The Different Cruise Ship Cabin Types

Apart from location, know the different cabin types. Some cruise lines have a standard cruise ship cabin, with price differences based on location. The cheapest inside cabins on a well-known cruise ship are 120 to 180 square feet. They are well decorated with twin beds that you can push together to make a queen. They have wall-to-wall carpeting, closet, telephone, satellite TV, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, a dresser and some have VCRs or DVD players.

They usually have a chair, lamp, night table, and hair dryer. Some have a safe, table, desk and chair, loveseat and Internet access. Accessing the Internet from your cabin costs more than using the Internet lounge on board.

Standard bathrooms are small, usually with a shower but no bathtub. You will have a sink, shelves and toilet. A retractable clothesline is great for drying your swimsuit or a few items you hand-washed.

Window Won't Open

Outside ocean view cabins may be identical to the inside ones, with the window being the only difference. On a modern ship you'll have a large window, but you can't open it. If you want to feel the sea air, get a balcony cabin.

Balcony cabins have sliding glass doors to the outside. They are usually larger than standard cabins and you can see outside from anywhere in the room. Some are mini-suites, meaning they have sleeping and sitting areas, separated by a curtain you can open or close. The balconies are usually narrow, with room only for two chairs and small table. Depending on the ship, you may or may not have privacy on the balcony.

Some cabins with balconies are called suites, with separate sleeping and sitting areas, and may have larger bathrooms, including a tub. They may even include butler service.

Ask questions before you book. It's always a good idea to read reviews from other passengers on the Internet before deciding on your cabin. Don't assume what you had last time on one ship will be the same this time on a different ship. Carnival cruise cabins, for example, may be different from the one you're taking. Cruise ship cabins vary from company to company.