the ship anchors off the shore and transports guests to land on small boats, avoid rooms near the bow on the lower decks. 
• Crew cabins are usually located there , so I'm very familiar with the loud clunking and ticking sounds the anchor makes as it's lowered, which usually happens very early in the morning. 

Adjoining rooms with other parties 

• Some cruise ships have adjoining staterooms with an internal door separating the two neighboring cabins. This option is convenient for families or groups that are traveling together and want to feel like they're sharing one large room. 
• If you don't know the people staying next door, the conjoining door remains locked for the duration of the cruise. However, the sound may carry through it a lot more than it would through a wall.

The wrong room for your personal preferences

• Introverts and those who need their own space may find public areas crowded and overwhelming . They should consider booking balcony rooms, as having a private space overlooking the ocean provides a sense of calmness. 
• Extroverts who want to spend most of their time engaging in activities and enjoying the ship's features are unlikely to spend much time in their staterooms and might as well cut costs by getting an interior cabin . The lack of natural light may also help them sleep well and recoup for the next day's activities.

This story was originally published on February 21, 2023, and most recently updated on January 30, 2024.

Watch: These nine incredible hotels let you experience the ocean like nothing else

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Cruise cabins and suites

Cruise ship rooms, floor plans, photos.

CruiseMapper's cabin and suites section allows you to explore cruise staterooms by ship. Each page provides extensive information on all passengers accommodations on a particular vessel, including floor plans, room types and categories (grades used upon booking), cabin sizes, deck location. Also provided is an extensive review of all ticket price inclusive en-suite amenities, along with furniture details and additional / bonus perks (if available).  

Here you will find brief descriptions by category of all stateroom types that can be found on cruise ship deck plans . You will find more information and many useful tips on staterooms at our best and worst cabins article. Here you can search for a particular ship (via the above search bar) or you can skip the introduction (explanations) and go down directly to our list of large passenger ships' cabin pages .

Cruise staterooms booking rates are usually based on deck location. Lower-deck accommodations are the cheapest. Midship rooms cost more. Balcony staterooms and Suites located aft or forward are the most expensive. Most cruise companies (especially those with large-sized vessels in the fleets) divide the main cabin types into subcategories. These grades are marked with numbers (like for balcony cabins - B1, B2, B3, B4) and are displayed on the deck layouts with different colors.

Cruise ship suites

Cruise suite accommodations are premium grades cabins. They are usually larger in comparison to balcony staterooms and feature more amenities. As a rule, suites have a full-size bathtub, larger shower, bigger closets and balcony (some have 2 private balconies). Amenities include coffee makers, premium sound systems, large-size TVs, complimentary butler service.

Loft Suites (aka Duplex Suites)

Loft Suites are "duplex suites" (on two levels) and available on the world's largest passenger ships of Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class and Quantum-class. The following layout is of Harmony of the Seas and its largest accommodation - the Royal Loft Suite.

Grand Suite

Twin beds in this type of cabin can be joined in a king bed. Grand Suites have also a double sofa bed and large private balcony, sitting area with 2-armchairs and a coffee table, desk, dressing area with vanity, walk-in closet, safe box, TV, phone, refrigerator, mini-bar, private bath with whirlpool tub and shower, patio chair and table, balcony lounge chair, pillow menu, bathrobes, hairdryer. See below the magnificent Oceania Marina ship's Owner Suite plan.

Captain Suite

Captains Suite accommodations have a huge 220 ft2 (20,5 m2) separate bedroom, while the living area is sized 290 ft2 (27 m2). There are 2 upper beds and a sofa bed, private bathroom with whirlpool hot tub and glass shower, safe, TV and phone, mini-bar, bathrobes, hairdryer.

A table and 3 patio chairs are on the balcony.

Owners Suite

Owner's Suites are some of the most luxurious accommodations at sea. They usually feature two separate bedrooms, private balcony (with luxury lounge furniture, even dining area and hot tub), living room (with sofa bed), luxury bathroom (with whirlpool bathtub and separate shower), second bathroom (WC), dining room, dressing area. Some Owner's Suites (like NCL's) can accommodate up to 10 passengers when connected to an adjacent Suite.

Ocean Suite

OS stands for "Ocean Suite" and category SS is "Spa Suite", recently changed to Junior Suite. These cabins have: twin beds that convert to king, sitting area with armchair and coffee table, sofa, dressing area with vanity, large balcony, wall safe, 2 big closets, mini-bar, refrigerator, private whirlpool bath with tub and shower, television and phone, balcony lounge chair, patio chair and table, pillow menu, bathrobes, hairdryer.

2-Bedroom Mozart Suite (largest stateroom on a riverboat)

World's largest accommodation found on a riverboat is Riverside Mozart 's French Balcony Suite. The vessel has two such accommodations, each sized 885 ft2 / 82 m2. Must be noted, that the stateroom is combined with an adjacent French Balcony cabin.

Penthouse Suite

Penthouse Suites have a twin beds configuration (beds can convert to queen). The other features are a large balcony, dressing area with vanity, sitting area with armchair and coffee table, wall safe, mini bar, private bath with whirlpool tub and shower, television and phone, refrigerator, bathrobes and hairdryer. Some cabins are without whirlpool tub, sofa or coffee table.

Balcony staterooms

Most balcony cruise ship cabins feature floor-ceiling sliding glass doors leading to a private step-out veranda. The balcony also is furnished with a table and pair of chairs/loungers. Standard balconies are separated by dividers. As sizes, balcony cabins on cruise ships vary, with those on Princess and NCl ships being among the smallest compared to other big-ship lines. In our cruise deck plans, we also list room sizes and the size of the balcony. Balcony – Apart from the balcony they can offer You twin beds that can be converted to King-size bed. Balconies also provide sitting area with chair and coffee table and private bath with shower, as well as closet/wardrobe, electronic safe box, mini bar, television and phone, sofa, bathrobes, hairdryer. Most verandas are between 30-60 ft2 ( approx 3-6 m2). Below are shown the layouts of the Anthem ship's Deluxe and Accessible balcony cabins.

Premium Balcony

Premium Balcony cabins also have twin beds that convert to King-size, their wraparound balcony enfolds the stateroom. Balcony's windows are often floor-ceiling and wall-to-wall.

Cove Balcony Staterooms

Cove balconies, unlike Balconies, have two patio chairs and a table. The rest of the stuff is identical. First of all-balcony, and again twin beds that convert to king, sofa, private bath with shower, safe, closet, mini bar, television and phone, sitting area with chair and coffee table, bathrobes and hairdryer.

Cove Balcony rooms are CCL-Carnival's specialty, available on some of the "Fun Ships", and are interesting because they are located on lower decks (thus closer to waterline).

