do cruise ships have family rooms

Do cruise ships have family rooms or suites?

Home » Do cruise ships have family rooms or suites?

Last updated on March 10th, 2024 at 09:28 pm

Yes, most major cruise lines have family suites or staterooms, and depending on the cruise line, the configuration of the family suites or staterooms will be slightly different.

Keep in mind when booking a family stateroom, the price is still PER PERSON.

When booking a hotel room suite it’s possible to book one room and pay one price, regardless of whether 2 people or 6 people are staying in the suite.

With cruise ship family staterooms, passengers pay a per-person price which includes the room, most food options, as well as a majority of the recreation and entertainment options onboard the ship.

If price is a factor, the most economical way to cruise and still stay together would be to book connecting rooms, which have an interior doorway that can be opened to allow movement back and forth.

The following are family staterooms on the most popular major cruise lines:

ROYAL CARIBBEAN

On the low end of price, Royal Caribbean’s inside staterooms often offer sleeping for 4 people, where the 3rd and 4th beds lower down from the ceiling.

At the higher end, Symphony of the Seas has the “ Ultimate Family Suite ” which has an in-room slide, from the upstairs bedrooms to the living area, and air hockey and ping pong tables out on the private balcony, as well as the 4-bedroom Villa Suite.

Also available on the newer, larger ships are the Royal Suites which come with high-end amenities including your own “Royal Genie” who will cater to your every whim. On older, smaller ships, there are often 2 bedroom suite configurations.

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Carnival offers  family-friendly staterooms fleet-wide, which can accommodate up to 5 people, and have a second washroom, including Deluxe Ocean View staterooms, as well as Suites.

Disney Cruise Line

Norwegian cruise line.

Disney offers Concierge Suites, which can accommodate between 5 to 7 guests in two separate bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, including one with a whirpool tub, a living and dining room and a fully stocked pantry and wet-bar. 

Check out this article, which might help you determine if it is worth it to you.   Is Disney Cruise Line concierge level worth it? – The Points Guy

Disney also offers Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms which can sleep as many as 5 guests.

Norwegian offers quite a  few different options  if space is what you’re looking for. Aboard the Dawn and Star, there is the 6600 square foot, 3 bedroom Garden Villa , which can sleep as many as 8 and comes with your own private butler.

If that seems like a little too much, also offered on the Dawn and Star are Family Suites which can accommodate up 6 guests with a double bed, double sofa bed, and double murphy bed, but with little privacy, as the sleeping quarters are all in the same space. Deluxe two-bedroom family suites are available if you’d like your own space away from the kids.

If your itinerary doesn’t involve the Norwegian Star or Dawn, NCL offers Mini-Suites or Family Balcony Staterooms, which can accommodate up to 4 people in spaces ranging from 216 to 285 square feet.

The Haven  is another accommodation category, which, in addition to many luxurious stateroom amenities, comes with an exclusive area on the ship with its own pool, sundeck, hot tub and fitness area. The Haven offers a 2-bedroom Family villa, which has two bathrooms and is available on many of Norwegian’s ships. 

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers a  two-bedroom family suite , which can accommodate between 6-8 people, and has two bedrooms and two bathrooms,connected by a large living space and large balcony. Essentially, it is a mini-suite connected to an interior cabin by a shared lounge, but it’s great for people looking for a little more privacy and living space.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity offers  Family Veranda Suites which have a private bedroom and sitting area with pull-out sofa, plus a large, private veranda, a space suitable for 4 people, and available on most of Celebrity’s fleet. 

They currently only offer one two-bedroom suite configuration on the Celebrity Reflection, aptly named the  Reflection Suite,  which offers amazing views, especially from the cantilevered shower.

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Two Bedroom Family Suite

Perfect for Large Groups

These suites are for larger families or groups traveling together and include special suite-only benefits and two bathrooms — connected by a large living room, which leads to an expansive private balcony. Each suite sleeps up to eight people.

Note: Diamond Princess® and Sapphire Princess® can sleep up to six people.

• Mini-Suite stateroom connected to an inside cabin via a shared lounge
• Balcony with 2-4 chairs, table and ottoman
• 2 bathrooms, one with bath tub the other with a walk-in shower
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
• Separate sitting area with sofa bed & coffee table
• Complimentary welcome glass of champagne on embarkation day
• Luxury mattress topper and pillows
• Two flat-panel televisions
• Comfortable queen or two twin beds ▲
• Refrigerator
• Flat-panel televisions
• Desk with chair
• Hair dryer & fine bathroom amenities
• Digital security safe
• 100% cotton, high-thread count linens
• Spacious closet

▲3rd/4th berths available in select cabins.

Photos, floor plan diagrams, and amenities represent typical arrangements and may vary by ship. Certain stateroom categories may vary in size and configuration by ship. Square footage varies based on stateroom category and deck location.

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STATEROOMS & SUITES

All for one and room for all, top-notch amenities spacious accommodations.

Our staterooms are designed with every type of guest in mind. Whether you’re sailing with your significant other, your family, a group of friends, or traveling solo — we’ve got the perfect room to accommodate your party and budget. Take your pick from Interior or Ocean View rooms, Balcony staterooms, or spacious Suites. You can even connect rooms allowing you to stay together with extended family or friends. The options are endless, and the comfort is always guaranteed.

Interior Staterooms

Our interior staterooms include a wide array of amenities for your whole family to enjoy..

Ocean View Staterooms

Savor the seaside and snapshots of landscapes from shore to shore..

Balcony Staterooms

Claim your slice of paradise with balcony views just outside your door. .

Suite Staterooms

Enjoy expansive accommodations that take luxury to the next level. .

Dedicated stateroom attendant

Daily cleaning service

Exclusive bedding collection

Stateroom climate control

Ample closet and storage

In-room HD-TV

In-room safe for valuables

Deluxe toiletries: shampoo, conditioner & body wash

AND MUCH MORE…

Enhanced room service

Voom High-Speed Wifi

Laundry & dry-cleaning

Movies on-demand

YOUR PLACE, YOUR SPACE

You’ll never find a shortage of unbelievable room options. From romantic couples staterooms to spacious family suites, you’ll find just what you’re looking for to complement the adventure of a lifetime. Take a virtual tour to get a better look at our stateroom collection call dibs on your just-right space.

Accessible Interior

Promenade view interior, central park view interior, spacious ocean view, spacious ocean view balcony*, royal suite, grand suite, owner's suite, aquatheater suite.

ROOM TO UNWIND

There’s so much to do each day and night. But somewhere in between it all, you’ll want to relax, unwind, and enjoy some “me time.” When choosing your ideal cruise ship stateroom, first consider how much space you need, and which amenities are most important to you. We’ve broken it down to help you decide which stateroom fits your vacation needs.

FAMILY STATEROOMS

When traveling with your family, space is always on your mind. A cozy Interior Room is our most budget-friendly option, and we offer Spacious Interiors, along with connecting rooms to accommodate larger families. The range of ultra-spacious cruise rooms across categories spans all the way up to our new Ultimate Family Townhouse — three stories that elevate the way you stay and play.

STATEROOM FOR COUPLES

If you’re planning a getaway for you and a special someone, we’ve got a range of cruise suites to serve as a romantic backdrop. A private balcony, luxurious bedding and in-suite dining are just a few of the upgraded amenities you’ll enjoy. And if it’s extra pampering you seek, be sure to save time for a relaxing service at  Vitality Spa℠ .

SPACIOUS ROOMS FOR GROUPS

Looking for the perfect stateroom for you and your crew? When traveling with a group of friends, there are many options to choose from. Each category has options that offer maximum space to spread out. From Spacious Interior rooms to Ultra Spacious Ocean View rooms, to our top of the line Villa Suite with four bedrooms.

