Do You Make These Cruise Cabin Mistakes?

Cruise Cabin mistakes and screw ups to avoid. Choosing a cruise cabin is much more important than any cruise passengers think. Not all cabin are equal, even in the same grade. Many cruisers say to me that a cruise cabin, or cruise stateroom as some cruise lines call them, is not that important as they do not intend to spend any time in them. Discover why this is a mistake that so many cruise passengers tell me they got wrong, along with other cruise cabin tips I have learnt (mostly the hard way)
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#CruiseCabins #ChoosingACruiseCabin #CruiseCabinTips
00:00 Start
00:24 Don't Spend Time In Cabin Mistake
03:38 Cabin Requirements Mistakes
05:22 Cabin Mates Mistakes
06:46 Port Vs Starboard Mistakes
08:32 Auto-Upgrade Cabin Mistakes
09:43 Cabin Location Mistakes

[@finleythegolden2909]

Relaxing on the balcony between activities is such a crucial part of cruising. The nap between the excursion and dinner/show is a real game changer.

[@shepwillner7507]

Agree to the nap: just make sure you wake up in time to shower, dress, and go to dinner, but ensure that your steward can enter it to do his or her evening turn-down service. :-)

[@shawkitty2524]

@Finley the Golden I nap in the same time slot! It's so refreshing before dinner and show!

[@crystalf.5340]

Yessss!!! The nap is a must!!+

[@lpisfierce2614]

Yes! We scheduled a nap every day...a must have!

[@debrawilliams7983]

It sure is I agree

[@l.french560]

Your room ALWAYS matters. No matter if it's a cruise or a hotel. I've stayed in bad hotels and I swear that was the worst sleep I've ever experienced because I was uncomfortable.

[@SandyToes75]

It is harder for hotels to be a shock today but I do remember booking what was marketed as fabulous, arriving and being afraid to shower, or get in the bed! The pics did not even look like the same building. Today on line reviews and guests pics really help. Just like the KZbin walk through videos.

[@horsewithnoname12345]

If you’re in your early 20s and come to party, you can put up with a lot (whatever is rock bottom cheapest). Now that I’m in my mid 30s and a parent I am a lot more needy. Being reasonably close to food (extremely important) and the kids area (very important) and being able to rest are must haves.

[@horsewithnoname12345]

@@SandyToes75 we used to only have printed brochures, and it was a gamble what you’d get. Now we can read reviews, watch real pictures/video.

[@SandyToes75]

@@horsewithnoname12345 Yes! So much better. But I do still miss the cruise line printed catalogs.

[@FurnitureFan]

Often it's other guests being noisy in a hotel. I never travelled without earplugs. It does help.

[@RMCMichigan]

My stepmom took me on my first cruise ever with a veranda cabin on Celebrity. I was spoiled from the beginning. I can't imagine NOT being able to sit outside on our own "porch". So worth the extra money!

[@shepwillner7507]

Agreed, and especially so when the balcony cabins on Celebrity came with afternoon canapes and replenished fruit bowls. Yum! :-)

[@KrekreDoBusao]

I cruised only 1 time and I got a regular cabin with ocean view. I remember that every time my partner was getting ready I was just sitting on my bed staring at the walls, as the window was pretty blurry due to the salty air and we couldn't barely see anything outside. I would definitely consider getting a balcony next time where I could sit drinking something and watching the cruise/ocean instead.

[@RMCMichigan]

@@KrekreDoBusao you won't regret it! Totally changes the experience!

[@PettankoXO]

Same happened with me. Mom in law spoiled me with the most exclusive rooms on an NCL cruise. Literally had a huge room/patio with our own butler, private restaurant, pool, and sun decks 🙃

[@stevehansen932]

The balcony is great for that grumpy person in the group. Anyone starts complaining or starts acting up, banished to the balcony. It's like a second room!

[@lisagreen4511]

First cruise in 2009 was an aft OV with Carnival. I absolutely hated it and swore I’d never cruise again. Fast forward to 2018…new husband who really wanted to try cruising. We booked a 10 night Caribbean out of New Orleans on NCL. We booked a balcony, but bid and were upgraded to a mini suite for only $150 more. Yes, it was the floor plan with an angled balcony (smaller than the normal mini suite balcony), but we loved it! We’ve had to reschedule our next cruise multiple times due to life and CV, but are now booked on a 7 day NYC to Bermuda cruise for June 2022 with NCL. We are planning to bid to upgrade on that one also (if it’s an option). We both agree the minimum category we will book is a balcony cabin. There’s something magical about being able to sit on your balcony with a glass of wine and watch the sun go down over the water. If it means we aren’t able to cruise as often due to the cost, that’s a concession we’re willing to make. For us it’s about quality over quantity.

