Is it Better to Be on the Upper or Lower Deck on a Cruise?

A cruise is the chance to get away from it all. A poorly-placed cabin, however, can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. What makes a cabin’s location ideal depends on your personality, interests and even preferred sleep schedule. To choose the best deck, assess what you want from your cruise.

For many people, the ideal cabin is located close to the place that they spend most of their time. For example, if you are a sun worshiper or workout buff, you might choose a cabin on a high deck near the pools and fitness center. If you like to catch the evening stage show and then go to bed, you might prefer a lower deck near the main theater. Some people like to be close to the disco, others to the kids club. Look at the ship’s deck plan to determine where your favorite public spaces are located.

If you are an early riser, avoid cabins that are located directly above or below the disco and other late-night haunts. Likewise, those who like to sleep in might be annoyed by breakfast service in the main restaurant. If you are particularly sensitive to noise, consider choosing a cabin deep in the bowels of the ship, away from any public spaces.

The best cabins for the seasickness-prone are on lower decks, at approximately the middle of the ship. Those with mobility impairments might prefer to be close to the elevators. If you expect to require first aid services, you might choose a cabin near that facility. In addition, cruise ships provide a handful of modified cabins for those with disabilities. Depending on when you book, your options might be limited. Prioritize your concerns and choose the cabin that meets those that are most important.

Although cruise lines sometimes run promotions that offer better cabins at lower prices, in general, cabins are priced by category and deck. Within the same category, such as inside, ocean view or balcony, cabins on higher decks tend to cost more. In some cases, this means that a balcony on the lowest deck is priced similarly to an ocean view cabin on the highest deck. Consider your budget and your priorities, and choose the cabin that is the best fit for you.