Whether you hit the casinos or not, you could be gambling before you climb on board your cruise ship. Some cruise lines charge a premium if you want to pick your room, or they’ll do it on your behalf for free. But should you let the cruise line pick your room?
Today, we’ll examine the advantages and disadvantages of letting the cruise line pick your room. Is it worth the risk?
Let’s look and see!
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Be sure to read Cruise Ship Terms Everyone Should Know before booking your next trip!
What Are Guaranteed Rooms on Cruises?
When you book a guaranteed room, you’re booking a specific cabin category. This could be an inside, ocean view, balcony, or other cabin category. You’re not reserving a specific cabin number or location of the ship.
The cruise line will place you in that cabin category somewhere on the ship. They’ll typically assign your cabin closer to your departure date. Booking these rooms comes with a certain level of uncertainty. If you’re cruising with others and have multiple rooms, there’s a good chance you won’t be together.
What Is the Best Floor to Book on a Cruise Ship?
The best floor to book on a cruise will depend on your preferences and what you value. Those prone to motion sickness will likely want to choose a mid-ship deck. These tend to experience less motion and rocking sensation.
However, if you’re choosing a balcony, choosing a deck as high as possible provides the best views of the open seas. You’ll be able to see further out and be elevated above the water. On the other hand, lower decks allow you to be closer to the dining rooms, lounges, and entertainment. Unfortunately, they’re also noisier, and passengers typically feel more movement.
If you pick your floor, you’ll want to consider what is directly above or below you. Booking a room under a basketball court or common area can be very noisy. It’s a good idea to consider how far or close you’ll be to any amenities you plan to enjoy. To reduce your walking, getting as close to these facilities as possible can be helpful.
Is It Better to Get a Room in the Front or Back of a Cruise Ship?
Choosing a room at the front or back of a ship can be difficult. The front of the vessel tends to experience less motion and offers a quieter atmosphere. This is an excellent option if you’re worried about rocking and motion sickness. If you have a balcony, a room at the front can provide great views when sailing into and out of a port.
On the other hand, choosing a room at the back of the ship can also be a great option. These rooms provide views of the ship’s wake, which never gets old. Additionally, these rooms experience much less wind, making enjoying your balcony easier. Unfortunately, these rooms can be noisier as they’re at the back and tend to experience engine noise.
Ultimately, either is a fantastic option, but you’ll want to consider the ship’s layout. Each vessel is unique, and the design can significantly impact your decision.
Benefits of Cruise Line Picking Room
There are a few benefits of letting the cruise line pick your room. Let’s examine why you might consider letting them choose it for you.
Cost Savings
Letting the cruise line pick your room is typically cheaper. A cruise line may put you in a cabin that would have cost you more if you had selected it yourself. They’ll typically discount these rooms for flexibility in filling the ship.
The amount of savings can depend on the cruise. It could be anywhere from a few bucks to hundreds or thousands of dollars. You’ll need to compare the cost savings specific to your ship and the exact dates you’re looking to sail.
Upgrades
While it may be a gamble, you can hit the jackpot by letting the cruise line pick your room. From time to time, they’ll offer complimentary upgrades to a higher category. This often happens when cabins in higher categories go unsold, and they want to fill them with passengers who have already booked.
While you can’t bank on these occurrences, they’re great when they happen. Sometimes the cruise-booking gods will smile upon you and reward you. When it happens, appreciate it and celebrate your good fortunes.
Surprise and Excitement
Sometimes a little bit of excitement and surprise can make your trip memorable. If you like the unpredictable nature of letting the cruise pick your trip, this is an excellent option. It’s like booking a hotel room; you don’t know what you get until you walk through the door.
Disadvantages of Cruise Line Picking Room
However, there are equally as many disadvantages to letting the cruise line pick your room. Let’s consider a few reasons you might want to pay extra and select your room yourself.
Lack of Control
When you let the cruise line pick your room, you lose all control. They can place you in any room on the ship that matches the category. You could end up near a noisy elevator, restaurant, or nightclub. If you enjoy peace and quiet while sleeping, this can make for a long cruise.
Additionally, you could be far away from any of the amenities you value or will use the most. This can make it very frustrating each time you use those items. For some people, this alone is worth paying a premium.
Not Available for Special Accommodations
If you’re traveling with others or require specific accommodations, this option may not be possible. However, while it’s generally unavailable, you can contact the cruise line with your request. In these instances, the cruise line may require you to pay to select your room. It never hurts to ask, but don’t hold your breath that it will work.
Potential Obstructed Views
You could have an obstructed view when a cruise line selects your room. Some cruisers get excited to find they have an oceanview balcony but then arrive to find that a lifeboat or other obstacle obstructs their view.
If you instead pay the premium price to select your specific room, you can avoid this. You can pick a room without any obstructions and have a clear view of the ocean throughout your trip.
Should You Risk Letting the Cruise Line Pick Your Room?
Whether or not you should let the cruise line pick your room is entirely up to you. If you have high expectations for your stateroom, you’ll benefit from paying to choose your specific room. However, it can be worth it if you’re flexible and want to save a few bucks. Just make sure you set your expectations accordingly to avoid experiencing disappointment.
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