How to Choose the Right Cabin for Your Cruise

The cabin you choose can shape your cruise experience more than you might expect. From oceanview serenity to budget-friendly interiors or VIP-level suites, selecting the right stateroom depends on your preferences, travel style, and itinerary. With so many options across cruise lines, understanding the pros and cons of each cabin type will help you book with confidence—and avoid post-booking regret.

Here’s a complete guide to choosing the best cruise cabin for your needs.

Inside cabins: the budget-friendly choice

Inside cabins are the most affordable option on nearly every ship. They have no windows or balconies, which makes them ideal for cruisers who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship or ashore.

Pros:

• Lowest price point

• Dark and quiet—great for sleeping

• Often located mid-ship, where motion is minimal

Cons:

• No natural light or views

• Smaller size (typically around 140–185 sq. ft.)

• Feels less spacious for long itineraries

If you’re cruising on a tight budget or prefer to splurge elsewhere (like excursions or dining upgrades), an inside cabin is a smart pick. Reference cabin layouts via cruise sites like Cruise Critic. 

Oceanview cabins: natural light at a mid-range price

Oceanview staterooms offer a window or porthole without the full outdoor access of a balcony. These are great for cruisers who want to see the ocean and enjoy daylight, but don’t mind staying indoors.

Pros:

• Natural light

• Often larger than inside rooms

• Moderately priced compared to balcony cabins

Cons:

• Windows don’t open

• Limited view depending on placement (lifeboats may obstruct)

• Less privacy compared to inside rooms

Oceanview cabins are popular with families and travelers who prefer a bit more ambiance without the cost of a balcony upgrade.

Balcony cabins: best for views and personal space

Balcony cabins, also called verandas, come with a private outdoor area and are a favorite for scenic routes like Alaska, Norway, or the Mediterranean.

Pros:

• Private space to enjoy views and fresh air

• Great for morning coffee or room-service meals

• More square footage and comfort

Cons:

• Higher cost—especially during peak travel seasons

• Can be windy depending on location

• Some balconies may have obstructed views

For those who plan to spend time relaxing in their cabin or sailing through visually stunning regions, a balcony is often well worth the extra spend.

Suites: cruise luxury with premium perks

Suites are the most spacious and exclusive rooms on board. They come in a range of styles, from mini-suites to multi-room luxury suites with private butlers.

Pros:

• Generous space with upgraded amenities

• Priority embarkation/disembarkation

• Access to private lounges, dining, or concierge services

Cons:

• Premium pricing

• Sometimes located on upper decks, which may be more prone to motion

Choosing the right location on the ship

Regardless of cabin type, your location on the ship matters:

• Midship is best for motion control

• Lower decks tend to feel more stable

• Aft cabins offer great wake views, but may vibrate

• Forward cabins can be windy and feel more movement

If you’re prone to seasickness, avoid forward-facing or high-level cabins.

Pro tip: Save on cabin upgrades with gift cards and perks

Many cruise lines allow you to use gift cards toward cabin upgrades during booking. For instance, you can use a Carnival gift card from Fluz to help pay for a balcony or suite, especially during upgrade promotions.

• Carnival Cruise Lines gift cards

• Marriott or Hilton cards if you’re staying pre-cruise

• Explore cashback tools like Fluz for travel-related gift card savings

Booking early and tracking sales via CruiseWatch or VacationsToGo can also increase your chances of scoring discounted upgrades.

The takeaway: pick your cabin based on your cruise goals

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If your goal is affordability, go inside. Want a view? Choose oceanview. Love relaxing in privacy? Book a balcony. Craving the VIP treatment? A suite delivers luxury at sea.

Matching your cabin to your cruise priorities will enhance the overall experience—and help you sail with satisfaction from the very first night.