Oceanview staterooms

Oceanview cabins: as sizes are similar to Interior staterooms on cruise ships, but each of them has a Porthole or normal window (both types do not open). Their window sizes also vary by line and ship. On some ocean ships and some luxury river ships, such staterooms feature floor-ceiling windows. Oceanview rooms' window sizes are usually 4x3 ft (1,2x0,9 m). As furniture, Oceanview cruise cabins have twin beds that convert to King-size, sofa, TV and phone, sitting area, safe, mini bar, private bath with shower, and also a washroom with sink and a junior tub, bathrobes and a hairdryer and of course a picture window. You should take a look at the cruise ship deck plans again as Cabins of 5A category have two porthole windows. Unlike deluxe, there is no washroom with sink and junior tub. Below are the layouts of Ovation of the Seas Oceanview cabins (categories standard, large, and superior).

Deluxe Oceanview

These cabins have no balconies but still can offer a marvelous view through their picture window as well as twin beds that convert to King-size. However, beds in Category 6N can't be joined (to King) and sleeps max 5 people.

Other amenities include sofabed, TV, phone, seating, safe, mini-bar, a bathroom with shower, a washroom (with junior tub), bathrobes, hairdryer.

Scenic Oceanview

The interior is the same - twin beds convertible to King-size, picture window, sofa, TV, phone, seating, safe, mini-bar, bath with shower, washroom with sink and junior tub, bathrobes, hairdryer.

The difference is that Scenic Oceanviews are larger.

Inside staterooms

Inside cruise ship cabins' best feature is their price - you book them with the line's cheapest rates available. These cruise accommodations don't offer window views. Still, on some of the newest cruise ships of Royal Caribbean and Disney, there are categories Interior staterooms with a "virtual window", which is a large LED screen displaying outside cam views. The screen doesn't have TV functions.

On some Carnival ships, there are Inside cabins with a "French Balcony" (with opening glass doors). Also, some "interior staterooms" are actually Oceanview (with a non-opening window), but since their views are obstructed, they are booked as Interior. On Royal Caribbean ships, some Inside cabins have a window looking out to the ship's interior promenade (street)

Inside cruise cabins are fitted with twin beds (convertible to King or Queen), private bathroom (shower), sitting area. Next are shown the layouts of Interior rooms on Harmony OTS .

Small Interior Stateroom (as the name implies) is the least spacious standard cabin category on cruise ships. These cabins have two beds – (upper and lower), private bath (WC/shower), a small sitting area.

Single cabins (Studios)

Single occupancy staterooms could be either Inside or Balcony. Some river cruise lines even offer single suites (booking with single occupancy rates). The most famous liner having plenty of single cabins (designed specifically for solo travelers) is Norwegian Epic .

This huge vessel has a total of 128 "Studios".

Next are shown layouts of Quantum OTS single-occupancy cabins (balcony and interior).

Connecting cabins (for large families)

The next layout shows RCI's "Family Connected Junior Suite" plan ( Quantum OTS ). Ship's main cabin grades (Balcony, Oceanview, Inside) are all combined here into a 10-person "Family Suite". The layout also shows the exact positioning of furniture, 3 baths (1 with hot tub), large seating area, 2 double-sofabeds, 2 connecting balconies.

How to choose cabins on cruise ships?

If you are planning a cruise, booking a cabin is certainly as important as picking up the cruise line (brand) or the boat. Before you take that decision, consider some issues related to your own personality and the other people traveling with you.

• The first important thing you have to be honest with your conscious is whether you can get seasick .
• Secondly, what type of person you are and what exactly do you intend to do onboard? Are you a party type or you just would like to spend several calm days at sea, away from the office jungle on land. Would you enjoy the pool with its all opportunities for contacts or you would rather have a rest lying at a balcony?
• No matter the stateroom type, it could still be noisy or make you seasick. The more central and lower position your cabin has, the more stable it is.
• In case you and the rest of the family members / friends are thin or you just don't intend to spend too much time in the cabin, you can pick a small one. Usually, staterooms are able to house no more than 4 people. Two passengers pay full fares and the other receive discounted rates.
• If you need stateroom for 4+ passengers, connecting cabins are the best option, and it will cost you less than a suite. Bathtub-fitted cabins are not so many per vessel. All cruise deck plans show such information (bathtub, sofabed, double bed, bunk beds, etc).

Noise issues - which cabins on the ship to avoid?

If you are a party type and louder sounds are not bothering, everything would be OK. If you organize a family voyage, however, you should look for a cabin away from the noisiest areas in the cruise ship deck plans. The first thing to look for in the cruise ship plan is the engine room location. Along with the noises, there are also vibrations.

Staterooms under discos, sport playgrounds, gym centers are usually very noisy. Cabins under Lido Deck (aka Pool Deck) are also among those to avoid. The buffet restaurant on this deck generates noises from moving tables and chairs and tableware. Staircases are also very noisy.

Take a good look at the cruise ship deck plan - room location is crucial!

Cabin's deck location is of great importance. Lower and more central-positioned accommodations are more stable. However, "cool cabins" are usually on higher decks, which means spending more money won't necessarily save you from seasickness.

Stern cabins (aft) have the largest balconies. Forward suites provide the same view as from the Navigation Bridge (wheelhouse). Some cabins are with limited / obstructed seaview due to lifeboats or other equipment.

Guarantee staterooms - take your chance!

If you are not set on selecting something particular and location is not a priority, you should not investigate the cruise ship deck plan so cautiously. The so-called ''guarantee'' cabin grades can turn to be among the best booking options. The "guarantee stateroom" booking allows you to pick up a category, not a cabin. In case the category is sold out you'll be proposed a higher category lodging. The first cabins to be booked are both the cheapest and the most expensive ones, be aware when you choose to test your luck. However, it could be a bit risky so it's more reasonable to get back to the cruise ship deck plans.

Shipboard facilities

If want to cruise with your children you'd better book a stateroom close to kids entertainment facilities. Cruise ship deck plans can once again help you to choose from the many opportunities created to meet passengers' requirements. Spa cabins are recently available for instance. Passengers get free access to the steam room and other connected facilities. These cabins are of course close to the SPA and you can move between in your bathrobe only.

NCL's The Haven and MSC's Yacht Club accommodations are located within an exclusive complex and offer ''ship within ship'' amenities and services. Passengers (who can afford them) enjoy private sundecks with swimming pools and jacuzzis and exclusive facilities like restaurants, bar lounges, gyms and spas.

