When booking an interior cabin, we reduce that closed-in feeling by leaving the TV on to the outside ship cameras. It makes it feel like we have a window, plus we know what the weather is before we leave the cabin.
We put one suitcase under the bed open! That way we can just slide it out a bit to put our used clothing in. At the end of the cruise we have less to pack and when we get home the "laundry" suitcase goes right to the laundry room. Easy peasy.
Just took my first ever cruise solo on Explorer of the seas for 8 days this past week and it was probably the best experience of my life so far. Thank you for helping me prepare for the trip with your vids. It truly was the best experience so far of my life. I shocked myself by how much I came out of my comfort zone and sparked many conversations. Not to mention spending my birthday in Aruba, was something I never could've imagined doing before. I feel a little more adventurous now than ever lol
I ALWAYS take bracelet or necklace length glow sticks (from $Tree) to use as night lights. Simply make the loops and hang on door knob or door hooks! On one cruise there was a young couple that had an interior room and no night light. She tripped in the dark going to restroom. Poor thing was a mess and had to visit infirmary. I took them some of my glo sticks to help for remainder of cruise. TIP: If you stick them in fridge in morning they’ll usually last 2 days🤩. Happy cruising😎
When I first got to my cruise cabin I took a picture of the room number on the door. I always do this when staying in hotels as well. Then it’s easy to find your room if you forgot by looking at your phone. Also helps you remember your cabin number after the cruise if you want to request a similar cabin in the future. Or avoid it.
We travel on cruises 2-3 times a year My tip the bathroom storage is scarce and I hate the clutter. I bring a plastic shoe organizer and hang it on the back of the door. I use this for hair products medical items,make up and any other small items this way counter is completely free.
@@proudblackchildno heels, not worth it. Dress nice, wear flats to be comfy :) Plus, depending on the floors, etc, heel could get stuck in a crevace or something
Although it is only briefly mentioned, all cabins have metal walls. I ALWAYS bring a set of magnetic hooks. This turns the walls of the cabin into significant extra storage for bags, hats, wet swimming suits, etc. Unlike the narrator, I have not found cabins to have extensive storage or closet space, and the use of magnetic hooks have helped.
On Carnival Dream Ship avoid Cabin 6268 "Balcony " Upper deck 6. The cabin is just above a double door access to the smoking area. Therefore the sound of the doors slamming 24 hours is a cruise nightmare
Near the end of one cruise, I saw my next-door neighbor for the first time. She apologized because her baby was noisy, which was sweet of her. I had not heard a thing! I let her know that, and thanked her for her concern.
Yes, it is. I start out my day out there listening to my Bible, and I end my day out there looking into the vast darkness talking to GOD. It is how I overcame my fear of water.
MOST CRUISE SHIPS HAVE A TELEVISION STATION THAT IS AN OUTSIDE CAMERA WHICH IS YOUR WINDOW TO WHAT IS GOING ON OUTSIDE. IF YOU LEAVE IT ON ALL NIGHT LONG WITH THE SOUND OFF IT GIVES YOU A FAINT BLACK AND WHITE SCREEN WHICH MAKES A GOOD NIGHT LIGHT
@@Shawxcviii I DON'T KNOW IF YOU'RE BEING SARCASTIC, BUT I AM GOING BLIND YOU CANNOT SEE THE SMALL LETTERS. I SPEAK MY TEXT AND SOMETIMES THAT'S SCREWED UP SO I'M NOT YELLING WHEN I USE CAPS
@Maranda Bayless depends on the cruise. I normally get the spa package (because my wife says I am a girl at heart) and that includes the showers. I think if you use the guy the showers atmee normally available.
If you need a night light, turn the tv in your room to the channel with the deck camera and mute the tv. This will give just enough light to allow you to see your way around the room, but not so bright to disturb sleeping.
I highly recommend the portable fan as well. It helps the wet clothes and swimwear dry faster when they have some breeze on them. Also crank the AC, it’ll dehumidify the air and they’ll dry even faster.
We just did a European cruise and it was our first time at the rear of the ship it was absolutely The Best view I've ever had on all the cruises we've done . When the ship leaves ports the view is simply the best .
Battery powered tea lights are a great nightlight plus we bring several for ambiance at night. You can stick them to the wall that leads to the bathroom for night lighting.
Hi Tanner…I will add a couple more tips. Carry a extension cord with a multiple head…your outlet is not where you want it to be, carry beach towel clips…if you are in a balcony you can let dry your clothing or towel, don’t forget a small flash light…there are dark corners under the bed if you drop something.
Another tip is to have a small container that fits into your safe so you don't leave anything behind, such as jewelry. I have a small fold up rectangular cube that I put in the safe, so when I remove that, I know I have taken everything from the safe.
@@kathrynnorton1987 you might be able to find that out by contacting the cruise line. most likey will want to stick with something no taller than 3 inchechs and maybe no bigger than 8 inches one way and 6 inches the other way.. i might be generous in thst guess so call the line and see if they can help. a drawsting bag might be bertter tho
Completely agree. My rule is 3 days or less do interior unless price is very close. It’s basically just a bed which is barely used on 3 days which are usually weekend party cruises. 4 days or more window. 5 or more, balcony.
I've been on about 30 cruises. I always get an interior cabin. I'm only there to sleep, shower and get dressed so I'd rather save the money for something else.
