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Best and Worst Cabins on Cruise Ships

What are the best and worst cabins on cruise ships - and why? Where and what are the best cabins on a cruise ship is a question about location ( cruise deck plans ), fares and price-inclusive amenities. Where and what are the best and worst staterooms are among the general questions for first-timer cruisers.

Staterooms are like tiny homes at sea, and choosing your "best" is kinda personal. Your choice also will depend on the company, vessel, room size, type/view, deck location, amenities. Not to forget the special offers with super low-priced promo deals that could change everything you know on the subject. Find out more secrets at our stateroom tips and tricks .

Types of cabins on cruise ships

Cruise ship cabins are often referred to as "staterooms" or "cruise accommodations". Their furnishings can range from "comfy" to "luxurious". The cheapest tend to be smaller than an ordinary budget hotel room. The largest staterooms (suites) rival many land-based luxury resort accommodations  - both as sizes and amenities, but mostly as prices. Cabin rates are per person and usually based on double occupancy (excepting studios). Prices range widely by cabin types, sizes, deck location, amenities, company's and vessel's ratings, also by destination, season, itinerary, travel agency, inclusions, and bonuses, promotion deals, etc.

• Inside cabins are the cheapest, located in the ship's interior (an inside corridor), no window, capacity up to 4 guests.
• Oceanview/Outside cabins - about 15-20% more expensive, with windows which don't open or porthole, the cheapest of this type may have a partially (or substantially) obstructed view.
• Balcony cabins (also called Veranda) - 30-40% more expensive than Inside; have outside chairs and a table, often with 4-star amenities.
• Mini-suite and full Suites (multi-room accommodations) - some of the most expensive, with a private veranda, bathtub (hot tub), a large sitting area, 2 closets. Suites and Interior cabins tend to sell out first (partly because there are fewer of them, partly because they offer, respectively, extremely good value and the cheapest fares).
• Grand Suite and all Penthouse, Owner's, Presidential and the like suites - the most expensive and the largest cruise staterooms at sea (separate living and sleeping areas, a wide variety of bonus amenities and perks). Sizes vary according to line and ship, reaching up to 5,000 ft2 in the case of NCL's Garden Villa suites. At the modest price of only US $30,000 per week you'll enjoy a private sauna and open-air Jacuzzi, your very own kitchen, a private elevator entrance, the best butler service money can buy and the best luxury available on a cruise ship.

On big ships, you'll find a number of cabin categories within each cabin type. This is according to location, size, features, quality of view, etc. Cabin rates vary not only by type and size but also by category. For a particular cabin type, brochure/online prices usually apply to the lowest category. In your cabin, every square inch is usable since the price of ships is generally determined by the number of their beds/berths. So luggage fits under the bed, while the items you unpack will be stored in closets and drawers.

Which cruise ship cabins to avoid?

After analyzing their deck plans, we'll list here the most famous ships and their "worst" cabins. The "bad cruise cabins" issue is not about amenities, but about location - and noise. Cabins located nearby the ships' elevators or with some public areas above (restaurants, bars/clubs, kids areas), or near public bathrooms may present some noise concern during the day or late at night.

what does a cruise ship cabin look like (details/amenities)

• All cabins have twin beds, usually convertible to create a queen bed, while suites may have king-sized beds. Family cabins may also have pull-down or bunk-beds (loft beds attached to the wall), sleeper sofa or an additional twin bed.
• All have a small safe to lock in it all valuables while onboard (passports, credit cards and cash, fine jewelry, iPads), at least 1 large wall-mounted mirror, individually controlled air conditioning.
• All have private bathrooms with showers, basic bathroom amenities (typical for a motel, including a hairdryer), ship toilets operate by power suction.
• All have a phone (wake-up call option, synchronized to ship's time). Nowadays all ship cabins also feature a flat TV and a DVD player, a mini-bar and a small refrigerator (cans and bottles for sale; if you bring your own drinks, ask the steward to empty it first).
• All have a reach-in closet, a shelf for life-vests, storage drawers (suites usually have walk-in closets with several shelves). Higher categories cabins also have a desk with a chair.
• Power outlets are minimized to avoid fire risk. Near the bed (and the desk) there are  1 or 2 low-wattage (120V 60Hz) outlets for laptops.

A good cruise travel agent could be of great assistance to you (using agency services is highly recommended for first-timers) guiding you through all the grades and deckplan codes for the nuances of features, best locations and the best-worst staterooms on a particular boat.

Special types of staterooms (crew, single, family, Spa, accessible)

• Crew cabins are located on one of the crew decks (on some ships located below the waterline/under the water), while cruise ship staff cabins are in the passenger areas.
• Single cabins (aka Solo cabins) are generally difficult to find. The world's best ships with single cabins belong to the fleets of such famous operators, like Fred Olsen and P&O on the UK market and NCL Norwegian Lines. The best of all ships with single-occupancy cabins is the NCL Norwegian Epic, boasting 128 of its 100 square foot (9,3 m2) "Epic Studios" - specifically designed for solo travelers, and features a full-size bed and a large round window looking out into the corridor.
• Family cabins - many of a standard size for its category, but with more beds and bathrooms, providing more privacy for parents. The best lines with family cabins are Carnival, Disney, Celebrity, Princess, and NCL.
• Accessible/Disabled cabins are special accommodations for passengers with mobility challenges. These rooms have wheelchair access, wide doors (doors are even automatic on some ships), a bathtub with grab bars, roll-in showers, portable ADA kits for guests with hearing impairments, closed-captioned televisions.
• SPA cabins - Spa-deck staterooms with direct access to the ship's Spa and Fitness complex.