[@tedsgirluk736]

Agree, a cabin really counts imo. It’s a chill out place, privacy, watching sunrises and sunsets, balcony time if you’re lucky enough to have one

[@1packatak]

And especially if you run into bad weather as I did. Really nice to have a lovely space to hang out in

[@janetgarces3506]

I always spend time in the cabin, especially out on the balcony.

[@raymullen3583]

Our first couple of Cruises were inside than A PORT HOLD....After that Balcony's all the way..36 Cruises later and still enjoy... J&R

[@brianleblancart736]

My favorite arrangement on a Carnival cruise is to have family in the next door balcony. When they open up the partition, the balcony is twice as large. It's a very luxurious thing to have that much balcony space.

[@dlynn101]

yeah I'd like that very much!

[@diamondpearlgem7589]

I wish that I could open the partition, I have smokers in my family. 🤮

[@joycesmith8354]

My tip is when you pick your cabin stick to it, don’t put in for an upgrade. You picked it for a reason, And you could regret it.

[@lovecruisin6457]

Agreed Joyce!!!

[@designdoctor247]

My first cruise I was very nervous about getting sea sick. I took the patch and Dr gave me meds and...we picked a cabin mid ship and on the lowest deck we could get ...it ended up being the most inexpensive Cabin smile 😃 guess what? We had very rough seas and I slept like a baby even w out using the medication. Each morning we listened to others tell stories of not sleeping at all. I was VERY thankful for the cabin we had. It was tiny and no window or balcony. It was perfect for my husband, young daughter and I.

[@OldAndGettingOlder]

I want the best cabin I can pay for. I spend a lot of time in my cabin. It's a sanctuary for me.

[@georgeshepherd6431]

me2

[@tedsgirluk736]

Yep

[@toddkes5890]

Personal hot tub = my main requirement. Daytime = wandering around, seeing, enjoying, eating. Evening, time to relax in the hot tub, then go to sleep

[@SandyToes75]

I think that is exactly right, best I can pay for. I do not look down on those that have lower cabins but I have turned a bit green at some of the fabulous new family suites. They would be so perfect but I refuse to pay more than I can comfortably.

[@princessriley3335]

I do too. But if I can take my family to Mediterranean for $12,000 with Disney I’m not going to pay $35,000. There comes a point when your accommodations actually steal from the destinations budget. As I’ve told the kids before, oh I can take you to japan but you’re going to spend the week at the airport.

[@joemichaels4231]

Cabin size and class is.......HUGE!!!! Always go for the nicer cabin!!!

[@margaretd3710]

There are a number of KZbin channels about cruising, but yours is the only one I watch! Your information is always so helpful and on point. Thanks so much!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks ! Much appreciated. Great to hear you find it so helpful

[@tposeinify]

One of the most beautiful moments I have ever experienced in my lifetime was sitting by myself on our deck watching the sun setting......it was hypnotic.... the only thing I heard was the waves gently lapping against the boat! I have never in my life felt peace like that and I learned where the saying “heaven on earth” came from! I finally broke myself free to grab my hubby and get it on film just as the sun slipped away!

[@tipsfortravellers]

agree, it is magical

[@texasboy5117]

We have always booked a balcony room at mid ship and have enjoyed the cabins.

[@sylviadoust9405]

I have cruised for over 50 years ( I’m 88 ) Your comments are not only useful but so apt. Took an upgrade once never again. I find your videos enjoyable and useful. Thank you. Sylx

[@dlamiss]

LOVE the line "you only sleep in your cabin" as you say not true

[@trowan9495]

I've done both, inside and high end suites. I've had great times on both. What I will say high end suites really aren't worth it if you have a busy literary. My favorite is the Jr. Suite, many have bathtubs, huge closets, living rooms etc. However, post covid I will never book an inside cabin again. I want minimum balcony, for fresh air, etc.

[@sallym211]

I cant imagine not having a balcony cabin. I loved it and wouldn't go for anything less now.

[@shepwillner7507]

Agreed. After nearly 20+ years of not being able to afford balcony cabins, I finally had a higher-paying job that enabled me to book these outside and balcony cabins. That said, please take some time to look on cruise line websites to read the deck plans to decide where you want to be. Try to avoid elevator and stairwell foyers (noisy!), discos (ditto), dining and kitchen areas (ditto), and pool areas (ditto). Unfortunately, for all the time you take to decide where to stay, there are several things you can't control: weather, smokers, and loud people next door. :-)

[@shadowmatrix0101]

Nothing compares to sitting out on a balcony in the morning in your p.j.'s eating room service breakfast, watching the waves go by.