@@mamabear9623 prior to covid I’d agree, but now when I plan a cruise long term I like to plan for if I had to isolate for a period of time and couldn’t leave the room (not really saying it had to be Covid related, but that kind of put things into perspective for me)
@@drunkdogwithagun468 Our thoughts exactly. I cannot imagine being confined to an interior room for more than 48 hours. We will now always be balcony or above for anything more than a 3day. And even then, would need a window.
I really think it's personal preference. Not every weekend cruise is a party cruise. It's a lot of hard working families that wanted to go on a cruise and that's what they could afford to do and how much time they got off from work. With that being said, it is very much worth whatever room you want to have because it should be a treat 😉
Thank you for recommending the cabins I avoid. That leaves more of the ones that I prefer! If you want to avoid the motion of the ocean like I do, you want a lower deck near the center. I have cruised in seas bad enough to flip the grand piano in the lounge upside down. Also, I like having a long way to walk on a ship instead of being close to everything. Since I don’t use the elevators, that gives me more exercise, which helps burn off the calories from that great cruise food. I average over 15,000 steps and 20+ flights of up stairs per day.
I'm claustrophobic I have to have a window,. When I took my daughter on her second cruise I splurged with a balcony and got hooked. I wipe the cabin down before I unpack and spray the floor with Lysol. Thanks for the tips. Happy Cruising.
@@hollyt252 no I use the lemon. Let face it most people walk on the floor with out foot cover. I spray the drawer and closet. I also wipe down certain things. Before COVID, now I'm much worst.😷
I have been on 5 sailings. I have known all these tips. I like the middle deck and middle ship. I never pay for port hole room or balcony. I can care less. All I care about is I'm on a ship and going to a place I never been to. I also only bring one bag with me. I only pack 4 or 5 days of clothes and two formal outfits that's it. Then my HBA and medication. That's it. I always use the cabin safe. I also decorate my door to. I like to have fun and be able to find my cabin on drunk nights . Lol
I can concur mostly everything in this video... I never take 7 day cruises... I always try to get at least 12 days or more... mostly because of the time and cost of flying there and I prefer European destinations. So I will either book a balcony or suite cabin. The showers are so small...I used to be a much larger person and was a bit of an issue for me. But the good news is I lost 100lbs and my upcoming cruise is in a suite and they always have enough room. Also planning your use of public washrooms is something I have done for years. My only caution in selecting cabins is be wary of obstructed views... they usually tell you however I have been burned a couple of times.
Hi Tanner, great video. We just made our final payment for our November Celebrity Millennium cruise to Eastern Caribbean, verandah cabin. The next day a Family View verandah opened up. They had been booked years in advance. I contacted out TA and told her to get us that cabin, twice the size for just us two. She booked it and costing $574 less than our smaller verandah. Life .... is good. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut
I am happy with an ocean view or a balcony, low deck, mid ship because all I want is to be able to see outside and I'm not going to be in that cabin all day long. I do like to relax in the cabin if I've been into port or late in the evening when I come back after a show. I have no need for a suite or a fancy cabin. As long as the bed is comfortable and I can have some peace away from the noise of the ship for a while I'm good.
I would rather spend the extra and get the veranda. I tend to be claustrophobic in certain situations and we also make plenty of use of the veranda. We have cruised having an interior cabin and won’t do it again.
I bring a little extension cord with multiple outlets. It makes it easier to separate your plugs. It also extends your reach to outlets at the airport, so it is in my "personal item" or carry on! Good luck sailing!!! 🚢
It's best to pick a cabin with cabins above and below your room. You definitely don't want to be near the lido where the workers are dragging chairs around early, early in the morning!
Agree. I had a balcony room below the top deck and the party noise of base music on afternoon sea days and night was not conducive to peace and quiet on my balcony.
the best tip I can offer is to bring along an over the door shoe holder. this can be used for storing all of your personal hygiene stuff and really anything else
Yes, we have 2. 1 for the bathroom door for toiletries etc & 1 on the wall in the living area for charger cords, lanyards, pens etcs keeps all surfaces tidy. and a few magnetic hooks.
Most walls in cruise cabins are metal, so you can bring magnetic hooks to make more hang-up space. Also, magnetic decorations do not leave sticky "evidence" after you leave.
Going on our 12th cruise in 13 days. Always get so much for your vacation time & money. First time getting a balcony along with 3 other couples. All our balconies are next to each other, so was told to request to have our connecting barriers opened for a gigantic balcony. Can’t wait! Thanks for the detailed tips & advice.
To dry things on the balcony, bring clips and use them. The line in the cabin shower is useful unless you want to take a shower. It's also not very good for actually drying your clothes as there is not air circulation in the bathroom. The fan is a good idea if you have room.
Having been on almost 50 cruises, all the things you said were pretty much true and good information. The one thing that I would say ladies in particular, the blow dryer is a pain in the butt if you're trying to dry your hair, style it, or anything else. If you know that it's not going to be important to you, don't bring one. I've just gotten to where I just let my hair dry naturally out on the balcony or something, and then flat iron it or do whatever I'm going to do. I'm just letting you ladies out there and men , too.
And spme balconies are under camera surveillance, not to spy on guests, but near certain areas there are cameras to help on sailing the ship, and balcony overlap occurs
When booking a cabin, check the decks above and below, if you are located near the large theater may mean that you hear all of the shows. And remember there are cameras all over the ship.