What are the best cabins on cruise ships (amenities)?

In a concise manner, the best luxury cruise cabins are to be found on Regent Seven Seas and NCL ships, while the cheapest cruise cabins are offered by all HAL and Carnival ships (honored also with the "best standard cabins" reward). NCL (Norwegian Lines) is well appreciated for offering a great variety of staterooms. NCL offers even garden and courtyard suites, and some of the best family cruise suites at sea featuring a separate living and dining area and exclusive access to a private courtyard with a pool and Jacuzzi. The Regent Seven Seas line is praised for its all-outside all-suite ships and best luxury.

The largest (by category) and absolutely affordable to most cheap cruise cabins are always "the deal" on Carnival ships. The Carnival's standard cabins are the industry's largest and very well-equipped (even the lowest Small Inside category). As for Holland America cabins, they are 25% larger than those of other premium brands.

Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean are well known for having more than decent interior cabins - the Carnival's being most spacious, and those of Disney - most family-friendly. The Disney Deluxe Inside Stateroom accommodates 4 persons with a convertible sofa and a pull-down bed and also features a split bath. The Royal Caribbean ships of Freedom and Voyager class are honored for their unique inside cabins with windows looking out on the Royal Promenade (a tip - if traveling with kids, choose the most affordable Promenade Family Stateroom - an interior accommodation 300 ft2 /28 m2 in size and capacity of 6 guests).

• The best BEDS on ships. The Oceania line is the winner when it comes to beds - its Tranquility Beds feature Euro-Top mattresses, plush duvets, deluxe pillows, even Egyptian cotton linens. If you like to make the best budget ship vacation deals without sacrificing comfort, then Carnival is your game with the line's world-famous Comfort Bed System.
• The best BATHROOMS on ships. The Crystal ship's suites have separate tubs, multi-head massage showers, double vanities, and of course - the marble tiling. For standard cabins, NCL leads by having 3-sectioned bathrooms - the sink is in the middle, while a separate toilet and shower section are positioned on either side. Disney ships are also ranked for their family-friendly split bathrooms.
• The largest CLOSETS on ships. Regent and Silversea lines get the 1st prize for having the largest walk-in closets. The storage spaces include a hanging section, numerous drawers and shelves, and places for shoes. The best cheap option is Carnival with its faux walk-in closets.

Where are the best cabins on a cruise ship (location)?

Choosing the best cruise cabin location on your ship is a matter of personal choice. Generally, your cabin will be located either on lower (higher) deck, mid-ship, forward or aft (rear), with some pros and cons to all these locations. Booking a "guarantee" cabin is an open deal - you pay for a cabin category (not a specific stateroom) - best prices are guaranteed, but not necessarily the best location.

• Lower Deck cabins - cheapest. The cheapest are the lower deck Interior staterooms. The main advantage (besides the price) is a smoother ride. Main disadvantages - you're using constantly elevators/stairs, more engine noise/vibrations, the sound of the anchor dropping (if you're near the ship's front).
• Higher Deck cabins - more expensive. You'll feel more motion (not suitable if you're prone to seasickness). But you're closer to the best ship amenities - entertainment and dining venues, onboard pools, Spa, bars and lounges, etc.
• Midship cabins - less motion and a central location. The main disadvantage - more traffic outside. Also, check the lifeboat locations (lifeboats may significantly obstruct your view).
• Forward cabins - the most motion, wind and spray, smaller windows (often recessed or slanted). Forward located suites provide larger than average balconies.
• Rear (Aft) cabins - more motion than the midship cabins, but less than the front ones.

Best cruise ship staterooms by type and cruise line

Best-view cabins.

Best-view cabins are located forward (at the ship's front/bow) or aft (at the ship's stern). These rooms have the largest balconies and widest ocean views. Front staterooms are with oversized floor-ceiling windows. For the best choice of such rooms choose Carnival or Royal Caribbean.

Best "Large Balcony" cabins

Aft balcony cabins have the ship's largest private verandas, and there are just a few (6-10) such rooms per deck. They are lined up along the stern and give more terrace space and privacy. Aft cabins located in the ship's corners are usually with wraparound balconies.

Larger balconies also have the "hump cabins", located where the vessel's superstructure changes from narrower to wider. Most verandas there are angled and with curvy outlines. For more hump cabins search in the fleets of Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises.

Best "Low-Motion" cabins

The "best cabins for seasickness" are located at the ship's edges (top decks, bow, and stern). The worst area in the front section, as the bow is first hit by waves. Higher deck front cabins fell more the up and down motion, while for the aft cabins the motion is less noticeable. The most stable cabins are located midship and on lower decks (closer to the waterline).

Best "Low-Noise" cabins

Quietest staterooms are far away as possible from congested public areas and venues. Light sleepers should avoid staterooms located near pool deck/lido deck, elevators, hallways, laundry facilities, casino, theater, kids clubs, disco nightclub.