Prefabricated cruise ship cabin

On May 24, 2016, a new "Lightweight Composite Cabin" design was unveiled in Southampton, England. The innovation was funded by the UK Government. Involved in the cabin's designing, engineering, manufacturing and furbishing were the companies Carnival UK ( Carnival Corporation 's subsidiary), Gurit Ltd (global composite materials supplier), Lloyd's Register Group Ltd (technical / business services, maritime classification company), PE Composites Ltd (composite designer / manufacturer), Trimline Ltd (marine interior refurbishment specialist) and the University of Southampton.

The new modular cabin prototype is half the weight of a typical cruise room. It also fully complies with the FTP Code's requirements (International Code for the Application of Fire Test Procedures). Reducing the ship's topdecks weight is an important issue for naval architects as the trend for building large-capacity cruise vessels continues. The new (prefabricated) module's halved weight opens up opportunities for adding more passenger rooms to newbuild ships, without adding to the ship's DWT weight.

Note: The following list of cruise lines cabins (per ship) includes only CruiseMapper's largest companies' fleets and only ocean-going vessels. For all other vessels (including small-fleet shipping companies , cruiseferries and riverboats ) use the search box at page top .

List of cruise ships with deck plans

Carnival cruise line.

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Firenze
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Radiance
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista

Princess Cruises

• Caribbean Princess
• Coral Princess
• Crown Princess
• Diamond Princess
• Discovery Princess
• Emerald Princess
• Enchanted Princess
• Grand Princess
• Island Princess
• Majestic Princess
• Regal Princess
• Royal Princess
• Ruby Princess
• Sapphire Princess
• Sky Princess
• Star Princess
• Sun Princess

Disney Cruise Line

• Disney Destiny
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Treasure
• Disney Wish
• Disney Wonder
• Queen Elizabeth
• Queen Mary 2
• Queen Victoria

AIDA Cruises

Viking cruises.

• Viking Jupiter
• Viking Mars
• Viking Neptune
• Viking Octantis
• Viking Orion
• Viking Polaris
• Viking Saturn
• Viking Star
• Viking Vela
• Viking Venus
• Viking Vesta
• Zhao Shang Yi Dun-Viking Sun

Royal Caribbean

• Adventure Of The Seas
• Allure Of The Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Brilliance Of The Seas
• Enchantment Of The Seas
• Explorer Of The Seas
• Freedom Of The Seas
• Grandeur Of The Seas
• Harmony Of The Seas
• Icon Of The Seas
• Independence Of The Seas
• Jewel Of The Seas
• Liberty Of The Seas
• Mariner Of The Seas
• Navigator Of The Seas
• Oasis Of The Seas
• Odyssey Of The Seas
• Ovation Of The Seas
• Quantum Of The Seas
• Radiance Of The Seas
• Rhapsody Of The Seas
• Serenade Of The Seas
• Spectrum Of The Seas
• Star Of The Seas
• Symphony Of The Seas
• Utopia Of The Seas
• Vision Of The Seas
• Voyager Of The Seas
• Wonder Of The Seas

Holland America

• ms Koningsdam
• ms Nieuw Amsterdam
• ms Nieuw Statendam
• ms Oosterdam
• ms Rotterdam
• ms Volendam
• ms Westerdam
• ms Zuiderdam

P&O Cruises

• Pacific Adventure
• Pacific Encounter
• Pacific Explorer

Costa Cruises

• Costa Deliziosa
• Costa Diadema
• Costa Fascinosa
• Costa Favolosa
• Costa Fortuna
• Costa Pacifica
• Costa Serena
• Costa Smeralda
• Costa Toscana

Azamara Cruises

• Azamara Journey
• Azamara Onward
• Azamara Pursuit
• Azamara Quest

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

• Seven Seas Explorer
• Seven Seas Grandeur
• Seven Seas Mariner
• Seven Seas Navigator
• Seven Seas Splendor
• Seven Seas Voyager

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Norwegian Aqua
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Dawn
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Epic
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Gem
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Jade
• Norwegian Jewel
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Pearl
• Norwegian Prima
• Norwegian Sky
• Norwegian Spirit
• Norwegian Star
• Norwegian Sun
• Norwegian Viva
• Pride of America

Celebrity Cruises

• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Ascent
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Flora
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Xcel
• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration

Marella Cruises

• Marella Discovery
• Marella Discovery 2
• Marella Explorer
• Marella Explorer 2
• Marella Voyager

MSC Cruises

• MSC Armonia
• MSC Bellissima
• MSC Euribia
• MSC Fantasia
• MSC Grandiosa
• MSC Magnifica
• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Orchestra
• MSC Preziosa
• MSC Seascape
• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seaside
• MSC Seaview
• MSC Sinfonia
• MSC Splendida
• MSC Virtuosa
• MSC World America
• MSC World Asia
• MSC World Europa

Oceania Cruises

• Oceania Allura
• Oceania Insignia
• Oceania Marina
• Oceania Nautica
• Oceania Regatta
• Oceania Riviera
• Oceania Sirena
• Oceania Vista

Silversea Cruises

• Silver Cloud
• Silver Dawn
• Silver Endeavour
• Silver Galapagos
• Silver Moon
• Silver Muse
• Silver Nova
• Silver Origin
• Silver Shadow
• Silver Spirit
• Silver Whisper
• Silver Wind

Seabourn Cruises

• Seabourn Encore
• Seabourn Odyssey
• Seabourn Ovation
• Seabourn Pursuit
• Seabourn Quest
• Seabourn Sojourn
• Seabourn Venture

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STATEROOMS & SUITES

All for one and room for all, top-notch amenities spacious accommodations.

Our staterooms are designed with every type of guest in mind. Whether you’re sailing with your significant other, your family, a group of friends, or traveling solo — we’ve got the perfect room to accommodate your party and budget. Take your pick from Interior or Ocean View rooms, Balcony staterooms, or spacious Suites. You can even connect rooms allowing you to stay together with extended family or friends. The options are endless, and the comfort is always guaranteed.

Interior Staterooms

Our interior staterooms include a wide array of amenities for your whole family to enjoy..

Ocean View Staterooms

Savor the seaside and snapshots of landscapes from shore to shore..

Balcony Staterooms

Claim your slice of paradise with balcony views just outside your door. .

Suite Staterooms

Enjoy expansive accommodations that take luxury to the next level. .

Dedicated stateroom attendant

Daily cleaning service

Exclusive bedding collection

Stateroom climate control

Ample closet and storage

In-room HD-TV

In-room safe for valuables

Deluxe toiletries: shampoo, conditioner & body wash

AND MUCH MORE…

Enhanced room service

Voom High-Speed Wifi

Laundry & dry-cleaning

Movies on-demand

YOUR PLACE, YOUR SPACE

You’ll never find a shortage of unbelievable room options. From romantic couples staterooms to spacious family suites, you’ll find just what you’re looking for to complement the adventure of a lifetime. Take a virtual tour to get a better look at our stateroom collection call dibs on your just-right space.