I love to sail on the back of the ship. That's where all the good movement is. But on a Transatlantic cruise the waves were so high that with every wave we hit, the drawers and doors in the cabin would open and slam closed. My sister and I had to go out for the chairs on the balcony to prop them against the drawers and doors. Now I travel with a roll of duct tape. I have had to use it only twice...but works like a charm.
I know that I'm in the minority here but I prefer interior cabins. I love hanging out, going to bed and not knowing whether it's day or night when I wake up.
My first cruise was interior cabin. It was a trip waking up at 2pm and not knowing it lol. Balcony rooms have become my preferred room now. Just having your own balcony to hang and relax is great. Port hole rooms are ok but now I also like the deluxe rooms with the double bathrooms. Works out great when traveling with friends.
Many of your tips are spot on, but the guaranteed cabin is a big NO for me, twice we've done it and twice we regretted it first time we got a cabin on the second floor, the second time we paid for a balcony and got a port hole balcony at the front of the ship, my wife who never had been sea sick before got sick. Also a good way to dry your swim suit is to use the hangers provided in your closet the ones with the clothes pins and hang them behind your balcony chair.
If you don’t mind me asking, what is a port hole balcony? I also get sea sick/motion sickness pretty badly, so I’m definitely trying to avoid that lol. This will be my third cruise but first time booking one on my own for my honeymoon, and will be going with a balcony suite. I seen in some videos that some of the balcony’s don’t have the see-through glass, but just a standard ledge which obstructs the view of the water so also don’t want that either. 👎🏻
In between the main traffic areas and the pool/clubs/main theater are the noisiest places on the ship! I guess those might be desirable if you're up all night but those of us who sleep do much better on the lower decks. And, as already mentioned, those are the most comfortable during any kind of seas since they move the least.
As an NCL Platinum status member, my last NCL cruise is coming up this May. Besides the extraordinary cost of the free at sea, wifi, etc., they nickel & dime everywhere they possibly can & raised gratuity into the stratosphere. Their treatment of employees was the initial reason why we have cruised NCL exclusively over the last 10+ years but they have gone the extreme other way this past year by not allowing them above crew quarters, doubling their work load, cutting salaries, etc., etc. NCL has also cut entertainment, closed the purse strings at the casinos & cut back on service. I get it that they need to catch up from Covid financially but they have crossed the line. Not to mention their new Prima class is cold, bland + uninviting. We're finally throwing in the towel + admitting defeat.
ASIDE FROM THE POOPURRI, I USE THE CAR FRESHNER ON THE BATHROOM HOOK, SO AS SOON AS YOU OPEN THE DOOR...AND I LEAVE ONE ON THE BACK OF THE TOILET, THOSE WORK WONDERS!! 😂
Great advice. I refuse to cruise without a balcony. The commentator was correct as to splurge/upgrade on a week or longer cruise. I do so cause a 3/4 day trip doesn't do it for me. Smoking in your cabin is a no-no! I incurred a $300.00 fine on one cruise, but did not get kicked off the boat, as they have the option to do, including the fine.
also if you are in a group and you want to be near someone else but not right next door or have to pay extra, just ask the worker that answers the phone, we got the same floor as my parents but not an hours walk away.
I find my family and friends always choose cabins on lower decks. They always complain of motion sickness. When I visit their cabins I can’t stay long because I feel the motion. I prefer mid ship mid decks Ive stayed on Higher decks but only in the middle.
Re TV channels, lat fall at least Princess had a channel dedicated to The Love Boat. Fun to watch how we grew up thinking cruising was. Also keep one of your under-bed suitcases open and use it for dirty laundry. And I love sruise ship showers - where else can you just soap up the walls and spin around to get clean.
You're correct that people shouldn't bring a hairdryer but that's only because they're not allowed. There is one in the cabin but on most lines, it's actually not even strong enough to blow up the corner of a piece of paper. I suggest coming up with a hairstyle that doesn't require a hairdryer.
@Karyn. Not sure which line you cruise with but hair dryers are allowed on royal, princess and celebrity, those are the lines i travel on. The dryer in the room is not that good and if you are traveling with 2 other ladies a hairdryer is a must😊
We only ever go interior as we are always upstairs looking around and having a cuppa up on deck, we always get to go on more cruises then too, simply can't afford the balcony anyway!
We have always brought a small fan and never had a problem until our last cruise, which was on Princess. On our last cruise they took our small fan. Our room steward went to bat for us and talked to the powers to be and after they took apart the fan to make sure it was in good working order after a few days we did finally get our fan back. It was the first time our fan was questioned and we have cruised on 8 different cruise lines and have many cruises under our belt.
After watching the documentary about people being stuck on their cruise ships due to Covid, there's no way I am going to NOT buy a balcony room. Imagine being quarantined 24/7 in an interior room, no sunlight or windows. It sounds awful.
If your test indicates positive, you will be placed in the "red zone" the ship has determined as the quarantine area. You would not be allowed to remain in your booked cabin, regardless of your having paid for it!
Yes they quarantine you to a different part of the ship definitely not your nice balcony room, don’t be foolish thinking you’ll be able to stay there😢😮
For real ale and cider fans: At least on P&O ships, most of the bars offer only the standard Heineken, Fosters etc. Have a wander on the first day, as there is usually at least one bar that has a huge range of more interesting bottled ales.
