Your cabin shapes your whole cruise: how much light you get, how much space you have and how much you pay. Here is how the four main cabin types compare, and the location tips our advisors share with every client.
The four main cabin types
| Cabin type | What you get | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Inside | No window. Usually the smallest and lowest-priced cabin. | Travelers who spend little time in the cabin, budget trips, sound sleepers who like a dark room |
| Oceanview | A window or porthole that does not open. | Natural light at a modest step up in price |
| Balcony | A private veranda with a sliding door, usually with two chairs and a small table. | Scenic cruises like Alaska and the fjords, couples, longer voyages |
| Suite | More space, often a separate living area, larger balcony and extra perks that vary by line. | Special occasions, families who need space, travelers who want priority service |
On a large modern ship, balcony cabins often make up the biggest share of cabins. Sun Princess, for example, has more than 1,000 balcony cabins. Every ship page on our site shows its cabin mix under Deck Plans & Cabins.
Location matters as much as type
- Prone to seasickness? Choose a low deck near the middle of the ship. You feel the least motion there.
- Light sleeper? Avoid cabins directly below the pool deck, buffet or theater, or above a nightclub. Check the deck plans for what sits above and below.
- Want quick access? Cabins near elevators are convenient but can be busier in the hallway.
- Love the view behind the ship? Aft-facing balconies look over the wake and are often a little larger. They can feel more motion and some engine vibration.
- Check for obstructions. Some oceanview and balcony cabins have views partly blocked by lifeboats. The cruise line’s description will say so.
Cabins for families and groups
Families have three main choices: a cabin that sleeps three to five using sofa beds or pull-down berths, two connecting cabins with a door between them, or a family suite. Connecting cabins and family cabins are limited and sell out early, so book well ahead. Planning a trip with several families? See our group cruises page.
Accessible cabins
Most ships have accessible cabins with wider doors, roll-in showers and more turning space. There are only a limited number per ship, so tell us early and we will check availability on your sailing.
Guarantee cabins: good value with a catch
A guarantee fare means you pick the category, such as balcony, and the cruise line assigns your exact cabin later. It can be cheaper, and sometimes you get an upgrade. The trade-off is that you do not choose the location. If location matters to you, book a specific cabin instead.
Not sure which cabin to book? Send us the ship and dates, and an advisor will recommend specific cabins. Request a quote.
