Years ago if you were to ask me if it was worth spending extra money to upgrade from a standard inside stateroom to a deluxe cabin, I would have rolled my eyes and probably muttered something like: “Why pay more on a place you aren’t going to spend much time in?” My tune has changed since having a child because now I am spending more time in that “place.” (Gone are the days of 8-hour shore excursions and 7-hour power tan sessions.)
Before deciding on the type of cabin you should book on your next cruise I would highly recommend comparing accommodations between competing cruise lines. Two major publications that specialize in all things related to cruising recently revealed their picks for the best cabins.
Overall, Norwegian and Regent Seven Seas Cruises ranked as the top picks for best deluxe cabins, while Carnival and Holland America were honored for having the best standard cabins.
According to CrusieMates, Norwegian Cruise Lines scored well because it offered an assortment of cabins, including garden, courtyard, and family suites. Some of those suites included separate living and dining areas and access to private courtyards with pools and hot tubs. Meanwhile, Regent Seven Seas got high praise for having two ships that feature all-suite, all-outside cabins. Of course, you’re going to pay for the privilege and extra amenities.
If you are looking for something a bit more affordable, then stick with Carnival. According to the editor of Cruise Critic, “Carnival’s standard cabins are larger than average and well-equipped.” And that goes for the lowest-category inside cabins as well. As for Holland America cabins, Cruise Critic’s editor says they average 25% larger than those of other premium cruise lines.
Speak with avid cruisers and you’ll likely detect a hint of distain when the subject of inside cabins comes up. Most people think that inside cabins are never good, but experts disagree. Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean all won raves as having more than decent inside cabins. Carnival was praised for its spaciousness, while Disney was honored for its friendliness to families… and space. Disney’s Deluxe Inside Stateroom can sleep four with a convertible sofa and pull-down Murphy-style bed and also features a relationship-saving split bath.
Royal Caribbean’s Voyager and Freedom class ships also received high marks for their inside cabins, mainly because the cabins have windows that look out on the Royal Promenade. If you are traveling with children and need more space you can still choose the less expensive inside cabin, but pick the Promenade Family Stateroom, which can sleep six and features 300-square-feet of private space.
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