Accessible Interior

Promenade view interior, central park view interior, spacious ocean view, spacious ocean view balcony*, royal suite, grand suite, owner's suite, aquatheater suite.

ROOM TO UNWIND

There’s so much to do each day and night. But somewhere in between it all, you’ll want to relax, unwind, and enjoy some “me time.” When choosing your ideal cruise ship stateroom, first consider how much space you need, and which amenities are most important to you. We’ve broken it down to help you decide which stateroom fits your vacation needs.

FAMILY STATEROOMS

When traveling with your family, space is always on your mind. A cozy Interior Room is our most budget-friendly option, and we offer Spacious Interiors, along with connecting rooms to accommodate larger families. The range of ultra-spacious cruise rooms across categories spans all the way up to our new Ultimate Family Townhouse — three stories that elevate the way you stay and play.

STATEROOM FOR COUPLES

If you’re planning a getaway for you and a special someone, we’ve got a range of cruise suites to serve as a romantic backdrop. A private balcony, luxurious bedding and in-suite dining are just a few of the upgraded amenities you’ll enjoy. And if it’s extra pampering you seek, be sure to save time for a relaxing service at  Vitality Spa℠ .

SPACIOUS ROOMS FOR GROUPS

Looking for the perfect stateroom for you and your crew? When traveling with a group of friends, there are many options to choose from. Each category has options that offer maximum space to spread out. From Spacious Interior rooms to Ultra Spacious Ocean View rooms, to our top of the line Villa Suite with four bedrooms.

AWE INSPIRING ACCOMMODATIONS ELEVATE YOUR SUITE STAY

Customized adventures, exclusive access and inclusive amenities. Luxury cruise suite accommodations on Royal Caribbean elevate every aspect of your adventure. From full-size tubs in Junior suites to 24-hour room service in Owner Suites and dedicated check-in for Royal Suite class, it’s little details you’d expect — plus elevated experiences you may have never imagined.

THE SUITE LIFE  

Level up your vacation with a spacious suite. Choose between an intimate Junior Suite with great views, or a Grand Suite featuring a bedroom, living area and private balcony. And if you’re looking for the ultimate suite to complement an unforgettable adventure, opt for the Owners Suite loaded with extra added perks.  

ROYAL SUITE CLASS

In Royal Suite Class — available on Oasis Class and select Quantum Class ships —every detail is thought of, so you won’t have to lift a finger. Sea, Sky and Star tiers include perks that range from exclusive spaces and venues to a Royal Genie or Concierge who will craft VIP experiences just for you — and more.

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY SUITES

In the Ultimate Family Suite , you don’t even have to leave your stateroom to enjoy the thrills. Kids have their own in-suite slides and private game room. Plus there’s plenty of perks for parents too, like a private balcony jacuzzi. And our biggest suite ever, the Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas℠  maxes memories across three levels.

Accessible staterooms OUR GUESTS ARE ALWAYS OUR PRIORITY

All our ships have staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the features of an accessible stateroom. Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, and offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, plus bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability.

EXPLORE ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS

Royal Up BID YOUR WAY TO A CRUISE UPGRADE

Scoring a fantastic upgrade is easy! Simply browse through stateroom options and select the amount you’re willing to pay the upgrade. Then, you’ll be notified via email if your bid was accepted. From Ocean View and Balcony staterooms to the most expansive suites at sea, the possibilities are endless.

EXPLORE ROYAL UP

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Wondering if you should pick a stateroom that’s forward or aft? We’ve got you covered.

Planning to spend your sea days by the pool? Or maybe you’re most excited about a particular specialty restaurant. Depending on where you plan to spend most of your time, you may have a preference of which venue or part of the ship you prefer to call home. Deck plans vary by ship and can be a helpful tool for picking your stateroom.

If you’re motion sensitive, you’ll want to choose a stateroom that’s lower to the water line and closer to the center of the ship. Layout and location varies by ship, so be sure to check your specific sailing and itinerary.

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What is a Stateroom on a Cruise Ship and Which is Best?

W hen you start to book a cruise vacation, you’ll have some things to consider. First, you’ll want to choose which cruise line you plan to sail on. Next, you’ll want to look at individual ships, itineraries, and dates. Once you’ve narrowed down the exact sailing, it’s time to choose your stateroom.

What is a stateroom on a cruise ship? A stateroom is like a hotel room, but at sea. While you will hopefully be spending lots of time exploring the ship and out at the various ports of call, you’ll still spend lots of time in your room.

It’s important to not only understand what the different stateroom types are (like balcony, interior, etc ) but also to understand cabin location. Some people find that they have strong performances for the stateroom location, while other people won’t care. Cabin type is important, however.

Here’s the information you’ll need to know about choosing a stateroom, based on your preferences and budget. Keep in mind that every cruise line is a bit different in how it classifies staterooms, so you may need to do a little additional research on your specific cruise line.

Disclosure: We have been on some complimentary cruises and have paid for many of our own. This post contains affiliate links, but a purchase/click-through of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own.

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What is a Stateroom on a Cruise Ship and Which One is Best

Types of cruise ship staterooms and differences.

Here are some of the most popular types of cabins. Not every cruise line/cruise ship will have every type of room, so you’ll have to look at the booking details and deck plan to see what is available on your sailing. You can choose your cruise ship cabins during the booking process.

Interior Staterooms: These rooms are often a great deal. They don’t offer balconies or windows, unlike outside cabins. I personally find that I need to have a view of the ocean, even for just the natural light. However, you can definitely save money by choosing an interior room, and they can be a good value.

Porthole Stateroom : This type of stateroom isn’t available on all cruise ships. With a porthole view, you’ll have a round, porthole as a window, rather than floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s no exterior access with this type of room.

Oceanview Stateroom: An oceanview cabin will typically have larger windows than a porthole stateroom. There’s a full view of the ocean, but you won’t be able to go outside from your room in an oceanview cabin without a balcony. Within this stateroom category, there are often obstructed view or partial view rooms, although there’s typically a large window.

Balcony Stateroom : This type of stateroom, also called a verandah stateroom (on Disney Cruise Line), offers a private balcony with access to the outside. Like oceanview rooms, sometimes balcony rooms have obstructed views or larger/smaller balconies. I prefer a balcony room because I really enjoy spending time outside, reading a book and drinking my coffee. While you can save money by choosing a room without a balcony, I personally feel it’s worth it.