• Avoid cabins located forward on lower decks - where the ship's anchors are located. Lowering and raising the anchors generate a lot of noise.
• Avoid lower decks aft rooms are near the ship's engine rooms - where diesel generators create a constant hum, all the time of the voyage.
• Avoid cabins under the Promenade Deck - an outdoor deck space where passengers are often walking and talking (usually loud).

Best Handicap cabins (for passengers with disabilities)

Passengers with mobility impairment must choose near-lift cabins which are easily accessible from the onboard passenger elevators. Special handicap cabins are available on all large cruise liners. A limited number of wheelchair-accessible rooms are available on most ships, including luxury mega-yachts. Search the vessel's deck plans for the best location, type, and size.

Best Spa cabins

Thermal Suite and spa lovers must book staterooms located near the ship's wellness complex. In close proximity, they will find heated loungers, thalassotherapy pool, saunas, and massage rooms.

Most cruise ships have designated "spa staterooms" (inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite) located on the Spa Deck or 1 deck above or below the Spa. Some ships (especially top-luxury) have rooms with direct Spa access (via a staircase in the spa) or via an exclusive elevator. For more Spa cabins search in the fleets of MSC, NCL, Costa, and the luxury lines (Seabourn, Silversea, Crystal, Azamara).

Where are the best cruise SUITES?

On the Silversea ships Whisper and Shadow - the 1-bedroom "Royal Suite" is 1,352 ft2 or 126 m2 (the 2-bedroom version is 1,697 ft2 (158 m2), the "Grand Suite" is 1,435 ft2 or 133 m2 (2-bedroom is 1,780 ft2 (165 m2) and the "Owner's Suite" is 1,553 ft2 (144 m2). The last category "top luxury cruise suite" prices start from the modest US $850 per person per day!

Suites on the NCL ships Gem, Jade, Jewel and Pearl are the "affordable choice". Norwegian Pearl's "Garden Villa" has a staggering size of 2320 ft2 (216 m2) plus a huge balcony measuring 1035 ft2 (96 m2). Norwegian Jewel's two Garden Villas are combined into an almost 5000 ft2 (465 m2) "cruise mansion". Floor-ceiling windows, plenty of deck furniture, separate bedroom, fabulous private bathroom with hot-tub, 2 additional bedrooms (with their own private bathrooms), living room, dining room.

About the worst cabins on cruise ships / which staterooms to avoid. First of all, there's no such thing as "the worst cabin" - simply because to offer a bad product (even for cheap money) is not the proper way of doing a multibillion-dollar cruise travel vacation business. However, always try to avoid locations near elevators and public spaces, with at least 1 deck between your cabin and any crowded place - pools, dining and bar venues, children areas, lounges, nightclubs.

Find out more secrets at our  stateroom tips and tricks .

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Cruise Ship Cabin Guide: 15 Questions & Answers About Your Room

When it comes to the cruise ship, your cabin is your home away from home. It’s where you’ll sleep (of course), but it’s also where you’ll relax, get ready for the day, and it serves as your own little private spot away from the rest of the ship.

But there are a lot of little things that you may not know about a cruise cabin, or things that you should understand in order to make your vacation even better.

Below, we cover every aspect of your room while you sail. If you have even more questions, simply let us know in the comments below.

What Types of Cabins Are There? What Are the Differences?

On a modern cruise ship there is no shortage of different cabin types — especially when you get into high-end suites that can offer all sorts of different features, sizes, and amenities. However, for the most part cabins fall into five categories:

Inside : The lowest-priced cabins on the ship are the inside or interior cabins. These rooms are just what they sound like; they are on the inside of the ship meaning they don’t have any windows. While they have everything you need, inside cabins offer a budget-friendly way to get on the cruise ship (and get really dark with the lights out!).

Oceanview : Want to save money but also have a little light and be able to see the scenery? Oceanview cabins offer a room with a window. It can’t be opened, but will give you the chance to take in a view and not feel so enclosed while also not breaking the bank.

Balcony : Just as the name implies, with these rooms you get your own little balcony that allows you a spot to sit out, get some fresh air, and have your own private view. For many people a balcony is a must-have, but just know that they are more expensive than lower-tier cabins.

Suites : Suites won’t have the largest number of rooms on the ship, but they can have the largest variety. On the largest ships they can span everything from a cabin with a little extra space all the way to massive two-level penthouses on the highest levels of the ship. Expect to spend considerably more for the luxury.

Specialty Cabins : Some cruise lines are offering more and more specialty cabins (such as Carnival’s ‘Havana’ rooms) that fall into one of the categories above, but also have special features or perks. This can range everything from different styles than the rest of the ship to access to special lounges, restaurants, and pools.

How Big Is a Cruise Cabin?

If you’re thinking of a big hotel room on the ship, then temper your expectations (unless ponying up for one of the mega-suites on some ships). Rooms will vary in size, but usually they fall in the 160-200 square foot range. A 12’x12′ foot bedroom in your home is under 150 square feet, so it’s slightly larger than a normal bedroom.

But in that space you’ll have your bed, a sitting area, closet/storage, and the bathroom. Space is used efficiently, and it’s plenty of space for two adults for a week. Still, it can feel a bit small if you don’t keep the room organized or are in the room for an extended period of time.

How Large Are the Balconies on a Cruise Ship?

