Inside cabin

An inside cabin has no window or porthole. It is the lowest-priced cabin type on most ships, and for travelers who spend little time in their room it can be excellent value: the bed, bathroom and service are much the same as in the next categories up. With the lights off, an inside cabin is completely dark, which many people sleep well in. Some newer ships offer virtual windows showing a live view outside. On scenic itineraries such as Alaska, you may miss having a view.

Choosing a cabin: inside, ocean view, balcony or suite

Most cabin decisions come down to three questions: how much time you will spend in the room, how much light and air matter to you, and what else the budget could pay for.

Inside cabins have no window. They are often the lowest fare and are good for sleep, because they stay dark. They suit travellers who will be out on deck or ashore most of the day, and short trips where the cabin is mostly a bed.

Ocean view cabins add a window that does not open. They help if a dark room makes you uneasy or you like to see the weather first thing.

Balcony cabins add private outdoor space. On port-heavy weeks you may use it less than you expect; on itineraries with long sea days it becomes a second living room. Line names vary: Celebrity's Edge Series has Infinite Verandas, where the balcony area is part of the room, and Virgin Voyages calls its balconies Sea Terraces.

Suites add space and, on some lines, access to private areas. Celebrity's suite guests use The Retreat, with a private restaurant, lounge and sundeck. Compare what a suite includes, not only its size.

Location matters as much as type

On large ships, ask what sits above and below a cabin: pool decks, late venues and service areas can be noisy. Families often prefer to be near the kids' areas and lifts. Carnival's deck plans group some cabins into areas with their own perks, such as Family Harbor and Havana.

A simple way to decide

• Short trip, busy days: inside or ocean view.
• A week with sea days: balcony is often worth it.
• Celebrations, or several people in one room: price a suite or two connecting cabins.

Sources

• Carnival Celebration deck plan ({D})
• Celebrity Ascent ({D})

Line policies, prices and inclusions change. We check the current terms for your sailing rather than quoting fixed figures.