[@missbecky2571]

On my first cruise, I had below deck inside cabin. We were as far up in the bow as was possible. I could hear the water swishing by. I was so freaking seasick lol

[@horsewithnoname12345]

@@shepwillner7507 if your job doesn’t pay enough, get a temp part time side hustle. If you’re debt free (except mortgage), doing DoorDash/Uber Eats/delivery gig one or more nights a week or on the weekend can really add up quickly!

[@shepwillner7507]

@@missbecky2571 Your experience could have been worse: what if that bow had bounced up and down in heavy wave action, especially during storms. I recall returning to the departure port aboard a cruise ship--not an RCCL ship--in August of '90 or '91, and the wave action was so rough that most pax could not get to the MDR to eat dinner. Fortunately, I don't get seasick, and I was able to not only come to the MDR for dinner but also eat my food. That's why I am able to report on that situation more than 30 years later.

[@kdbee6086]

I spend a good bit of time in my cabin. I love the activity of the ship, but I need downtime too. I spend a lot of time on my balcony just experiencing the ship moving through the water.

[@tedsgirluk736]

Agree

[@SandyToes75]

That is my biggest CV19 miss, the ocean, being surrounded by the waves, the sounds, the smell, and the peace it brings. I have had some crazy storms over the many years but I choose NOT to focus on them!

[@sarahlbeeney1920]

@@SandyToes75 I love my balcony, just sitting and watching the world sail by...

[@SandyToes75]

@@sarahlbeeney1920 oh Sarah, I agree!

[@ModernClassic]

I always do a *ton* of research to get the best rooms/cabins either on land or sea, and I've found that if we have a good cabin (or hotel room), my wife and I end up intentionally spending more time there. Unless you're going to swim, why bother spending your time on a crowded pool deck when you can relax with a glass of wine and enjoy a quiet sea view on your own balcony? I've only once gotten somewhat burned on a cabin, being woken up by dragging deck chairs every morning at 5AM (though the rest of the day was fine). I did learn my lesson about connected cabins too, oddly on the hotel iteration of the Queen Mary, when we got put in a connected cabin and could hear the people in the other cabin like the door wasn't even there. We ended up having to change cabins. Some cruise lines do show connecting doors on their deck plans; I always avoid any cabins that have them like the plague.

[@dkorwood32566]

I love a midship, lower deck cave. Dark, cold and quiet….

[@libbycampbell2557]

Yep about the rooms! Our very first cruise, we had an inside room, never again! 8 cruises later, we are always mid ship, balcony, mid decks!! We will always book that way!!

[@shepwillner7507]

My experience was the opposite: I had a solo occupancy of an outside double on the old Home Lines Oceanic in '80. Then for the next 10+ years, I spent what I could afford to occupy a guaranteed outside or inside double with a roommate on various cruise lines' ships, whether those ships were Carnival, HAL, NCL (when NCL was called Norwegian Caribbean Line, not Norwegian Cruise Lines), or RCCL ships. I recall having a roommate who thought he could sneak fruits past a Customs Agent. I warned him that making those attempts would get him fined. I also told him that if he made the attempt to bring in fruits and got caught, I wouldn't recognize him as my roommie. The benefit of having no roommies started when I finally made myself able to afford balcony cabins in the early oughts. I haven't looked back since. IMHO the best balconies were the Concierge Class cabins aboard Celebrity ships along with the Boardwalk neighborhood balcony cabins on Oasis-class ships. What about the AquaClass cabins aboard Celebrity? IMO, the real benefit of having those cabins lies in access to Blu restaurant. Speaking as a male solo cruiser occupying one of those cabins aboard Reflection in August '19, I could care less about the Persian Garden and spa-related benefits.

[@dorothyhocking8440]

I am a Solo traveller,put thought into choosing my cabin,and no mistakes so far! Have had Balcony,outside…and inside and find it fine once my decision is made! Always mid ship,quite near the elevators,and never a high deck! Then get out and enjoy the great amenities provided! Love every minute💕👍

[@donaldcurry1722]

Port or Starboard is very important on a trans Atlantic if you want sun on your balcony.

[@susanrnbc]

Cabin choice is THE most important thing about cruising. We took our first cruise and did not have a cabin with a balcony. That was a huge mistake and one we never repeated again.

[@angieolson1036]

GREAT INFO! Always a good vlog! Thanks!!!

