Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Room Type for Your Next Cruise
While choosing the right cruise ship is important, your stateroom can make or break your vacation experience. Even on the most luxurious ship, ending up in a noisy, cramped, or inconveniently located room can put a damper on your entire trip, especially if you’re traveling with family.
With so many stateroom types at a wide range of price points, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve created this simple, practical guide to help you navigate the most common cruise room types, so you can book with confidence and cruise in comfort.
Interior Staterooms
Recommended for: Budget-conscious travelers who only plan to sleep in their stateroom
Interior rooms are the most affordable staterooms onboard. Located within the interior of the ship, these cabins don’t have windows or natural light - but they do offer a dark, quiet space perfect for deep sleep.
If you’re planning to spend most of your time enjoying ship amenities and activities, and only need a place to rest at night, this is a great, budget-friendly choice.
✅ Pros: Lowest price, great for sleeping
⚠️ Consider: No natural light or outdoor view
Oceanview Staterooms
Recommended for: Travelers who want natural light and ocean views without the cost of a balcony
Oceanview cabins feature a window or porthole with a view of the sea, giving you the chance to wake up to natural sunlight and a glimpse of the horizon. Typically, these rooms are slightly larger than interior staterooms and feel more open and inviting.
✅ Pros: Natural light, ocean views
⚠️ Consider: Windows don’t open, and views may be partially obstructed on some ships
Balcony Staterooms
Recommended for: Travelers looking for a private outdoor space and uninterrupted ocean views
Balcony staterooms offer everything an oceanview room does, plus a private veranda. It’s the perfect place to sip morning coffee, watch sunsets, or simply relax in peace. These rooms are especially ideal for scenic itineraries like Alaska or the Mediterranean.
✅ Pros: Private outdoor space, fresh air, panoramic views
⚠️ Consider: Higher cost compared to interior or oceanview rooms
Suites
Recommended for: Families or travelers who want extra space, luxury, and exclusive perks
Suites offer the most spacious and premium accommodations onboard. Depending on the suite type, you’ll enjoy multiple rooms, larger balconies, and added benefits like:
Priority boarding
Concierge or butler service
Exclusive dining venues
Unlimited drinks or spa access (varies by cruise line)
Suites are perfect for special occasions or travelers who want the very best.
✅ Pros: Maximum space, luxury perks, premium service
⚠️ Consider: Highest price point
Family & Specialty Staterooms
As cruise lines evolve, they’ve introduced unique room options to better meet travelers’ needs:
Family Staterooms: Extra beds and larger spaces ideal for families (Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess)
Virtual Balcony Rooms: Interior cabins with a real-time digital ocean view (Royal Caribbean)
Spa Cabins: Rooms with special wellness amenities and proximity to the spa (Celebrity)
Studio Cabins: Compact, affordable rooms for solo travelers - no single supplement (Norwegian)
These options offer more tailored experiences and are worth considering based on your travel style.
Why We Don’t Recommend “Guarantee” Cabins
You may come across “guaranteed” cabin deals that seem like a great bargain. However, these come with one big downside: you don’t get to choose your exact room location.
This can lead to major inconveniences, like:
Being placed directly above a noisy club, casino, restaurants, pools, etc.
Having to walk long distances from the elevator (a challenge for seniors or families with young kids)
Getting split from your travel group
At JoMar Travel, we always recommend selecting your stateroom location in advance. It’s worth the peace of mind—and we’ll make sure it aligns with your budget and preferences for maximum comfort and convenience.
Let’s Find the Right Room for You!
No matter your travel style or budget, we’re here to help you choose the perfect stateroom for your cruise. Contact us today to start planning a vacation that’s relaxing, memorable, and just right for your family.