AWE INSPIRING ACCOMMODATIONS ELEVATE YOUR SUITE STAY

Customized adventures, exclusive access and inclusive amenities. Luxury cruise suite accommodations on Royal Caribbean elevate every aspect of your adventure. From full-size tubs in Junior suites to 24-hour room service in Owner Suites and dedicated check-in for Royal Suite class, it’s little details you’d expect — plus elevated experiences you may have never imagined.

THE SUITE LIFE  

Level up your vacation with a spacious suite. Choose between an intimate Junior Suite with great views, or a Grand Suite featuring a bedroom, living area and private balcony. And if you’re looking for the ultimate suite to complement an unforgettable adventure, opt for the Owners Suite loaded with extra added perks.  

ROYAL SUITE CLASS

In Royal Suite Class — available on Oasis Class and select Quantum Class ships —every detail is thought of, so you won’t have to lift a finger. Sea, Sky and Star tiers include perks that range from exclusive spaces and venues to a Royal Genie or Concierge who will craft VIP experiences just for you — and more.

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY SUITES

In the Ultimate Family Suite , you don’t even have to leave your stateroom to enjoy the thrills. Kids have their own in-suite slides and private game room. Plus there’s plenty of perks for parents too, like a private balcony jacuzzi. And our biggest suite ever, the Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas℠  maxes memories across three levels.

Accessible staterooms OUR GUESTS ARE ALWAYS OUR PRIORITY

All our ships have staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the features of an accessible stateroom. Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, and offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, plus bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability.

EXPLORE ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS

Royal Up BID YOUR WAY TO A CRUISE UPGRADE

Scoring a fantastic upgrade is easy! Simply browse through stateroom options and select the amount you’re willing to pay the upgrade. Then, you’ll be notified via email if your bid was accepted. From Ocean View and Balcony staterooms to the most expansive suites at sea, the possibilities are endless.

EXPLORE ROYAL UP

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Wondering if you should pick a stateroom that’s forward or aft? We’ve got you covered.

Planning to spend your sea days by the pool? Or maybe you’re most excited about a particular specialty restaurant. Depending on where you plan to spend most of your time, you may have a preference of which venue or part of the ship you prefer to call home. Deck plans vary by ship and can be a helpful tool for picking your stateroom.

If you’re motion sensitive, you’ll want to choose a stateroom that’s lower to the water line and closer to the center of the ship. Layout and location varies by ship, so be sure to check your specific sailing and itinerary.

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• Cruises for Families

10 Best Cruise Ship Family Cabins

Feb 26, 2020

See recent posts by Jeff Bogle

Taking a cruise with kids ensures a memorable family vacation, whether you book an interior cabin to save money or decide to throw down roots in a standard balcony stateroom. But some cruise ship family cabins elevate the vacation at sea to something far more grandiose, photogenic, and jaw-dropping.

In these cruise ship family cabins, you’ll enjoy extra space in which to spread out, amazing amenities, stellar views, and in some cases, exclusive access to luxuriously private areas of the ship. 

1. Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas – Ultimate Family Suite

This vibrantly colorful family cabin is an epic two-level suite that overdelivers on Royal Caribbean ’s trademarked thrills and chills at sea promise. Inside this cruise ship cabin for families is an in-suite slide; massive LEGO construction wall; a private cinema room with the latest gaming consoles , life-sized Connect Four and other old-school gaming tables (who’s up for air hockey and Ping-Pong ?); a full-size whirlpool on the balcony, and the best combo views of the ship and sea found anywhere on the Symphony of the Seas.

As if the room itself isn’t enough, guests staying in the Ultimate Family Suite also receive a red carpet arrival and a complimentary personal Royal Genie. That’s a crew member who will coordinate surprises for everyone in your own crew, from front-row seats to theatrical performances to out-of-this-world excursions .

2. Carnival Vista-Class Ships – Family Harbor Staterooms

Nearly one million kids cruise Carnival every year, enjoying Hasbro The Game Show, rated-PG comedians in the Punchliner Comedy Club, epic waterslides and so much more. When those lucky kids get to stay in nautical-themed Family Harbor Staterooms on Vista-class ships (Vista, Horizon, Panorama and coming soon, Mardi Gras), their vacation at sea is even more fun. The Family Harbor cabins sleep up to five guests, have two bathrooms, and crucially, offer exclusive access to the Family Habor Lounge, a private area stocked with big HD TVs , video games , breakfast, and snacks throughout the day.

3. Norwegian Encore – Family Oceanview with Large Picture Window

Bigger than most New York City apartments, this expansive, forward-facing cabin on the glimmering new Norwegian Encore fits families comfortably for a cruise of any length. After a day of go-kart racing, laser tag and water sliding over the ocean blue, kids can stretch their growing legs while chilling out on the large picture window seat, kick back and watch a movie on the massive flat-screen TV, relax on the sofa, or play hide and seek in the enormous closets and storage (possibly the biggest at sea!) while mom soaks in the tub (that’s right, a bathtub!) in the oversized bathroom. Best of all, this cabin is not considered a suite, so budget-conscious families can afford to get the space they crave at sea!

4. Princess Cruises – Family Suites

By cruise ship standards, and even when compared to most hotels on dry land , the two-bedroom family suites found on Princess cruise ships are downright massive. Accommodating up to a whopping eight family members, the cabins have a queen and a pair of twin beds, two bathrooms (one with a walk-in shower, the other with a tub/shower combination), and an oversized living room. Three TVs in total are in the family suite, along with a large closet, a desk, plenty of drawers, a couple of sofas (each doubling as additional beds), and an expansive private balcony with seating for six. While staying in a family suite, you and your kids will be living, and sailing, like royalty on Princess.

5. Disney Fantasy and Dream Suite

Catering to the family cruise market is what Disney does best, and its cabin options reflect this commitment—see the bath and a half inside most all staterooms. Additionally, more than 70 percent of staterooms on both the Dream and Fantasy feature outdoor verandahs and of those that don’t, nearly all offer ocean views, some using the Magical Porthole. This piece of Disney innovation gives little kids and their favorite mouse-eared grown-ups a glimpse at the outside world with the appearance of a porthole in which you’ll see animated characters popping up to say hello!

With 500 connecting doors and connected verandah cabins, families can choose multiple rooms and still be together, or opt for one of the 21 suites on decks 11 and 12. These well-appointed upscale family cabins each have two bathrooms, one of which has a whirlpool bathtub and a TV built into the mirror for mom and dad to properly unwind after a blissfully exhausting day of doing everything or absolutely nothing. Kids may not appreciate the marble finishing, thread counts, or the finer touches of a Disney suite, but we guarantee they’ll find the walk-in closets a fun play area and enjoy the 42-inch HD flat screen TV and Blu-ray player , as well as the Wave Phones to communicate with each other inside and out of the cabin. These suites are truly the most magical cabins at sea.

Related: 5 Ways to Stay Connected on a Cruise Ship

6. Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas – Ultimate Panoramic Suite

The $16-million amplification of Oasis yielded many family-friendly results—the AquaTheater and Ultimate Abyss dry slide chiefly among them, as well as the Ultimate Panoramic Suite . This dreamy cabin features the same 200-degree views that the Captain enjoys from the bridge, with windows that are wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling. Those epic pano sight lines are even available from the bubble bath oasis of your bathroom tub! This suite gives families over 900 square feet of space to spread out during their Royal Caribbean cruise vacation. The Ultimate deck 14 suites accommodate up to four, have a bathroom that itself is bigger than most cruise cabins, are stocked with upgraded amenities like L’Occitane toiletries, and have premium bedding, complimentary VOOM Wi-Fi, complimentary specialty dining, and exclusive private access to specific areas of the ship and private islands. Speaking of the AquaTheater, there are suites bearing that name with a pair of bedrooms, a massive living room, and two bathrooms.