Like cabins, balconies can vary in size. However, most cruise balconies are around 40-60 square feet (roughly 4-6′ x 10′). It’s large enough for a couple of chairs and a table, but don’t think that you’ll have a massive spot to hangout, sunbathe, or do much more than just sit and enjoy the view.

Even so, having this extra space in addition to the enclosed cabin is a nice perk that can make your cabin feel much larger.

How Many People Can Sleep in a Cabin?

Despite the small size, cruise cabins can often sleep three to four people. There are traditionally two twin beds that can be separated or joined together to make one queen bed that sleeps two people.

In addition, sometimes there is a couch that can have the pillows removed to make a flat space to sleep another person. Some cabins have drop-down or fold-down beds to sleep multiple people as well.

Note that just because a cabin can sleep four people doesn’t mean it will do so comfortably. In our opinion most traditional cabins have enough space for two adults and one/two kids. If your kids are older or you have more adults, then going with a larger cabin like a suite or booking two rooms might be a better idea.

Do I Have to Sleep in the Same Bed as Someone Else?

If you are traveling with friends and walk into a cabin with one large bed, don’t worry. Cruise cabin beds can be separated or joined together. So a couple can have them together while friends traveling can take them apart.

Your cabin attendant can form the beds how you like. Just let them know if it’s not in your preferred configuration.

What’s the Bathroom Like?

For most people, let’s just say their bathroom in the cruise cabin will be… cozy. Bathrooms are small, with a sink and vanity, a toilet, and a shower.

The commode in the cabin is built into the wall (and actually seems to sit an inch or two higher than normal). Instead of a lever you push to flush, there is a button above the toilet for when you’re done.

Unless opting for a higher-end suite, there won’t be a tub. Instead you’ll have a shower (often circular, but not always) with a shower-head wand. Just know that the showers are small. Often you can simply extend your elbows out to your sides and be touching opposite walls of the space.

Within the shower you’ll have a dispenser for soap and shampoo. In addition, there is usually a retractable line that extends across the shower where you can hang clothing to dry.

Are There Accessible Cruise Cabins for Handicap/Disabled Passengers?

As you can likely tell, the traditional cruise cabin isn’t that accessible. There isn’t much room for wheelchairs, there are things like a high threshold to the bathroom, and no grab bars around toilets or in showers.

If you need more accessibility, don’t worry. On cruise ships there are a number of accessible cabins that you can book. These rooms are tailor-made for those needing accommodations that fit their needs.

Instead of high thresholds between the bathroom and cabin balcony, there are gentle inclines. Rooms feature more space to maneuver a wheelchair (including a larger balcony), and things like grab bars and shower seats to help passengers with these needs sail comfortably. 

Can I Adjust the Temperature in the Room?

Most likely you can adjust your room temperature. Every room your sail will have some sort of thermostat. But to be honest, we’re not convinced that all of them actually adjust the temperature.

We’ve sailed in cabins where you adjust the thermostat and can instantly hear the air kick on. Other rooms we’ve sailed we have noticed absolutely no correlation between what we place the thermostat on and what the temperature in the room does.

In general, cruise cabins are cool, so you don’t have to worry about getting too hot. In our view, we’ve had issues with the room being too cold for our taste and not being able to warm things up a bit.

Is There a Refrigerator in the Cruise Cabin?

Yes, any cruise cabin will have a fridge in it. Just know that it’s more of a cooler than a refrigerator. Don’t expect it to get too cold, and it certainly won’t freeze anything.

Sometimes the fridge in the room doubles as a stocked mini-bar. These items aren’t free and you’ll have a price list posted nearby. If you want to use that space to keep items cool, you can let your cabin steward know and they can remove the items to give you space.

Is There a Safe in the Room?

Yes, any cruise cabin you book will have an in-room safe. This is normally in the closet area.

The safe is small, with a footprint about the size of a small laptop computer. Still, it’s enough space for things like passports, phones, cash, and cards. The safe is operated with a four-digit code that you create on your own. So you enter any four digits, press “close” or “lock” and your valuables are stored. Enter the code again to open the safe up.

What Amenities Are in a Cruise Cabin?

Your cabin may be small, but it comes with everything that you would need for several days at sea.

We’ve mentioned the refrigerator and cabin safe. As well, there is a television, an in-room hair dryer, vanity area with desk, outlet(s), and closets with hangers. In the bathroom you’ll have soap/shampoo provided, along with a line for drying clothes, and towels.

How Is TV in the Room?

Each cabin will come with a television. On newer ships the TV menus are usually interactive, providing you with a way to explore things going on around the ship, check your onboard account, and even watch pay-per-view movies.

However, when it comes to channel options, there’s a lot to be desired. In general, cruise ship cabins have only a handful of channels (around 20 or so). Of those, many will be the cruise line’s own channels, which show information about safety on the ship, shopping information for port, and a map of the ship’s location.

In addition, there are usually a few channels that show movies throughout the day and then a few regular channels you’re used to back home, like HGTV, CNN, Cartoon Network, and the like. There is also usually ESPN, but it’s an international version showing sporting events from around the world.

If you have a favorite program that you love to watch each week, chances are you WON’T be able to watch on the ship. Major sporting events (like NFL Sundays) are usually shown.