I wouldn't go any smaller than an ocean view. The interior would make me feel claustrophobic. Also mid-ship, deck 7 if you can, you don't hear as much of the noise from either above or below, and you don't feel the rocking as much. If you REALLY can't live without your 'favorite shows', you could bring a firestick & log into your account but don't be surprised by the internet package fee. Personally, I like to leave it set to the map that shows where the ship is & how close we are to our next destination :)
I take a shoe hanger that Velcros over the rail in the wardrobe this keeps the shoes tidy and off the floor and stops the ladies long dresses getting wrapped around the shoes. I also store my evening bags in it.
Love these tips! I did watch more TV than I wanted bc I had a gout attack on my ankle so couldn't walk as much. The Carnival Sunshine had many tv show channels and two channels that showed movies.
Did you like this video? Why not subscribe to see even more helpful tips? Just click the button in the bottom right of the video! 🛳
No sound. Mine is up and running but not for this video.
U
hey. can we have a another review about this for cruises
⁷
Let me do this tutorial in a style where it can he hip, chic and memorable.
This guys, irritable, cadence sound education like and is a snoozing bore.
When booking an interior cabin, we reduce that closed-in feeling by leaving the TV on to the outside ship cameras. It makes it feel like we have a window, plus we know what the weather is before we leave the cabin.
That is a great tip.
I did the same thing on my cruise last month! I love the virtual window, I wouldn't want an interior cabin without one.
We put one suitcase under the bed open! That way we can just slide it out a bit to put our used clothing in. At the end of the cruise we have less to pack and when we get home the "laundry" suitcase goes right to the laundry room. Easy peasy.
That's really smart. Great idea!
OMG I do the same
On at least one cruise, the ship offered an end-of-cruise laundry special. It is great to go home with almost all clean and folded clothes.
Perfect
The bed bugs just hop right on in and go home with you
Just took my first ever cruise solo on Explorer of the seas for 8 days this past week and it was probably the best experience of my life so far. Thank you for helping me prepare for the trip with your vids. It truly was the best experience so far of my life. I shocked myself by how much I came out of my comfort zone and sparked many conversations. Not to mention spending my birthday in Aruba, was something I never could've imagined doing before. I feel a little more adventurous now than ever lol
Glad you didn't get killed in aruba
Plan your next 1now prices are going up 💜💛🥂
Does one make friends cruising solo?can’t find any people lately to join me.They say they’ll be bored.Go figure 😂
I ALWAYS take bracelet or necklace length glow sticks (from $Tree) to use as night lights. Simply make the loops and hang on door knob or door hooks! On one cruise there was a young couple that had an interior room and no night light. She tripped in the dark going to restroom. Poor thing was a mess and had to visit infirmary. I took them some of my glo sticks to help for remainder of cruise. TIP: If you stick them in fridge in morning they’ll usually last 2 days🤩. Happy cruising😎
Scary
When I first got to my cruise cabin I took a picture of the room number on the door. I always do this when staying in hotels as well. Then it’s easy to find your room if you forgot by looking at your phone. Also helps you remember your cabin number after the cruise if you want to request a similar cabin in the future. Or avoid it.
Perfect tyvm
We travel on cruises 2-3 times a year My tip the bathroom storage is scarce and I hate the clutter. I bring a plastic shoe organizer and hang it on the back of the door. I use this for hair products medical items,make up and any other small items this way counter is completely free.
Any tips for first timer? travelling this December and I’m in limbo if to bring heals or not for formal nights. Thanks
@@proudblackchildno heels, not worth it. Dress nice, wear flats to be comfy :) Plus, depending on the floors, etc, heel could get stuck in a crevace or something
Although it is only briefly mentioned, all cabins have metal walls. I ALWAYS bring a set of magnetic hooks. This turns the walls of the cabin into significant extra storage for bags, hats, wet swimming suits, etc. Unlike the narrator, I have not found cabins to have extensive storage or closet space, and the use of magnetic hooks have helped.
Wow you are cleaver with the magnets!!!!!
I go away every month
@@laurenlandau9037 Excellent share you should be commended for your share.
This isn’t accurate. I tested this on my last cruise and they were not metal.
@@jenniferschauer5759 Actually they are metal. But some ships have some kind of sheeting over the metal that makes this not work.
I brought a bunch of neodymium magnetic hooks and they would only work on the bathroom door
On Carnival Dream Ship avoid Cabin 6268 "Balcony " Upper deck 6. The cabin is just above a double door access to the smoking area. Therefore the sound of the doors slamming 24 hours is a cruise nightmare
Being considerate of fellow guests… there’s a concept.
Poopurri spray has a mini bottles - wonderful for cruising!
In the UK there is something called Fab - a -loo in mini bottles. Alternatively decant from a large bottle to a travel size one.
Near the end of one cruise, I saw my next-door neighbor for the first time.
She apologized because her baby was noisy, which was sweet of her.
I had not heard a thing! I let her know that, and thanked her for her concern.
I won't cruise without a balcony...My enjoyment is sitting on balcony watching the sea
I’m opposite, I love the interior rooms. You get the BEST sleep!
Me either! I love being able to sit on our balcony in private with my jammies on.
Me to.
Absolutely! 💯
I need a balcony too!
I have to have a balcony no matter what because I love to sit out there at night and listen to the waves and feel the breeze. Best relaxation ever.
Yes, it is. I start out my day out there listening to my Bible, and I end my day out there looking into the vast darkness talking to GOD. It is how I overcame my fear of water.