7. Norwegian – The Haven Family Villa

Available on nine Norwegian ships, these two-bedroom family villas with a balcony are located in The Haven , the ship within a ship area that’s reserved exclusively for Haven guests. The villas offer roughly 600 square feet of space spread out over an oceanview master bedroom featuring a king-size bed and private bathroom that has both a tub and separate shower, and a second bedroom with a sofa bed for two and its own bathroom. There’s also a living room and dining area with an additional single sofa bed. For families of four, five, or six that are cruising Norwegian, the Haven Family Villa, with its refined decor and ample space, plus the 24-hour butlers, private dining, and courtyard with pool, is impossible to beat. 

8. Celebrity Solstice-Class Ships – Family Veranda Stateroom

Families cruising with Celebrity are going into the experience expecting a certain level of sophistication and class. The Solstice-class ships deliver that plus an incredible amount of space in the Family Veranda Staterooms . Measuring 575 square feet, this family cabin can easily be the happy home at sea for up to six thanks to two bedrooms, a living room with at least one pullout sofa, and that private veranda advertised in its name. The only knock on these fine digs is the lone bathroom with just a shower. That seems lacking, but on the plus side, the ability to connect to adjacent ocean view cabins is a neat twist that can add to the max capacity for larger families cruising together.

9. MSC Meraviglia – Super Family Plus Balcony and Deluxe Suite

As a family-owned company, MSC takes special care to tailor the onboard experience for families, making accommodations that suit the individual needs of families regardless of size and age of children. On Meraviglia, a combination of connected staterooms are used—under titles like Super Family Plus Balcony and Family Ocean View —to provide groups with the beds, bathrooms, sight lines and space required to ensure every member of every family enjoys their cruise vacation. Fitting up to nine guests, the Super Family Plus Balcony uses a pair of balcony cabins plus an interior stateroom, all connected with adjoining doors to be as close or apart as you wish! Meanwhile, the ship’s Duplex Suite gives families of five or fewer total members a memorable two-deck-high cabin experience. On the main level there’s an open living and dining room with a sofa that converts to a double bed, while upstairs is the master bedroom’s king-size bed. 

10. MSC Seaside – Grand Suite

The Grand Suite on the MSC Seaside is as advertised: grand, indeed! This two-bedroom family cabin has a king bed in the master bedroom and pair of twin beds that can convert to a queen, plus a single pullman bed, in the second bedroom. There are two bathrooms allowing your kids to have their own shower, while you enjoy the choice of a relaxing hot shower or a long warm soak in the tub. There’s plenty of space for your stuff as well as for your family in this oversized cruise ship cabin. The walk-in closet is impressive as is the family room with sofa and seating for five. But the real star is the balcony with stellar ocean views and enough seating for everyone to truly relax and get away from the crowds on the public decks. 

Jeff Bogle lives in the suburbs of Philadelphia with his two teen daughters, two cats, one dog and six (yes, six) guinea pigs. He is an award-winning photographer and respected travel journalist with bylines on Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, PBS, Esquire and more. Jeff (probably) spends too much time in England watching football and far too many hours plotting his family’s future travel adventures. Find Jeff on his own site, Out With the Kids . 

What to Pack for Your Next Trip

Teen girl’s cool cruise outfit for summer, shop the look.

Colwyn Shirt

Bleach Joni Shorts

Canvas Tote Bag

Moment Espadrille

Teen boy’s cool cruise outfit for summer.

Pink Lemonade Shirt

Stone Utility Shorts

Polarized Sunglasses

Women’s/Mom’s Cool Overwater Bungalow Swimsuit for Summer

Summer Standard™ Sun Hat

Havana Bikini

Waterproof Apple Watch

Seafolly Tassel-Trimmed Caftan

Dad’s/Men’s Outfit for a Family Vacation in Vegas in Summer/Spring

Cotton Pocket Tee

Beach Sweat Shorts

57mm Phantos Aviator Polarized Sunglasses

Travel Laptop Backpack

Nike Roshe Run

Our team of parents and travel experts chooses each product and service we recommend. Anything you purchase through links on our site may earn us a commission.

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Available only on Celebrity Reflection ® , our Reflection suites have extra-high ceilings and full-height glass doors and windows that display spectacular views; not only from the spacious sitting area but also from the bathroom—which awakens you with a cantilevered glass shower jutting over the sea.

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As a guest of The Retreat, you’ll also enjoy a long list of thoughtfully curated amenities that start with premium drinks and premium Wi-Fi, in addition to a private restaurant and exclusive lounge.

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Enjoy Premium Drinks throughout the ship. Whether dining in our restaurants, out exploring, or relaxing by the pool.

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It's easy to stay connected at all times with complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi. It's included as part of The Retreat experience.

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• Choose from Luminae at The Retreat, the main restaurant, specialty restaurants, or in your suite
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Thoughtfully curated amenities

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Separate living, dining, and sleeping areas make this space fit for a king or queen.

These two-room suites feature a large living area with floor to ceiling panoramic windows.

Celebrity provides nothing but a top notch vacation. If you're looking for high-class and luxury, you won't go wrong here!

Suite was the perfect size for 2. Wonderful staff! There are no complaints. Izzy, our butler, the 2 cabin stewards and the Cafe Baccio staff were always most attentive. The reason we cruise was all there. We’ll be back!

This was our first cruise and we chose a Sky Suite (9204) and were extremely happy. The bathroom was just as described. The attention to detail that our Butler, Dino, gave us was beyond my expectations. He led us up to our cabana and handled my tailoring job.

We have taken several cruises in a suite. None of them compared to the treatment of the suite guests on this trip. We felt that we received value for what we paid for. We also liked being able to interact with the officers at any given moment.

If people are wanting to experience a phenomenal cruising experience, then I would highly recommend that they should seriously consider a quality holiday with Celebrity. Everything from the incredible Ships, the absolutely amazing Crew Members, the high standard and wide selection of Food, the outstanding and diverse onboard Entertainment, will truly ensure the most astounding and immersible exciting and memorable holiday!!

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Disney Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Carnival Cruise Lines

• Standard staterooms exceed industry standards
• Ocean view staterooms can fit a family of 5
• Dream-class ships have staterooms with two bathrooms that include shower and a junior tub
• Family Harbor Suites feature two bedrooms and a lounge with large-screen TVs and games

Carnival Dream Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

Celebrity Cruises

• Solstice-class ships have spacious family suites that fit 5 people
• Veranda Staterooms feature a master bedroom and second bedroom
• Large balconies
• Convertible sofa
• Family balconies connect to double ocean view cabins
• Privacy partitions

Celebrity Constellation Family Suite stateroom

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Newest ships feature staterooms for families of 5
• Most staterooms can be turned into connecting rooms
• Two-bedroom family suites with two bathrooms
• The Haven’s family villas sleep up to six passengers; some fit eight
• The Haven features a private pool and sun deck
• Private balconies
• Close to kids’ clubs, kiddie pools and teen clubs

Norwegian Jewel 2-bedroom family villa

Princess Cruises

• Connecting staterooms that accommodate six passengers
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Royal Princess Suite with Balcony

P&O Cruises

• Some larger suites with a separate bedroom
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• Sleep up to six passengers
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Pacific Dawn connecting cabin

Royal Caribbean

• Aqua Theatre Suites accommodate up to eight passengers
• Presidential Family Suites with four bathrooms, large balconies, spacious living and dining areas fit 14 passengers
• Two-storey Loft Suites with one or two bedrooms can fit six
• Ultimate Family Suites span two decks and offer kid-friendly features (Lego wall, table tennis, board games, climbing maze)

Oasis of the Seas Aquatheater Suite

Family and group bookings continue to gain traction in the cruise industry, prompting cruise lines to invest in adjoining rooms and connecting cabins. It’s worth comparing the cost of connecting cabins as an alternative to a stateroom or suite. Depending on the size of your family or group you can save money and still get the comfortable configuration you desire.