Cruise Suite: If you are looking for a more luxurious experience at sea, there are also suites to consider. These can vary from a small junior suite to multi-bedroom suites, depending on the ship. Many cruise suites also come with concierge services, including special happy hours, extra service, and dedicated lounges and sun decks.

Locations of Staterooms

Another consideration is the location of your stateroom. In some cases, you’ll get a choice. If you book a GTY (guaranteed) stateroom, or sail on Virgin Voyages , you won’t have a room location option.

Some people care more about stateroom location than others. So you’ll have to think about your preferences before you book. Options will include the deck (level) as well as the location on the ship – forward, aft, or midship.

On smaller ships, the location doesn’t matter as much. But on larger ships, like the Royal Caribbean Oasis Class (including the Wonder and the Allure ), you’ll really want to make sure you get a location you like.

Often the higher decks are preferable. However, you may not want to be under certain areas of a ship. This would include a busy nightclub, a pool deck, or a smokey casino.

Higher decks do sometimes feel more movement but may be closer to the action. You may want to think about what parts of the ship you going to be in the most, and consider a stateroom that will require the least amount of stairs. Lower decks typically have less movement but do not always have the best view.

In addition to the deck, you’ll want to decide what part of the ship to be in – midship, forward, or aft. Midship is usually the best option if possible. You’ll be in the center of the action and won’t have to walk too far in either direction to get to wherever you are going.

To me, the type of stateroom I book is much more important than the location. I’ve stayed all over cruise ships and have always had a great experience. If your sailing has an option for a guaranteed room, you may be able to save money if you don’t care about location. It can be a great way to save some money on your vacation – that you can use on drinks, specialty dining, or excursions!

You’ll also want to look beyond the deck and location. For this, you’ll need to look at the deck plan for your ship. In general, you want to look to see if you are near an elevator or service area, or are in an area where others can see your balcony from the top decks. These aren’t necessarily deal-breakers (unless you are a very light sleeper), but if you have a choice, it’s good to avoid these cruise staterooms.

General Stateroom Amenities

Before you set sail, you’ll want to see what stateroom amenities are offered. That will make sure you are fully prepared before you get on board.

Some things to look for are hairdryers, outlets, type of closet/space, bed configurations, safes, and bathroom setup. Keep in mind that regardless of what type of stateroom you book, it’s likely to be small. Even the most luxurious staterooms are still small. So don’t overpack and try to bring things that are easy to tuck into small spaces.

You’ll also want to see what the bed configuration is. Is there a king-size bed? A sofa bed? Bunk beds? Know in advance, especially when traveling with your whole family.

Choosing the Best Stateroom

If you’ve never sailed on a cruise ship, you may not know what the best staterooms are. Luckily, there are some resources that you can use to get reviews and learn more about rooms on various ships. One option is to do an internet search or Facebook search for your cruise ship. You may find some reviews of cabins.

Another option is the Cruise Deck Plan database . This website offers images and deck plans for a huge variety of popular cruise lines/cruise ships. You can look for one particular ship and see all the details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you choose your stateroom on a cruise ship?

On most lines, you can, unless you book a guaranteed cabin (GYT). Virgin Voyages, however, doesn’t let you book your room.

Do staterooms have a private bathroom?

Yes, staterooms will have a private bathroom, in every type of cabin.

Is it worth it to have a balcony on a stateroom?

I think it’s absolutely worth it because I typically spend lots of time on the balcony. Having your own private balcony can give you some additional space to spread out. While balcony staterooms do cost more money, I think it’s worth it.

Is there a difference between a cabin and a stateroom on a cruise ship?

No, a cabin and a stateroom are synonymous.

Is stateroom location important?

It can be important if you are concerned about shorter walks and noise levels in your cruise experience.

What is the best cruise ship cabin?

That can vary based on your preferences. I personally prefer a balcony cabin in the middle of the ship.

What is your favorite stateroom location on a cruise ship?

Check prices and book your cruise here .

The post What is a Stateroom on a Cruise Ship and Which is Best? appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

The newer, the better: How wheelchair users can travel smoothly

Chris Ricci can walk only short distances at a time, but he has traveled the world on his scooter.

The 57-year-old U.S. Army veteran has limited mobility stemming from a foot injury he sustained in the 1980s and related complications has found cruises an accessible way to explore destinations like Alaska or the Caribbean. Just this month, he, his wife and friends took a week-long Royal Caribbean International cruise to Belize, Honduras and Mexico.

Ricci, who is based in Lakeland, Florida, simply had to drive to Tampa to board the Enchantment of the Seas. “I think it’s pretty easy,” he told USA TODAY. They booked an accessible stateroom for the first time, too.

“It was really big,” said Ricci, who chronicles his cruises and other travels on his YouTube channel, Scootin Around the World.  “I had no problem getting the scooter into the room.”

Cruise ships can offer guests who use mobility devices an accessible, streamlined way to travel. But some extra planning can go a long way toward ensuring the trip goes smoothly. Here’s what to know.

How this adult-only cruise line integrated accessibility into its experiences

Do cruise ships have accessible staterooms for mobility devices?

Cruise lines do offer accessible staterooms, but they’re not all the same. “Make sure that you have the accessible room that's best for you,” said Joy Burns, organization and PR manager at accessible travel booking platform Wheel the World .

For instance, some staterooms may be better suited to motorized wheelchair users, but the setup may not be conducive for passengers who use other kinds of devices, according to her husband, Bert, who has been paralyzed since 1982 and has taken more than 20 cruises.

“If I got a wheelchair-accessible room that's made for a power wheelchair with a Hoyer lift, the bed’s up real high,” he said. “I can’t transfer with a high bed. I use a manual wheelchair, so I’m down low.”

Standard staterooms may also be able to accommodate mobility devices, but guests should familiarize themselves with cruise lines’ requirements.

Passengers booking a standard cabin on Carnival Cruise Line ships must have devices that can fit through a 22-inch-wide doorway, according to its website . The devices must also fold and collapse to allow for safe exit from the room (passengers cannot store mobility devices in corridors or public spaces).

“Guests who bring scooters that are larger than 21" (53.34 cm) wide, or travel with multiple scooters in the same stateroom, must purchase a fully accessible stateroom with a wider doorway (32”, 81.3 cm), or rent a smaller scooter appropriately suited for their stateroom,” the line said on its website. “Guests may be required to have their scooters sized at the time of check-in to ensure it fits in the stateroom.”

Major cruise lines typically have accessibility departments that can help guests navigate the process, according to Sylvia Longmire, an accessible travel writer who runs the blog and travel brand Spin the Globe .

