Front Or Back of Cruise Ship: Best Cabin Locations Explained!

Table Of Content

• Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Traveler MUST-KNOW
• Aft Balcony Pros – Why you’ll love an aft cabin!
• Royal Caribbean Announces Cancellation of All Cruise Stops to Private Island
• Proximity to Dining Areas and Amenities
• Amsterdam Confirms Plan to Halve River Cruises
• Planning a cruise is an exciting experience that offers endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation.

So, if you’re cruising to the Baltics, Iceland, Alaska, or crossing the Atlantic Ocean in the shoulder season, you might enjoy the extra rays of sunshine. Check the deck plans or ask your travel agent for a suggested cabin with easy access to amenities. When leaving a port, you’ll also enjoy the best views to say goodbye while forging onto the next port of call. It’s worth noting that on ships where this is true, that also means that people on the aft-facing balconies above you might be able to glance down at you. As a result, The deck above you can provide a bit of a shaded area, while the majority of the balcony will be directly exposed to the sun (and other elements). This will vary from ship to ship, but we’ve found that aft-facing balconies often get more sun than traditional ones.

Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Traveler MUST-KNOW

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You will find aft balcony rooms on all Royal Caribbean cruise ships, but the more affordable ones will be on Vision, Radiance, Voyager and Freedom Class ships. In addition, the aft balcony rooms on some Royal Caribbean ships have significantly larger balcony space than a balcony cabin on the side of the ship. Balcony cabins on a cruise ship come in locations all around the vessel, including some on the aft of the ship that are highly desirable for certain cruisers.

Aft Balcony Pros – Why you’ll love an aft cabin!

While we will explain these amenities in greater detail later, the ability to access them quickly with a short walk can enhance your entire onboard experience. Given that the views are the main appeal of cabins in this part of the ship, most will feature massive panoramic windows and private balconies that allow occupants to soak in the view. Aside from the passenger-friendly amenities you can usually find along the aft deck of a cruise ship, you can also find aft-facing cabins. These cabins are strategically positioned to offer privacy and tranquility, as they are removed from the main areas of the ship’s activity and passenger traffic. This makes them especially appealing to passengers who prefer a quieter and more serene cruise experience. If seasickness patches are a permanent cruising accessory, or you haven’t sailed before, consider booking a cabin close to the ship’s center.

Royal Caribbean Announces Cancellation of All Cruise Stops to Private Island

Additionally, the forward cabins often provide a quieter experience as they’re positioned away from the hustle and bustle of public areas and entertainment facilities. In the front of the ship, you’ll have a first-hand view of your arrival at your destination. It’s important to remember that pricing can vary depending on factors such as the ship’s age, size, and destination, as well as cabin location. You can choose from a range of cabin sizes and layouts, ensuring that you find the perfect space for your needs.

They Get More Sun

Cruise ships typically have cabins located at the front (forward), middle (midship), and back (aft) of the vessel. Another nice benefit of an aft balcony is you will not have noisy people walking by your door, compared to cabins midship. As mentioned above, special consideration should be paid on itineraries where more than the ocean or sea is on display. On a roundtrip Caribbean cruise or a transatlantic crossing, for example, the side of the ship you are on doesn't really matter. However, one-way sailings such as a southbound Alaska cruise or a trip from Barcelona to Rome means that scenery is, in fact, one of the biggest reasons to sail. Plan ahead before booking your cabin to see on which side of the ship you'll want your balcony room.

The structural integrity of the AFT, along with its various components and systems, contributes to the successful operation of a cruise ship throughout its lifespan. Alternatively, cabins at the back (aft) of the cruise ship tend to have the advantage of more steady movement and often provide even better views. The views of the wake alone are usually what draws most people to booking an aft balcony. Before booking, look at the deck plans for the ship you are going to sail on and investigate which aft balcony rooms have the extra balcony space.

Some barely fit two chairs while others come complete with loungers and cocktail tables. Additionally, on one-way cruises where shore views matter most, you'll want to plan carefully for which side of the ship is right for you. When it comes to choosing suites, it's best to figure out how much space you really need, what amenities are important to you and what you can afford to spend. Suites on most ships are often the first category to sell out, partly because there are fewer of them, and partly because they often offer extremely good value. For this reason, it's important to decide early what kind of suite you'd like. Family rooms are often suites that feature a separate kids' room (or sectioned-off area) plus an area for a parent of parents.

Not only will these areas have guard rails passengers can use to lean up against safely, most observation decks will have numerous seating options, like comfortable lounge chairs, bistro sets, and benches. These areas are excellent places to take in sunsets and sunrises, so make sure you head there early if you would like to sit at these times. These areas usually offer a truly unobstructed view so passengers can look down at the churning wake created by the ship’s propulsion system or at the vast expanse of the water and sky in the distance. Remember that some of the more refined eating venues on the aft deck may not be included in your cruise fare. If you are looking to save money and enjoy your cruise vacation on a tighter budget, opt for some of the less expensive dining options.

