How To Choose The Best Stateroom On A Cruise | Celebrity Cruises (2024)

How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise

Picking the best rooms on a cruise ship involves more than just choosing a stateroom category.

When selecting a stateroom, you’ll want to figure out what type of experience and convenience you’d like to have during your cruise vacation. The location of the stateroom on the ship, right down to the deck, can make a big difference in your vacation experience, especially if you know what you want to be close to.

What’s the best room on a cruise for you? Follow these four steps to choose the best rooms on a cruise ship for your desired vacation, ambiance, and overall experience.

How To Choose The Best Stateroom On A Cruise | Celebrity Cruises (1)

In this article:

Choose a Stateroom Category

Choose a Deck

Choose a Location

Choose a Room

Choose a Stateroom Category

First, let’s look at stateroom types and who they’re best for. Whether you’re on a family cruise, a romantic couple’s getaway, or cruising solo, we have a stateroom that’s perfect for you.

Read: How to Plan a Cruise

Inside Staterooms

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Inside staterooms are located on the interior of the ship and don’t have any windows. These are the best rooms on a cruise ship if you’re looking for a lower-cost option or plan to spend the majority of your time on adventurous excursions, relaxing by the pool, or dining in our world-class restaurants at a leisurely pace.

Oceanview Staterooms

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Oceanview staterooms are ideal if you want to enjoy savings while being able to soak in beautiful ocean views from your room.

Though the windows aren’t as large as staterooms with verandas, these staterooms can still sleep the same number of guests thanks to the spacious bed arrangement (which fits two adults) and the pull-out couch for an additional adult guest.

Veranda Staterooms

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A common sentiment among cruisers is that once you sail in a stateroom with a balcony, it’s hard to ever go back to staying in a stateroom without one.

With a veranda stateroom, you’ll have your own private outdoor space, a quiet haven where you can soak up every precious moment of vacation. Sit out on your veranda and enjoy the sea breeze and port views as you sip your coffee in the morning, or enjoy a glass of wine and sunset views in the evening.

Certain veranda staterooms can be connected, which is a great solution for friends or multi-generational families traveling together who want to have easy access to each other but still have the option of privacy.

On Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, there’s a unique veranda stateroom category: the Infinite Veranda, which blurs the line between indoor and outdoor space by providing a veranda that completely opens to the rest of the room with a touch of a button. It’s especially perfect for guests on a solo cruise.

Concierge-Class Staterooms

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Looking for an elevated level of service during your cruise? A Concierge Class stateroom provides you with personalized concierge service during your cruise, afternoon snack deliveries to your stateroom, seating time preferences, and other benefits.

AquaClass® Staterooms

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For the ultimate rejuvenating vacation experience, book an AquaClass® stateroom. These staterooms are located close to the spa and include spa amenities inside the stateroom.

You’ll also get unlimited access to the Persian Garden and the exclusive onboard specialty restaurant, Blu, which serves spa-inspired cuisine featuring fresh, healthy ingredients. Crisp and bold flavors collide at the hands of our world-class chefs. Choose from its robust selection of sustainable, biodynamic wines.

Take wellness classes like yoga and meditation, and get unlimited access to the exclusive SEA Thermal Suite on Celebrity Edge.

AquaClass® comes with other benefits too, like 10% off any pre-booked salon or spa service and priority spa booking an entire month ahead of other guests. Treat yourself to a massage, a mani/pedi with your best friend or your mom, or a rejuvenating facial for the ultimate in pampering.

Read: What Is Included on a Cruise?

The Retreat®

The Retreat® features exclusive spaces, accommodations, venues, and services to elevate your vacation.

With access to a private restaurant, Luminae, a pool, and lounge just for The Retreat guests, Personal Retreat Host service, and $300 per suite in onboard spending credit, The Retreat® is all-inclusive and all-immersive.

How To Choose The Best Stateroom On A Cruise | Celebrity Cruises (7)

If you’re looking for extra space, a suite is one of the best rooms on a cruise ship to book. In suites, you’ll find that the sleeping and living spaces are separated. Some suites even have multiple bedrooms, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.

