Upper vs. Lower Deck: A Cabin Comparison (2024)

FAQs

Is an upper or lower deck better on a cruise? ›

The higher the deck, the better and, often, more panoramic the view. Cabins on top decks aren't always the best on the ship, but many suites and specialty cabin categories are typically located on upper decks.

Upper deck for the view, the niceties that come with the upper deck, and less noise (usually unless you're near the disco). Lower decks usually cost less, bounce around less in bad weather, but they can be noisy from the engines at the rear or the bow thrusters up front.

Choosing the Best Deck for You

Think About Motion Sensitivity: If you are sensitive to motion, lower decks towards the middle of the ship offer the most stability. The higher and further forward (or aft) you go, the more motion you will feel, especially in rough seas.

On most cruise ships, the most luxurious accommodation is on the upper decks. Here, you'll find a selection of elegant suites, with generous outdoor space, separate living areas, and amenities ranging from all-inclusive drinks to the service of a concierge.

Key Takeaways. Certain areas of a cruise ship, including pool decks, dining rooms, and outer decks, can become particularly hazardous during rough seas, posing risks such as injuries from slips and falls.

Upper decks are more expensive than lower. Big reason is that nobody wants a balcony right near the water line, so the more expensive balcony cabins are up higher. Higher decks are closer to “the action,” such as the buffet and the pool.

For passengers looking to enjoy views, especially the scenery in the wake of a ship, we recommend higher decks and the back of the vessel. The higher you pick, the farther you'll see. If you're after views, the best room on a cruise ship will be a balcony cabin at the ship's rear end.

Another vote for reopen: In my experience the upper deck is objectively better. A much smaller cabin makes for better service and less disruption. Due to fuselage curvature there is often one less column of seats and the window seats do have an extra storage bin at the wall which is super handy.

To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section. Although it may seem counterintuitive, if you're worried about seasickness on a cruise, book a stateroom with a window or a veranda.

The big allure of a midship cabin is its stability. You won't feel the rocking of the sea in a midship cabin nearly as much as you will in a cabin toward the front or back of a vessel. This is because ships are like teeter-totters. They pitch forward and back around a central axis that barely moves.

Where do you feel the most rocking on a cruise ship? ›

1-Front (front of the ship)

If you imagine a cruise ship as a see-saw, as it cuts through the waves the front of the ship will dip down in the water and then come back up, meaning you'll get the most movement at the front of the ship.

Elevators and staircases can also be high-traffic, noisy areas of a cruise ship (that are near cabins on some ships). And don't forget the cruise ship engine.

Choosing the right cabin can make a big difference when it comes to seasickness. You want a cabin where you're less likely to experience swaying and movement from the waves. The middle of the ship and not too high is your safest bet. A mid-ship stateroom with a balcony for quick access to fresh air may be ideal.

For passengers looking to enjoy views, especially the scenery in the wake of a ship, we recommend higher decks and the back of the vessel. The higher you pick, the farther you'll see. If you're after views, the best room on a cruise ship will be a balcony cabin at the ship's rear end.

To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section. Although it may seem counterintuitive, if you're worried about seasickness on a cruise, book a stateroom with a window or a veranda.

Generally, sitting on the upper deck is preferable because of the usually smaller cabin and lower density configuration (2-4-2 vs. 3-4-3). It's also quieter sitting upstairs. For a day flight being here may be an advantage, since you can receive service more easily, or in premium cabins, perhaps serve yourself.