You can read more about TV on a cruise here .

Who Is the Cabin Steward? What Do They Do?

The first day that you arrive on your cruise, the Cabin Steward should introduce themselves. This person is the housekeeping service, and you’ll see them plenty. They typically come twice per day — once in the late morning and once in the evening — to clean, ready your room for the night, and restock anything you might need.

If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask your room steward. From extra towels to separating beds, they can do it all. 

Don’t need service twice a day (in our opinion, it’s too much!)? You can let the steward know or simply hang the “Do Not Disturb” tag on the door.

Is Room Service Available?

Don’t feel like changing out of your pajamas for breakfast? Just want to eat a meal without having to fight through other passengers? You’ll be happy to know that room service is available for your cabin. 

You’ll normally find a menu somewhere in the room (check the vanity/desk area) that has the full listing of what’s available and the number to call. Room service is available around the clock, but know that there is generally a charge. It’s also customary to tip the person bringing the food a few bucks.

When you are done with your meal, you can stack them in the cabin or place them outside your door. Either way, the room steward will take them away for you when done.

How Much Storage Space Is There?

For the size of the cabin, there is lots of storage space. First there are usually large closets that feature shelves, drawers, along with hangers. So no matter if you’re wanting to put away folded clothes or hang up nice items so they don’t get wrinkled, you’ll have a spot.

Then there are other storage spaces, such as under the bed and the vanity. Cruise bed frames are metal and sit up off the floor with lots of empty space underneath. It’s the perfect spot to put empty suitcases or other large bulky items so they are completely out of the way.

If you run into a situation where you think your room doesn’t have enough storage, chances are you overpacked.

What Should I Bring to Make a Cabin More Comfortable?

Over years of cruising, there are a few cabin items that we’ve found can make your cruise more comfortable. These items aren’t must-haves, but you’ll often be happy you brought them.

Outlet Adapter : We all carry a lot of electronics these days, but many ships (especially older ones) may only have one or two outlets to plug things in. That’s why we like to bring an outlet adapter that plugs into one spot and provides multiple places to plug in chargers, hair straighteners, and anything else you might need. Just make sure that whatever you bring doesn’t have a surge protector as they are not allowed.

Fan : If you’re the sort of person that needs airflow or the white noise provided by a fan, then you’ll want to pack one. Cabins don’t have ceiling fans, and while the air does flow from the vent, it does so pretty soft and quiet. Packing a small fan may make you more comfortable and sleep better.

Shoe Organizer : One great idea is packing a cheap plastic shoe organizer. These can hang over the bathroom door and provide a ton of little pockets to store items. There’s lots of storage in a cruise cabin, but an organizer puts all those small items in one place and within easy reach.

Want even more tips on your cabin? Check out our 21+ Best Cruise Cabin Tips, Secrets, & Things to Know .

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Good Cabin overview, I did not see the handicapped cabin category. On carnival that can be fully accessible to single side (automatic door, larger floor space, flat floor into bathroom, shower bench and grab bars, and more room getting into bed).

The picture of the bathroom is on the new Mardi Gras right? I have not been on there, that is really small I see and hear. Most bathrooms on older carnival ships are larger, with room from the toilet to the shower…lol.

Great comment. Will look to add some info on accessible cabins.

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Sailing from the Arctic to Antarctica, Swan Hellenic’s SH Diana is transporting cruisers in style.

The Staterooms

Bars and restaurants, where sh diana sails, shore excursions, amenities and entertainment, family-friendly offerings, accessibility.

Courtesy of Swan Hellenic

When I boarded Swan Hellenic’s SH Diana for its christening journey in May 2023, I was instantly struck by how elegant the ship was.

Thanks to the work of renowned firm Tillberg Design of Sweden , Scandinavian-inspired interiors are understated, with abundant wood, natural materials, clean lines, and neutral hues. Just the staircase alone, black in color, contrasted by light filtering through wooden slats, is a thing of beauty. Details like this for what would otherwise be an inconspicuous element were a sure sign that this vessel was crafted with no stone left unturned.

I marveled at the beautiful finishes as I walked through the various spaces. Leather straps on backrest cushions, touch-activated table lamps in the Swan Restaurant, and an incredible array of plush seating and concealed TVs in the Observation Lounge make for a modern marvel. However, the real show is outside, of course, so you’ll find large picture windows affording panoramic vistas at every turn.

But I’ve digressed. If you haven’t heard of Swan Hellenic, you’re not alone. Dating back to the 1950s, the cruise line started as an extension of Swan’s Tours, a British travel agency operated by father and son. The duo leaned into “cultural cruising,” providing guests with the experience of on-board lectures with well-known academics and writers and near-daily port calls in ancient sites along the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea.

However, once it was acquired by P&O in 1983, Swan Hellenic began to lose its identity, particularly when ship capacity swelled to nearly double. Over the decades, ownership continued to shuffle, and the brand was even repositioned as a river cruise line at one point. It eventually fell into a three-year limbo while in the hands of G Adventures. But when 2020 came around, Andrea Zito, who had helped broker the sale to G Adventures, scooped up Swan Hellenic and promised to bring it back to its roots, but with a luxurious twist.