Newer ships provide the greater array of accommodation options. On some ships there are a limited number of family-friendly staterooms. Book early to avoid disappointment, especially if you plan to travel during school holidays.

Robert Grant

Loves cruise tips and cruise ships. Shares his personal opinion about cruise deals and cruise tips that might help other travellers. Do let me know if you'd like to read more about certain cruise related topics.

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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.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

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:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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How Big Are Rooms On Cruise Ships

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Marja Luu

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Introduction

When it comes to planning a cruise vacation, one of the key considerations is the size and layout of the rooms on board. After all, your cabin is not only where you’ll rest your head at night but also your personal space for relaxation and rejuvenation during your journey. The size and amenities of cruise ship rooms can vary greatly, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Whether you prefer a cozy interior room or a spacious suite with a private balcony, understanding the different options available can help you make an informed decision for your cruise experience. In this article, we will explore the varying room sizes and types commonly found on cruise ships, providing you with insights on the available choices and what you can expect.

From standard cabins to suites, connecting rooms, and accommodations for families and solo travelers, cruise ships offer a wide range of options to suit different needs and preferences. Additionally, certain rooms are designed to cater to individuals with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and accessible cruising experience for all.

As you delve into the world of cruise ship accommodations, you’ll discover that each room type has its own unique features and benefits. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking ocean views, extra space for you and your loved ones, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a room on a cruise ship that can meet your needs.

Join us as we take a closer look at the different types of rooms available on cruise ships, from standard cabins to specialty accommodations. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the various room sizes and configurations, enabling you to make an informed choice for your next unforgettable cruise vacation.

Standard Cabin Sizes

Standard cabins, also known as staterooms, are the most common type of accommodation on a cruise ship. These rooms typically offer comfortable living spaces for one or two passengers and come in various sizes to cater to different budgets. While the specific dimensions may vary depending on the cruise line and ship, standard cabins are typically around 160 to 200 square feet in size. They are equipped with essential amenities such as beds, a private bathroom, and storage spaces.

Standard cabins are available in different categories, such as interior, ocean view, and balcony rooms, each offering a unique experience. Interior rooms, also known as inside cabins, are typically the most affordable option. As the name suggests, these cabins do not have windows, offering a cozy and intimate setting. Despite the lack of natural light, interior rooms are designed to provide a comfortable environment for relaxation and rest.

Ocean view cabins offer the added benefit of a window or porthole, allowing guests to enjoy natural light and a glimpse of the stunning ocean scenery. These rooms are a popular choice for those who want to enjoy ocean views without the price tag of a balcony or suite.

Balcony rooms, also known as veranda cabins, offer the ultimate luxury of a private outdoor space. These rooms feature a balcony where you can relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea. Balcony rooms are perfect for those who appreciate the fresh sea breeze and tranquility of being able to step outside at any time.

The size of standard cabins can also vary within the same category, so it’s worth considering the specific dimensions when making a reservation. Some cabins may offer slightly more space, with certain cruise lines offering larger standard cabins as part of their premium offerings.

It’s important to note that while standard cabins provide comfortable living spaces, they may not offer as much room for movement compared to suites or specialty accommodations. However, with clever use of storage spaces and efficient room layout, standard cabins can feel cozy and welcoming, providing all the essentials for a comfortable cruise experience.

Next, we’ll explore the options available for those seeking a more luxurious and spacious experience onboard a cruise ship.

Suites and Specialty Accommodations

For those seeking a more luxurious and spacious experience during their cruise vacation, suites and specialty accommodations are the ideal choice. These room options offer additional square footage, enhanced amenities, and exclusive perks that elevate the overall cruising experience.

Suites on cruise ships are designed to provide a lavish and indulgent stay. They come in various sizes and configurations, ranging from Junior Suites to Owner’s Suites. The specific details and dimensions of suites can vary considerably depending on the cruise line and ship. However, these accommodations typically offer separate living and sleeping areas, a larger private bathroom with upgraded features, and ample closet and storage space. Many suites also come with a private balcony, allowing guests to relax and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean.

In addition to the spacious layout and premium amenities, suite guests often receive exclusive privileges and personalized services. These can include priority embarkation and disembarkation, access to exclusive lounges and dining venues, dedicated butler service, complimentary beverage packages, and more. The enhanced level of luxury and personalized attention make suites a popular choice for those looking to indulge in a truly exceptional cruise experience.

Some cruise lines also offer specialty accommodations that cater to specific preferences or interests. These specialty rooms can range from themed suites inspired by famous movies or locations to unique and innovative designs that provide a one-of-a-kind experience. Examples of specialty accommodations may include penthouses, over-the-water villas, or even multi-level loft suites with private hot tubs.

Specialty accommodations often come with their own set of exclusive amenities and perks, giving guests a truly memorable stay. These accommodations can be a perfect choice for special celebrations, honeymooners, or those who simply want to make their cruise experience unforgettable.

It’s important to note that suites and specialty accommodations tend to be more expensive than standard cabins. However, the spaciousness, elevated amenities, and exclusive services offered make them an appealing option for discerning travelers looking for an extra touch of luxury.

Now that we’ve explored the suites and specialty accommodations available on cruise ships, let’s delve into the options for those who prefer different types of views from their stateroom.

Balcony Rooms and Ocean View Rooms

For cruise passengers who crave a connection to the ocean and want to enjoy stunning views from the comfort of their own room, balcony rooms and ocean view rooms are the perfect options.

Balcony rooms, also known as veranda cabins, are highly sought after for their private outdoor space. These rooms typically feature a personal balcony that allows passengers to step outside and soak in the captivating views of the sea. Balcony rooms come in various sizes and configurations, with some offering larger balconies or wrap-around designs for enhanced relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you want to sip your morning coffee while watching the sunrise or unwind with a breathtaking sunset, balcony rooms provide the ideal setting for moments of tranquility and awe.

Ocean view rooms, as the name suggests, offer a window or porthole that provides guests with a view of the ocean from the comfort of their cabin. These rooms ensure that you can still enjoy natural light and a glimpse of the outside world, even if you don’t have a private balcony. Ocean view rooms are popular among those who desire a connection to the sea but may have budgetary constraints or are content with observing the views from within the room.

Both balcony rooms and ocean view rooms offer a unique cruising experience that allows passengers to appreciate the beauty and vastness of the ocean. Whether you choose a balcony room to have your own private outdoor sanctuary or an ocean view room that offers glimpses of the ever-changing seascape, these room categories provide an added sense of luxury and connection to nature.

It’s worth noting that balcony rooms and ocean view rooms are generally more expensive than interior cabins. However, for many passengers, the opportunity to have a room with a view and the ability to witness awe-inspiring ocean vistas makes the additional cost well worth it.

Now that we’ve explored the rooms that offer a direct connection to the ocean, let’s take a look at a more budget-friendly option – the interior rooms.

Interior Rooms

Interior rooms, also known as inside cabins, are a popular choice for budget-conscious cruise travelers. These rooms are located in the interior of the ship, meaning they do not have windows or portholes that offer views of the outside. Although they lack natural light and the ability to see the ocean, interior rooms have their own unique advantages and can still provide a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience.

One major benefit of interior rooms is their affordability. They are typically the most cost-effective option for accommodations on a cruise ship, making them appealing for travelers who prioritize budget-friendly choices. Plus, with the multitude of exciting activities and attractions available on a cruise ship, including pools, restaurants, theaters, and lounges, many passengers find themselves spending minimal time in their rooms.

