New to Cruising? What to Expect in Your Stateroom

If you're new to cruising, or have cruised in just one type of stateroom, you may wonder what to expect from the different categories of staterooms found on most ships. In general, staterooms can be divided into four categories: inside staterooms, outside staterooms, balcony staterooms and suites.

Inside staterooms are located in the interior of the ship, so they have no windows or portholes (though a mirror or curtain often serves as a clever substitute). These staterooms are generally the least expensive accommodations on the ship. Inside staterooms are usually tastefully decorated and equipped with all of the ship's standard amenities and are roughly 120 to 180 square feet in size, with an efficient bathroom that has a shower, but no tub.

Outside staterooms are usually nearly identical to inside staterooms, except they have a porthole or a window. This provides the advantage of a sea view and natural light. However, the windows don't open. To enjoy a sea breeze, you'll need to go up on deck - or, reserve a stateroom with a balcony.

Balcony staterooms are located on the decks above the outside staterooms. They have sliding glass doors that provide a great view and access to an open balcony or a covered verandah. A balcony stateroom is typically a bit larger than a standard outside stateroom, and may have a small sitting area. The balcony itself will probably be small, with just enough room for two chairs and a compact table. You'll still need to go up on deck if you want to stretch out in a lounge chair or do some serious sunbathing.

Depending on the cruise line and the ship, a suite may simply be a stateroom with a small sitting area; a larger space with separate rooms for sitting and sleeping; or a multi-room suite. Some very grand suites come with amenities such as a dining table that can seat 12, a grand piano and butler service. Suites often have spacious balconies and larger bathrooms with tubs. Needless to say, suites are the most expensive accommodations on a cruise ship. Remember that the price of your stateroom depends not only on its category but its location on the ship. Staterooms located in the middle of a deck, where the ship is most stable, often cost more than staterooms at the front or back of the ship, where noise from the ship's engines and machinery can also be a factor.

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