Celebrity Cruises Cabins to Avoid
By Janet Benoir | March 21, 2025
Experiencing a luxury cruise is an escape into a world of vivid sunsets and tranquil seas, where every detail is designed to provide the ultimate indulgence. Yet, not every cabin on Celebrity Cruises offers the serene oasis you might imagine. Despite the line’s reputation for elegance and comfort, some staterooms could detract from your grand voyage.
To ensure your journey is as magnificent as the brochures promise, we dive deep into the deck plans, comb through cruiser testimonials, and distill expert advice to bring you the definitive list of 15 Celebrity Cruises cabins you’d be wise to steer clear of. From noisy neighbors to obscured views, let’s navigate the nuances of cabin selection to safeguard your serene retreat at sea.
Aqua Class Staterooms
Imagine paying a premium for perks like aromatherapy showers and exclusive dining at Blu, only to find you rarely use these spa-centric benefits. These cabins, while plush, might not offer value to those who don’t plan to indulge in holistic offerings.
For guests not interested in spa treatments or the health-centric amenities, the extra expense of an Aqua Class stateroom can feel like a lavish misstep, making these rooms less ideal unless you plan to maximize every spa-related perk offered.
Concierge Class Staterooms
These staterooms come with a concierge service to smooth out your schedule, but the added cost might not justify the convenience for the independent traveler. If you relish making your adventure plans, skip this upgrade.
The concierge services include personalized assistance and exclusive embarkation day lunch. However, if you enjoy the thrill of planning and exploring on your own, these benefits may not appeal to you, and the investment could be redirected towards other onboard experiences.
Deluxe Porthole Balcony Staterooms
Some balconies on Celebrity’s innovative ships feature a quirky porthole view rather than expansive glass doors. These cabins, while unique, can feel cramped and dark, dimming the luster of your oceanic escapades. The novelty of a porthole might initially charm, but it wears off quickly when you realize how much it restricts your view and light, possibly affecting your overall cruise experience.
Obstructed View Staterooms
Positioned on decks with lifeboats or other equipment, these cabins offer a glimpse of the ocean — but it’s like peeking through a keyhole. Perfect for budget travelers indifferent to vistas but a no-go for scenic seekers. If you dream of waking up to unobstructed seascapes, the frustration of a lifeboat hanging outside your window could significantly diminish your enjoyment.
Infinite Verandas on Edge Class Ships
The Edge Class ships introduced Infinite Verandas, which seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces. While technologically impressive, traditional balcony lovers may find this design too avant-garde for their taste.
The concept of a balcony that can be closed off with folding doors may appeal to those seeking a more flexible living space, yet for many, nothing beats the classic balcony experience, where the outside is just a sliding door away.
Deck 3 Staterooms on Edge Class Ships
Beneath the hustle and bustle of Deck 4’s attractions, Deck 3 cabins might catch the echo of late-night revelries or early-morning preparations — less than ideal for those who value their sleep. The proximity to high-traffic areas like theaters and nightclubs means that soundproofing might not be enough to ensure a peaceful night’s rest, making these staterooms a risky choice for light sleepers.
Staterooms Below the Pool Deck
The sound of sun loungers scraping at dawn and the thump of jogging feet might permeate these cabins. Ideal for early risers, this location could disrupt the dreams of those who prefer a quieter start to their day. Additionally, during high-activity hours, the overhead noise from the pool deck can transform a relaxing afternoon into a less pleasant experience, especially during sea days when outdoor activities are at their peak.
Premium Staterooms on Celebrity Xpedition
As charming as these rooms are, their nostalgic nautical decor makes them smaller and feel a bit dated. Adventure seekers might not mind, but luxury lovers should look elsewhere. While offering an intimate connection to the sea, these cabins lack the modern amenities and spacious feel found in newer or more luxuriously appointed accommodations on larger ships.
Rooms Prone to Seasickness
High and at either end of the ship, these staterooms feel the ocean’s movement most. If the sea’s sway isn’t your idea of adventure, choose a cabin midship on a lower deck. These locations are less affected by the motion of the waves and are typically more stable, which can make a significant difference for guests prone to seasickness.
Connecting Rooms When Booking Just One
While great for families or groups, the thin doors between connecting rooms can mean overhearing every detail of your neighbor’s vacation. For peace and quiet, choose a standard room. The potential for noise leakage can turn a restful night into a restless one, primarily if the adjoining room hosts late-night revelers or early risers.
Small Inside Cabins
Compact and cost-effective, these are designed for solo travelers who spend little time in their rooms. If you tend to claustrophobia, consider splurging on a roomier retreat. These cabins, while economical, offer limited space for relaxation and storage, potentially making extended periods in the room feel confined.
Cramped 3-Person Staterooms
These are a tight fit when the sofa bed is in use. Not ideal for trios of adults, these spaces are best reserved for families with young children comfortable in cozy confines. When all beds are deployed, moving around becomes a challenge, and privacy is virtually non-existent, making these accommodations less suitable for groups of adults seeking a comfortable space.
Inside Rooms Running Lengthwise Along a Corridor
The unusual layout of these cabins means your sleep could be disturbed by foot traffic just a wall away. Light sleepers prefer a more traditionally oriented room. The long exposure to a busy corridor can exacerbate noise issues, particularly during peak times when guests are moving about the ship.
Is Upgrading to a Balcony Room Worth It?
Upgrading to a balcony room offers more than just a private outdoor space—it enhances your cruising experience by providing personal retreats where you can enjoy the ocean breeze and stunning views without leaving your room.
For those who appreciate private moments or enjoy the beauty of the ocean and ports from the comfort of their stateroom, a balcony is worth the extra investment, especially on scenic routes like Alaska or the Caribbean, where the views are a significant part of the experience.
Is it Better to Be on a Higher Deck?
Being on a higher deck has advantages, such as spectacular views and quicker access to ship amenities often located on upper levels, including the pool deck and lounges. However, higher decks can experience more motion, which might concern those prone to seasickness. Lower decks offer more stability and are often quieter, making them a good choice for those who prioritize a smooth and serene cruise experience over the views.
Why It Is Important To Choose Your Location and Room
Selecting the right location and room on a cruise ship is vital for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The perfect stateroom offers peace, privacy, and stunning views, enhancing your vacation, while a poor choice may lead to discomfort and sleepless nights. Factors like the room’s proximity to amenities, potential noise levels, and seasickness risk significantly affect your satisfaction.
Understanding the ship’s layout and each cabin type is crucial for making an informed choice that suits your preferences and ensures your cruise is relaxing and enjoyable. The stateroom you select is your retreat throughout the cruise; its comfort and location are crucial for thoroughly enjoying your sea voyage and destinations.