“Talk to the accessibility department to ask the questions and let them know what kind of equipment you're bringing if you're bringing your own stuff,” said Longmire, who has multiple sclerosis and has taken over 30 cruises, most of which have been with a scooter or wheelchair. “Let them know what your ability or disability is, what your level is, what your accessibility requirements are. And that way, they can tell you what kind of cabin you might need, what location, (information) about the ship, and everything before you even call to make the reservation.”

For those booking through a travel agent, she said she “highly” recommends working with someone who has a disability or is an expert in accessible travel.

What cruises are best for guests with mobility devices?

Some destinations may also be better suited to guests with mobility devices than others. 

Once, during a New Zealand cruise, the Burnses’ ship hit some rough water, causing Bert to roll out of the casino and crash into the bar (though no one was hurt). Joy recommended researching the conditions of the seas. ( Click here for USA TODAY’S guide to the best times to cruise by region.)

She added that expedition cruises , which often feature activities that require guests to get on and off Zodiac boats, may not be as accessible.

What cruise ship is best for guests with mobility devices?

New ships tend to have more features that can make a trip easier for guests with mobility devices, said the Burnses and Longmire. Those include automatic sliding doors in public spaces, stateroom locks that allow passengers to wave their key to open the door and pool lifts.

“The newer the ship, the better the accessibility,” said Longmire.

Can I get a mobility device through a cruise line?

Guests can arrange to rent mobility devices through vendors like Scootaround or Special Needs at Sea (Longmire is a contract employee for Scootaround).

Rentals may also be available at the cruise terminal, and some lines have a limited number of scooters and wheelchairs available on the ship, according to Longmire. She estimated rentals can run from roughly $80 to $250 depending on the type of equipment, the length of time guests need it and other factors.

Do cruise lines have accessible excursions?

Yes, but options may be limited. Joy said accessible shore excursions available through cruise lines are “few and far between,” and she and Bert have taken cruises where there were none available through the cruise line at all.

Longmire noted that “cruise lines are entirely dependent on the availability of excursions with whoever they're contracting with.” If a given destination doesn’t have wheelchair taxis, for example, that limits cruise lines’ offerings.

Are there blind scuba divers? Here's the accessible way anyone can explore the ocean

When they are available through the line, Longmire said many of them are what she calls windshield tours – bus tours with a group of other passengers that might include one or two 15-minute stops to take photos. “And the rest of it is just seeing everything out the window,” she said.

However, she added that cruise lines “get a little bit better” each year about offering those.

Joy said passengers can also book accessible shore excursions through companies like Wheel the World. Longmire has had luck booking shuttles and tours directly through providers in various ports as well, though guests should take care to be back in time before the ship leaves.

Are tender ports accessible?

When it comes to accessibility at tender ports – where guests have to take a small vessel from the ship to shore – Longmire said it’s “not very black and white.” Cruise ships may let guests board tenders and some have technology to help passengers with wheelchairs do so, but the port’s capabilities may be different.

“Just because you're able to get from the ship to the tender doesn't mean that you'll be able to get from the tender to the dock,” said Longmire.

Rules may differ as well, with some lines allowing guests in manual wheelchairs to use tenders but prohibiting motorized devices. She recommended checking with the accessibility department about those policies.

The Burnses, for their part, have generally found tender ports to be inaccessible, and Joy suggested travelers review itineraries to see how many they include. 

Overall, Longmire said her experience on cruises has been “really good,” both for their accessibility and convenience (you can visit multiple places but unpack once, for instance). “I always recommend to wheelchair users for their first travel experience, like, if you don't get seasick and you’re okay with cruises, a cruise is the way to go.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The 7 best cruise ship suites — picked by someone who has seen them all

One of the biggest stories in the cruise world over the past couple of decades has been the arrival of a new generation of superlarge, superswanky cruise ship suites that are chock-full of every sort of upscale feature and amenity you could imagine. They are sights to behold.

Some of the biggest of these cruise ship suites measure 2,000 square feet or more — approaching the size of the typical American home. A handful go far beyond that.

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I haven't stayed in all of these new cruise ship suites. But over more than 25 years of writing about cruise ships, I've toured pretty much all of them. I can't think of any major cruise ship suite that I've missed other than Disney Cruise Line's new Tower Suite on Disney Wish, which I hope to get to soon.

A few of these swanky digs really stood out, and I'll profile them below in my personal list of best cruise suites.

In some cases, these are one-of-a-kind suites found on only a single vessel. In other cases, they are suites with similar sisters on multiple ships.

To be clear, this is by no means an exhaustive list. Disney fans will no doubt admonish me for not including the supersized suites on some Disney Cruise Line ships, such as the art deco-influenced Roy O. Disney Suite on Disney Fantasy. I've been in these suites, and they are certainly impressive. But I wasn't as wowed by them as I was by the suites below. And I have to cut off my list somewhere.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you definitely should avoid

Luxury lines Silversea Cruises and Seabourn also offer quite a few wonderful suites on their ships, and it's worth noting that some of the biggest suites at sea are those found on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Jewel-class vessels.

Below, you'll find my picks for the seven best suites at sea.

Regent Suite

Ship: Seven Seas Splendor (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)

Every time I think of this suite, I think of that famous scene in "Dr. Zhivago" where Comrade Kaprugina dresses down the good doctor on the size of his mansion. "There was living space for 13 families in this one house!" she scolds.

You might not be able to jam 13 families into Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' Regent Suite, but in a pinch, you probably could come close. It sprawls over an astounding 4,443 square feet — nearly twice the size of the average American home. Its opulence is like nothing you'll find anywhere else at sea (except in similar suites found on Regent's Seven Seas Explorer and the just-unveiled Seven Seas Grandeur).

Located at the front of Seven Seas Splendor , the Regent Suite is so big it stretches all the way from one side of the ship to the other, offering views in three directions. It has two massive bedroom complexes — and they really are complexes, with seemingly endless space. It also has a living room, a separate dining area and perhaps the most spectacular balcony at sea.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge on a suite for your next cruise

Among the over-the-top things you'll find in the Regent Suite is a bed with a handmade mattress that Regent executives claim cost more than $200,000. It was handcrafted by four artisans at the renowned Hastens workshop in Koping, Sweden, using horsetail hair and flax, along with cotton and wool batting.

The Regent Suite also has a ridiculously large master bathroom, complete with its own sauna and steam room. It's big enough that it can double as a personal spa treatment room. To that end, the Regent Suite — get this — comes with its own spa therapist on call. Unlimited spa treatments are included in the cost of the suite.

Other perks of staying in the Regent Suite include first-class domestic flights to reach the ship; a personal car, driver and guide in every port; and a dedicated butler to help make arrangements on board.

The only downside to a stay? The cost. Regent charges $11,000 a day for the privilege.

