Carnival cruise ships offer a variety of staterooms and locations to choose from. While there’s no such thing as a bad room, some are definitely better than others.
There could be any reason for a respective person to avoid a particular room type. Your ideal room might be someone else’s nightmare, so here is a list of Carnival cruise cabins you might want to avoid when booking your next cruise.
1. Avoid Porthole Cabins
Due to their limited view, porthole cabins are classified as interior rooms. They have two small, round portholes rather than full windows.
This could be an option if you need natural light but are on a tight budget. However, they’re generally not worth booking if you can afford something better.
Porthole cabins are available on all Carnival ships except for Excel and Spirit Class ships.
2. Skip Junior Balcony Cabins
The smallest of the balcony cabins are the junior balcony cabins. The room is significantly smaller although the balcony itself is the same size as a standard balcony cabin.
For light packers, this might not be an issue. However, consider opting for a standard balcony or a larger room for more space.
Junior balcony staterooms are only available on Mardi Gras, Carnival Jubilee, and Carnival Celebration.
3. Think Twice About Interior Upper/Lower Cabins
The smallest on Carnival ships are interior cabins also lacking the standard two twin beds. Alternatively, there’s a single twin bed or a sofa bed for a second guest.
The compact, space-saving cabins are budget-friendly but might not be comfortable for couples or even two adults who usually sleep on twin beds.
On most Carnival ships, excluding Excel and Spirit Class ships, these rooms can be found.
4. Stay Away From The Rooms Directly Below the Pool Deck
Being under the Lido pool area poses a similar problem as rooms above the nightclub but in reverse.
Early risers dragging deck chairs can be surprisingly loud, disturbing your morning sleep.
Check the deck plans to see where the pools are located and avoid cabins directly below if you prefer lazy mornings as the issue exists on most of the carnival ships.
5. Under the Dining Rooms
Reason to Avoid: During meal times, the dining rooms are bustling with activity. The sound of chairs scraping the floor and people talking can be heard clearly in the cabins below, which can be disruptive.
6. Say a Big No to the Rooms Above the Nightclub, Theatre, or Atrium
Rooms directly above the theatre, nightclub, or atrium are risky if you prefer early nights. Noise and vibrations from these venues can be quite disturbing.
On most Carnival ships, the theatre is at the front of deck 5, while the nightclub and lounges are towards the aft.
Therefore, it’s deck 6 you may want to avoid. For the new Excel-class ships, these venues are on deck 7, so steer clear of deck 8.
DJs playing music in the atrium is another noise concern. Typically on Deck 5, it extends up to Deck 8 on Excel-class ships, making Deck 9 mid-ship less ideal for those seeking quiet evenings.
7. Be Aware of the Pros and Cons of Staterooms Too Close to the Elevators
Cabins next to elevators might seem convenient, but they come with noise from people congregating and frequent sounds.
Although the elevators themselves are quiet, guests often aren’t. Better choose a room further down the corridor for a more peaceful experience.
8. Avoid Booking Forward-Facing Balcony Rooms
Forward-facing balconies offer unique views but due to high winds, they can be far from tranquil.
Some cruise lines bar access to these balconies while at sea but to allow access, Carnival uses heavy swinging doors and windshields.
Many guests still find it uncomfortable to spend time on these balconies while sailing. Forward-facing balcony rooms are available on Mardi Gras, Carnival Jubilee, and Carnival Celebration.
9. Havana Rooms: Great for Sunbathers Only
Perks like access to the Havana pool, a quiet area restricted to guests over 12, and themed decor are offered by Havana rooms.
However, these rooms might be a waste of money if sunbathing isn’t your thing. Havana staterooms are available on Vista and Excel Class ships.
10. At the Back of the Ship
Reason to Avoid: The rear of the ship experiences more vibrations and noise from the engines and propellers.
This constant background noise and movement can be unsettling and disrupt your relaxation.
11. Family Harbor Rooms: Best for Families
Decorated in a nautical theme and located near the family harbor lounge, family harbor rooms are great for families.
They however tend to be noisy with children running around. If peace and quiet are a priority, it’s best to avoid these rooms. Family harbor rooms are available on Excel and Vista Class ships.
12. Cove Balconies: More Shelter, Less Sun
Offering more privacy but less sunlight and a restricted view, cove balconies are enclosed with solid walls and a roof.
These are ideal for those who prefer a sheltered outdoor space but might not appeal to sun lovers. Cove balcony cabins are available on Excel, Vista, and Dream Class ships.
13. Near Public Restrooms
Reason to Avoid: Public restrooms see a lot of traffic, with doors opening and closing frequently. The noise from people talking and moving around can be heard clearly in nearby cabins, making it hard to relax.
14. Avoid Cabins That Worsen Seasickness
For those prone to seasickness, avoiding high decks at the front or aft of the ship, where motion is most felt might be a good idea. Opt for a mid-ship location on a lower deck to help manage symptoms.
15. Rooms Near the Anchor: Noisy Mornings
The lowest deck rooms at the front of the ship can be near the anchor, which tends to be loud when dropped in port, often in the early hours. Light sleepers should choose a different location.
16. Connecting Rooms: Privacy Considerations
For large groups connecting rooms are great but can be noisy if you don’t know your neighbors.
The adjoining door, while locked, may not be soundproof, so you might hear more than you’d like.
17. Ocean View Rooms: Consider Proximity to Activities
Offering a nice view, ocean-view rooms are a budget-friendly option with reasonable space. However, far from many onboard activities, they are often on lower decks.
Before booking an ocean-view room, check its location on the deck plans to avoid long treks back to your cabin.
18. With Fold-Out Beds
Reason to Avoid: Cabins with fold-out beds can be cramped, as the extra bed takes up valuable space. The fold-out beds are often less comfortable than regular beds, which can affect your sleep quality.
19. Picture-Window Obstructed View Rooms: Limited Privacy
Picture-window obstructed view rooms have a view of the walkway on the Observation Deck, requiring drawn curtains when it comes to privacy.
These rooms are on most Carnival ships, except for Excel and Fantasy Class ships.
20. Obstructed View Balconies: Weigh the Trade-Offs
Some balcony and premium balcony cabins have obstructed views because of lifeboats. If you book a balcony cabin for the view, it’s best to avoid these.
However, if fresh air is a priority, these can be a cheaper option. Obstructed view balconies are on Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle, while obstructed view premium balconies are also on Carnival Legend.
Time To Sum Up
Choosing the right stateroom on a Carnival cruise involves a balance of personal preferences and potential inconveniences.
While some rooms may have downsides, they might suit others perfectly. Prioritize your needs and preferences finding the best fit.
You’ll likely spend more time enjoying the ship’s amenities and making memories than in your room, so don’t stress too much over the choice.