@@pearli717 yes! It is so peaceful and beautiful
I'll take your word for it and will find out for myself for the first time in May!
@@steveh5307 yes, I hope you enjoy! I really love the views and I watch when they pull into port! lol I’m a geek lol
So peaceful. Love it so much.
MOST CRUISE SHIPS HAVE A TELEVISION STATION THAT IS AN OUTSIDE CAMERA WHICH IS YOUR WINDOW TO WHAT IS GOING ON OUTSIDE. IF YOU LEAVE IT ON ALL NIGHT LONG WITH THE SOUND OFF IT GIVES YOU A FAINT BLACK AND WHITE SCREEN WHICH MAKES A GOOD NIGHT LIGHT
Is there any way you could possibly make your capital letters any bigger
@@Shawxcviii I DON'T KNOW IF YOU'RE BEING SARCASTIC, BUT I AM GOING BLIND YOU CANNOT SEE THE SMALL LETTERS. I SPEAK MY TEXT AND SOMETIMES THAT'S SCREWED UP SO I'M NOT YELLING WHEN I USE CAPS
Let me guess.....you have poor vision?
I avoid the cabin shower by using the spa showers. A lot more room to move around.
Are the spa showers free
@Maranda Bayless depends on the cruise. I normally get the spa package (because my wife says I am a girl at heart) and that includes the showers. I think if you use the guy the showers atmee normally available.
Great tip
If you need a night light, turn the tv in your room to the channel with the deck camera and mute the tv. This will give just enough light to allow you to see your way around the room, but not so bright to disturb sleeping.
I highly recommend the portable fan as well. It helps the wet clothes and swimwear dry faster when they have some breeze on them. Also crank the AC, it’ll dehumidify the air and they’ll dry even faster.
On my first cruise they didn't allow our box fan but housekeeping did provide a fan that was good.
Many cruise lines will confiscate a fan.
would you put the fan in your carry on
@@littlepumpkin42 was on freedom 3 days ago. They provided a fan for our room the whole cruise for free. Just have to ask early. They go quickly
Thank you for this information.
Best tip ever "use a public restroom in a remote location to save your cabin" GENIUS!
To save your cabin from what?
@@Steampunksaly possible stink.
Nice to drop a stink bomb for unsuspecting patrons stopping in for a #1.
Try taking poo pouri along! Then you can have privacy when you go!
You can purchase an "odor eliminator spray" called M9, it is used in hospitals and for patients with colostomy bags. They really work on ANY odors!
We just did a European cruise and it was our first time at the rear of the ship it was absolutely The Best view I've ever had on all the cruises we've done . When the ship leaves ports the view is simply the best .
Battery powered tea lights are a great nightlight plus we bring several for ambiance at night. You can stick them to the wall that leads to the bathroom for night lighting.
Great idea!
Hi Tanner…I will add a couple more tips. Carry a extension cord with a multiple head…your outlet is not where you want it to be, carry beach towel clips…if you are in a balcony you can let dry your clothing or towel, don’t forget a small flash light…there are dark corners under the bed if you drop something.
Some cruise lines do not allow extension cords
Nancy they don't allow surge protectors. Extension cords seem to be allowed on all the cruise ships I've been on.
I bought extra long charger leads from Amazon which also helped when charging my phone and tablet
@@nancysmall9793 carnival 100% allows them. I took 2 different cords w 3 outlets each plus a multi outlet cube. No issues
@@kathrynnorton1987 true
Another tip is to have a small container that fits into your safe so you don't leave anything behind, such as jewelry. I have a small fold up rectangular cube that I put in the safe, so when I remove that, I know I have taken everything from the safe.
Great tip! Still lamenting the loss of a necklace that I suspect was left in a safe
Thank you
Does anyone know the measurements for the inside of the safe?
@@kathrynnorton1987 you might be able to find that out by contacting the cruise line. most likey will want to stick with something no taller than 3 inchechs and maybe no bigger than 8 inches one way and 6 inches the other way.. i might be generous in thst guess so call the line and see if they can help. a drawsting bag might be bertter tho
Or use a ziplock bag if not sure of safe dimensions.
Also be thoughtful when tipping. The money they make on salary is not much and tipping is a good thing
A video for people with walkers or disabilities would be very very helpful.
And... a plastic shoebag to hand over bathroom door for storing personal care items (hairspray, lotion, deodorant, etc)
Completely agree. My rule is 3 days or less do interior unless price is very close. It’s basically just a bed which is barely used on 3 days which are usually weekend party cruises. 4 days or more window. 5 or more, balcony.
I've been on about 30 cruises. I always get an interior cabin. I'm only there to sleep, shower and get dressed so I'd rather save the money for something else.
@@mamabear9623 prior to covid I’d agree, but now when I plan a cruise long term I like to plan for if I had to isolate for a period of time and couldn’t leave the room (not really saying it had to be Covid related, but that kind of put things into perspective for me)
Do they connect?
@@drunkdogwithagun468 Our thoughts exactly. I cannot imagine being confined to an interior room for more than 48 hours. We will now always be balcony or above for anything more than a 3day. And even then, would need a window.
