If you’re planning your first cruise, you’ve probably asked yourself: Which stateroom should I book? Interior, ocean view, balcony, or suite? The truth is, there isn’t one “best” answer. It all depends on you.

I used to think everybody and their momma would want a balcony (I mean, who wouldn’t want to sip coffee and watch the sunrise over the ocean, right?). But I had a client prove me wrong when they told me they actually preferred an interior. And get this, another person told me they wanted an interior because they were scared of the water and didn’t want to be reminded they were even on a ship. Yep, you read that right. So the point is, your perfect stateroom depends on your travel style, budget, and personality.

As we go through each cabin type, think about what’s important to you. Don’t just book what’s popular on social media, don’t stress about what your friends are getting, and please don’t feel embarrassed if what works for you is an interior. Whether it’s budget, comfort, or just personal preference, the best room is the one that makes your cruise enjoyable.

Let’s break them down.

Interior Staterooms: Dark, Cozy, and Budget-Friendly

Interior cabins are usually the least expensive option, and for a lot of first-timers, that makes them really appealing. They don’t have windows, so yes, they’re dark. Like “can’t tell if it’s 3am or 3pm” dark. (I’ll be dropping a video so you can see what I mean.)

For some people, that’s a dream because they sleep better. For others, it can feel a little too closed in.

I’ve cruised in interiors when traveling with friends, and honestly, it made sense. We weren’t in the room much anyway, just there to sleep, change, and then head out for all the fun. Why pay for more space if you know you’ll barely be there?

And like I mentioned, I’ve had people who prefer interior for more than just price. One client told me they wanted to book an interior because they didn’t want to be constantly reminded they were at sea since they were nervous about the water. For them, that peace of mind mattered more than a window.

Royal Caribbean even has a cool option on some ships called “virtual balcony interiors,” where you get a floor-to-ceiling digital screen that shows a live feed of the outside. So you can still get that sense of connection without paying balcony prices.

Why people love it: It’s budget-friendly, cozy, and great for people who plan to spend most of their time out and about.

Things to consider: It can feel small, and if you need natural light, it’s not the best fit.

Ocean View Staterooms: A Window to the Ocean

Ocean view cabins are like the middle ground between interior and balcony. You don’t get outdoor space, but you do get a window or porthole that lets in natural light. That small detail makes a huge difference for a lot of travelers. It helps you feel connected to the outside without the full cost of a balcony.

For some cruisers, just being able to wake up and see the water is all they need. You can sit by the window in the morning, sip your coffee, and still get the special feeling of being at sea. It also helps with orientation because you can see the weather and whether it’s day or night without stepping outside.

I’ve also noticed that ocean view cabins are popular with families. Parents sometimes prefer them because kids can look out at the water, and it feels a little less confined than an interior. For older travelers, natural light can make the room feel brighter and more welcoming.

Pricing, though, can be tricky. I’ve seen ocean view cabins cost the same as interiors on some sailings. On the flip side, I’ve even seen them priced higher than balconies if a cruise line is running a special deal. So always compare before you book.

Why people love it: Natural light, less claustrophobic, cozy without feeling shut in.

Things to consider: You cannot open the window, so no fresh air. Depending on the deal, it may not be worth the price if a balcony is close in cost.

Balcony Staterooms: My Personal Favorite

I’ll be honest, balconies are my favorite. I love having the extra space to enjoy a sunrise with tea or a sunset cocktail in peace. Sometimes you just want that quiet, private spot where it’s you, the waves, and nobody else.

When I cruise with my husband, I almost always book a balcony. We know we’ll spend more time there, and for us, those private moments together are the highlight of the trip. But when I cruise with my girlfriends, I usually stick with an interior because we’re too busy exploring the ship to care about a balcony.

The reason I’m sharing this isn’t to convince you to get a balcony. Let’s be real, some travel agents will push balconies because they benefit more from that sale. Not me. I want you to think about things you may not have considered, like who you’re traveling with and how you’ll use the space. That’s what should guide your decision.

One more thing to know: if you’re prone to motion sickness, balconies are often the best option. Being able to step outside for fresh air and focus on the horizon can really help. And if that’s a concern, book something mid-ship on a lower deck for the most stability.

Why people love it: Extra space, private outdoor area, fresh air, amazing for couples, and helpful if you’re motion-sensitive.

Things to consider: Costs more, and if you’re traveling with a group that barely uses the room, it may not be worth it.

Suites: The Extra Extra Life

Suites are where you really level up your cruise experience. They are bigger, more luxurious, and come with perks that the other cabins don’t. Think priority boarding, extra space for lounging, upgraded bathrooms, and sometimes access to exclusive areas like private lounges or restaurants. Depending on the ship, suites can also include butler service, concierge help, and even reserved seating at shows.

One of the biggest reasons people book suites is comfort. If you’re traveling with family or a group, having that extra square footage makes a big difference. Parents especially love suites because it means the kids have their space, and they still get privacy. Couples who want a special trip whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary, or milestone celebration also lean toward suites because of the extra pampering.

Are they more expensive? Absolutely. But if you’ve got the budget, it can feel like you’re on a whole different level of cruising. And if not, don’t stress. It’s a nice-to-have, not a must-have.

Why people love it: More space, VIP treatment, luxury touches, and exclusive perks.

Things to consider: Price is the biggest factor. Suites are amazing but not necessary for an incredible cruise.

Final Thoughts: Pick What Works for YOU

At the end of the day, there isn’t a bad stateroom. Every type has its perks, and what works best for me might not be right for you.

Don’t feel pressured by what others are booking. If an interior works for your budget or your comfort level, own it. If a balcony makes sense for your style of travel, go for it. And if you’re celebrating something special and want to splurge on a suite, do it.

Your cruise is about making memories, not impressing anyone else.

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