Planning a cruise is an exciting experience that offers endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation.

While some of these areas are in the shade as it helps protect passengers and provide a more relaxing atmosphere, other ships will go for a more open-air observation deck. If you hope to work on your tan while on the vessel, this is a great place to spend some time during the peak sunshine hours. Where many cruise ship passengers simply use their cabins as a place to sleep and shower, aft-facing cabins become an attraction for those lucky enough to have them. Because they face the back, they aren’t near elevators and other places where people gather or entertainment facilities at the rear of a vessel; the aft-facing cabins tend to be quieter. Structural considerations are vital in the design of the AFT, ensuring weight distribution, stability, durability, and safety. The design and architecture of the AFT incorporate accessibility, space utilization, aesthetics, and sustainability to create a well-rounded and efficient section of the ship.

Overall, booking an AFT facing cabin provides an opportunity to indulge in breathtaking views, privacy, exclusivity, and an intimate connection with the sea. While AFT facing cabins on cruise ships offer incredible views and a serene atmosphere, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before booking one for your next cruise. Overall, booking an AFT facing cabin offers numerous benefits, including breathtaking views, privacy, exclusivity, and ample natural light.

Depending on your desire to socialize, soak up the sun or enjoy some peace and quiet, you'll want to think strategically about where your cabin is aboard the cruise ship. That's particularly true as today's megaships -- like Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas -- can mean long walks to your room throughout the day. Feet of outdoor space, the Aquatheater outside space measures more than the average cabins.

Generally, standard inside and outside cabins will be your cheapest bets, with balcony cabins costing a bit more, and suites and anything higher being the most expensive. You can expect to pay more the more amenities and additions to service that you want. The basics of a balcony cabin are the same, whether your cruise room is located midship or aft. All have twin beds convertible to queen- or king-sized beds, a desk/vanity combo, closets and drawers for storage and some sort of sitting area, either with a chair or sofa. They have ensuite bathrooms, typically shower-only but occasionally with bathtubs.

Aft-erglow: 6 of the coolest spots at the back of cruise ships

Table Of Content

• Cabins with Balconies
• Spa Cabins: Unwind in the Comfort of Your Own Room
• Should You Book a Cabin in the Aft of the Cruise Ship?
• Suites and Beyond: The Best Option for High Rollers
• Observation Decks and Lounge Areas
• Sailing Experience: Front vs. Back

You’re relaxing out on the balcony when you hear your neighbors next door on theirs, and you hear every part of their conversation. The dull roar of the wake is both pleasant on the eyes and ears to provide that privacy. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. If you're traveling with little kids, you can also catch the islands disappearing in the distance at Surfside, the family area at the back of the ship just below The Hideaway. The tucked-away "neighborhood" can be found 135 feet above the ocean with the feel of a global beach club (complete with resident DJ) and those million-dollar aft vistas.

Cabins with Balconies

There is also the fact that aft-facing cabins offer more of a private sanctuary than other types of cabins. With that said, even within the context of a single cruise ship, pricing can vary depending on the type of aft-facing cabin and the amount of floorspace it offers. Another advantage that aft-facing cabins offer is their proximity to the various amenities on the aft deck.

Spa Cabins: Unwind in the Comfort of Your Own Room

They are typically priced higher than interior or windowed cabins and cheaper than suites. Balcony rooms around the ship can be assigned to special classes, such as spa cabins or concierge-level cabins. From early morning to late evening, the views of the ship’s wake are very calming and quite hypnotic.

Should You Book a Cabin in the Aft of the Cruise Ship?

In most cases, you’ll find that aft-facing balconies are larger than their port and starboard brothers. For example, while many complained about the rather small regular balconies on the Norwegian Breakaway, her aft-facing balconies were huge… in some cases, downright cavernous. With that in mind, let’s look at the pros and cons of booking an aft-facing balcony. These areas are reserved for staff members to sleep and recuperate during their off-duty hours. While crew quarters are found here on some ships, where crew quarters are located depends on the specific layout of each particular cruise ship.

We go into the benefits as well as some of the drawbacks and questions people have regarding noise, vibration and soot. By contrast, when you’re tucked away off to the sides of the ship, it’s quieter. And in general, the staterooms at the forward and aft of a ship will have more unique layouts than the more standardized midship staterooms, which may or may not work in your favor. If noise is a consideration, you’ll likely want to avoid units too close to high-traffic areas that are potential noise sources, like elevator banks.

