Can You Choose the Location of Your Room When Booking an Inside Cabin on a Cruise Ship?

Yes, you do have the option to choose your room location when booking an inside cabin on a cruise ship, but it might come at an additional cost. This flexibility is particularly noteworthy if you book early enough and are willing to make this choice. Choosing your cabin upfront can certainly be beneficial, especially if the cruise line assigns you a cabin in less desirable locations without your input.

The Importance of Booking Early

Just like selecting seats on a flight, your ability to choose a room on a cruise ship largely depends on how early you book. If you plan ahead and book your cruise at least a few months (or even a year) in advance, you have a better chance of securing your preferred cabin. The early veniam early bird, as they say, secures the worm.
In a secure setting, such as a minimum-security prison, prisoners may still be somewhat mobile but are restricted to certain areas and eventually return to their cells. A similar dynamic can be observed in an inside cabin on a cruise ship. You regain little-to-no views of the sea or the port you're visiting, which makes the experience less appealing to many. It's often more enjoyable to have a balcony cabin where you can enjoy the outside views and the cruise atmosphere.

The Disadvantages of an Inside Cabin

The drawbacks of an inside cabin are numerous, particularly for those looking for a true vacation experience. Many find inside cabins to be similar to being in a prison cell, where you return to a windowless, view-less cabin post-morning activities. The lack of sea or port views diminishes the overall experience, and it might leave you feeling enclosed and restricted.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're looking for a more enjoyable cruise experience, it would be more beneficial to opt for a balcony cabin. These cabins allow you to enjoy the outside views, have a drink out on your balcony, or even enjoy your breakfast with a view. Our personal experience on our first cruise confirmed that choosing an inside cabin felt akin to spending hours in a prison-like environment. It's a stark contrast to the vacation experience many desire, and we've pledged to avoid it in the future due to this dissatisfaction.

Where Can You Choose Your Cabin?

You can choose your inside cabin in several ways. One option is to use specific cruise websites or Travelocity. When booking through these platforms, you can specify that you want an inside cabin and view available cabins across all decks of the ship. You can then select your desired cabin and insert the cabin number into your booking. Additionally, you can communicate with your travel agent to inquire about room selections and specify your preferences regarding location to avoid noisy areas such as elevators, swimming pools, or buffets.

Additional Considerations

It's worth noting that some cruise lines might assign you a cabin in quieter, less ideal positions, such as directly over the propeller shafts in the bowels of the ship. Balcony side rooms or more centrally located cabins can be reserved with more effort and either a higher price tag or the help of a platinum card or a payment equivalent of the first-born male child. However, securing a chosen cabin is possible, and it's always a good idea to have a proactive approach to your cruise cabin selection.

In conclusion, while an inside cabin might be cheaper, the experience can be significantly less enjoyable. Exploring your options, booking early, and sometimes paying a premium can result in a better experience and a more enjoyable cruise vacation. Always consider the views, the location, and the amenities available before making your final decision.