When it comes to cruise suites, there are a variety of layouts to choose from, like two-level loft suites and Penthouse Suites with grand pianos and hot tubs. Celebrity Edge’s Iconic Suites span a massive 1,291 square feet with an additional 398 square feet of outdoor space.

Staterooms on Celebrity Flora

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Celebrity Flora sails to the remote and wildlife-packed Galapagos Islands. With total ship occupancy capped at just 100 guests, the Celebrity Flora suite and stateroom experience is nothing short of all inclusive.

Every need is taken care of for you thanks to 24-hour room service, laundry service twice during your sailing, and full in-suite dinner service. Adjust your room’s lighting or temperature with the touch of a button or your Celebrity mobile app. Allow your Personal Suite Attendant to help you navigate the ship or unpack your luggage.

There are six suite options to consider when you sail on Flora:

Sky Suite with Veranda

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The Sky Suite is a 330-square-foot suite that includes a private, spacious, 84-square-foot veranda. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer incredible sea views. With a king-sized bed you can sink right into and even a menu for pillow options, you won’t have to count sheep to fall into a restful sleep. Plus, the double faucet vanity means no one has to wait to freshen up their makeup or get ready in a hurry.

Sky Suite with Infinite Veranda

With an outward-facing design and an infinite veranda, this suite will make you feel even more connected to the Galapagos Islands with each day at sea. With the touch of a button, you can transform your sky suite into an open-air room.

Premium Sky Suite with Infinite Veranda

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The Premium Sky Suite provides luxurious amenities and experiences. You’ll have open-air access to the sea, where you can even dine in your suite al fresco. At 337 square feet and featuring a spa tub and shower, the Premium Sky Suite is a good option for couples on a romantic getaway.

Ultimate Sky Suite with Infinite Veranda

The biggest Sky Suite at 365 square feet is aptly named: the Ultimate. With an outward-facing tub and shower, you can be close to the ocean’s edge with the touch of a button in your fully automated suite. With more space than the other Sky Suites, this is an excellent option for those who crave comfort.

Royal Suite

The Royal Suite does indeed offer special treatment. From the floor-to-ceiling window in the shower, where you can feel one with the ocean, to the in-suite espresso machine, you’ll have every need taken care of. There are 559 total square feet in the Royal Suite, which includes a separate living area, bedroom, and private veranda.

Penthouse Suite

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Slip on your complimentary monogrammed robe and slippers and take in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands from your floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. The Penthouse Suite is the ultimate haven for travelers, and our most spacious suite on Flora is up to 1,288 square feet in size. With spa-like amenities and an additional half bath included, the Penthouse Suite is designed to be immensely luxurious in every way imaginable.

Staterooms on Celebrity Xpedition

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48 passengers can call Celebrity Xpedition their home at sea per sailing, making it an exclusive way to see the Galapagos Islands in complete style. Every service and amenity is personalized to provide the experience of a lifetime. Your Personal Suite Attendant will see to your comfort.

Premium Stateroom

With two double beds and an ocean view window, a private veranda, and a convertible sofa bed, the Premium Stateroom has just what you need for an easy, relaxing sailing.

Junior Suite

Two beds can convert into a comfortable queen, plus creative storage solutions mean you can spread out and enjoy the space. This level of accommodation includes an immersive sliding glass door ocean experience.

Xpedition Suite

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Featuring two beds and a sitting area with a convertible full-size sofa bed, the Xpedition Suite is perfect for a group of three or four looking to explore the Galapagos Islands. It’s comfortable, spacious, and has a private veranda.

Royal Suite

In your Royal Suite on Xpedition, you’ll find similar amenities to those on the same class of suite on Celebrity Flora, like an in-suite espresso machine for all your specialty coffee needs, a Personal Suite Attendant, complementary services, and premium amenities.