[@pamelas1002]

New sub. Never been on a cruise but am thinking seriously of trying one. Thanks for these videos.

[@Marshal_Dunnik]

If a balcony cabin is stretching the budget too much, at least get a window - but book early to get one, they tend to sell out first.

[@fragman4521]

I have never been on these luxury cruises and this channel was suggested for me on KZbin. This is now my 10th video or so. Very informative and beautiful images. Awesome channel 👍

[@johannaj3834]

Port vs Starboard - in some rare cases it does matter. We will be circumnavigating Iceland soon, so I selected a cabin on the starboard side since that will be the side with the coastline in view.

[@dougandcandacebishop7259]

I agree with most of what you've said. However, we selected a bottom deck cabin when we sailed on Disney a few years ago and it was one of the BEST choices EVER! The ship was set up with the main dining rooms on the third deck so it was a short climb to most things and SO QUIET! We actually booked that cabin on a follow-up cruise and hope to do so on our next one. 😃

[@michaelnunnery6394]

Now that Disney and Virgin have announced a summer programme of cruises to nowhere Cabin choice is even more important than it was before

[@kristen3542]

Cruises to nowhere? I have never heard of this, what are they?

[@michaelnunnery6394]

@@kristen3542 Depending on the duration A cruise ship will leave port taking its crew and passengers beyond the 12 mile limit sail in a giant circle or figure eight back nonstop to where it departed from

[@TitoTimTravels]

@@michaelnunnery6394 Hopefully they are deeply discounted... that sounds terrible ha ha 😎

[@joycegoh8628]

We have these in Singapore since last year since borders are closed. Royal Caribbean and Dream cruises. Just short getaway for 2-4 nights. Just like staying in a club Med and never stepping out.

[@sunnyscott4876]

Yes, been there, done that.

[@mandywalker3393]

Thank you for saying this. I chose a vista suite and got a second cabin for our teen sons. I've gotten so much flack for wasting the money and am CONSTANTLY told we won't be in our cabins. One, we have a gorgeous, wrap around the corner balcony in the vista suite so we can have our own private area. Two, we are big game players so we needed an area large enough for the 4 of us. Third. I didn't want to share my bathroom with 3 guys. LOL. Also, godforbid we have to quarantine. This is our first cruise (in June) and if we made the mistake everyone seems to think we've made, well then I know for next time. But the reverse would be so much worse.

[@brucemiller2057]

As usual I totally agree with you. We always book away from elevators, crew access doors, laundry, etc. Select a deck between other cabin decks. Stay AWAY from family cabins unless you are the family. We always book balcony cabins for the reasons you listed.

[@lordstevent9030]

I disagree about a blanket statement about port vs starboard, especially on a trans iceanic voyage. Depending on which way you're traveling, you will have a sunny side of the ship and a shaded side for much of the trip. For this you may want to take the side of ship into account. Or possibly a difference in setting sunsets or sunrises.

[@shepwillner7507]

I'm not too fond of sailing on the North Atlantic because of the huge waves. Some of those waves can create deep troughs and high crests; when small vessels encounter these things, they climb the wave to the crest and then slam to the trough, sending big vibrations throughout the boat making people seasick. I remember this happening on my first trip out into the North Atlantic on a oceanography excursion in August '78. Most of the pax got sick from this, but luckily I didn't. However, those high waves coming up and over the gunwales are scary. Those waves are probably one reason I would not do a transatlantic sailing between NYC and Southampton. I would go only part way,, such as to the Canaries and Madeira as I did in Oct '14 aboard Independence of the Seas. For that cruise, I didn't choose between port or starboard because I didn't care which side of the ship got the sunlight. To each his or her own.

[@lordstevent9030]

@@shepwillner7507 I get you're point, especially on a smaller ship. Did QM2 crossing a few years back. Though it was summer we did have a few days of rough seas, but the ship handled it quite well, as it should being an actual ocean liner. Our experience was quite different on Oceania's Riviera in rough seas near, and beyond, the Canaries on an October crossing.

[@raymullen3583]

Our first couple of Cruises We did make those mistakes and LEARN the hard way,,,, but Your refrester course sure drives it home,,, Thanks J&R Nags Head

[@irishinusa1615]

Great advice👍 we agree and same. Take time choosing cabin👍 I love sitting on balcony in morning and later in day. That ocean noise and those sunsets are very special 😍

[@tipsfortravellers]

So true!

