Booking a cruise with Celebrity means you’re expecting something a little more refined—a step above the party ships, but not quite ultra-luxury territory either.
With that premium vibe comes a premium price, and the last thing you want is to pay more for a room that ends up being wrong for you.
The good news? Most Celebrity staterooms are fantastic. The bad news? A few can be less than ideal depending on where they’re located, how they’re designed, or whether you’ll actually use the extra perks.
I’ve studied the deck plans, checked forums, scrolled through Reddit threads, and even peeked at real cruiser complaints to help you avoid common booking regrets. Let’s dive in.
1. Concierge Class Staterooms
Ships: All mainline ships
Why avoid: Costs more for services you may already do yourself
Concierge Class staterooms are another “sounds premium but might disappoint” situation.
They cost slightly less than AquaClass (usually 20–25% above Veranda rooms), but the value depends on whether you’ll use the perks:
- Priority check-in and boarding
- Access to an exclusive Concierge Desk to help with reservations and excursions
- Special welcome lunch
- Destination seminar onboard
- Daily canapés and… a shoeshine service?
Sure, the idea of having a dedicated person to make your bookings is nice. But in reality, you can do most of this through the app or by visiting guest services—and that’s free. Most cruisers report that they never even used the Concierge Desk.
If you’re the type who likes planning things yourself (or doesn’t mind waiting in line once or twice), save the money and book a standard Veranda.
Best for: First-time cruisers or guests who love having VIP help
Not ideal for: Independent travelers who enjoy planning things themselves
2. AquaClass Staterooms
Ships: All mainline Celebrity ships (not Expedition class)
Why avoid: Higher cost for amenities you may not use
On paper, AquaClass sounds amazing. You’re treated to:
- Luxurious bedding and wellness-themed bathroom amenities
- Unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite (Edge-class) or Persian Garden (other ships)
- Exclusive dining at Blu, a clean-cuisine restaurant
- Priority booking through the Spa Concierge
- Complimentary yoga and fitness classes
But here’s the catch: you’ll usually pay about 25% more than a standard Veranda room for these perks.
And if you’re not someone who enjoys daily spa sessions or specialty health menus, you’re overpaying for stuff you won’t use.
Don’t get me wrong—Blu has some lovely dishes, and those rain-style shower heads are great.
But if you’d rather have a steak in the main dining room and only visit the spa once, this is money better saved or spent on a specialty dining experience instead.
Better alternative: Regular Veranda stateroom — same views, more savings.
3. Infinite Veranda Staterooms
Ships: Edge-class only
Why avoid: No separate balcony—your entire cabin becomes the balcony
Edge-class ships introduced the Infinite Veranda—a new take on balcony cabins. Instead of a door leading to a separate outdoor space, the “balcony” is part of the room, with a window that slides down to open up the area.
It’s modern and feels spacious, but:
- The window automatically closes in rain or high wind
- The AC shuts off if the window is open with the divider doors
- There’s no true outdoor step-out space like a classic veranda
Some people love the idea of a seamless indoor-outdoor space. Others find it odd not to have a distinct balcony, especially for stargazing or morning coffee in the open air.
Verdict: Try one if you’re curious, but if you love old-school balconies, stick with traditional Veranda cabins.
4. Deluxe Porthole Balcony Staterooms
Ships: Edge-class
Why avoid: Balcony has a large round porthole that limits sun and openness
This one’s specific to the Edge-class ships. The Deluxe Porthole Balcony looks cool in the photos—it has a round window cut into the balcony wall, which feels nautical and sleek. But in reality, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
Yes, you get a veranda with seating, but:
- The view is partially enclosed
- The design casts more shade than a standard balcony
- Sunlight is limited, especially around noon when it’s directly overhead
If you love lounging in the sun or watching the stars from your private balcony, this might feel restrictive. But if you’re fair-skinned or just want some outdoor shade, it might be perfect.
Know before you book: These are a niche option. Great for some. Disappointing for others.
