16 Norwegian Cruise Line Cabins To Avoid

Boarding on a cruise should be a highlight of your year, a seamless adventure across the sea filled with moments of relaxation and discovery. However, the choice of cabin can significantly influence your onboard experience. Norwegian Cruise Line offers many accommodations tailored to different needs and preferences.

While many options promise a delightful stay, particular cabins might not meet expectations due to their location, design, or inherent features. Here’s a detailed guide to the 16 cabin types on Norwegian Cruise Line ships you might want to skip to ensure your journey is as enjoyable as possible.

The Haven

The Haven by Norwegian is synonymous with luxury. It offers an exclusive retreat with top-tier amenities and personal service. This enclave of high-end suites provides a tranquil, upscale experience isolated from the bustling activity of the rest of the ship.

While appealing to those seeking peace and privacy, the premium cost can significantly dent your vacation budget, potentially limiting spending on other enjoyable pursuits. Moreover, the secluded nature of The Haven might make you feel disconnected from the vibrant atmosphere of the ship, possibly diminishing the overall cruise experience if you enjoy more social environments.

Studio Rooms

Designed specifically for solo travelers, Norwegian’s Studio Rooms are a boon for those cruising alone, eliminating the need for a single supplement. Compact and efficiently designed, these rooms provide all the necessities for a comfortable stay in a space that’s all your own. However, their small size can quickly feel cramped, particularly on longer voyages or for guests who value more personal space. While ideal for those who plan to spend most of their time outside the cabin, a studio room might feel limiting if you prefer a roomier environment to relax in.

Porthole Cabins

Porthole cabins hark back to the romantic age of sea travel, offering a unique and quaint window to the ocean. These cabins are charming, with the small, round windows providing a nostalgic touch. However, the limited size of the portholes allows for less natural light compared to larger windows or balcony doors, making these cabins feel smaller and darker. If your cruise dream includes bright, airy rooms with expansive ocean views, a porthole cabin might not meet your expectations.

Connecting Rooms

Connecting rooms are an excellent choice for families or groups wanting to stay close while maintaining some privacy. Despite their convenience, the lack of soundproofing around the connecting doors can pose a problem, as noise travels quickly between the rooms. This setup is less than ideal for those who prefer a quiet environment or are sensitive to noise from neighboring quarters.

Club Balcony Suites

Club Balcony Suites, formerly known as Mini Suites, offer more space and additional perks over standard balcony staterooms. These suites provide a slightly more luxurious experience, including a larger bathroom and sitting area. While the added comfort is undeniable, the upgrade comes at a higher cost, which may not always represent the best value. Prospective guests should consider whether the extra amenities justify the expense, mainly if the cruise itinerary is port-heavy and little time will be spent in the cabin.

Obstructed View Rooms

Rooms with obstructed views are offered at a reduced price due to their compromised views. While these accommodations can be a bargain, lifeboats or other ship structures outside the window can significantly detract from the experience. These barriers can obstruct much of the view, leaving you with little more than a glimpse of the ocean or sky. If part of your enjoyment comes from watching the sea peacefully from your private quarters, an obstructed view room might not meet your needs.

Cabins Near Crew Areas

Situated near the operational areas of the ship, cabins adjacent to crew zones can experience unexpected noise, particularly at night or early morning. These areas are typically unmarked on deck plans, making it difficult for travelers to identify potentially noisy locations. The sound of crew moving equipment or accessing service areas can disrupt the tranquility of your cabin. If you’re a light sleeper or value quiet above all else, it’s wise to avoid these cabins and opt for accommodations surrounded by other guest rooms.

Lower Cabins Near the Aft

Cabins on the lower decks near the aft of the ship are close to the engine and propellers, resulting in noticeable vibration and noise, especially when docking. The proximity to the ship’s mechanical workings can disturb your room’s peace, potentially disrupting sleep. Guests who prefer a smoother and quieter ride should consider higher decks and midship cabins, where the effects of engine operation are less pronounced.

PrivaSea Balcony Staterooms

PrivaSea Balcony Staterooms feature partially enclosed balconies that prioritize privacy over panoramic views. These staterooms have a smaller open area and are encased above and to the sides by the ship’s structure, reducing the feeling of openness typically associated with a cruise balcony. While these cabins can offer a cozy, secluded outdoor space, they may disappoint those who look forward to extensive, unobstructed sea views and the full balcony experience.

Cabins Directly Under the Gym

Located directly beneath the gym, these cabins can suffer from noise pollution from fitness equipment and activities above. The sound of dropping weights and running treadmills can be disruptive, particularly during early morning or late evening workouts. If peace and quiet are crucial for your relaxation and sleep, it is advisable to avoid cabins under the gym and opt for more peaceful locations away from high-traffic areas.

Cabins Worse For Seasickness

Cabins on higher decks and at the ship’s extremities are less desirable for those susceptible to seasickness due to increased movement. These areas feel the ship’s motion more acutely, which can exacerbate seasickness symptoms.

To minimize discomfort, choose a cabin on a lower deck towards the ship’s center, where movement is less pronounced. Such placements help provide a more stable environment, allowing you to enjoy the voyage without worrying about feeling unwell.

Cabins Directly Under the Nightclub

Cabins directly below the nightclub are exposed to late-night noise that can extend into the early morning hours. The pulsating sounds of music and dance can travel through the deck, disrupting the peace of the cabins below. For guests who value their sleep and prefer a quieter atmosphere at night, selecting a cabin away from the nightclub and other high-energy nighttime venues is best.

Cabins Directly Below the Pool Deck

Situated directly below the pool deck, these cabins often contend with noise from above as the crew sets up deck chairs and prepares the pool area in the early morning. The scraping and rearranging furniture can be a rude awakening for anyone hoping to sleep in. For a more restful environment, seek out cabins not located beneath high-traffic areas, such as the pool deck.

Cheaper Categories On Older Ships

Older ships in the fleet might offer nostalgia and charm, but the cabins, particularly those in lower categories, can feel outdated and cramped. These spaces often feature smaller, less accommodating bathrooms and outdated decor. Guests looking for a more modern and spacious living arrangement might be better served by newer ships or upgrading to higher-category cabins.

Cabins Between Stairways and Elevators

While conveniently located near the ship’s amenities, cabins near stairways and elevators can experience frequent foot traffic and associated noise. The constant movement of guests and crew in these areas can disrupt the peace of nearby cabins, particularly during busy times of day or night. If tranquility is a priority, opt for a cabin away from these high-traffic areas to ensure a quieter, more serene living space.

Norwegian Epic Rooms With Exposed Showers

The Norwegian Epic’s staterooms with exposed showers and split bathrooms offer a unique layout where the shower and toilet are separated by frosted glass partitions directly within the room. This design lacks privacy and can be inconvenient for sharing among multiple guests. If you prefer traditional bathroom arrangements with full privacy, choosing a different ship or cabin type within the Norwegian fleet would be advisable.

This comprehensive guide aims to help you navigate the nuances of cabin selection on Norwegian Cruise Line, ensuring that your choice enhances your cruise experience rather than detracts from it. Considering these insights, you can select a cabin that aligns with your preferences and expectations, paving the way for a memorable and enjoyable voyage.