[@mattcolver1]

We always choose mid-ship near the elevators. So far I've never been bothered by the sound of the elevators. But I do like taking 3 steps from my cabin and being at the elevator.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Nice. If the cabin is just behind the elevator area it can usually be ok. I agree

[@realcdcruze3558]

Another great video. Love my balcony. Smoked salmon and coffee in the morning and a cheeseburger at 1am well reading my favourite novel.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Agree. I also like the sound of your breakfast!

[@PetroicaRodinogaster264]

I had to read your comment twice....I thought you meant you 'smoked (verb) salmon' ie, like a cigarette!

[@hhwin2198]

@@PetroicaRodinogaster264 🤣

[@tcparker3394]

You are so knowledgeable, thank you. Love 💕 your channel

[@dlynn101]

I think the cove balconies on Carnival's Dream and Vista class ships were made with me in mind. I need a balcony, but I prefer to be in the lower decks. I don't mind ship noises -- anchors, motors, etc. But I can't deal with techno music so I'm insulated from all that, but still able to enjoy the benefits of a balcony.

[@PeterAlmenar]

I always enjoy listening to you. Very calming -and knowledgeable! I’ve learned so much. Thank you.

[@lauramaillie3745]

Talk about an eye opener. Thank you for these videos.

[@wongfrancis]

Wonderful tips indeed, thanks so much-

[@erikagholston6610]

Thanks for the tips. I want to plan a cruise for next year.

[@deboranoga2153]

Great tips ! Thanks !

[@danuelliaramdeen7373]

Love these tips. Thanks for sharing

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching! Great to hear

[@-AnonymousUser]

Great to know thanks for sharing!

[@WineAndRoses9526]

Definitely cabins are important! Everyone will like & think different cabins are great. I’ve have an inside cabin & balcony. Now I won’t book nothing but a balcony. Especially with all that has happened. My traveling family members have a small list of requirements due to sea sickness.

[@anniebear6410]

I love state room's with my own little balcony. I never had any problems. But for right now, I will not plan a cruise until this current bull crap is over with. Thank you for the information you shared.

[@larry4111]

I have a few dealbreakers - i.e., I won't even go on the cruise if these situations arise: 1) Interconnecting cabins. NO NO NO. I made the mistake of having connecting cabins my very first cruise and I could literally hear everything - and I mean everything - from next door, from a cough to a sneeze to phone calls. 2) I HATE waiting for elevators. I spend the most time on the deck so my rule is no more than 3 decks away so I can walk up and down. I'll pull up the deck plan and if, say, the pool deck is 14, I will be no lower than 11 - even if it means a lot more money. I also try to be closer to the stairwell that goes up to the buffet. 3) Obviously for these reasons I never go with the "sail away" option. I must pick my own room even if it costs a lot more. 4) Unobstructed balcony. Everyone has their priorities - this is big for me. I won't just look at the deck plan. I will go online and pull up images of the ship and zoom in to see exactly where my room is from the outside of the ship - what's above, below, and on the sides. I remember one ship that had a see-through observation floor that went out over the ship and the people there could see into the balconies of all the rooms up to a certain point. That can be creepy. I'm aware of that now. 5) What's near me in the hallway. On one cruise all the available aft rooms were right next to all the kids' play areas - game rooms, nursery, etc.That's a no-no. I also don't want to be directly adjacent to the elevators/stairs but I don't want to be too far way, either. Speaking of which, I did do an aft balcony once and I loved the experience but it was so much walking every day that I don't think I'll do it again. Well, that's a few and I don't want my comment to be too long. Thanks, as always, for your tips!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for adding these insights. I agree. It os good to see someone who feels as passionately as me on getting the cabin right!!! I have not gone on cruises as I could not get the right cabin as know it would not be worth it...

[@larry4111]

@@tipsfortravellers Thanks! When I started cruising I was overwhelmed by all the options. It's much easier now since I can eliminate 90% of them.

[@johnburns9634]

@@larry4111 I understand the walking point. You want to enjoy a relaxing time, not feel that every time you're heading somewhere on the ship, it's like a 'strenuous walking activity' during a shore excursion, to get where you're going.

[@larry4111]

@@johnburns9634 Exactly. I'm all for exercise...I walk at least 5 miles every day...but If I am in the mood to go the hot tub and I know I'm 15 minutes away it takes away from the pleasure, especially if I forgot something and have to go back. I also tend to like the larger ships which makes getting from place to place an adventure.

[@goodi2shooz]

Your channel is so informative! And you're right most people wouldn't think of these types of things when preparing to cruise.

[@pyrophantom5150]

I’ve never been on a cruise. I never want to go on a cruise, but boy I love watching this guy!