Who it suits: Readers or guests who prefer shade
Who should skip: Travelers wanting full balcony exposure
5. Obstructed View Staterooms
Ships: All ships
Why avoid: Your “view” might be a lifeboat, crane, or maintenance gear
Every Celebrity ship has a selection of cabins labeled “Veranda (Partial View)” or “obstructed view,” and they’re often located midship around Deck 6. These rooms cost a bit less, which is tempting—but your view could include:
- Lifeboats
- Wash stations
- Deck machinery
- On Edge-class ships, even the Magic Carpet platform
If you only care about fresh air and want to save a little money, they’re a solid budget-friendly choice.
But if you’re sailing Alaska, the Norwegian fjords, or anywhere you’ll be glued to your balcony for the scenery, this will be a letdown.
Pro tip: Not all obstructions are equal. Some are minor, and a good travel agent (or cruise YouTuber) can help you find the least-bad options.
6. Deck 3 Cabins on Edge-Class Ships
Why avoid: Noise from Deck 4 activities right above
If you’re booking on an Edge-class ship like Apex, Beyond, or Ascent, you might be drawn to the lower-deck cabins to save some cash. But Deck 3 comes with a catch.
Right above you, on Deck 4, you’ve got:
- The theatre (late shows = post-11 p.m. noise)
- The casino (ding ding ding!)
- Multiple bars and restaurants
- The main nightclub
Soundproofing isn’t bad, but it’s not great either. If you like quiet evenings, don’t want to hear bass thumping at midnight, or just prefer a calm vibe in your room, pick a deck sandwiched between other staterooms instead.
Better location: Mid-ship cabins on decks surrounded by other cabins above and below.
7. Cabins Below the Pool Deck
Early risers above = early wake-ups below.
Whether you’re sailing on a Millennium-class, Solstice-class, or Edge-class ship, the pool deck is usually a hot spot for morning activity.
Here’s why that matters:
- Loungers are dragged into place at dawn
- Guests walk around staking spots (even when they’re not supposed to)
- Events like yoga or Zumba classes add thudding and music overhead
If you’re hoping to sleep in, avoid these decks:
- Millennium Class: Deck 9
- Solstice Class: Deck 10
- Edge Class: Deck 11
If you’re an early bird who hits the pool at 6 a.m., great—book away. Otherwise, aim for a deck or two lower.
8. Connecting Cabins (When You’re Only Booking One)
Why avoid: Noise transfer through shared door
Connecting rooms are great for families or groups traveling together—you get two staterooms with a shared interior door, offering privacy with easy access.
But when you’re only booking one side of the pair, that extra door can become a noisy problem.
Here’s why:
- The door isn’t as soundproof as a solid wall
- You’ll hear more talking, TV noise, or coughing from next door
- If your neighbor likes to wake up early, party late, or just slam drawers—yep, you’ll know
It’s a small detail, but if you’re a light sleeper, it can make a big difference. Unless you’re traveling with someone in the connecting room, try to avoid these. Your peace of mind (and sleep) will thank you.
9. Premium Staterooms on Celebrity Xpedition
Why avoid: Dated decor and small windows
Celebrity Xpedition is one of the line’s expedition-style ships that sails the Galápagos Islands. With a capacity of just 48 guests, the ship offers a truly intimate experience—but that intimacy doesn’t mean every cabin is perfect.
The Premium Staterooms, in particular, are a bit underwhelming:
- Décor leans outdated, with dark wood accents that make the space feel smaller
- They have only a small picture window, so you’ll miss out on full ocean views or fresh air
- The layout and furnishings haven’t aged as gracefully as those on newer ships
Now, this might be totally fine for adventurous cruisers who only use their room to sleep and shower.
But if you like lounging in your cabin or soaking up views from your own space, consider upgrading to one of the suites.
They’re larger, brighter, and better reflect the price point and premium vibe Celebrity aims for.
Tip: Go for a suite if budget allows—it’s worth the comfort boost.
10. Cabins That Trigger Seasickness
All ships
Why avoid: Bad location for rough seas
Even on large, stable ships, motion at sea can catch some people off guard—especially if you’re new to cruising or prone to queasiness.
You’re most likely to feel movement in staterooms that are:
- Higher up on the ship (Deck 10 and above)
- Located at the very front (forward) or rear (aft)
These spots experience more sway, especially during rough seas or windy weather.