Now the CEO of Swan Hellenic, Zito plans to breathe new life into the storied brand, especially with SH Diana , the latest addition to the company’s fleet. Like her two sibling ships, SH Diana sails to both the Arctic and Antarctica , but will also venture to a mix of remote and familiar destinations around parts of Europe and Africa. While aboard, the exploration continues. Zito affirms that “the core offering for [Swan Hellenic] is education.” As such, the company will bring on either a scientist from SETI Institute or an esteemed academic to lead lectures centered around the destinations being visited. For example, on the post-naming cruise through the Norwegian fjords, Dr. Terje Leiren, professor emeritus of Scandinavian studies and history at the University of Washington, hosted daily presentations. It’s a meaningful component that not only caters to curious minds but also helps keep the brand’s legacy alive.

Here, find out what it’s like aboard SH Diana .

• With no more than 192 passengers, SH Diana provides an intimate experience aboard a sleek and modern ship.
• All cabins face the water and the large majority have balconies.
• The collaboration with JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs provides an upscale dining experience with venerable chefs.

All 96 staterooms boast ocean views, and the majority have furnished balconies, which not only afford great views but also serve as the perfect location for a private meal. Accommodations start from 215 square feet, which is fairly spacious by cruise standards. They feature a living area that can be curtained off from the bedroom, ample storage space, and either burnt orange or moss green accents.

For those who choose to upgrade to a suite, there are three categories to choose from. The Junior Suite starts at 344 square feet, and both the Suite and Premium Suite come in at 441 square feet, but the latter has a significantly larger balcony. In addition to more space, suite guests will enjoy the comforts of a separate bathtub, a walk-in closet, and a soothing digital fireplace.

The Swan Restaurant is the ship’s primary dining space and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. International cuisine is offered daily, and local ingredients are utilized where possible. All three meals are included in the rate, as well as drinks and a rotating selection of wines by the glass. Small bites, pastries, and refreshments are also available in the Club Lounge throughout the day should you want something to snack on outside of dining hours.

On select days, weather permitting, the al fresco Pool Bar & Grill also serves a pared-down selection of what’s offered at Swan Restaurant alongside pizza, hot dogs, and burgers. There’s also an open bar (premium spirits call for an additional fee) in the Observation Lounge. Otherwise, 24-hour room service is available at no extra cost.

But the highlight of select voyages is the Maris dinner. A culinary program designed with JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs, these itineraries will feature a different chef from the organization’s portfolio of 375 restaurants, many of which have been awarded Michelin stars. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the chef and embark on a gastronomic experience for the special evening, while some voyages may also include cooking demonstrations and culinary excursions.

Taking advantage of its PC6 ice-class status, the vessel’s signature destinations are the Arctic and Antarctica. As the ship moves between these two frigid destinations, SH Diana spends most of its time in Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and northern, western, and southern Africa.

On my sailing from Amsterdam to Norway , included shore excursions were largely more leisurely, mainly consisting of scenic drives with multiple stops for photo opportunities led by local guides, with the option to upgrade to more immersive and adventurous activities for a supplementary fee. There were a couple of walking tours and the ship did stop for an Arctic plunge.

However, excursions become more exhilarating once the vessel heads to the polar regions. With onboard expedition leaders at the helm, be prepared for Zodiac outings and wet landings to explore the ends of the earth.

Despite being a relatively small ship, SH Diana has some great amenities. A stern-facing heated infinity plunge pool tends to be a preferred hangout spot, particularly on sunny days at sea. You’ll also find a wellness complex with a spa with two treatment rooms, a salon, an ocean-facing sauna, an outdoor whirlpool, and a sizeable gym with equipment facing the water. There’s also a self-service laundry room, which is handy if you have additional travel plans after disembarkation.

When it comes to additional outdoor spaces, nestle into one of the daybed nooks on the promenade, swaddled in a cozy blanket, walk out onto the Swan’s Nest, an observation deck at the bow, or head up to the stargazing deck on a clear night.

As for entertainment, if you’re searching for casinos or a club, this is not the ship for you. In the basecamp area, you’ll find a library stocked with books about nature and travel and a laboratory that includes guests in onboard research projects. By day, the Observation Lounge offers expert-led lectures and discussions while a crooning pianist sits at the grand piano every night.

Children aged 6 and up are welcome on non-polar voyages, but the age requirement increases to 8 years old for Antarctic and Arctic cruises. However, it’s worth noting that the ship doesn’t offer any specific programming, babysitting services, or dedicated facilities for kids.

The SH Diana has two ADA-compliant accommodations — one an Oceanview cabin and the other a Balcony room — with wheelchair-accessible wet units. The ship also has a pair of elevators that access all levels except for the top deck. Some observation areas are only accessible by stairs; however, specific amenities like the pool, hot tub, and sauna may be challenging to access.

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I took my first cruise on one of the largest ships of its kind. Booking the wrong room was my biggest regret.

Booking a room at the front of the ship was my biggest regret on my first cruise.

On Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, I learned that rooms at the front are bumpier than others.

I booked the front room of deck eight and felt seasick for most of my voyage.

The first night of my first cruise was so bumpy that I stayed up all night preparing for an emergency — but everything was fine.

It was back in April 2022 when I booked a room on one of the largest cruise ships in the world , Royal Caribbean's 18-deck Wonder of the Seas . For $2,000, I spent seven nights in a 179-square-foot ocean-view stateroom at the very front of deck eight. It was a mid-tier room — a step above the windowless interior staterooms , a step below staterooms with a balcony , and two steps below a suite.