[@dlynn101]

isn't his accent the best? And the production of these videos is really stellar

[@chuckhembree6101]

I think your really missing a great thing. I’ve enjoyed every cruise I’ve been on. Sure it’s just like life you don’t always like everything but ships are so big you can get out of anything you don’t like.

[@heatherapastore7352]

You are making a HUGE mistake.

[@70PaulK]

Good points. Having encountered stormy weather on my first cruise, I now tend to prefer lower decks, which seem more stable. There's not as much choice for those of us in solo cabins, but always good to be surrounded by other cabins and away from restaurants & bars to avoid noise.

[@GEexplores]

I spend the most time in my cabin unwinding and chilling!! Balcony cabins are the way to go.

[@lesliereynolds4492]

Love how you bring up things I never would have thought of. So much great information. Thank you for all the hard work you do.

[@tipsfortravellers]

You are so welcome!

[@l.faraday8767]

We always book a port side cabin with a balcony, at the bow of the ship. We don’t have a problem with sea sickness and we find the rocking of the ship calming, plus it’s quiet up there. I can’t imagine having to quarantine in an inner cabin. Another great update Gary, thanks!

[@roundandroundmyworld]

I cruised in oceanview cabins when I was younger and less well off, but now I won't go on a cruise without a balcony -- or a sliding glass door/window on a river cruise. Location: I very much enjoy being near the stern in a large cruise ship because the steady gentle vibration from the engines makes for soothing sleep. River cruise, though, I'd rather be farther forward.

[@JBass33]

Outstanding advice, as usual.

[@kalozakos]

Thank you Gary for the video. I am an experienced cruiser, over 200 days at sea, and I have never been assigned a bad cabin. Forward, midships, or aft, each has advantages. In my opinion, the only cabin to avoid are the obstructed view cabins, it would be better and cheaper to get an inside cabin rather than an obstructed view. Thank you again. Looking forward to cruising again, two cruises booked.

[@chriswilliams6568]

actually a partial ocean view is less $ than unobstructed, but a little more $ than an inside, the way it should be.

[@cynthiarothrock4255]

Sounds like you had a view of lifeboats.

[@chriswilliams6568]

Very good as always Gary. Thank you

[@tipsfortravellers]

Many thanks!

[@divox9pqr]

Fantastic advice. With the return to sailing, it will so important to get it right

[@tipsfortravellers]

Absolutely!

[@mandymiller5677]

This is brilliant!

[@pamelainman5166]

I agree 100%! I went with the "cheap seats" once. Never again.

[@fivisage]

Cost of cabin has to take priority for most people. I would love a balcony but paying for 3 adults and one child means we have to be realistic about how much we spend on a cabin.

[@lisaspikes4291]

Agreed. You can always go up on deck! I’ve had interior rooms that were cheaper, and was very happy. And when you save that money, you can go on more cruises!

[@billgreer870]

Really great advice , hope they listen 30 day trip to Tahiti , 400 sq ft gets very small Thanks

[@KMMK2371]

When we sail on Royal Caribbean we usually go portside as there is no smoking allowed on that side, even on the pool decks. There's less chance you'll have smoke drifting towards your balcony.

[@bobkrakovich1851]

Hi Gary, with all that is going on in the cruise industry right now, my only location choice right now is: on board ! Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut

[@tipsfortravellers]

For many that will be the same........

[@c8Lorraine1]

Good information, thanks

[@avlea2]

Useful - thank you!

[@vittoriovuocolo2438]

Your right we spend half the day in the cabin off and on but we have always been happy with an inside.i just am careful where I book the cabin anyway..I did book a balcony for next summer but I don't think we will be cruising any more after that so I thought we would try it plus I got a young fella bunking with us.

[@johalareewi]

We have been auto upgraded in the past. We had an inside cabin in a nice part of the ship and got moved to an outside cabin on a low deck at the front by the anchor and under the stage. With auto upgrade you need to be able to accept or reject the upgrade.

[@druegillis1744]

The only thing free in life is advice and trouble. When the cruise line wants to give you something for “free,” be very careful. That’s my advice (for free!)

[@cafsixtieslover]

We always have a balcony. On our first cruise we did an inside. Never again. In the mornings we had to turn the telly on to see if it was light outside. Sometimes it is the only peaceful place on the ship.

[@diefer9999]

I'm taking my first ever cruise summer 2022. I have no idea what I'll need and what I won't. So learning curve for me. Plus, it's free, so I will try and not be fussy. 😂 X

[@paulschmidt243]

Gary you are the number one channel I watch because you are so informative and your ideas are perfect..I am a travel agent and I always include sharing your videos with my clients.. Thanks again.. Question when do you think we will start sailing out of the US again.. Do you have any cruises booked..I have a 50th High School reunion on the RCL Mariner of the Seas in April 2022 and a family trip on Carnival Mardi Gras July 2022..

