One of the most important decisions you’ll need to make when booking a cruise is your cabin type and location.
Sometimes there can be up to 20 different cabin categories, so how do you go about choosing the perfect cabin?
Basically your decision will come down to three different variables: size, type and location. And your choice will be a personal lifestyle preference or may depend on your budget.
The best thing to do is to talk with your Discount Cruises travel consultant – spend some time thinking about what is important to you and consider the cost differential, and they will recommend the most suitable cabin type for your needs.
Location
Many cruise ships today have standard cabins of similar size and amenities, so the price differential may eventually be based on the cabin location – the level of the deck and then location on that deck. Cabins on higher decks tend to be the most expensive as they are nearer the pool and sun decks – particularly attractive on warm-weather cruises.
Mid-ship cabins also attract a higher premium, as their central location provides the smoothest ride.
Inside cabins on the lowest deck are often the most affordable due to their position in relation to common areas such as pools.
Inside Cabins
These are the lowest category of cabin and the least expensive, in the internal section of the ship, with no window or porthole to the ocean. Some of the newer ships may have windows to into the atrium of the ship, but inside cabins tend to be best suited to passengers who intend on being out and about a lot and don’t require any natural light. Talk to your Discount Cruises consultant about the price differential between and Inside and Outside cabin as the difference may be quite small.
Outside Cabins
Generally, outside cabins are almost identical in size and amenities to the inside cabins, the only difference is the sealed window or porthole to the ocean, offering natural light into the cabin.
The Porthole cabins are on the lower decks and generally less expensive. Most modern ships have large picture windows rather than potholes, but cannot be opened. So if you want a sea breeze in your room, you’ll need to opt for a balcony cabin.
Balcony Cabins
The balcony or verandah cabin is the nest step up with the same amenities and the added advantage of a sliding glass door that gives you access to the outside and ocean views from anywhere in your cabin. They are a place for you to sit, dine, enjoy the view or even have a massage. Sometimes a balcony cabin comes with the added bonus of a butler!
Suites, Penthouses & Villas
Above the balcony category there’s a range of luxury cabins that offer more space and facilities than other cabins. Suites come in all shapes, sizes and locations. Some have private balconies, other come with interconnecting cabins for families. They are a wonderful treat, especially if you have a lot of days at sea.
Contact Discount Cruises on 0860 600 787 for more information on the latest cruises or visit www.discountcruises.co.za