I unknowingly booked a room where movement on the ship felt the strongest

After my first rocky night aboard the ship, I wondered whether everyone had the same experience. So, I talked to some fellow passengers who were seasoned cruisers . They told me that the front of the ship is one of the worst places to be if you're often seasick. Higher decks in the middle of the ship feel calmer and more stable, they said.

Since it was at the very front of deck eight, I felt constant motion in my room. As someone who gets nauseous from a rocking chair in a living room, this spoiled many aspects of my trip .

Some nights were rockier than others. On the roughest nights, I heard and felt a similar sensation to thunder beneath me every few minutes. Loud thumps and heavy vibrations in my room sounded like large pieces of furniture falling.

During the days at sea, it was especially challenging for me to eat and participate in activities. And I didn't feel rested for my excursions at port stops , which included hikes in the sun .

Some cruise ship cabins can be rockier than others, like those situated at the front of the ship

Cruise passengers prone to motion sickness should book a room in the middle of the ship to feel the least amount of rocking.

I wish I'd researched how the location of a cabin can affect the amount of motion you feel while the ship is moving before booking my cruise. Next time , I'd choose a room in the middle of the ship.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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Princess Cruises ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know

Is a balcony cabin a must for you when you cruise? Princess Cruises could be your line.

The California-based brand was a pioneer in adding a large number of balcony cabins to ships, and even its oldest vessels are loaded with balcony cabins — something that can't be said for many of its rivals.

On the flip side, Princess offers relatively few suites on its ships compared to some of the big-ship lines with which it most directly competes, including Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. Just 46 of the 1,830 rooms on the line's recently unveiled Discovery Princess are suites, for instance. Believe it or not, that's an improvement from earlier vessels in the same series, some of which have as few as 36 suites.

Princess also isn't known for enormous and amenity-filled suites.

What this means is there aren't a lot of ways to live large on a Princess ship or pack a lot of people into a single accommodation. Until the debut of Sky Princess in 2019, the line didn't have a single cabin that could accommodate more than four people.

That said, on Princess ships, you can often create larger living spaces by booking two connecting cabins.

A Princess Cruises cabin primer

As is typical for many cruise ships, Princess vessels offer cabins in four broad categories: Windowless "inside" cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins and suites.

As noted above, a significant portion of cabins on all Princess ships are balcony cabins — the category of cabin that everyone wants these days. About 80% of the 1,834 cabins on Princess's six-month-old Enchanted Princess are balcony cabins or suites with balconies, for instance. Compare that to the 72% of cabins on Royal Caribbean's four-year-old Symphony of the Seas that are balcony cabins or suites with balconies.

Notably, every single cabin facing the sea on three of the newest Princess ships — Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess — has a balcony. These three vessels are completely devoid of ocean-view cabins (cabins facing the sea that only have a window). That's relatively unusual in the world of big mass-market ships — the niche of cruising in which Princess plays. It's more common with luxury cruise vessels.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships

At the same time, as noted above, Princess vessels have fewer suites than you'll find on the ships operated by such big-ship brands as Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.

Here's a breakdown of the broad cabin categories on Royal Princess, which is typical of the line's newer ships (it's the prototype vessel for the line's new, six-ship Royal Class series):

Inside cabins: 342 (19%) Ocean-view cabins: 0 (0%) Balcony cabins (including mini-suites): 1,402 (79%) Suites: 36 (2%)

On older Princess ships (and, in general, all older cruise ships), there are fewer balcony cabins. However, the ratio of balcony cabins to non-balcony cabins is much higher on older Princess ships than it is on older vessels at many other big-ship lines. An impressive 72% of the 1,000 cabins on Princess's 2003-built Coral Princess, for instance, are balcony cabins.

On Coral Princess, inside cabins and ocean-view cabins only make up 26% of all rooms. A breakdown of the cabin categories on that ship:

Inside cabins: 108 (11%) Ocean-view cabins: 157 (16%) Balcony cabins (including mini-suites): 719 (72%) Suites: 16 (2%)

The takeaway here is that you'll have an easier time locking down a balcony cabin on a Princess ship — even an older Princess ship — than you will when booking many of the ships operated by competing big-ship lines.

Just note that you'll want to book early if you're aiming for a suite on a Princess ship since there are so few of them. Note, also, that suites tend to sell out early on cruise ships in general. An old saying in the cruise industry is that "ships sell from the top and the bottom." That is, the first cabins on any vessel to sell out are the most expensive cabins, which are the suites, and then the least expensive cabins, which typically are the inside cabins. The mid-priced "middle" cabins sell last.

Design-wise, Princess's cabins and suites are fairly basic and comfortable, if not super stylish.

When it comes to rooms, Princess is sort of the Marriott of the big-ship cruise world. Its rooms are comfortable and functional, but a bit bland. Avant-garde style is not a Princess thing.

Inside cabins on Princess Cruises ships

These are the cabins you stay in when you're on a tight budget. On any Princess ship, they are almost always the least-expensive option when you're booking a cabin. You often can save considerable money by booking an inside cabin versus an ocean-view or higher-level cabin.