Penthouse Suite

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The Galapagos Islands meet you in your Penthouse Suite thanks to incredible floor-to-ceiling windows. The Penthouse comes with a separate bedroom with its own private veranda, a spacious living room, and a sitting area with two sofa beds. Soak in the jacuzzi on your suite’s veranda while you sail between the islands. It’s an excellent option for entire families seeking to experience the Galapagos in the utmost comfort and style.

Read: How to Plan a Cruise for a Large Family

Staterooms on Celebrity Xploration

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You’ll find unparalleled intimacy and comfort during your sailing on the 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration. The size of Celebrity Xploration means it’s a cruise experience that’ll quickly have you bonding with fellow passengers, relaxing in the hot tub on the Sun Deck, or attending naturalist briefings in the lounge to discover every detail of the Galapagos.

Every Xploration suite has plentiful storage, complimentary bathrobes, breakfast, lunch or dinner room service, and many more amenities.

Junior Suite

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Cozy and comfortable, the Junior Suite is decked out with sophisticated furnishings and thoughtful details, including inventive storage, premium amenities, and lush 300-thread count, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets. Soak in ocean views from the comfort of your private veranda.

Elite Ocean View

The Elite Ocean View stateroom features two convertible beds, a balcony facing the sea, and cozy touches to make it feel like home.

Is upgrading to a balcony room worth it?

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Many passengers plan on spending the majority of their cruise outside of their room, whether they’re pumping iron at the gym, relaxing in the spa, or suntanning out on the pool deck. It’s up to you if a balcony feels like an important feature for your stay.

If you enjoy the leisurely routine of sipping your morning coffee on the veranda or want a private space to watch the sunset with your loved one, you might consider upgrading to a stateroom with a veranda.

If you’re cruising to Alaska or another destination that sails through stunning natural landscapes, opting for a veranda stateroom is a great way to witness these sights without having to leave your room.

Choose a Deck

Once you’ve chosen your stateroom category, you can decide what deck you want to stay on. When you book a cruise early, you’ll have a better opportunity to choose what deck of the ship you want to be on.

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Some staterooms have larger verandas (typically ones on the bow or aft of the ship) and some have partially blocked views, which may or may not be a big deal to you.

Foodies may want a stateroom closer to the many incredible dining options onboard. Returning cruisers might have a favorite bar or lounge where they become a regular during their vacation.

If you’re traveling with friends or a group, you’ll want to consider how far apart your staterooms are. Will it be harder to meet up if they’re on the opposite side of the ship? Will you want to be a quick elevator ride or walk away from your fellow travelers? These are all questions to consider when you’re choosing what deck is best for you.

Is it better to be on a higher deck?

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Each of the twelve ships in the Celebrity fleet is unique in terms of their deck designs and the way the decks are organized. Some cruisers prefer lower levels as you’re less likely to feel any rocking while the ship is in motion, but that varies from person to person.

You can study your ship’s deck plans to understand how everything is organized before making your choice. Remember—prime locations for specific stateroom categories are reserved fast, which is why it’s ideal to book early if the deck your stateroom is on matters to you.

Choose a Location

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Don’t forget to use proper ship lingo when you’re choosing the location of your stateroom. Here’s a helpful glossary of words every cruiser should know:

  • Forward: The very front of the ship
  • Midship: The middle of the ship
  • Aft: The back of the ship

Aft staterooms are closer to the ship’s vibrations and engine, so keep that in mind if you want as silent of a stateroom location as possible. Forward and aft staterooms tend to have more sway than midship, which is something to keep in mind as you’re booking your room.

Choose a Room

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You’ve done your research. There’s an itinerary that’s caught your eye. You’re ready to book your stateroom, the best room on a cruise you could hope for.

Celebrity Cruises makes it easy for you. You can book your cruise accommodations, flights, and excursions all in one easy-to-use place. Head to celebritycruises.com and get to planning!

How To Choose The Best Stateroom On A Cruise | Celebrity Cruises (2024)

FAQs

What is the best room to stay in on a cruise ship? ›

If you're looking for extra space, a suite is one of the best rooms on a cruise ship to book. In suites, you'll find that the sleeping and living spaces are separated. Some suites even have multiple bedrooms, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.