Related: The 2 types of Regent ships, explained

Royal Loft Suite

Ship: Quantum of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

At 1,640 square feet, the Royal Loft Suite on Royal Caribbean 's Quantum of the Seas isn't nearly as big as the Regent Suite on Seven Seas Splendor. But it makes my list of the best cruise ship suites because it offers something the latter doesn't: views across the ship's wake through a soaring, two-deck-high glass wall.

That's right, the Royal Loft Suite on Quantum of the Seas sprawls over two decks and has a main room that is two stories high — a lavish use of space that is rare in the cruise world.

Royal Caribbean offers a Royal Loft Suite on each of its Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships, but there are some design differences among them.

My favorite of all the Royal Loft Suites is the one on Quantum of the Seas, the first vessel in Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class series. Sleeping up to six, it offers a stylish, two-deck-high living and dining space facing the complex's giant window wall, complete with such modernist touches as an Eames chair (which, being a minimalist, I adore). Among its highlights are a dry bar and a sofa that converts into a double bed.

Related: 5 reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade

The first floor of the Royal Loft Suite is also home to a media room with a sofa that converts into a queen bed. It's a perfect hideaway for the kids, should you be traveling with a family.

Upstairs, the main bedroom is open-walled, so you can see across the living area to the sea. It is accessed via a bridge-like walkway, which I love. It's like crossing a drawbridge into your own private castle at sea.

Rounding out the complex is a spacious, 415-square-foot private balcony that has its own private whirlpool — another great place from which to look out over the water.

Balmoral Suite

Ship: Queen Mary 2 (Cunard Line)

Royal Caribbean wasn't the first cruise line to go the double-decker route when designing over-the-top cruise ship suites. A decade before the debut of Quantum of the Seas, Cunard Line wowed cruise fans with the unveiling of this two-deck-high Grand Duplex suite and a sister suite, the Sandringham, on its iconic Queen Mary 2.

Named after a castle in Scotland owned by the British royal family, the Balmoral Suite is fit for a queen with a stunning 2,249 square feet of living space.

Like Royal Caribbean's Royal Loft suites, both the Balmoral Suite and the Sandringham Suite have a sprawling living room and dining area on their ground floors and a spacious master bedroom complex on their second levels.

One thing I particularly love about the Grand Duplex suites is that their master bedrooms are reached via dramatic, curving staircases.

Another allure of the Grand Duplex suites is that they come with access to Queen Mary 2's exclusive Queens Grill restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Only open to passengers staying in the very top accommodations on the ship, this is a much more intimate, elegant and private eatery than the main Britannia restaurant where most passengers dine.

Movie buffs may recognize the restaurant, as it was heavily highlighted in the Meryl Streep movie "Let Them All Talk," which was set on Queen Mary 2 .

Owner's suite

Ship: Viking Star (Viking)

Many cruise ships have giant suites that are given the name "owner's suite." But few live up to the phrase like this one.

The owner's suite on Viking Star — Viking 's first oceangoing ship — was specifically designed to be used by Viking founder and owner Torstein Hagen when he travels on the ship, and it's full of little quirks that reflect his personal tastes.

Among them: Hagen's personal mementos, including pictures of his family, are sprinkled throughout the suite. A selection of books from Hagen's personal collection fills a bookshelf.

The Norwegian-born Hagen also had the suite built with its own private sauna with a glass wall facing the sea, something he wanted for personal use.

In all, the suite — and similar suites that were built onto more recently unveiled Viking ocean ships — sprawls over an impressive 1,448 square feet.

Located at the top of the vessel, it has a bedroom with a large bathroom complex (including that sauna), a separate living room and a dining area that seats six people.

In addition, in another twist that speaks to its real use as an owner's suite, it has its own boardroom with a long table that seats 12 people that Hagen uses for meetings and catered dinner parties. There's an adjacent pantry that can be used by staff serving room service or catering hosted events.

Among other personal touches related to Hagen are wine and music collections that he curated for the rooms.

Similar Owner's Suites can be found on other Viking ocean ships, too, all used from time to time by Hagen and his family.

Reflection Suite

Ship: Celebrity Reflection (Celebrity Cruises)

Many Celebrity Cruises ships have spacious and alluring suites. But the newest of the line's five Solstice Class vessels, Celebrity Reflection, has my favorite of them all: the Reflection Suite.

Unveiled in 2012, the Reflection Suite was the brand's first two-bedroom suite, and it measures a none-too-shabby 1,636 square feet, not including a 194-square-foot balcony.

Located in a panoramic corner spot on the ship, it features a glass-walled living and dining area with a dining table that can seat 10 people (just in case you want to hold a dinner party during your cruise).

Related: TPG's ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

But what really earns it a place on our list of the best cruise ship suites is the Reflection Suite's stunning, glass-walled master bathroom. Dubbed a "sea-view bathroom," it is just that — a bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer incredible sea views. The most-talked-about highlight of the space: a glass-enclosed rain shower that juts out over the edge of the ship.

Just be careful if you use the shower as the ship pulls into port: You might end up putting on a show. (The walls are made of "smart glass," so you can change them from transparent to translucent.) That said, we can't think of another bathroom on a cruise ship with such amazing views.

Ship: Riviera (Oceania Cruises)

The owner's suites on Oceania Cruises ' Riviera — there are three of them — rival anything you can find at a resort on land when it comes to elegance and style.

So do three more owner's suites that you can find on Riviera's slightly older sister ship, Marina.

All six of the suites were decorated using Ralph Lauren furnishings by designer Susan Bednar Long, and they have a wonderful flow and consistency in style.

The mahogany beds that you'll find in the master bedrooms are upholstered in steel-blue mohair — a striking touch — and are flanked by walls covered in cashmere. A few steps away, a marble-clad master bathroom offers more luxurious Ralph Lauren design touches.

Measuring around 2,000 square feet, the owner's suites also have spacious living rooms and a dramatic entryway with a bar on one side and a grand piano on the other.

The suites offer lots of outdoor living space with wrap-around balconies that are home to hot tubs and flat-screen TVs. These balconies overlook the back of the ship, offering great views.

Among the extra touches, a stay in one of the suites comes with butler service, free laundry service of up to three bags per sailing, priority ship embarkation with priority luggage delivery and access to an exclusive executive lounge staffed by a dedicated concierge.

Ultimate Family Suite

Ship: Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Yes, I'm putting a second Royal Caribbean suite on my short list of the seven best cruise suites. The line is that amazing when it comes to suites. Indeed, if I had to pick just one cruise line for best suites, it'd be Royal Caribbean.

The Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas, which debuted in 2018, really is the ultimate family suite. I can't think of a better suite anywhere in the world, at sea or on land, for families with kids, particularly small kids.

