How to Pick the Perfect Cabin
Inside, Oceanview, or Balcony?
MAY 13TH, 2025
Choosing the right cruise cabin can make or break your experience at sea. With so many options available, from cozy inside cabins to luxurious balcony staterooms, it’s important to find the one that best suits your travel style, budget, and comfort needs. Having been on multiple cruises and tested different cabin types, I’ve learned that where you sleep at sea can greatly impact your vacation.
If you’re struggling to decide between an inside, oceanview, or balcony cabin, this comprehensive guide will break down the pros and cons of each, key factors to consider, and expert tips to help you make the best choice. Plus, I'll share how PortTrip can help you optimize your port days, ensuring your cabin choice aligns perfectly with your itinerary.
Discover how PortTrip provides time-saving recommendations for maximizing your shore Activities.
Inside Cabins: Budget-Friendly Comfort
Inside cabins are the most affordable option on a cruise ship. These rooms do not have windows, making them a great choice for travelers who prioritize price over views.
Pros:
✔️ Budget-Friendly: Inside cabins are the cheapest option, making them ideal for travelers who want to save money or cruise more frequently.
✔️ Dark and Quiet: Perfect for deep sleepers, as there’s no natural light to wake you up early in the morning.
✔️ Cooler Temperature: These rooms tend to stay cooler since they are not exposed to the sun.
✔️ More Cruise for Your Money: The money saved can go toward shore excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments, or onboard activities.
Cons:
❌ No Natural Light: If you’re prone to claustrophobia, the lack of windows can feel confining.
❌ No Scenic Views: You’ll need to go to public areas like the pool deck for ocean views and sunrise vistas.
❌ Smaller Space: Inside cabins are usually more compact than oceanview or balcony rooms, offering limited storage.
Who Should Book an Inside Cabin?
Budget-conscious travelers who want to save money.
Deep sleepers who prefer total darkness for uninterrupted rest.
Cruisers on short itineraries who spend little time in their room.
Solo travelers or groups who don’t need extra space.
Pro Tip: If you love the idea of a budget-friendly cabin but want a sense of space, look for ships that offer virtual balconies—inside rooms with a real-time digital screen displaying the ocean view.
Discover how PortTrip assists in scheduling activities, managing dining reservations, and ensuring you don't miss out on any of the ship's exclusive offerings.
Oceanview Cabins: A Window to the Sea
Oceanview cabins serve as a middle ground between inside and balcony rooms, featuring a window or porthole that lets in natural light and provides a scenic ocean view.
Pros:
✔️ Natural Light: Helps maintain a sense of time and reduces the “claustrophobic” feel of inside cabins.
✔️ More Affordable Than a Balcony: You get a scenic view at a lower price than a balcony stateroom.
✔️ Great for Families: Some oceanview cabins offer larger layouts with additional sleeping arrangements.
✔️ Calming Views: Watching the waves and horizon can be soothing and help reduce motion sickness.
Cons:
❌ No Fresh Air: Unlike balconies, you can’t step outside to feel the sea breeze.
❌ Obstructed Views: Some oceanview cabins have lifeboats or structural beams partially blocking the window.
❌ Higher Cost Than Inside Cabins: While cheaper than balconies, they are still pricier than inside rooms.
Who Should Book an Oceanview Cabin?
Travelers who want a scenic view but don’t need a private outdoor space.
Those prone to seasickness who benefit from seeing the horizon.
Families needing extra space without upgrading to a balcony.
Longer cruisers who want some natural light but still want to save money.
Pro Tip: Check the ship’s deck plans before booking to ensure your window view isn’t blocked by a lifeboat or structural beams.
Final Verdict: Which Cabin is Right for You?
💰 Choose an Inside Cabin if: You want the most budget-friendly option and don’t mind a cozy space without windows.
🌅 Choose an Oceanview Cabin if: You want a scenic view at a mid-range price but don’t need a private balcony.
🌊 Choose a Balcony Cabin if: You love breathtaking views, fresh air, and a private outdoor space, and are willing to pay more for it.
No matter which cabin you choose, planning ahead and researching your options will ensure you have the best cruise experience possible. If you’re still unsure, PortTrip can help you compare cabin categories, view ship layouts, and plan your port days for the perfect trip.
Enjoy your cruise and happy sailing! 🚢