Interior rooms are thoughtfully designed to maximize space and create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Despite the absence of natural light, these rooms are well-lit and feature modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. They typically offer all the essentials, such as comfortable bedding, a private bathroom, storage spaces, and entertainment systems. Some interior rooms may also have virtual balconies, which are large high-definition screens that display real-time views of the ocean, giving passengers a semblance of an outside view.

The lack of windows also means that interior rooms are usually darker, providing a conducive environment for restful sleep. This can be particularly beneficial for passengers who are sensitive to light and prefer a completely dark room for sleeping or taking daytime naps.

While interior rooms may not offer the same level of natural light and scenic views as balcony or ocean view rooms, they can still provide a comfortable and affordable option for those who prioritize budget-conscious travel or prefer a cozy and private retreat.

Next, let’s explore another type of room commonly found on cruise ships – connecting rooms.

Connecting Rooms

For families or larger groups traveling together, connecting rooms on a cruise ship can offer the perfect solution. Connecting rooms are two or more separate cabins that are adjoined by an interior door, providing convenient access between the rooms while still maintaining individual privacy.

Connecting rooms are designed to accommodate families or groups who want to stay close to one another but also desire their own space and privacy. This allows parents to have their own room while keeping their children in a nearby cabin, providing comfort and convenience for everyone.

Connecting rooms are typically available in various categories and sizes, ranging from interior rooms to balcony or even suite accommodations. The availability and configuration of connecting rooms can vary depending on the cruise line and ship, so it’s wise to check with the cruise line or your travel agent when making reservations.

These rooms provide the benefit of shared amenities and the ability to easily communicate and spend time together, making it easier for families or groups to enjoy their cruise experience. The adjoining door between the cabins allows for seamless movement and interaction, creating a sense of togetherness while still providing individual spaces for relaxation and privacy.

When booking connecting rooms, it’s important to plan ahead as availability can be limited. It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or when traveling with a large group.

Connecting rooms can be a great option for families and groups who want the convenience of staying near each other while maintaining their own privacy and personal space. The ability to share experiences and easily access each other’s cabins enhances the overall cruise experience and ensures a memorable vacation.

Now, let’s discuss accommodations designed for individuals with disabilities and special needs – accessible rooms.

Accessible Rooms

Cruise lines are committed to providing inclusive and accessible experiences for all passengers. As part of this commitment, they offer accessible rooms that are specifically designed to cater to individuals with disabilities or special needs. These rooms are thoughtfully designed with accessible features to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for all guests.

Accessible rooms are available in various categories, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and even suites, to accommodate different preferences and budgets. These rooms are equipped with essential accessibility features such as wider doorways, spacious layout to accommodate wheelchair maneuverability, grab bars in the bathroom, roll-in showers or shower seats, and lower vanity and closet spaces.

In addition to the physical modifications, accessible rooms may also include amenities like emergency call systems, visual and tactile alerts, and other accommodations to enhance the overall experience for guests with disabilities. It’s worth noting that the specific features and layout of accessible rooms may vary depending on the cruise line and ship, so it’s recommended to check with the cruise line or your travel agent for detailed information.

When booking an accessible room, it’s essential to consider individual needs and requirements. Communicate any specific accommodations or equipment needs to the cruise line in advance to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience. It’s advisable to book accessible rooms well in advance, as they tend to have limited availability.

Accessible rooms provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals with disabilities or special needs, allowing them to enjoy a fulfilling cruise experience alongside their fellow passengers. These rooms ensure that all guests can comfortably navigate and enjoy the amenities and activities available on the ship, further enhancing the overall accessibility and inclusivity of the cruise vacation.

Now, let’s explore accommodations specifically tailored for families or larger groups – family rooms.

Family Rooms

For families or larger groups traveling together, family rooms on a cruise ship provide the perfect solution to accommodate everyone comfortably. These rooms are specifically designed to cater to the needs of families, offering additional space and amenities to ensure a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience for all.

Family rooms are typically larger in size compared to standard cabins, providing enough room to comfortably accommodate multiple guests. These rooms often feature a separate sleeping area for parents and children or additional beds and pull-out sofas to accommodate larger groups. Some family rooms may also have connecting options to provide even more space and convenience.

In addition to the expanded size, family rooms are also equipped with amenities and features tailored to the needs of families. These can include kid-friendly décor, extra storage space for belongings, and even child-proofing measures to ensure a safe and secure environment for younger guests. Some cruise lines may also offer in-room entertainment options or dedicated programming for children, such as cartoons or gaming consoles.

Family rooms also provide a sense of togetherness, allowing families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Having a designated space to relax and bond as a family after a day of exploring onboard activities or shore excursions adds a level of intimacy and convenience to the overall cruise experience.

It’s important to note that family rooms tend to be in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons or school vacations. Therefore, it’s advisable to book family rooms well in advance to secure the desired accommodations and ensure a seamless and stress-free vacation.

Now that we’ve explored options for families, let’s move on to discussing rooms specifically designed for solo travelers – single occupancy rooms.

Single Occupancy Rooms

As the number of solo travelers continues to increase, cruise lines have recognized the need to provide accommodations specifically tailored for single passengers. Single occupancy rooms, also known as solo cabins, cater to individuals who prefer to travel alone or seek privacy during their cruise vacation.

Single occupancy rooms are designed with the solo traveler in mind, offering a comfortable and private space for a solo journey. These rooms are typically smaller in size compared to standard cabins but provide all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay. They usually feature a single bed, a compact yet functional layout, and storage spaces to maximize the available space.

One of the main advantages of single occupancy rooms is their affordability. These rooms are often priced at a lower rate compared to traditional double occupancy cabins since they accommodate only one guest. This makes solo cruising more accessible and budget-friendly, allowing solo travelers to enjoy the benefits of a cruise vacation without the burden of paying for a larger cabin.

Single occupancy rooms also provide opportunities for solo travelers to connect with like-minded individuals. Many cruise lines offer designated areas or events specifically tailored for solo travelers to socialize and meet new people. These can include cocktail parties, singles meet-ups, or group activities that foster a sense of community among solo cruisers.

It’s important to note that the availability of single occupancy rooms can vary depending on the cruise line and ship. Some cruise lines have dedicated solo traveler areas or entire ships designed with solo travelers in mind, while others may only have a limited number of solo cabins available.

When booking a single occupancy room, it’s advisable to inquire about the specific amenities and benefits that come with these accommodations. Some cruise lines may offer additional perks for solo travelers, such as access to exclusive lounges, special dining options, or waived single supplement fees. Understanding the offerings and benefits can help solo travelers make the most of their cruising experience.

Now that we’ve explored the different types of rooms available on a cruise ship, from standard cabins to suites, balcony rooms, interior rooms, connecting rooms, accessible rooms, family rooms, and single occupancy rooms, you can choose the accommodation that best suits your preferences and needs for your next cruise adventure.

Choosing the right room on a cruise ship is an important decision that can greatly impact your overall cruise experience. From standard cabins to suites, balcony rooms, interior rooms, connecting rooms, accessible rooms, family rooms, and single occupancy rooms, cruise ships offer a wide range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Standard cabins provide comfortable living spaces, with choices ranging from interior rooms to ocean view and balcony rooms. These options offer a variety of views and amenities to enhance your cruise vacation. Suites and specialty accommodations provide luxury and spaciousness, with exclusive perks and personalized services that elevate the overall cruising experience.

Balcony rooms and ocean view rooms offer direct connections to the ocean, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views from the comfort of your own cabin. Interior rooms provide affordable options for budget-conscious travelers, while still offering cozy and well-equipped spaces for relaxation.

Connecting rooms cater to families and larger groups, enabling them to stay close to one another while also maintaining individual privacy. Accessible rooms ensure an inclusive cruising experience for individuals with disabilities or special needs, offering features and amenities designed for their comfort and convenience.

