Compared to other choices you need to make before a cruise – such as a cruise line, destination, and itinerary – picking a cabin may seem like a relatively minor decision. However, where your cabin is located on the ship can enhance your cruise experience. Should you pick a forward (toward the front), middle, or aft (toward the back) cabin?
Be assured
that there’s no one correct answer to this question; the answer that’s right
for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Let’s
start with cabins that are mid-ship. The most important thing to know about them
is that they are usually the most stable if the ship has to sail through rough water.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, a midship cabin may be the best choice.
These cabins are often close to more than one set of elevators, too, which may
be an advantage for you.
Forward
cabins can be a good choice if you value having a view from your cabin. The
sides of a cruise ship often curve inward a bit near the front of the ship, so forward
cabins that have a window or balcony may offer a wider view (but, work with
your professional travel advisor to make sure your view won’t be obstructed by
equipment). The curving side walls can contribute to unique (and more spacious)
cabin layouts, too. However, forward cabins do tend to feel the most motion if
the sea is choppy.
Like
forward cabins, aft cabins may offer a bit more space, especially if they are
located at or between the back corners of the ship. When these cabins have
balconies, they are often the most spacious on board, with a great view over
the ship’s wake. Because of this, aft cabins can be quite desirable. However, a potential
disadvantage of aft cabins is periodic noise or vibration from the operation of the
ship’s engine and anchor.
It's
important to consider the vertical location of your cabin, too. Higher decks usually
offer bigger views and more balconies but are more likely to feel the sway of
the ship. Lower decks are more stable, but inside cabins don’t have windows – still,
that can be an advantage if you’ll mostly use your cabin to sleep, shower, and
dress.
There’s
more to know about selecting a cabin location; for expert advice, including
specifics about pricing, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.
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