Securing a comfortable and well-suited cabin is a cornerstone of an enjoyable cruise holiday. Yet, many unsuspecting passengers inadvertently end up with the least desirable room on the vessel. Fortunately, this common holiday mishap is entirely avoidable with the right knowledge.
The Hidden Pitfalls of Cruise Booking
According to cruise specialist Gary Bembridge, who writes for the popular blog Tips For Travellers, several standard booking practices can lead to disappointment. One significant trap is the 'auto-upgrade' system used by some cruise lines.
While the term 'upgrade' sounds beneficial, Gary explains it can result in passengers being moved to a different cabin that the company deems 'better', but which may not align with the traveller's preferences at all.
Another risky option is paying a 'guaranteed' fare. This involves selecting a cabin grade but allowing the cruise company to assign the specific room later. This might seem like an easy option, but it often means you are allocated whatever is left over after other passengers have made their selections.
While there is a chance you could be pleasantly surprised with a superior room, the gamble could just as easily land you with the worst cabin on the entire ship.
Gary Bembridge's Golden Rules for Cabin Selection
To ensure satisfaction, Gary advises that it is sometimes wiser to pay a little extra to select your exact cabin. He notes that this doesn't always work out to be significantly more expensive and is a sure-fire way to avoid disappointment.
He also reveals other crucial strategies for dodging a bad cabin. One of his 'golden rules' is to choose a room that is completely surrounded by other cabins.
He emphasises the importance of being buffered 'above, below, and beside' by other passenger staterooms. This strategic position helps to insulate your room from noise emanating from busy service areas, engine rooms, or other operational parts of the ship.
Other noisy locations to avoid booking near include laundry rooms, entertainment venues, and bars.
Choosing the Right Spot for Comfort and Health
For travellers who are prone to seasickness, cabin location is even more critical. Gary recommends selecting a cabin in the middle of the ship, where the motion of the ocean is felt least.
Conversely, cabins at the very front (bow) or the very back (stern) of the liner are far more susceptible to the pitch and roll of rocky seas, which can exacerbate nausea.
Beyond cabin selection, etiquette experts warn that a successful cruise relies on considerate behaviour. Being disruptive in communal areas, such as by shouting or talking loudly, is considered a major faux pas.
Bethany Skorik, founder of Ascent Etiquette and Communications, told Business Insider that passengers should always be respectful of others sharing the ship's spaces, ensuring everyone can have a pleasant journey.