Family rooms provide spacious accommodations equipped with amenities for families to enjoy their time together onboard. Single occupancy rooms offer a comfortable and private space for solo travelers, making cruising accessible and affordable for those traveling alone.

Ultimately, the choice of room on a cruise ship is a personal one, influenced by factors such as budget, preferences, and travel companions. It’s essential to consider the specific features, amenities, and views that matter to you when making your decision.

By understanding the different room types available and considering your specific needs and desires, you can select the perfect accommodation that enhances your cruise experience. So, whether you desire a cozy interior room, a balcony with stunning ocean views, or a luxurious suite with exclusive perks, there’s a room on a cruise ship that will suit your preferences and create lasting memories on your next unforgettable voyage.

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• Family Cruises

Rooms for 6 people?

By jenn- , January 18, 2012 in Family Cruises

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Do any of the cruise lines have rooms that accommodate 6 people? The most I see on Carnival is 5.

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Some of the larger suites will accomodate more than 5.....but it's almost always less expensive to book 2 rooms...connecting cabins are available, if you book early enough...those cabins go quickly! That way, you get 2 bathrooms, and the kids (if that's what your group has!!!) get their own space, and you get a bit of privacy, yet you are right there...closer than you would be at home to the kid's bedroom! Coonsidering that ships cabins are no where NEAR as large as most hotel rooms, I'd go the 2 cabin route!

The only rooms I know of would be family suites. I agree that connecting rooms is the way to go. I can't think that I would want 6 people in one room. We cruise with 2 adults and 2 small kids, and that is plenty to fill up a room. As they get older, we will have to do connecting rooms.

Nebr.cruiser

Royal Caribbean has family OV rooms that hold six very comfortably. We had one on the Navigator last year when we took 7 grandkids on a cruise. It had two twin (or one queen) beds, a large sofa sleeper and bunks in a small alcove.

It was also quite large, but only one bathroom. The kids loved the bunkroom--sometimes all four girls slept in the two bunks!

Of course, there are also suites on various lines, especially NCL, that hold six, but they are very pricey.

I agree with the previous poster about the family OV's on Royal Caribbean. I much prefer them to connecting cabins. On the larger ships, they have family cabins with balconies, also interior family cabins and promenade family cabins. We've got a family cabin with a balcony for a cruise next year on Allure. I'm so excited!

allesonwonderland

I was just pricing out family oceanviews on the Mariner today! So, yes, there are staterooms for 6. You'll just have to call whichever cruiseline you want to inquire about them, since you can't seem to access those rates online. I thought the rate I was quotes was excellent, til the rep realized he told me the price for 4 people instead of 5. LOL

Thanks for the info. I guess I will look at booking connecting cabins. Do most of the ships have them now?

Most ships have them, but they don't have an abundance. You need to book early to secure them.

Dear Jenn - I've never sailed RCL so I didn't know about the cabins for 6. Six people and one bathroom sounds tight to me, but hey, I'd do it if that was the way to get to cruise.

NCL 2 bedroom family suites hold 6 and have 2 bathrooms.

Dear Jenn - I've never sailed RCL so I didn't know about the cabins for 6. Six people and one bathroom sounds tight to me, but hey, I'd do it if that was the way to get to cruise.   Nancy

The one bathroom sure isn't ideal--we had four girls and sometimes one boy and me (grandma) and we made it work.

The oldest girls were 11, though, and not into (or allowed to be into) make-up and hair fussing though, so it was just into and out of the shower as fast as I could hurry them along.

The room itself was great though, and the price was very reasonable.

• 1 month later...

EviesCruisin

NCL Family Suites (SJ) also hold up to 6. They have a queen bed (or two twins), a pull-out sofa and a Murphy bed. They are about 400 sq. ft. The ones without a balcony are actually quite reasonable - if the add'l passenger rate is pretty low. For example, on our cruise it was $209, I believe, for additional passengers after the first 2. Just check because some of the rooms only hold 4 (no murphy bed).

The NCL Family Suites hold 6 and these are available on the NCL Star and NCL Dawn, cat SJ. The NCL Dawn also has the Family Suite with Balcony that holds 6. I think it is a cat. SD.

The more pricy suites SC will also hold 6. These are on most NCL ships. The Haven family suites also hold 6. The Epic and the new NCL Breakaway will also have suites for families of 6.

Finally, you can book a Garden Villa on the NCL ships. These have 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, your own deck, hot tub, elevator, and comes with a nice price-tag too!

carolinesmom

We are a family of 6 and just booked two connecting rooms on Liberty of the Seas for this summer. They also had family rooms which would sleep six. Those appeared to have about the same square footage as two connecting room, but only one bathroom. These were a little less expensive than the 2 connecting rooms, but the one bathroom worried me. We took a cruise two years ago over spring break and did the two connecting rooms and it worked out very well.

We have 6 in our group as well and found it is much more affordable to book two rooms. We usually pick one verandah room & an inside room directly across from it.

The Royal Family Suite on RCI has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a living room plus balcony. I have no idea what it costs (never used one), but I would guess it would be pricier than doing two connecting rooms.

We are a family of 6. Here is another idea other than connecting rooms. Get rooms right across the hall from each other!

We currently have a balcony room booked with an inside room right across the hall. Then our friend's family of four is two doors down in the inside quad room (they wanted inside). I really wanted a balcony room but two balcony rooms connecting is more expensive than 1 balcony and 1 inside room.

Originally I wanted a balcony quad for me, hubby, and the two little kids (and an inside double for the older boys) but the quad balcony were book. So our TA found a double balcony room with a quad inside directly across the hall. This works out well for us and is cheaper than my original plan. My daugher and I will get the balcony (the girls room), and the boys (DH, 10 year old son, 18 year old son and almost 20 year old) get the inside quad. :p

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More From Forbes

How to choose the best cruise ship cabin for you.

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Balcony staterooms on Norwegian Prima feature a Scandinavian color palette with some modern design ... [+] touches.

Choosing your cruise ship cabin or stateroom is an essential part of planning a dream cruise vacation. The right accommodation can enhance your cruise experience, providing you with a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure, but some choices may turn out to be an expensive mistake.

Here’s how to select the best cruise ship cabin for your needs, whether you're seeking breathtaking views, peace and quiet, convenience, or the best value.

Cruise Ship Cabin Grades

From motel-sized inside cabins to luxurious suites that rival the most expensive land-based hotels, cruise ships offer a range of accommodation grades to suit all preferences and budgets:

Interior Cabins : The most budget-friendly option, these cabins are located inside the ship and have no windows. Although they are often just as spacious as oceanview cabins, the lack of natural light may be off-putting to some.

Oceanview Cabins : Offering a window or porthole, these cabins provide natural light and views of the ocean or ports, a good middle-ground option. On modern ships, such cabins will likely be located towards the bottom of the ship, as balcony cabins now dominate ship exteriors.

Balcony Cabins : These cabins feature private balconies allowing direct access to ocean breezes and private views. These cabins are perfect for those who prefer to enjoy the scenery privately.

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Some ships offer cabins with direct access to the promenade deck, while the largest ships, including MSC World Europa , offer balconies overlooking an internal courtyard or promenade.

The newest, largest cruise ships such as Royal Caribbean's 'Icon of the Seas' offer a huge range of ... [+] cabin grades and locations.

Suites : The most spacious and luxurious option, suites often come with extra amenities and services, ideal for travelers looking for a premium experience. Separate bedrooms, wraparound balconies, and even butler service are some common features of cruise ship suites.

Pioneered by Norwegian Cruise Line, solo traveler cabins are becoming more common across the industry. Whereas for many years solo cabins were usually interior grade, there are now oceanview and even balcony cabins available for solo travelers on some lines.