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The prices of an aft-facing extended balcony on a Royal Caribbean Oasis-class vessel will be well above regular balcony prices, and they are often sold out first. These balconies have the best seats in the house for the Aqua Theater shows that take place in the back of the ship. This factor, on top of how large they are and the great views you get not only of the ocean but the Boardwalk, contributes to the higher premium cost. Another explanation for the popularity of the aft deck on most cruise ships is that many will feature various sports and recreation facilities. While some amenities offer the ability to relax and immerse oneself in the tranquility of being at sea, others offer fun and excitement.

Royal Caribbean Announces Cancellation of All Cruise Stops to Private Island

It involves a careful balance between structural considerations, space utilization, accessibility, safety, aesthetic appeal, and sustainability. By carefully considering these factors, cruise ship designers are able to create stunning and efficient AFT sections that enhance the overall experience for passengers and crew members alike. A concierge cabin comes with -- you guessed it -- easy access to a cruise concierge.

Observation Decks and Lounge Areas

From the comfort of their cabin, passengers can witness the ship’s wake as it slices through the waves, creating a mesmerizing trail of foam and froth. The panoramic view of the open ocean from the back of the ship offers a sense of tranquility and connection with nature that is unparalleled. On several cruise ships, the balcony on an aft-facing cabin can be up to twice the size of the balconies positioned on the ship’s sides. Overall, the AFT of a cruise ship serves as a multifunctional area that houses critical components, amenities, and features that are essential for the smooth operation and comfort of the vessel. Its functions range from propulsion and maneuvering to crew accommodations, entertainment, and safety features. The careful planning and integration of these functions in the AFT contribute to the unforgettable experience of passengers on board a cruise ship.

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This is because as a ship forges forward through the seas, it faces the most wind and direct hits from rolling waves, translating to lots of motion and sea spray. However, some cruisers enjoy that sense of being so connected to the sway of the seas. For me, there’s nothing more relaxing on a cruise ship than overlooking the ship’s wake. At the end of a sea day you can look out over the horizon and see exactly where your ship has been and how it has made any turns along the way. It’s also symbolic of going on an adventure as you get further away from land. I’ve been on some balconies that literally looked immediately over the balcony beneath it.

This quick guide with on cruise lingo such as Bow vs. Stern and Aft vs. Forward will help you to find your way around these foreign terms and have you familiar with the lingo before you step aboard. Seafaring vessels use universal colors to reflect these directions, with green denoting starboard and red denoting port. Check out our forward vs. aft cabin article and discover which would be best for you. If you need a visualization tool, imagine you’re walking toward the mermaid figurehead on the front half of the ship. The bow on the ship is a great spot to watch the front hull break through waves and race toward your next cruise destination.

The spaces for kids can range from a small alcove with bunk beds to an entire adjoining cabin. Pullman beds or pullout sofas can also help families with sleeping arrangements. If you're going to squeeze your whole troupe into one cabin, make sure the space is big enough to accommodate everyone (and their luggage). However, Disney Cruises is known for offering larger standard rooms meant to accomodate families. The nicest and most expensive cabins on any ship are generally on the highest decks. However, the pool deck is often the loudest during the day (and often well into the night).

Now that you know more about maritime terminology, you will be better prepared to navigate a trip and book a cabin for your next cruise vacation. Whether or not booking a cabin in the aft section of the ship is right for you depends on what you value in these types of trips and the budget you have set aside. In terms of the benefits of a cabin near the aft of the trip, many people find the view relaxing. Watching as the ship’s propulsion system churns up the water below can be mesmerizing, as can the expansive view of the sea or ocean you get behind the ship. This is usually most apparent when the ship is docking due to the ship’s thrusters.

Port and starboard along with other nautical terms are used onboard (i.e., to get to the hot tub, take the aft starboard staircase) but they are also used as navigational terms. "Port" side of a boat or ship refers to the left side of the vessel when facing forward.

When Sun Princess (the line's largest vessel to date) debuts in February 2024, it will up the aft ante even more. That's because Princess' next-generation ship will include an expanded Wake View Terrace. Swoon over that cerulean water from your perch in the infinity pool or lounge in a circular semi-shaded daybed on the South Beach-style resort deck. A shaded bar-in-the-round will offer a menu of crafty sips, and there will be entertainment day and night. On the other hand, if you do not plan to spend much time in your cabin, you can enjoy these views by visiting the public amenities and observation areas on the ship’s aft deck. As you would expect, more private aft-facing cabins that offer large balconies are far more expensive than smaller options that are impacted by the noise and commotion of the aft deck amenities.

Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips. This could be a real pro if you’re looking for ways to work off the meals you’ll be eating. Most ships don’t have a true aft elevator, meaning you’ll have to trek to get from your cabin to pretty much anywhere on the ship if you don’t want to take the stairs.