Cruise stateroom guide: The most desirable cabin locations on any cruise

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom can make or break your vacation.
Owners Suite on Carnival Imagination

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom can make or break your vacation. With so many options to choose from, it’s essential to know which cabins offer the best locations and features. Whether you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, or Carnival Cruise Line, this guide will reveal the most desirable cabin locations. From stunning views to quiet retreats, we’ll help you pinpoint your ideal cruise room.

The Significance of Cruise Stateroom Location

The location of your cruise stateroom can significantly impact your overall experience. A poorly located stateroom might bring noise from busy hallways or lackluster views, while a well-placed one offers peace and stunning scenery. When choosing your cruise stateroom, consider factors like proximity to elevators, distance from entertainment areas, and which side of the ship offers the best views.

Cruise stateroom options range from luxurious suites to budget-friendly interiors, each with unique benefits based on their onboard location. Choosing the right cruise stateroom ensures maximum comfort and enjoyment during your trip.

Royal Caribbean’s crown jewels

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom based on your budget can create the perfect cruise vacation.
Ultimate family townhouse on Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean offers incredible cruise stateroom options on their massive ships filled with attractions. For ultimate relaxation and convenience, opt for midship balcony staterooms on the upper decks. These staterooms deliver stunning ocean views and reduced motion, even in rough seas.

Looking for something extra special? Aft-facing cruise staterooms, like the AquaTheater Suites on Oasis-class ships, offer breathtaking wake views along with perks like lounge access. Fun fact: many aft-facing staterooms feature oversized balconies, perfect for private sunsets. Want to take it up a notch? Consider splurging on the ultimate family townhouse, complete with multiple levels, private amenities, and enough space to make every family member feel at home while at sea.

Celebrity Cruises’ modern luxury

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom based on simple luxury sets the tone for a relaxing cruise.
Aft Infinite Veranda on Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity Cruises is known for its modern luxury, and their cruise room options are no exception. Concierge Class cruise rooms, often located midship, provide convenient access to elevators and a quieter environment. These rooms also include perks like priority boarding and an exclusive first-day lunch.

For a more luxurious experience, the Edge-class Infinite Veranda cruise room offers a unique design that turns the room into a balcony at the touch of a button. Sailing to tropical destinations? Opt for a starboard-side cruise room to enjoy the best views as the ship approaches port.

Disney’s family-friendly priorities

Choose the perfect cruise stateroom based on family needs and enjoyment.
Verandah Stateroom on Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line has perfected family cruising, offering cruise rooms designed for comfort and convenience. The Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with verandas, often located midship, provide uninterrupted ocean views and quick access to dining and kid-friendly entertainment.

For a more peaceful experience, opt for cruise rooms on higher decks, away from the busy kids’ clubs. Many staterooms also feature split bathrooms—ideal for families sharing space. Bonus: Some Disney cruise rooms even have fun portholes with animated Disney characters!

Holland America Line’s cultured cruise stateroom

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom can make or break your vacation.
Neptune Suite AFT on Zuiderdam – Holland America Line

Holland America Line offers elegant and relaxing cruises, with cruise stateroom options like the luxurious Neptune Suites. Located mid-ship on Vista-class vessels, these spacious staterooms come with VIP perks like a private lounge and priority boarding.

For breathtaking ocean views, Verandah cruise staterooms at the bow provide stunning scenery, perfect for destinations like Alaska’s glaciers. Fun fact: many Holland America ships even feature wrap-around verandas for uninterrupted 180-degree views.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s freestyle luxury

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom based on luxury and comfort.
The Haven Suite on Norwegian Getaway

Norwegian elevates the cruise room experience with The Haven—an exclusive suite area located at the front of their newest ships. These top-deck cruise rooms feature private pools, personalized service, and priority access to amenities.

For standard cruise rooms, midship balconies are ideal for stability and easy access around the ship. Want a quieter stay? Choose cruise rooms located one deck below restaurants but above entertainment areas to avoid late-night noise from theaters.

Princess Cruises’ private paradise in a cruise stateroom

Choosing the perfect cruise stateroom can make or break your vacation.
Mini Suite on Royal Princess

Princess Cruises offers cruise rooms designed for ultimate relaxation. Mid-forward balcony cruise rooms on ships like Regal Princess provide breathtaking sea views while keeping you near the Lido deck, a guest favorite.

For a more exclusive experience, Club Class Mini-Suites include perks like priority check-in and enhanced dining options. Fun fact: many Princess ships also feature cruise rooms with adjoining balconies, perfect for larger groups traveling together.

Carnival Cruise Line’s action-packed options

Choose the perfect cruise stateroom to allow every family member relaxation and freedom.
Family Harbor Balcony on Carnival Vista

Carnival cruises offer vibrant and exciting cruise stateroom options to match their fun-filled atmosphere. Families can enjoy the Family Harbor cruise staterooms, conveniently located near exclusive lounges with kid-friendly activities and breakfast buffets.

Romantics can opt for aft-facing suites, which feature larger balconies and stunning panoramic views. Staying on the upper decks gives you easy access to pools, water parks, and casual dining areas. Pro tip: Interior cruise staterooms midship are an excellent choice for a quiet and restful night’s sleep.


Each cruise line offers unique “hidden gems” with the cruise stateroom location. Visit Cruises.com for the largest selection of cruise line deals — we can help you book the smart way!

Set sail with Cruises.com Rewards! Unlock exclusive member-only pricing and earn 10 points per $1 on every booking. Earn twice by stacking your savings with your cruise line loyalty status and perks! Redeem your rewards for cash on the same upcoming cruise. Let’s book your next adventure — and make it more rewarding! Join Cruises.com Rewards for free today. Book your dream vacation now or call us at 800-288-6006 to start earning.

Related: Family Friendly Cruise Cabins: Your Guide to Comfort and Adventure