Consider The Location

Perhaps more so than the accommodation grade, the cabin location can significantly impact your cruise experience.

Top-to-bottom : Cabins on lower decks are usually cheaper with the added benefit of experiencing less movement in rough seas.

However, depending on the size of the ship, they could be farther from entertainment and dining areas. On big ships, there may be 10 or even more flights of stairs between your cabin and the pool, sun deck, buffet, and other amenities found at the top of the ship. There will be elevators, of course, but you should expect queues at busy times.

Cabins on higher decks will provide better views from balconies and suites, and good access to many of the ship’s amenities, but passengers may feel the ship's movement more. You may also hear more noise from outdoor activities on the pool deck.

Cabins on middle floors offer the best combination of access to facilities and less movement in the event of rough seas.

Front-to-back : Just as important as the deck number is the cabin’s location between the ship’s front and rear.

Cabins located at the very front and very back of the ship will experience significantly more movement in the event of rough seas, so choose a cabin towards the middle of the ship if you’re facing multiple sea days or sailing off-season.

Inside cabins on the 'P&O Arvia' cruise ship are a good value accommodation option. They can be ... [+] configured with a double or twin beds.

It’s also worth knowing that most cruise ships feature main dining venues at the rear and the main theater at the front.

The Budget Accommodation Choice

When choosing a cabin, start with understanding your budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and remember that while the cabin is important, you’ll also want to budget for on-board activities, excursions, beverages, and other expenses.

If budget matters above all else, an interior cabin is a wise choice. You could also save money by booking a saver fare offered by some cruise lines.

These fares typically don't allow you to select your cabin in advance. This will likely result in you being allocated a cabin at the front or back of the ship, but it will save you money.

Questions To Ask Yourself

If you have more flexibility in your budget, consider what’s important to you in accommodation. If you plan to spend a lot of time in your cabin, you might value a balcony or a spacious room more. Families might look for cabins with connecting doors or extra bed options.

Before booking, read reviews of the ship and specific cabins on websites such as Cruise Critic or watching YouTube reviews. Previous travelers can offer invaluable insight into noise levels, views, and overall satisfaction.

Examine the ship’s layout to see where your cabin is in relation to key areas like the lido deck, dining rooms, and entertainment venues. Consider potential noise from above or below your cabin, especially if it’s immediately above or below a dance floor, crew area, or near the pool.

Your cruise itinerary might also influence your choice of accommodation. For scenic cruises, such as those in Alaska or the Norwegian fjords , a balcony might be worth the splurge to enjoy the magnificent views in relative peace. A balcony breakfast while sailing along a fjord will be an experience to remember.

On the other hand, if you plan to spend most of your time exploring ports and partaking in onboard activities, the type and location of cabin might be of less importance.

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Cruise cabins vs. hotel rooms: the similarities and differences.

Cruises take all the best parts of a traditional vacation while injecting some seriously exciting non traditional elements too. If you’re a fan of staying in hotels, with all the pampering, amenities, and comfort they offer, you’ll find a cruise cabin pretty familiar, but with one important difference – instead of a view of a parking lot, you’ll have a view of the ocean. Cruise cabins also offer far more value than luxury hotels, since you’re not just getting a room. You’re getting access to our almost all-included luxury experience, and the ability to step out of your room and into a new port almost every day. Here’s what every prospective Sailor should know about our cruise cabins. 

What are cruise cabins (staterooms) like on cruise ships?

Cruise cabins, also known as staterooms, are your oasis within an oasis. Your home base. Your inner sanctum. And on our adults-only ships, these inner sanctums are equipped with cutting-edge technology like mood lighting and room keys in the form of a wearable band . You can also make purchases with your wearable band, really taking the convenience to the next level. The best part about having a cruise cabin as your home base is that you can visit multiple destinations and only unpack once, and you don’t even have to leave the room to feel like you’re on a tropical vacation. Just relax on your balcony hammock and soak in the sun and sea breeze.

Similarities between cruise cabins and hotel rooms

Although standard cruise cabins are smaller than hotel rooms, there are several similarities that will make hotel veterans feel right at home. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to come home after a long day of exploring, flop down on the hotel bed, turn on the AC, and bliss out with some TV, a cruise cabin will more than quench your thirst for relaxation. Like hotels, there are multiple options available depending on your party size – solo rooms, double occupancy, or larger , more luxurious suites called RockStar Quarters . You can also choose between insider, ocean view, and balcony rooms. Here’s what you can expect from our luxurious cabins.

Room essentials for cruise cabins & hotel rooms

Hotels and cruises ultimately offer vastly different vacation experiences, but their lodgings are cut from the same cloth. Here’s what you can expect from your cruise cabin.

Baggage Porter Service

Much like bellhops at hotels, we offer a baggage porter service that delivers your luggage from the port to the cruise cabin. 

Room Service

Everyone’s favorite part of staying in a hotel, room service means enjoying your favorite meals from the comfort of your own bed. On our ships, not only can you get food delivered to your room, but also towels and other amenities you might need. And the best part is – gratuities are included in the cost of the cruise.

Room Cleanliness

Unlike Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, who have cut their housekeeping services back to once a day , you can expect our housekeeping to clean your room twice per day, meaning our cruise cabins are typically cleaner than the average hotel room . 

Queen or King Size Bed Options

Like hotel rooms, you can choose between Queen or King size beds for sleeping comfortably, depending on whether you’re traveling solo or with a partner (and how cozy you feel like getting with that partner). You can also opt for two double beds, for those traveling with a friend. 

Free Breakfast

Okay, we lied before. The best part about staying in hotels (most hotels, anyway) is the free breakfast. Well, we hear you. While not every hotel offers free breakfast, Virgin Voyages does, along with a host of other free dining options in our 20+ onboard eateries included with your cruise cabin fare.

Air Conditioning

An essential that you might not even think about until you realize it’s missing. Our Sailors can adjust the room temperature, so you can cool down after a long day lounging in the heat, or warm up after taking a dip in one of our Redemption Spa’s cold plunge pools.

Complimentary water

Not only do Virgin Voyages cruise cabins come with complimentary water, there are water stations across the ship where you can refill your personal water bottle. 

Obviously, like hotel rooms, your cruise cabin will have a private bathroom with a sink, shower, and toilet. The bathrooms might be a little cozy, but they’re modern, sustainably designed, and have all the essentials you need for a comfortable voyage.

Clean Towels & Rags

Fresh towels and rags are available from our housekeeping service. You can even ask for them to be delivered between cleanings. 

Bathroom Essentials & Toiletries

This isn’t one of those Airbnbs where you show up to find an empty bathroom, and need to make a last-minute run to a convenience store just to brush your teeth. Expect to find the basic toiletries in your cabin bathroom – including a hairdryer – which can be restocked at any time by room service.

As much as we encourage disconnecting and enjoying your time at sea, we’re realistic too. Staying connected is important. That’s why – unlike some hotels and many other cruise lines – we offer free Wi-Fi in all our cruise cabins.

Power Outlets and USB Connector

To help you stay even more connected, we made sure each room has both power outlets and a USB connector for conveniently charging your devices.

Flat-Screen TV

Every cruise cabin has a flat-screen TV, so you can unwind and zone out after a busy day exploring a port and our onboard amenities.

We know that working from home is all the rage right now, but we want to take WFH to the next level – working from sea. To make this easier on our remote working Sailors, each room has a dedicated work desk. Or, you know, you could just set up your laptop on your balcony hammock (though we’re not sure how much work you’ll actually get done).

Closet and Luggage Storage Areas

Like hotel rooms, you’ll find a closet and storage area to hang clothes and store your suitcases, as well as a safe to protect your valuables.