What you'll give up, of course, is that ocean view. Your room will have four walls and no windows offering a glimpse of the outside world.

You'll also be in a relatively small room. The typical inside cabin on the new Discovery Princess measures 166 square feet, with some as big as 175 square feet. By comparison, the typical balcony cabin on Discovery Princess measures 181 square feet, not including a 41-square-foot balcony (for a total of 222 square feet).

Still, the inside cabins on Princess ships are bigger than the inside cabins on ships operated by some of the line's main competitors.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess ship

Inside cabins on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas, for instance, measure just 149 square feet — quite a bit less than the inside cabins on Discovery Princess.

Note that older Princess ships sometimes have smaller inside cabins than newer Princess ships. On the line's 2003-built Coral Princess, inside cabins measure just 156 to 166 square feet. On the line's 1998-built Grand Princess, most inside cabins are 160 square feet (some wheelchair-accessible inside cabins on Grand Princess measure 182 square feet).

Many inside cabins on Princess ships have pull-down bunks that will allow for up to four people to stay in the rooms.

Ocean-view cabins on Princess Cruises ships

With an ocean-view cabin, you get a window looking out to the sea, but not an attached balcony where you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.

As noted above, three of Princess's newest vessels — Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess — don't have a single ocean-view cabin. Every outward-facing cabin has a balcony. However, you'll find ocean-view cabins on the line's older vessels and also on the line's three newest ships, Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess.

In general, ocean-view cabins on the Princess ships that have them are a tad bigger than the inside cabins found on the same vessels. On the line's Emerald Princess, for instance, the typical ocean-view cabin measures 178 square feet. The typical inside cabin on Emerald Princess measures 163 square feet.

On many Princess ships that have ocean-view cabins, the rooms are mostly found just above the promenade deck, where the lifeboats hang, and have obstructed views. You'll also sometimes find a few ocean-view cabins at the back of Princess vessels, facing the wake.

Related: The 3 classes of Princess ships, explained

On the line's two Coral Class ships — Coral Princess and Island Princess — there are a few "premium" ocean-view cabins that measure a more spacious 212 square feet. If you're the kind of traveler who needs a lot of space, these rooms can be a good choice.

There also are a handful of "premium" ocean-view cabins on the new Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess that measure 172 square feet and have unusual slanting windows.

Balcony cabins on Princess Cruises ships

Balcony cabins are what everyone wants these days, and Princess is delivering with huge numbers of balcony cabins on all its newest ships. On the line's new Royal Class series of ships, which began debuting in 2013, nearly 80% of rooms are balcony cabins.

On these newer vessels — Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess — the typical balcony cabin has an interior space of 181 square feet plus a balcony that measures 41 square feet (for a total of 222 square feet). However, there also are bigger "premium deluxe balcony" cabins that can measure as much as 233 square feet on the inside (not including the balcony). Some of these have larger-than-normal balconies that can stretch the total square footage to 312 square feet.

In addition, the Royal Class vessels have even larger balcony cabins that Princess calls mini-suites. Including their balcony space, these cabins measure anywhere from 299 to 329 square feet. While these mini-suite cabins have the word "suite" in their name, we are including them in the balcony cabin category as they generally resemble very large balcony cabins vs. true suites.

Related: Everything to know about the Princess Captain's Club loyalty program

The typical Princess balcony cabin has twin beds that can be converted into a queen bed, a built-in desk with a chair and a built-in miniature refrigerator. In addition to beds, a desk and a miniature fridge, premium balcony cabins have a seating area with a sofa bed that can be used for a third passenger in the room. Some also have a pull-down bunk that can accommodate a fourth person.

Suites on Princess Cruises ships

As mentioned above, Princess ships generally have fewer suites than the ships operated by some of its biggest competitors. The line also isn't known for particularly giant suites.

Princess's three newest ships — Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess — have the line's first truly large standalone suites, dubbed Sky Suites. There are two of them on each of the vessels, and they measure a generous 1,792 square feet (though more than half of that space is taken up by a huge wraparound balcony). With two bedrooms plus a living room with a pullout sofa, the Sky Suites are the first Princess accommodations designed for up to five people.

Still, even the Sky Suites on Discovery Princess, Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess aren't the sort of truly epic suites with huge interior living spaces that you'll find on the latest ships from such competitors as Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. The latest Celebrity vessels, for instance, offer so-called Iconic Suites that have twice as much interior space as the Sky Suites.

If you're the kind of cruiser who is only happy in a cabin of truly giant proportions (and are willing to pay up for it), Princess probably isn't your line.

Still, you'll find at least a few suites of a decent size on every Princess ship. The line's seven Grand Class vessels each offer two "family suites" at their fronts that can be created by connecting a mini-suite with an adjacent inside cabin to create a six- to eight-person complex.

Each of the line's Royal Class ships (the line's six newest ships) has at least 36 suites.

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

Bottom line

Princess offers a relatively wide range of cabins on its ships, including lots of the sort of cabins that everyone wants — balcony cabins. If you're a fan of balcony cabins, you'll find plenty of options on Princess ships, including standard size balcony cabins and bigger "premium" balcony cabins. You'll also find a lot of larger "mini-suite" balcony cabins on Princess ships. However, you won't find a lot of truly large suites with multiple rooms.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
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• 15 ways cruisers waste money
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