Cruise Tips ›

Cruise Cabin Types: Inside to Balcony

Hey there, sea lovers! It’s Shelly 🐢🛳️ and picking a cabin is one of my favorite parts of planning a cruise. Inside, ocean view, or balcony? Each one has real pros and cons, so let’s break down how to choose a cruise cabin type that fits the way you travel.

Watch the video

Prefer to watch? Here’s the short video on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=BLg0cexLngc.

Inside cabins: pros and cons

Pros: they’re usually the lowest-priced cabins on the ship, plus they’re super quiet and get really dark, so they’re perfect for sleeping.

Cons: with no window, it’s easy to lose track of time, you can’t tell where the ship is, and you can’t check the weather outside.

Shelly tip: choose inside, save money, and splurge on excursions! Thinking about tours? Read Skip the Ship’s Excursions? How to Book Shore Excursions on Your Own.

Ocean view cabins: pros and cons

Pros: they’re quiet and calm, with lots of natural light.

Cons: they’re often on lower decks, which means a longer trip up to the restaurants, pool and other spots on board.

Shelly tip: pick one near the elevators, since you’ll be doing some walking!

Balcony cabins: pros and cons

Pros: you get your own private outdoor space, fresh sea air, and sunsets with your morning coffee.

Cons: they usually cost more than inside or ocean view, it can get noisy, you’ll hear your balcony neighbors, and higher decks can feel more motion if you’re prone to seasickness.

Shelly tip: a balcony in the middle of the ship feels less motion.

How to choose a cruise cabin type

  • Out exploring all day? Inside works great.
  • Want daylight? Try ocean view.
  • Love open air and views at sea? A balcony is a treat.

There’s no wrong choice. Pick the cabin that fits you best. Whichever you choose, plan for the extras with 6 Hidden Cruise Costs Most Cruisers Forget, and pick your booking window with When Should You Book a Cruise? The Best Time to Book, Early vs Last-Minute.

Ready to sail? Find cruise deals

Compare cabin types side by side on current sailings. Tap Find Cruise Deals at cruisingwithshelly.com to see current cruise deals.

FAQ

Which cruise cabin type is usually the lowest priced?

Inside cabins are usually the lowest-priced cabins on the ship.

Which cabin is best if I get seasick?

Higher decks can feel more motion. A cabin in the middle of the ship feels less motion.

Are balcony cabins noisy?

They can be. You may hear your balcony neighbors.

Which one’s your pick? Tell Shelly in the YouTube comments on the video! 🐢🛳️

Follow Shelly 🐢🛳️ for more cruise tips on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X.

Cabin layouts, locations and prices vary by cruise line and ship. Check current details before you book.