Best staterooms for minimizing motion:
- Midship cabins
- On lower decks (Decks 3 to 6 are ideal)
- Preferably with an ocean view or balcony, so you can look out at the horizon (which helps ease the brain)
This is especially important if you’re cruising in regions like the North Atlantic, Alaska, or South America, where waters can get a bit choppier.
11. Small Inside Cabins for Solo Travelers
Why avoid: Some solo inside cabins are tiny
Celebrity actually deserves credit for offering solo staterooms on some of its newer ships—especially the Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda, which gives solo cruisers a balcony experience.
But older ships have smaller inside cabins for one, and these can be:
- As small as 100–130 square feet
- Devoid of natural light (obviously—no window)
- Awkwardly laid out, with very limited floor space
If you’re just using your room to sleep and shower, it might be fine. But if you’re claustrophobic, or like to spend quiet time in your cabin reading or relaxing, you may feel boxed in.
Tip: If the budget allows, book a solo-friendly balcony cabin or regular inside stateroom instead. The price bump is often worth the comfort.
12. Three-Person Inside & Ocean View Rooms
Why avoid: Feels cramped with three adults
Yes, some Inside and Ocean View rooms can technically accommodate three passengers, but the keyword is “technically.” Usually, that means:
- A pull-out sofa bed or bunk-style third bed
- Zero room left to walk once it’s unfolded
- Limited closet and bathroom space
These rooms can work okay for two parents with a small child, but for three adults, it’s pushing it. You’ll be navigating around each other’s bags, dodging elbows in the mirror, and fighting for outlets.
For a more enjoyable trip, book a:
- Veranda stateroom with more floor space
- Family veranda or suite, especially if you’ll be spending downtime indoors
13. Rooms Near Specialty Restaurants (Edge-Class Ships, Deck 3)
Why avoid: Heavy foot traffic every evening
On Edge-class ships like Celebrity Apex and Beyond, Deck 3 features popular specialty dining venues like Tuscan Grille and Fine Cut Steakhouse. Sounds delicious, right? But here’s the issue…
The nearest elevators are mid-ship, and the restaurants are aft. That means every evening, tons of hungry guests have to walk down the corridor—right past several staterooms—to get to dinner.
This creates:
- High foot traffic from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Occasional chatter, laughter, and clinking heels
- Less of the serene stateroom environment you’re likely expecting
If you’re the kind of person who wants peace and quiet before bed—or you just enjoy hanging out in your room at night—consider a different deck or location further from high-traffic venues.
14. Inside Cabins That Face a Hallway Sideways
Why avoid: Noise from long hallway wall
Most cruise cabins are arranged so the door faces the hallway, and the room runs perpendicular to it. But some quirky staterooms on Celebrity ships (often on Deck 12, like rooms 12152, 12158, and 12162) are rotated.
That means:
- The long wall of your room faces the corridor
- Your bed and headboard are positioned along that wall
- People walking to their own rooms will be just a few feet away
So, instead of a quiet shuffle by your door, you might hear late-night laughter, suitcase wheels, or early risers chatting as they stroll past your entire room length.
This isn’t terrible for everyone, but if you:
- Like to sleep in
- Are a light sleeper
- Prefer privacy or total quiet…
…it’s better to avoid these oddballs and stick to traditional layouts.
Tip: Check deck plans before booking—or ask your travel agent to help confirm the orientation.
Final Word: There Are No “Bad” Cabins, Just the Wrong One for You
The truth? Celebrity Cruises does a great job with their accommodations overall. But with so many cabin types and layouts across different ship classes, knowing what to avoid can make a huge difference.
Quick Recap — Best to Avoid If:
- You’re a light sleeper → Skip Deck 3 and rooms near public areas
- You want sunshine & fresh air → Avoid Deluxe Porthole and some Infinite Verandas
- You’re prone to seasickness → Steer clear of high, forward or aft cabins
- You’re solo → Don’t settle for a tiny inside room
- You’re in a trio → Book bigger than a basic Inside/Oceanview
✅ Always check the deck plan
✅ Ask a travel advisor if unsure
✅ Use cruise forums, reviews, and videos to preview real room setups
Because let’s face it—you’re paying for a premium experience. And you deserve a cabin that matches it.