I really think it's personal preference. Not every weekend cruise is a party cruise. It's a lot of hard working families that wanted to go on a cruise and that's what they could afford to do and how much time they got off from work. With that being said, it is very much worth whatever room you want to have because it should be a treat 😉
Thank you for recommending the cabins I avoid. That leaves more of the ones that I prefer! If you want to avoid the motion of the ocean like I do, you want a lower deck near the center. I have cruised in seas bad enough to flip the grand piano in the lounge upside down. Also, I like having a long way to walk on a ship instead of being close to everything. Since I don’t use the elevators, that gives me more exercise, which helps burn off the calories from that great cruise food. I average over 15,000 steps and 20+ flights of up stairs per day.
Me too..
In addition to walking and steps, my partner and I usually find lots of open equipment in the fitness center, too!
You seriously saws grand piano flipped ??
Weren't you scared?? 😱
@@Nan-59 I wasn’t bothered that much, but my wife refuses to cross the Atlantic again on a ship under 400 passengers.
Had a balcony for the first time....loved it
Right now because of the pandemic book an inside room and right before you sail upgrade a lot cheaper. The ship I was on was only at 1/4 capacity.
I tend to get claustrophobic in an inside cabin so it is definitely a balcony cabin for us.
I'm claustrophobic I have to have a window,. When I took my daughter on her second cruise I splurged with a balcony and got hooked. I wipe the cabin down before I unpack and spray the floor with Lysol. Thanks for the tips. Happy Cruising.
You spray the floor with Lysol!? Never heard of anyone doing that before. I would think that smell would be overpowering & linger a good while.
@@hollyt252 no I use the lemon. Let face it most people walk on the floor with out foot cover. I spray the drawer and closet. I also wipe down certain things. Before COVID, now I'm much worst.😷
Ok paranoid
We only book interiors... never had any issues with smells... or anything. I'd rather cruise 2x as much. On cruise 121!! Go Royal
I have been on 5 sailings. I have known all these tips. I like the middle deck and middle ship. I never pay for port hole room or balcony. I can care less. All I care about is I'm on a ship and going to a place I never been to. I also only bring one bag with me. I only pack 4 or 5 days of clothes and two formal outfits that's it. Then my HBA and medication. That's it. I always use the cabin safe. I also decorate my door to. I like to have fun and be able to find my cabin on drunk nights . Lol
You can't care less.... if you can care less then you care
Maybe you should care about getting drunk on a cruise ship
I can concur mostly everything in this video... I never take 7 day cruises... I always try to get at least 12 days or more... mostly because of the time and cost of flying there and I prefer European destinations. So I will either book a balcony or suite cabin. The showers are so small...I used to be a much larger person and was a bit of an issue for me. But the good news is I lost 100lbs and my upcoming cruise is in a suite and they always have enough room. Also planning your use of public washrooms is something I have done for years. My only caution in selecting cabins is be wary of obstructed views... they usually tell you however I have been burned a couple of times.
OMG! CONGRATS on the new health!
Wow…awesome! Wtg 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Congrats on the weight, I guess the tight shower motivated you hey?
12 days sounds awesome! I would love to do more than 8 days.
For those of you that get sea sick try picking a cabin in the center of the ship. the sway of the ship in rough seas will be less.
Hi Tanner, great video. We just made our final payment for our November Celebrity Millennium cruise to Eastern Caribbean, verandah cabin. The next day a Family View verandah opened up. They had been booked years in advance. I contacted out TA and told her to get us that cabin, twice the size for just us two. She booked it and costing $574 less than our smaller verandah. Life .... is good. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut
Sounds great!
Enjoy your cruise.
@@annetteevelyn9807 Hi Annette, Jill and I had a fantastic time. It was so great to be cruising again. Happy Holidays
I am happy with an ocean view or a balcony, low deck, mid ship because all I want is to be able to see outside and I'm not going to be in that cabin all day long. I do like to relax in the cabin if I've been into port or late in the evening when I come back after a show. I have no need for a suite or a fancy cabin. As long as the bed is comfortable and I can have some peace away from the noise of the ship for a while I'm good.
I would rather spend the extra and get the veranda. I tend to be claustrophobic in certain situations and we also make plenty of use of the veranda. We have cruised having an interior cabin and won’t do it again.
I bring a little extension cord with multiple outlets. It makes it easier to separate your plugs. It also extends your reach to outlets at the airport, so it is in my "personal item" or carry on! Good luck sailing!!! 🚢
Great tip!
I always bring one but never thought about using in the airport.
As long as there is no surge protector in it!
Royal Carbbean took my extension cord, even though it had no surge protector.
@@stefcatz1 get the small cube no surge protector. It has multiple outlets and a USB.
Love traveling by ship - it’s so relaxing.
It's best to pick a cabin with cabins above and below your room. You definitely don't want to be near the lido where the workers are dragging chairs around early, early in the morning!
That happened on my last cruise
I made that mistake 😁
Agree. I had a balcony room below the top deck and the party noise of base music on afternoon sea days and night was not conducive to peace and quiet on my balcony.
the best tip I can offer is to bring along an over the door shoe holder. this can be used for storing all of your personal hygiene stuff and really anything else
Yes, we have 2. 1 for the bathroom door for toiletries etc & 1 on the wall in the living area for charger cords, lanyards, pens etcs keeps all surfaces tidy. and a few magnetic hooks.
Most walls in cruise cabins are metal, so you can bring magnetic hooks to make more hang-up space. Also, magnetic decorations do not leave sticky "evidence" after you leave.
If your city has a Dollar Tree you can find inexpensive magnets there and several other things that are fun for your cruise
That's what I have done, too!