What is the best cabin to choose on a cruise ship? ›

You'll want to choose a midship cabin on a lower deck to experience less ship movement and rocking. A balcony cabin that gives quick access to fresh air and a view of the horizon is also key.

What is the best floor to be on a cruise ship? ›

On most cruise ships, the most luxurious accommodation is on the upper decks. Here, you'll find a selection of elegant suites, with generous outdoor space, separate living areas, and amenities ranging from all-inclusive drinks to the service of a concierge.

Is it better be in the front or the back of a large cruise ship? ›

The back of the ship tends to be considered the next best cabin position after midships. Whilst the front of the ship gets the most movement the back also does get some. Whilst it's nowhere near as bad as the front of the ship, you may still notice some movement in rough seas.

Is it worth upgrading your room on a cruise? ›

In many cases, a cruise ship cabin upgrade will get you a better cabin — roomier accommodations, a better ship location, and maybe extra perks. However, not all upgrade offers are desirable, especially if what you value in a cabin type and location is not what the cruise line will give you.

Where are the best and worst cabins on a cruise ship? ›

Log in .
  • BEST ROOMS TO BOOK ON A CRUISE.
  • Ocean-level cabins.
  • Studio rooms.
  • Port or starboard staterooms.
  • Cabins close to popular attractions.
  • Rooms by elevators.
  • WORST ROOMS TO BOOK ON A CRUISE.
  • Staterooms directly above or below busy areas.
Jan 30, 2024

What is a good deck level to stay on a cruise? ›

Middle decks strike a balance between stability and accessibility. They are often preferred by cruisers who want easy access to onboard facilities while still enjoying a relatively stable experience. These decks are usually located near popular amenities like pools, spas, and dining venues.

When on a cruise ship which room location is the best? ›

The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balcony room, choose a low level and a room closest to the ship's center. The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.

Is it worth getting a balcony on a cruise ship? ›

Even on smaller, more luxurious ships that don't feel crowded, a balcony is desirable; if the weather is such that you can spend a lot of time on your balcony, it's like having an additional room.

Is it worth it to prepay gratuities on a cruise? ›

Depending on the cruise line and type of room, you should expect a daily charge of $16 to $23 for gratuities. There are a couple of good reasons why you might want to prepay, including getting to spend less during your trip and locking in the current rate.

When cruising which side of the ship is best? ›

Eastbound cruises get the most sun on the port side; westbound on the starboard side. Watching a sunset over the ocean or seeing the sun slip behind distant islands can also be a reason for a side preference. To catch sunsets, you'll want to be on the port side on northbound cruises and starboard on southbound cruises.

Which end of a cruise ship is best? ›

For passengers looking to enjoy views, especially the scenery in the wake of a ship, we recommend higher decks and the back of the vessel. The higher you pick, the farther you'll see. If you're after views, the best room on a cruise ship will be a balcony cabin at the ship's rear end.

What is the best side to stay on a cruise ship? ›

Here's the general advice for seeing sunrises and sunsets on a cruise: Headed north or west? Choose a port side stateroom for sunsets. Go with starboard for sunrises.

What is the best room on a cruise ship for motion sickness? ›

The middle of the ship and not too high is your safest bet. A mid-ship stateroom with a balcony for quick access to fresh air may be ideal. If not available, consider a room that is either lower or closer to the back, as the front of the ship tends to experience the most movement.

What is the best level to sleep on a cruise ship? ›

The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balcony room, choose a low level and a room closest to the ship's center. The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.

Which is better on a cruise ship, front or back? ›

The forward is subject to the most movement out of anywhere on a ship. And the higher the deck, the more pronounced that rolling and swaying motion tends to feel. Movement at the aft is a bit less drastic than the forward, but still isn't the most stable place for those who are prone to seasickness.

What deck is the best to stay on on a cruise ship? ›

Middle decks strike a balance between stability and accessibility. They are often preferred by cruisers who want easy access to onboard facilities while still enjoying a relatively stable experience. These decks are usually located near popular amenities like pools, spas, and dining venues.

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