Cabin Guide

Windowless cabins in the ship's interior. Dark and quiet — many cruisers swear by them for a great night's sleep.

• Lowest fare — more budget for excursions and specialty dining
• Quietest and darkest for sleeping
• You'll rarely be in the room on a port-heavy itinerary

• No natural light or view
• Can feel compact on longer sailings

A window or porthole facing the sea. Lighter and airier than an interior, with the view included.

• Natural light and a real view
• Easier to gauge weather and port days
• Still much cheaper than balconies

• Window usually can't be opened (a true 'porthole' is fixed)
• Watch for 'obstructed view' fares — lifeboats may block part of the window

A private veranda with chairs and a table — your own slice of ocean, from morning coffee to sail-away sunsets.

• Private outdoor space, the biggest single upgrade in cruising
• Unforgettable on scenic routes — Alaska, fjords, Greek islands
• Breakfast in the cabin, door cracked for sea air at night

• Notably more expensive than ocean view
• You may use it less than you expect on warm Caribbean routes

The largest accommodations — separate living areas, bigger balconies, and often a host of VIP perks.

• Largest space, often with separate bedroom and living room
• Suite perks: priority boarding, dedicated concierge, sometimes free drinks and specialty dining
• Access to suite-only restaurants and lounge areas

• The biggest jump in fare — sometimes double a balcony
• Perks vary a lot by line; check exactly what's included before paying up