Stateroom Location Tips: How to Choose the Best Spot

Choosing the perfect stateroom goes beyond picking a convenient location on the ship. It’s about understanding the intricate design and engineering of the ship, and how these factors can enhance your experience. As your trusted travel advisors, we ensure your stateroom becomes a true sanctuary at sea, offering comfort, convenience, and the perfect setting for a memorable voyage.

Cruise lines often focus on filling cabins—what’s often referred to as “heads in beds.” But we believe in something more: putting heads in the RIGHT beds. The right cabin isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s the foundation of an extraordinary cruise experience.

One of the most important factors in cabin selection is avoiding noise, and this is where our “sandwich theory” comes into play. We always look for cabins surrounded by other passenger staterooms on all sides—above, below, and beside. Why? Passenger cabins generate far less noise than public spaces like theaters, nightclubs, or pool decks.

For example, cabins directly beneath pool decks often experience early morning noise from lounge chair setups or late-night parties. Similarly, rooms near galleys can be impacted by vibrations and sounds from food prep carts during pre-dawn hours. By carefully cross-referencing deck plans, we ensure your cabin is perfectly positioned for peace and quiet. This attention to detail is something most cruisers overlook but makes a world of difference for your onboard comfort. 

Cruise ships are floating cities with complex mechanical systems that create unique vibration patterns. Cabins above engine rooms or near bow thrusters can experience structural-borne vibrations, especially during docking maneuvers. These vibrations aren’t visible on deck plans but can significantly impact your sleep quality.

We use our deep knowledge of ship layouts and engineering hotspots to avoid these problem areas entirely. For example, on older ships where vibration dampening technology may be less advanced, we focus on midship cabins for maximum stability and comfort. These are details that are crucial for ensuring a smooth and restful cruise experience.

Obstructed balcony cabins might seem like a great deal at first glance, but they come with hidden downsides that can diminish your experience. Some obstructions are minor—like a lifeboat partially blocking your view—but others can completely obscure it with ship equipment or structural elements.

We always prioritize unobstructed balcony views so you can enjoy uninterrupted ocean vistas throughout your journey. After all, what’s better than waking up to sunrise over turquoise waters without anything blocking your view?

Cabins near elevators might seem convenient, but they often come with unexpected drawbacks—especially late-night foot traffic from passengers returning to their staterooms after shows or events. While modern ships have quieter elevator designs than ever before, busy corridors near elevators can still disrupt sleep for light sleepers.

Here’s an insider tip that even seasoned cruisers might not know: avoid cabins near steward service closets! These areas see constant crew activity, from laundry carts to housekeeping prep in the early morning hours. 

When we select cabins for our clients, we meticulously cross-reference deck plans to ensure you’re positioned away from these high-activity zones. 

Choosing between port and starboard sides of the ship might seem trivial, but it can make a big difference depending on your itinerary. Here’s how we decide which side will give you the best views:

Coastal Cruises: On scenic routes like Alaska or the Mediterranean, one side often faces the coastline while the other looks out to open sea. For example, northbound Alaskan cruises offer stunning views of the coast from starboard-side cabins, while southbound itineraries favor port-side rooms for similar scenery.

Sunrise vs. Sunset: If catching sunsets is a priority, choose port-side cabins on northbound or westbound cruises; opt for starboard-side rooms for southbound or eastbound trips to enjoy sunrises instead. By understanding your itinerary in detail, we ensure you’re positioned for breathtaking scenery throughout your voyage.

Cruise lines often advertise “guaranteed” staterooms as the lowest-priced option for a specific cabin category, and while this can be a great choice for budget-conscious travelers, it’s important to understand what you’re getting. With a guaranteed cabin, you’re assured a room in your chosen category, but the cruise line selects your specific cabin closer to the sailing date. These are often cabins that haven’t been booked due to obstructed views, less desirable locations near elevators or crew areas, or proximity to noisy public spaces.

If you’re comfortable with the element of surprise, we can absolutely book a guaranteed stateroom for you—but we always recommend considering the small upgrade cost to select your own cabin. Choosing your stateroom gives you control over its location, view, and proximity to key amenities, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

Choosing the perfect stateroom isn’t just about location—it’s about understanding every detail that impacts comfort and convenience onboard. From avoiding obstructed views to steering clear of noisy areas like elevators or steward closets, our expertise ensures every aspect of your stateroom enhances your cruise experience.

When you book with us, we don’t just choose the best stateroom location; we carefully select one that’s tailored to your needs.

This is what sets us apart. Cruise lines fill cabins—we create unforgettable experiences by choosing the perfect stateroom for you. Don’t leave such an important decision to chance. Let us handle your cabin selection so you can focus on enjoying your dream vacation. Contact us today to get started!