What's the Best Location on a Cruise Ship?

One of the most common questions I receive when helping clients choose a stateroom is, "What's the best location on the ship?"

Most people focus on the cabin category, whether that's an inside, oceanview, balcony, mini suite, or suite. While the cabin type is important, where that cabin is located can make a big difference in your overall cruise experience.

The answer to the question is usually, "It depends."

The best location for a family with young children may be completely different than the best location for a couple celebrating an anniversary. Some guests want the least amount of motion possible. Others are willing to walk a little farther in exchange for a larger balcony or a quieter location.

Let's take a look at the different areas of the ship and the pros and cons of each.

Midship

If you've never cruised before, I usually recommend midship. It tends to work well for most travelers and offers a nice balance of convenience and stability.

Pros

• Generally, experiences the least amount of motion

• Convenient access to dining, entertainment, pools, and elevators

• Great option for guests concerned about seasickness

• Less walking throughout the ship

Cons

• Often among the most requested locations

• May cost more on some ships due to demand

• Can be busier near elevator areas

For many travelers, midship is hard to beat because it provides a comfortable and convenient location without too many tradeoffs.

Mid-Forward

Mid-forward cabins are located between the center and the front of the ship.

Pros

• Often quieter than some of the busier midship areas

• Still relatively convenient to most amenities

• Easy access to theaters, lounges, and observation areas on many ships

Cons

• Slightly more motion than true midship cabins

• Longer walk to venues located toward the rear of the ship

I often recommend this area to guests who want a quieter location while still remaining fairly central.

Mid-Aft

Mid-aft cabins are located between the center and the rear of the ship.

Pros

• Often quieter than midship

• Convenient access to dining venues on many ships

• Less hallway traffic

Cons

• Longer walk to theaters and activities located forward

• Slightly more motion than midship

I find that many experienced cruisers enjoy this area because it offers a quieter atmosphere without being all the way at the back of the ship.

Aft

Aft cabins are located at the rear of the ship and are often favorites among seasoned cruisers.

Pros

• Incredible wake views

• Greater privacy

• Larger balconies on many ships

• Peaceful location away from busy public areas

Cons

• Longer walks to many ship amenities

• Some ships may experience vibration in aft areas

• Motion can be more noticeable during rough seas

I have had clients specifically request aft cabins because they spend so much time enjoying their balcony. If relaxing outside with a morning coffee or watching the sunset over the ship's wake sounds appealing, an aft cabin may be worth considering.

Forward

Forward cabins are located toward the front of the ship.

Pros

• Often among the quietest areas on the ship

• Beautiful views

• Convenient access to observation lounges on some ships

Cons

• Typically experiences the most motion

• Longer walks to dining venues and aft activities

• Wind can be stronger on balconies

For travelers who are sensitive to motion, I usually recommend another location. For those who aren't bothered by ship movement, forward cabins can be a wonderful choice.

What About Alaska?

Since I book quite a few Alaska cruises, this question comes up often. For most Alaska travelers, I typically recommend a midship or mid-forward balcony cabin. These locations offer a comfortable ride while providing easy access to public viewing areas during scenic cruising days.

That said, some travelers specifically request aft balconies because the views can be spectacular.

As with any cruise, the best choice depends on how you plan to enjoy your vacation.

A Common Mistake

One thing I see from time to time is travelers focusing entirely on the cabin category and overlooking the location.

Sometimes a well-located balcony cabin can be a better choice than a higher-category cabin in a location that doesn't fit your travel style. That's why I always look at both the cabin category and the cabin location before making a recommendation.

A cabin is where you'll sleep. The location of that cabin can impact your convenience, comfort, views, and overall enjoyment throughout the cruise.

So, What's the Best Location?

At the end of the day, there is no single "best" location on a cruise ship.

There is only the best location for you.

One of the things I enjoy helping clients with is selecting the right stateroom. Two cabins can be in the exact same category and provide very different experiences simply because of where they're located on the ship.

When I make a recommendation, I'm looking at the whole picture: your travel style, mobility, budget, who you're traveling with, and how you plan to spend your time onboard.

Sometimes the perfect cabin is midship. Sometimes it's aft. Sometimes it's a cabin that many travelers would overlook.

The goal isn't simply to book a cabin. The goal is to book the right cabin for your vacation.

If you're unsure which location might be the best fit, I'm always happy to help.

When in doubt, always take the trip. - Brenda