I have magnet hooks that hold 9 lbs and 50 lbs. Holds a tuxedo suit. Love the hooks.
Going on our 12th cruise in 13 days. Always get so much for your vacation time & money. First time getting a balcony along with 3 other couples. All our balconies are next to each other, so was told to request to have our connecting barriers opened for a gigantic balcony. Can’t wait! Thanks for the detailed tips & advice.
What a wealth of great information you are!! Thank you!
Most cruise lines have low cost (or free) on demand movies and programming available on the TVs.
Excellent video! I am booked in room 5484 for May 14, 2022. Very excited now!
a big door stopper to keep balcony door or front door open or closed(so no strangers can enter) is good
To dry things on the balcony, bring clips and use them. The line in the cabin shower is useful unless you want to take a shower. It's also not very good for actually drying your clothes as there is not air circulation in the bathroom. The fan is a good idea if you have room.
Having been on almost 50 cruises, all the things you said were pretty much true and good information. The one thing that I would say ladies in particular, the blow dryer is a pain in the butt if you're trying to dry your hair, style it, or anything else. If you know that it's not going to be important to you, don't bring one. I've just gotten to where I just let my hair dry naturally out on the balcony or something, and then flat iron it or do whatever I'm going to do. I'm just letting you ladies out there and men , too.
And spme balconies are under camera surveillance, not to spy on guests, but near certain areas there are cameras to help on sailing the ship, and balcony overlap occurs
When booking a cabin, check the decks above and below, if you are located near the large theater may mean that you hear all of the shows. And remember there are cameras all over the ship.
Always go for an ocean view! The window is nice without the balcony price.
Excellent travel tips. This kind of info is invaluable for the novice. Also great tips for people staying in a smaller hotel. 🎉🎉🎉
I love to sail on the back of the ship. That's where all the good movement is. But on a Transatlantic cruise the waves were so high that with every wave we hit, the drawers and doors in the cabin would open and slam closed. My sister and I had to go out for the chairs on the balcony to prop them against the drawers and doors. Now I travel with a roll of duct tape. I have had to use it only twice...but works like a charm.
Princess has a huge selection of TV programming now. Their Medallion net is a game changer.
Also use your suitcase for extra storage when under bed.
You can also use basic laundry clothes pin pens to fully close your curtains so that light won't come in when you want to sleep.
Just booked my first balcony room. Fourth cruise with carnival. I’m so excited! I’m also hoping the ship won’t be at capacity and not a lot of kids.
have a great time~! so much fun!
These are so helpful! Especially the door hanger tip. Thank you
Always cruise on 14 to 21 day cruises. Too much planning for 3 to 5 days.
I know that I'm in the minority here but I prefer interior cabins. I love hanging out, going to bed and not knowing whether it's day or night when I wake up.
Agreed. Inside cabin, and spend the money saved on excursions, drinks, specialty dining, etc. In the end, you just need a bed and bathroom.
My first cruise was interior cabin. It was a trip waking up at 2pm and not knowing it lol. Balcony rooms have become my preferred room now. Just having your own balcony to hang and relax is great. Port hole rooms are ok but now I also like the deluxe rooms with the double bathrooms. Works out great when traveling with friends.
Many of your tips are spot on, but the guaranteed cabin is a big NO for me, twice we've done it and twice we regretted it first time we got a cabin on the second floor, the second time we paid for a balcony and got a port hole balcony at the front of the ship, my wife who never had been sea sick before got sick. Also a good way to dry your swim suit is to use the hangers provided in your closet the ones with the clothes pins and hang them behind your balcony chair.
I completely agree.
If you don’t mind me asking, what is a port hole balcony? I also get sea sick/motion sickness pretty badly, so I’m definitely trying to avoid that lol. This will be my third cruise but first time booking one on my own for my honeymoon, and will be going with a balcony suite. I seen in some videos that some of the balcony’s don’t have the see-through glass, but just a standard ledge which obstructs the view of the water so also don’t want that either. 👎🏻
In between the main traffic areas and the pool/clubs/main theater are the noisiest places on the ship! I guess those might be desirable if you're up all night but those of us who sleep do much better on the lower decks. And, as already mentioned, those are the most comfortable during any kind of seas since they move the least.
As an NCL Platinum status member, my last NCL cruise is coming up this May. Besides the extraordinary cost of the free at sea, wifi, etc., they nickel & dime everywhere they possibly can & raised gratuity into the stratosphere. Their treatment of employees was the initial reason why we have cruised NCL exclusively over the last 10+ years but they have gone the extreme other way this past year by not allowing them above crew quarters, doubling their work load, cutting salaries, etc., etc. NCL has also cut entertainment, closed the purse strings at the casinos & cut back on service. I get it that they need to catch up from Covid financially but they have crossed the line. Not to mention their new Prima class is cold, bland + uninviting. We're finally throwing in the towel + admitting defeat.
We like to put a dry eraser board magnet to the door. Write notes: going here. There. Dinner at 7. "More ice" for attendant request.
ASIDE FROM THE POOPURRI, I USE THE CAR FRESHNER ON THE BATHROOM HOOK, SO AS SOON AS YOU OPEN THE DOOR...AND I LEAVE ONE ON THE BACK OF THE TOILET, THOSE WORK WONDERS!! 😂
Use M9 it eliminates the odors not covers them up with a stronger smell. It's used in hospitals to remove ALL odors.