Differences between cruise cabin & hotel rooms

Despite these similarities, there are also plenty of differences between a hotel room and cruise cabin, from the view to the experiences waiting outside your door. Indeed, many even claim to sleep better on cruise ships than in any other type of lodging. These are the key differences between cruise ship rooms and hotel rooms.

It probably comes as no surprise that a standard cruise cabin is smaller than a typical hotel room, but that’s because cruise cabins are built for ultimate convenience. Cabin layouts take advantage of small spaces to give you everything you need without any excess space. 

Sure, hotel rooms have windows, but they usually overlook freeways and parking lots. While not all cruise cabins have windows, those that do overlook a spectacular ocean horizon, and many of our rooms even have balconies with hammocks, perfect for spending a lazy morning.

Room Access

Gone are the days of wiggling a key in a lock, or even digging through your wallet to find a key card. Our Sailors access their cabins with a smart wristband, which also gives them entrance to the ship itself after returning from Shore Things.

Clever Rooms with Mood Lighting

In most hotels, you can’t control the lighting beyond flipping a switch on and off. In our cabins, an easy-to-use tablet gives you access to sophisticated lighting controls, including mood lighting. 

Clothes Iron and Steamers

While we can’t keep irons or steamers in our rooms, as hotels do, for safety reasons, we can provide steamers upon special request.

TV Stations

Sailors can browse dozens of stations on our HDTV, and though you might not find every channel you’re used to back home, you can stream shows and movies using our fast Wi-Fi connection on your own devices. 

Room for a Couch

Our rooms are designed with versatility in mind. That means you can transform the Seabed into a couch setup, forming an L-shaped lounging couch perfect for group gatherings. 

Balcony with a Hammock

Some hotel rooms have balconies, but the balconies in our rooms come with our signature red hammocks, perfect for sleeping in the sea breeze. It’s so comfortable, you can even sleep in it. No need to bring the mattress outside, like on some cruise lines . 

Included Dining

Most hotels have restaurants, but they’re usually pretty pricey, and the food often sacrifices quality for convenience. Within just a few minutes’ walk of your cruise cabin, you’ll find over 20 free onboard dining options.

Included Amenities

Our pool and outdoor hot tubs are a staple of our ship, but unlike hotels, Sailors can also look forward to a full spa with pools of varying temperatures, as well as group fitness classes.

Included Entertainment

Hotels might have plenty of amenities, but we’re willing to bet they don’t have Broadway-caliber entertainment. We’ve got immersive shows in our Red Room theater that you wouldn’t even find in Vegas.

Comparing cost and value with what’s included

When you’re booking cruise ship rooms, you want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. Our cabins represent over $1,000 in value, including over 20 onboard dining options, Wi-Fi, group fitness classes, free bookable karaoke rooms, shows and entertainment, and essential soft drinks and water.

Destination, location and views are everything for travel accommodations

It can be easy to get caught up in the destination when you’re booking a vacation, and almost forget to consider what your accommodations will look like. Your lodging can make or break a trip, which is why we like our cruise cabins to be part of the vacation experience itself. When you book a cruise ship room, you’re getting a destination and accommodation all in one. All it takes to feel transported to another world is opening your blinds, or stepping onto your balcony, and taking in the scenery of a new port or enjoying the vast ocean views. 

Plan ahead to book the best cruise cabins 

Like booking a hotel room, when booking your cruise cabin of choice it’s essential to plan ahead. Our Sailor Services team makes it easy to plan a cruise in advance , assisting not only with cabins, but also booking flights and even hotels for the days prior to or following your departure. No matter your destination, a cruise cabin is the perfect way to enjoy the luxury of a hotel, but with all the exciting amenities unique to our cruise ships – not to mention waking up to shimmering ocean views.

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I've stayed in 3 types of rooms on cruises, and the cheapest was never worth it. Here's what to book instead.

• I'm a frequent cruise traveler who's stayed in a variety of onboard accommodations.
• The least expensive rooms have no view and are usually cramped, especially if shared by a family.
• Splurging on a higher-category cabin on my last cruise was the best decision I made.

Automatically booking the cheapest room on a cruise ship without doing proper research first can ruin a trip. 

As someone who's been going on cruises for over 10 years, I've learned that the price tag for these vacations can vary based on a number of factors — from cruise line to trip duration to room category.

Staying in the most standard-level cabin seems like an obvious way to keep costs down. But after trying out three different room categories, both with and without my kids, I've found that a ship's least expensive option is almost never worth it.

Based on my experience in three different cruise-room categories, here are the ones I recommend skipping and the ones I recommend splurging on.

Interior staterooms are limited in space and privacy

The standard (and least expensive) room on any cruise ship is typically called an inside or interior stateroom.

These cabins often sleep three to four people and are located in the middle of the ship, with no exterior view of the vessel's surroundings. 

I've stayed in interior staterooms on a Carnival Cruise Line ship and a Disney Cruise Line ship . Aside from different decor styles and a few small touches, this room category is fairly standard across the board. 

When I'm on a cruise, I like to wake up and open my curtains to look at the ocean or the port where the ship is docked , which isn't an option in these inward-looking cabins.

Apart from having no view, interior staterooms are very small. The exact square footage varies but, for reference, the Disn ey Fantasy cruise ship's interior stateroom is 169 square feet and a Royal Caribbean ship's version is around the same size at 164 square feet .

To put those numbers into perspective, standard hotel rooms in the US are, on average, around 330 square feet , almost double the size of the entry-level cruise accommodation.

I want to be able to maneuver around without tripping over luggage, accent furniture, or my own family members. And because of the lack of space in interior staterooms, that's a challenge.

This category is definitely the most economical option, making it ideal for travelers on a budget .

However, if families, especially ones traveling with teens, can swing an alternative, they should steer clear of cramming into an interior stateroom and opt for a category with more space and privacy.

Ocean-view staterooms provide slightly more space but can still feel cramped

The next category up is usually an ocean-view stateroom.

With an outward-facing window, ocean-view staterooms are a solid mid-tier option for travelers who want more space than an interior stateroom offers but don't want to spend extra for a balcony room.

Their exact size and capacity range from ship to ship, but Disney Fantasy's ocean-view staterooms are 204 square feet , and Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas' version is 179 square feet .

Many of these accommodations fit up to five people. If you have more than four family members (yes, infants who are six months and older are part of the headcount), making the jump from an interior stateroom to an ocean-view stateroom is absolutely worth the extra money.

Some cruise lines sell ocean-view rooms as the entry-level category for families of five or more travelers , simply because many interior staterooms can only accommodate a maximum of four guests.

My top pick is balcony staterooms, which offer privacy and plenty of space 

Balcony staterooms, also known as veranda staterooms, are usually the largest accommodation option you can get without concierge service or extras.

I recommend this category to all travelers setting sail in the future for one reason: the private balcony.

You can open your curtains and enjoy the sights outside, similar to the experience of staying in an ocean-view stateroom. But in this room type, you can step out onto a balcony and take in the sounds and smells, too. 

The rooms' sizes and capacities depend on the ship, but balcony staterooms are usually larger than ocean-view staterooms and tend to sleep up to five guests . Even if the rooms' living spaces aren't substantially bigger, they have the added space of the veranda. 

Including the terrace, balcony staterooms on the Disney Fantasy are 246 square feet and are between 214 square feet to 279 square feet on Princess Cruises' fleet.

When my family stayed in a balcony stateroom on a seven-night cruise, we made great use of the outdoor space. On a shorter cruise, where the balcony itself might not get as much use, I would still book this category for my family.

The upgrade was completely worth the price increase, especially because we were traveling with two sets of grandparents .

To make the most of the balcony staterooms, we even turned our individual verandas into one large terrace by having our steward remove the partitions between rooms. 

This story was originally published on May 25, 2022, and most recently updated on February 5, 2024.