Like two other Ultimate Family suites that have debuted more recently on Spectrum of the Seas (a ship devoted to the Asia cruise market) and Wonder of the Seas, Symphony's is like a kiddie fun zone that happens to have beds where you can spend the night.

Related: 12 tips for surviving a luxury cruise with kids

Measuring a palatial 1,346 square feet, the Ultimate Family Suite on Symphony of the Seas spans two decks that are loaded with such kid-friendly attractions as an air hockey table, a building block wall, table tennis on the balcony and a vertical climbing maze.

There's also a crawl-through nook connecting the main bedroom for adults and a second kiddie bedroom, plus — surely the coolest feature of all — a slide that descends from the second floor of the complex to the first floor. (Don't worry, there are stairs, too, for those who want to move between floors the traditional way.)

In addition, the complex has its very own private cinema room with an 85-inch 4K TV that streams movies, a popcorn machine and the latest gaming consoles.

Designed with even the largest families in mind — it can hold up to eight people! — the suite also features one of the most jaw-dropping balcony views on the entire ship. And, like all high-end suites on Royal Caribbean ships, it comes with a Royal Genie — a personal butler assigned to cater to your every need.

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More From Forbes

Would you roll the dice on a $49-a-day holland america standby cruise.

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Holland America passengers from Eurodam horseback riding at Half Moon Cay.

After almost sinking during COVID, the cruise industry is getting hot again. New ships, from the “city at sea” 7,600 passenger Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) to smaller, all-luxury ships like the 920-passenger EXPLORA I are driving new interest—and new cruisers—to the industry.

Innovative new marketing programs are also boosting cruising. Holland America is expanding its Standby List Program , where passengers can potentially get booked on a cruise for as low as $49 a day.

Once you’ve picked a destination and a sailing day, you can get on the standby list. (This means paying for the discounted cruise you’ve selected immediately.) If your lucky number comes up, Holland America will let you know if you’ll be sailing between two and seven days before the ship leaves port. If no vacancies materialize, the money will be returned to your credit card.

You will have to be able to live with uncertainty as to what kind of stateroom you’re getting.

“Guests for this program do not choose their stateroom category, so they could end up staying in a variety of different cabin types including Inside, Oceanview, or Verandah,” said a Holland America spokesperson. Where you end up “depends, in part, on where the last-minute cancellations happen. Guests will be confirmed in the order they joined the list within the week of sailing. It could be seven days or as close as 48 hours to departure. So it really is tailored for guests who live close to the port.”

But of course, as the spokesperson put, “Guests will still have access to everything onboard that full-fare paying guests do, such as world-class dining, exciting entertainment, and most importantly—access to desired destinations.”

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The Hydro Pool on board the Holland America Oosterdam.

The Holland America Standby Program launched in August of 2023 with cruises from Seattle. In October and November, the company expanded the program to include voyages from homeports in Fort Lauderdale and San Diego. Now, as the line launches its 2024 Alaska and Canada/New England sailings, guests will see standby offers sailing from ports including Boston, Vancouver as well as Seattle.

The standby concept has always been popular, typically with people who have more time than money. Travelers have tried to go standby (going to the airport without a ticket and getting on the standby list) on airlines for years. Last-minute hotel rooms are also commonly available through various vendors.

With flights, hotel rooms and cruises, the lure of waiting until the last minute is the same: a discounted deal. Once that flight leaves, the hotel calendar clicks to the next day or the ship sails, that seat, suite or stateroom is gone, empty and unsold.

With the Holland America standby program, the rates of $49 are per person per day (for either a solo cruiser or a cabin at double occupancy), but third and fourth guests sail free. The program is for guests 21 and over, so you can take your pals but not your kids.

Of course, there are additional charges. The $49 per day fare amount excludes taxes, fees and port expenses. And as with most ‘a la carte’ cruises, gratuities, liquor, Wi-Fi and other amenities are additional.

The standby program is for all vacancies on a particular cruise, although it’s certainly a win for Holland America if it can resell a cancelled trip for additional income.

NY Deli & Pizza - Central Park Pizza on Holland America cruise ships.

You’ll be charged for each date you sign up for, immediately upon signing up, so you may want to try going standby on one cruise at a time. Once you’ve paid and are on the standby list, you can’t leave it. If offered a cruise between 7 and 2 days prior to sailing, guests will be charged the full fare whether they decide to go or not. If you’re looking for more flexibility, a spokesperson said potential passengers can also purchase a cancelation plan.

Conde Nast Traveler calls the standby program a cruise “industry first.” But author Jessica Puckett cautions that the inability to pick your room might land you in a 143 square foot interior room, rather than that 405 square foot veranda stateroom you’re dreaming of. If you “win” the small interior room, it might start feeling cell-like, especially on, say, a 42-day Mediterranean cruise from Ft. Lauderdale in November. However, that would still be a good deal financially, as instead of $5,479 plus fees for an inside room, you’d pay $2,058 plus fees.

Another potential issue might be getting on certain excursions from the ship. Some might be sold out by the time your standby booking is confirmed.

If you’re getting interested in cruising, it’s worth researching the industry. There are many lines, ships, destinations, and a seemingly endless list of options. Some deals might make more sense than going standby.

Still, the spokesperson told us that they had talked to several guests who have used the standby program multiple times successfully this season in Florida.

Passengers playing pickleball on Holland America Koningsdam.

"We see Holland America Line’s Standby Program as a win-win for guests and our business,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management at Holland America. “Circumstances may arise for booked guests where they must cancel a cruise the week before sailing. The Standby Program allows us to fill those cabins with people who have already committed to going and who presumably live close enough to the port that they can make last-minute travel arrangements.”

Rough added, “For those guests with flexibility to travel, it means access to an unforgettable cruise vacation at $49 per day—an exceptional value.”

You can see a list of available Holland America sailings here , or call 877-724-5425 to get on the standby list. The page also includes some frequently asked questions.

If you live near one of the ports, is it worth taking a shot at getting a great deal on a standby cruise?

Several years ago, as a registered Rolling Stones fan, I was contacted by email one day about a “Lucky Dip” for tickets at an upcoming show at T-Mobile in Las Vegas. Like the Holland American standby offer, the deal was $50 a ticket, ‘we pick the seats for you.’ We booked a room at the now-departed Tropicana and held our breath for a few weeks, expecting nosebleed seats. Instead, we sat 20 rows up with a perfect view of the stage, especially for Keith Richards emotional solo set.

Will your roll of the “tumbling dice” bring you similar luck on a Holland America cruise? As Mark Twain put it in HUCKLEBERRY FINN, “You pays your money and you takes your chances.”

Tamarind - Mongolian Beef Lamb Chop on Holland America.

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