Excellent, interesting and informative !!! Great job !
Great advice. I refuse to cruise without a balcony. The commentator was correct as to splurge/upgrade on a week or longer cruise. I do so cause a 3/4 day trip doesn't do it for me. Smoking in your cabin is a no-no! I incurred a $300.00 fine on one cruise, but did not get kicked off the boat, as they have the option to do, including the fine.
I've never been on a cruise and I don't plan on going on one, so why am I not only watching this video but enjoying it too?
Ha ha, your subconscious is telling you something 😂different.
Great video if you have never cruised before (or done much international travel).
also if you are in a group and you want to be near someone else but not right next door or have to pay extra, just ask the worker that answers the phone, we got the same floor as my parents but not an hours walk away.
I find my family and friends always choose cabins on lower decks. They always complain of motion sickness. When I visit their cabins I can’t stay long because I feel the motion. I prefer mid ship mid decks Ive stayed on Higher decks but only in the middle.
Re TV channels, lat fall at least Princess had a channel dedicated to The Love Boat. Fun to watch how we grew up thinking cruising was. Also keep one of your under-bed suitcases open and use it for dirty laundry. And I love sruise ship showers - where else can you just soap up the walls and spin around to get clean.
You're correct that people shouldn't bring a hairdryer but that's only because they're not allowed. There is one in the cabin but on most lines, it's actually not even strong enough to blow up the corner of a piece of paper. I suggest coming up with a hairstyle that doesn't require a hairdryer.
@Karyn. Not sure which line you cruise with but hair dryers are allowed on royal, princess and celebrity, those are the lines i travel on. The dryer in the room is not that good and if you are traveling with 2 other ladies a hairdryer is a must😊
I just finished a cruise 9/25/2021 and brought my hairdryer
My luck--EVERYONE will put a Post-it note on their door.
We only ever go interior as we are always upstairs looking around and having a cuppa up on deck, we always get to go on more cruises then too, simply can't afford the balcony anyway!
Awesome tour. Boarding spirit on Sunday!!
Balconies are the way to go! You need some peace and quiet!
We have always brought a small fan and never had a problem until our last cruise, which was on Princess. On our last cruise they took our small fan. Our room steward went to bat for us and talked to the powers to be and after they took apart the fan to make sure it was in good working order after a few days we did finally get our fan back. It was the first time our fan was questioned and we have cruised on 8 different cruise lines and have many cruises under our belt.
I would just hide the fan in my luggage when not in use each day. Can't believe that fans are an issue on ships!
We requested a fan on day one and steward had it delivered in 10 minutes. Free use for the entire crew. Worked great
Omg… what ship is that being shown at 3:50?! 😱 That balcony room is gorgeous!! I want to be in it!!
I always bring an alarm clock. There's usually no clock in the room, and while I may be on vacation, I still want to know the time
After watching the documentary about people being stuck on their cruise ships due to Covid, there's no way I am going to NOT buy a balcony room. Imagine being quarantined 24/7 in an interior room, no sunlight or windows. It sounds awful.
Hopefully those days are over.
If your test indicates positive, you will be placed in the "red zone" the ship has determined as the quarantine area. You would not be allowed to remain in your booked cabin, regardless of your having paid for it!
Covid is no longer a threat
Yes they quarantine you to a different part of the ship definitely not your nice balcony room, don’t be foolish thinking you’ll be able to stay there😢😮
😅😂don't scare yourself
Perfect guidance
I must say .. this vid was actually helpful, things you thought about but wouldn't ask 😀 thank you
For real ale and cider fans: At least on P&O ships, most of the bars offer only the standard Heineken, Fosters etc. Have a wander on the first day, as there is usually at least one bar that has a huge range of more interesting bottled ales.
My best tip is BONINE instead of Dramamine, it doesn't make you tired and one first thing when you get up sets you right for 24 hrs. You're welcome.
I'm taking notes because it's apparently cheaper to book cruises back-to-back than living in a retirement home.
too true.
I agree must have a balcony. We are hoping to go on our cruise in june.
Interesting thumbs up
I wouldn't go any smaller than an ocean view. The interior would make me feel claustrophobic. Also mid-ship, deck 7 if you can, you don't hear as much of the noise from either above or below, and you don't feel the rocking as much. If you REALLY can't live without your 'favorite shows', you could bring a firestick & log into your account but don't be surprised by the internet package fee. Personally, I like to leave it set to the map that shows where the ship is & how close we are to our next destination :)
Weather matters! Alaska we did inside. It was chilly tge entire time. Bahamas? Bermuda? Always a balcony!!!
Hotels you cab ask to see room ar check in. Great video
That was a really interesting video 🙂 thank you for sharing :)
It's actually comical that we have to do so many hacks in a room that is extremely costly. 😆 cruises!
Right?!
Also those magnetic flat flash lights from the dollar tree make great night lights .. my friend and I each had one on the wall next to our bed.
Don’t book an adjoining room unless your family is in the other room.
I take a shoe hanger that Velcros over the rail in the wardrobe this keeps the shoes tidy and off the floor and stops the ladies long dresses getting wrapped around the shoes. I also store my evening bags in it.
Tysm for th tips I'm going to a cruise for a week in a week!
Love these tips! I did watch more TV than I wanted bc I had a gout attack on my ankle so couldn't walk as much. The Carnival Sunshine had many tv show channels and two channels that showed movies.