[@oldguy9078]

The very first cruise we went on was an inside room on deck two of the ship. Being an inside room you can not tell day from night, and when we slept we never had to worry about when to get up, as when the ship ported up the engine noise would shake the whole room and we knew then it was time to get up to go ashore.

[@elouise5593]

I have stayed mostly in inside cabins. The last time got one with ocean view. Although I loved the window, the inside cabins weren't bad, either.

[@amybradley5821]

I’ve been above a dance club and my body throbbed to the beat until early in the morning. Also had an ocean view cabin at the very rear of of the ship and the anchor dropping every morning at 4 or 5 am woke me up. Now I ALWAYS choose my cabin. Still had fun on those cruises but prefer paying a little extra and picking exactly what I want.

[@tazman572]

Uh...the anchors are in the bow, not the stern

[@amybradley5821]

@@tazman572 well then I don’t know what it was but I was in the very back cabin and it sounded like chains running out almost every morning.

[@shepwillner7507]

@@amybradley5821 If the noise you heard at the aft wasn't chains, then the sources could either be winches to let the lines go down and out to the piers for dockworkers to retrieve and put around the cleats or bullocks or the stern thrusters pushing the ship towards the dock.

[@shepwillner7507]

If you weren't choosing your cabins before, who chose them for you w/o talking w/you about your preferences? That's why a good travel agent is a valuable resource to have in one's corner.

[@amybradley5821]

@@shepwillner7507 I’m not a user of Travel agents at all. I like doing everything myself. I went cheap the first couple of cruises and let the cruise line pick because the price was better. Not anymore.I’ve gotten everything I’ve wanted pretty much.

[@prettychawq4617]

Four-thousandth Like! Sending out love to ur channel & def sending to my dad! He has a cruise end of the year ! 💛

[@andrews4299]

nice advice...never been to one..good insight

[@mee5780]

£139 for a 4 night ocean view with Costa...got upgraded to an aft balcony.. it was amazing..but now I feel I dont want to go back to an inside...RIP credit card lol

[@SandyToes75]

Could you hear me LOL? That was so good! There have been times over this past year when I know my CC has been “overheated”. The 10 yr old came running into the room wanting me to share the funny joke(truth, she was doing history and wanted a break).

[@AugustoLugo1983]

I beg to differ, love my inside cabin, we don’t lounge in it, we sleep, shower and get ready for the day, to each their own,

[@fredashay]

I like to sleep in a completely dark room, an inside cabin is perfect for that. Though an inside cabin is extremely claustrophobic, even a large one.

[@reddevil3874]

Absolutely agree with you...we've had balcony, interior with a window and inside and I would sooner spend the money enjoying myself.

[@johnpatz8395]

That was my opinion as well, and we spent most waking hours on deck and wandering around, but then we got a balcony on the rear of the ship and it completely changed our cruise as most of the time we had spent up on deck, we now spent lounging on our balcony and it was like our own private vacation (well except for meal times of course.)

[@SandyToes75]

@@reddevil3874 I have a family member that only wants an inside because seeing the ocean made her seasick. I had booked an aft wrap and she just did not like it. Another says never in cabin except to run in and out, change clothes, shower and sleep. And one that MUST have total darkness. Everyone is different. I am now looking for solo cabins for the next family holiday.

[@SandyToes75]

@@johnpatz8395 I LOVE the aft wrap balcony cabins. So calming.

[@hettytravels]

I laughed so hard when you said....we often travel with our mothers and if they aren’t near by they may get lost. Man, that’s been me on a mega ship looking for the rest of my family’s cabin! Your tips are spot on and I have learned from you and others that picking the right cabin makes all the difference. Thanks....btw, if you are live chatting this Saturday I won’t be there this time☹️. But I’ll watch it afterwards!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad to hear you had the same! Sorry you won't be there on Saturday :-)

[@shepwillner7507]

Well, if you travel w/a Mom whose eyesight isn't so great, then you'll be her roomie and you'll have to guide her to either her cabin or some other place she wants to go, especially if she has trouble reading large, lit signs. If Mom is using a walker, then pick a cabin as close as possible to the elevators. Regarding getting lost aboard mega-ships, some of them such as RCCL's Oasis or Allure have Way-Finders on the walls to help you find your cabin, along with similar tools near the elevators.

