Are Inside Cabins Really That Bad? An Honest Assessment After 80+ Cruises
Inside cabins have a reputation — but is it deserved? Trip Sturtridge has sailed in interior cabins many times by choice, and he'll give you the honest truth about when they're a smart choice and when to consider upgrading.
What an Inside Cabin Actually Looks Like
Modern interior cruise cabins are small but well-designed. On Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian ships, interior cabins typically measure 150–175 sq ft and include:
- Comfortable beds (queen or two twins, configurable) - Full private bathroom with shower - Flat-screen TV with movies and ship channels - Ample storage: closet, drawers, under-bed storage - Desk and chair - Phone and safe
What they don't have: windows, natural light, or a balcony.
The Surprising Benefits of Inside Cabins
**Price:** Interior cabins can cost $300–$800 less per person on a 7-night sailing. That's real money for excursions, specialty dining, or a beverage package.
**Sleep quality:** Complete darkness and minimal noise make interior cabins exceptionally good for sleep — especially for light sleepers who struggle with dawn light through cabin windows.
**No seasickness:** Interior cabins on low, midship decks are the most stable position on the ship.
**No distractions:** You're not tempted to sit on the balcony instead of exploring the ship and ports.
When to Upgrade from an Interior Cabin
Consider upgrading when:
- You're on a scenic sailing (Alaska, Norwegian fjords, Mediterranean coastline) where you'd want to watch scenery from your room - Your itinerary has 3+ sea days - You're on a special trip (honeymoon, anniversary) where the ambiance matters - You feel claustrophobic without windows - You're on a longer sailing (10+ nights) where cabin time increases
For 3–4 night Caribbean or Bahamas sailings, inside cabins are often the best value choice.
Are inside cabins claustrophobic?
Some travelers find the lack of windows uncomfortable. Modern ships use warm lighting, mirrors, and creative design to reduce the boxed-in feeling. If you're uncertain, book a short 3–4 night sailing to test it.
Can I request a specific inside cabin location?
Yes. Request midship, lower-to-mid deck interior cabins for the most stable, quiet experience. Avoid interior cabins directly below the pool deck or lido buffet.
Do interior cabins come in different sizes?
Yes. Standard interior cabins are the smallest. "Large interior," "interior with virtual balcony" (a large screen showing live ocean views), and "spacious interior" categories offer more square footage on many ships.
What is a virtual balcony interior cabin?
Royal Caribbean pioneered the "Virtual Balcony" — a floor-to-ceiling screen showing a live feed of the ocean outside. It offers the visual effect of a window without the extra cost of a true balcony.