[@femboomer]

I cruise to relax and after some disappointing cruises with inside cabins, never again. A balcony is a must as that's where I can sit with my book, a drink in hand and a wonderful view. Bliss

[@johnvandieren1882]

Great summary

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Thank you so much.

[@PaulCashman]

Absolutely be cautious with upgrades. I accepted an offer from the "Upgrade Fairy" once, from an interior to an oceanview....and the room's A/C didn't work. (!) We invoked the cruise line's satisfaction guarantee and thankfully they were able to move us to a balcony stateroom -- the ONLY cabin that was available, due to a guest cancellation. Now, of course, we're spoiled and we only book balconies...preferably aft extended ones.

[@boatlover1875]

Another great video. I like a high deck, I prefer to have a deck between me and the pool deck!

[@shepwillner7507]

Me too, especially if you're on a Celebrity Solstice-class ship: the pool deck and the Ocean View Cafe are on the same deck; that location is also valuable if I'm a patron of the Solarium.

[@jintyc9133]

Fantastic, thank you xx

[@Tina-tw9ll]

Very helpful

[@StreakyP]

If you are worried how far the walk is to the gym maybe the gym isn't for you :-)

[@juliealdige3159]

Lol!

[@princessriley3335]

Hard facts!

[@Shello58]

Truth!

[@robertalexander5422]

Where is the f****** climbing wall for craps sake?

[@mackette54]

🤣🤣

[@kylebradt7887]

We stayed right below the pool deck on our first cruise and loved it. We didn’t hear a single thing from above and we were so close to everything....including a smoking section. So I really think it depends on the boat.

[@LuvMiddleEarth]

I'm pretty easy when picking my stateroom. Room must be on a deck with a passenger deck above and below, don't be right above theater and don't be right underneath lido. I've been in inside, outside and balcony staterooms, and they all meet my needs. Hopefully I can spoil myself with a suite one day in the future.

[@shepwillner7507]

Yeah, me too--regarding spoiling me w/a suite. For now, I prefer a balcony cabin close to the pool deck, bars, and buffet because I'm not traveling below for breakfast during their serving times in the MDR.

[@margotyoung2880]

POSH = Port Out Starboard Home, on Atlantic crossings. It's interesting to consider the sun and changing cabins for an advantageous direction.

[@anakerose]

We still booked an inside cabin for our Alaska cruise. A Balcony cabin was over double the price! We booked a 14nt in an inside for less than 1 week in a balcony cabin.

[@maurieshakespeare5835]

Invaluable advice, especially disallowing auto upgrades. I always want passenger decks above and below.

[@salimas7979]

Why Maurie?

[@maurieshakespeare5835]

@@salimas7979 less noise than having public spaces over or under your cabin

[@salimas7979]

@@maurieshakespeare5835 ohhh. Makes sense. Thx for explaining that.

[@toccoa]

TYVM! I was a bit surprised when you mentioned solo in the book early section until I remembered two types of solo cabins - built-as-solo vs solo supplement. The former you definitely want to book ASAP, but it seems to me the latter may be cheaper to book later.

[@SandyToes75]

Both types are limited and booking early you can get a cabin. If you wait you might be waiting for another sailing date. My experience, they sell out quickly.

[@shepwillner7507]

I was glad to see that Celebrity Edge finally had solo cabins, but it took them so long to get them designed in the first place. I wish other Celebrity ships had solo cabins so I wouldn't have to pay so much for sole occupancy of the room. I know that HAL has solo cabins but they're also guaranteed, meaning you have no say where they're located. NCL has special solo cabins but I don't want to be confined to such as small space as 100 sq. ft. (or more). Does RCCL have solo cabins? Probably on the newer Oasis and Quantum-class ships.

[@SandyToes75]

@@shepwillner7507 Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas have them. Celebrity on Apex, Edge, and Silhouette

[@PatchaChel]

Gary, how do you travel/cruise so much? Is this your job? Are the posters behind you all the cruise lines you have traveled on? How exciting! I love your informational youtubes!

[@canadianvehicleshippinginfo]

i barely spend anytime in the cabins...I wouldn't pay more for something I basically sleep in. The last place I want to stay is in a bedroom..I want to see and explore and visit and socialize....

[@janimal119]

I love all the Princess Medallion glimpses! Such fantastic technology

[@shepwillner7507]

I can't wait until I board a ship that uses Ocean Medallion tech. My last Princess cruise was aboard Coral, but they didn't have Ocean Medallion in place yet for that ship, only MedallionNet for the internet cafe, wifi and TV watching. That said, I would use only use it for drinks and unlocking my cabin door, along with security checking me in from a shore excursion or debarking the ship for excursions ashore.