Quick Inside Cabin Facts
- Average Size: 167 sq ft (15.5 m²) – bigger than some people’s first apartment
- Size Range: 120-200 sq ft (11-19 m²) depending on ship and cruise line
- Best Value: Mid-ship locations on decks 6-8 for stability and quiet
- Hidden Perks: Total darkness for better sleep, no motion sickness triggers
- Smart Choice For: Budget travelers, light sleepers, port-heavy itineraries
Inside Cabin Size Reality
| Ship Type | Average Size | Range | Best Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Mega Ships | 170-180 sq ft (16-17 m²) | 150-200 sq ft | Virtual balconies, promenade views |
| Traditional Ships | 160-170 sq ft (15-16 m²) | 140-180 sq ft | Classic layouts, good storage |
| Small Ship/Luxury | 150-165 sq ft (14-15 m²) | 130-180 sq ft | Premium finishes, better service |
| River Ships | 130-150 sq ft (12-14 m²) | 110-170 sq ft | Compact but efficient design |
In my experience inside cabins on modern ships offer 80% of the experience for 40% of the cost. I’ve stayed in $400-per-night suites and $120-per-night inside cabins, and honestly? The inside cabin can often delivered a better night’s sleep. We’re usually out all day anyway so why bother with paying heaps.
The biggest misconception about inside cabins is that they’re claustrophobic dungeons. Modern ships now feature inside cabins averaging 167 sq ft (15.5 m²) – that’s larger than many Manhattan studio apartments and bigger than my first flat in London. Today’s inside cabins include the same amenities as outside cabins: convertible beds, sitting areas, full bathrooms, and clever storage solutions.
For comprehensive cabin comparisons, check our cruise cabins guide or explore more strategies in our cruise tips hub.
Why Inside Cabins Make Financial Sense
The Math That Cruise Lines Hope You Ignore
On a typical 7-night Caribbean cruise, upgrading from inside to balcony costs $800-1,200 per person. That money could cover:
- Shore excursions at every port
- Specialty dining for the entire cruise
- Spa treatments and premium beverage packages
- Future cruise down payments
Real Example: Norwegian Breakaway inside cabin: $899 per person. Same cruise, balcony: $1,499 per person. That $600 difference per person ($1,200 for couples) buys experiences you’ll remember long after the cabin views fade.
Port-Heavy Itineraries: Inside Cabins Shine
Mediterranean cruises with daily port stops make balconies nearly useless. You’ll depart ports at 6 AM and return exhausted at 6 PM. Who needs a balcony when you’re exploring Rome or Barcelona?
The Sleep Quality Advantage
Inside cabins deliver superior sleep conditions that money can’t buy in other cabin categories:
Total Darkness: No sunrise wake-ups, no deck lighting bleeding through curtains
Sound Insulation: No wind noise, waves crashing, or balcony door rattles
Climate Control: Easier temperature regulation without external exposure
Motion Benefits: Mid-ship inside cabins experience minimal ship movement
I learned this lesson on a Baltic cruise where my balcony cabin neighbor complained about 4 AM sunrise glare and seagull noise. Meanwhile, I slept soundly until my alarm at 8 AM.
Modern Inside Cabin Innovations
Virtual Balconies: These are pretty amazing
Royal Caribbean pioneered floor-to-ceiling LED screens displaying real-time ocean views. Initially skeptical, I found these surprisingly effective at creating openness illusions. The screens show actual exterior feeds, complete with weather changes and port arrivals.
Ships with Virtual Balconies:
- Royal Caribbean: Anthem, Quantum, Voyager classes
- Norwegian: Some Breakaway class ships
- Celebrity: Select Edge class vessels
Promenade View Cabins
Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class ships offer inside cabins with windows overlooking interior promenades. You’ll get natural light and people-watching entertainment while maintaining inside cabin pricing.
Disney’s Magical Portholes
Disney Fantasy and Dream feature “Magical Portholes” – LCD screens disguised as traditional portholes displaying live exterior feeds with occasional Disney character appearances. Kids love the surprise visits from Mickey and friends.
Location Strategy for Inside Cabins
Deck Selection: The Sweet Spot
Best Decks: 6-8 on most ships
Avoid: Deck 5 (often crew quarters with 5 AM noise)
Skip: Decks 2-4 (potential for engine noise and vibration)
Position Preferences
Mid-Ship: Maximum stability, central to amenities
Forward: Dramatic port arrivals, more motion
Aft: Quieter location, but potential engine vibration
Guarantee Bookings: The Insider Secret
Book guarantee inside cabins for potential upgrades to better locations or promenade views. Cruise lines often assign remaining premium inside cabins to guarantee bookings.
Storage Solutions That Actually Work
Modern inside cabins pack impressive storage into compact spaces:
Under-Bed Storage: Perfect for luggage and bulky items
Magnetic Hooks: Essential for metal cabin walls (bring your own)
Closet Organizers: Hanging organizers maximize vertical space
Bathroom Caddies: Over-door organizers for toiletries
Pro Tip: The Marella Explorer famously features 16 drawers in a single inside cabin – more storage than many hotel rooms.
Solo Traveler Inside Cabin Strategy
Norwegian’s Studio Cabins
Norwegian revolutionized solo cruising with studio cabins designed for single occupancy. At 100-130 sq ft (9-12 m²), they’re compact but eliminate solo supplements while including access to exclusive Studio Lounge areas.
Studio Cabin Ships:
- Norwegian Epic, Breakaway, Getaway, Escape
- Dedicated studio complexes with shared lounge spaces
- No single supplement charges
For more solo travel insights, read our studio cabins guide.
Traditional Solo Inside Strategy
Book guarantee inside cabins during shoulder seasons when cruise lines reduce solo supplements rather than sail with empty cabins. Wave season (January-March) offers the best solo deals.
When Inside Cabins Don’t Work
Skip inside cabins if:
- You suffer from claustrophobia or anxiety in windowless spaces
- Your cruise includes multiple sea days with limited port activities
- You need natural light for vitamin D or seasonal affective disorder
- Medical conditions require fresh air access
Alternative: Consider oceanview cabins as a compromise between budget and natural light needs.
Family Inside Cabin Configurations
Disney’s Split Bathroom Design
Disney ships feature split bathrooms with separate toilet/sink areas, reducing morning congestion for families. The main bathroom includes a bathtub for young children.
Pullman Bed Realities
Many inside cabins accommodate 3-4 guests using pullman beds that fold down from ceilings. These work for children but aren’t comfortable for adults over 5’6″ (168cm).
Connecting Inside Cabins
Book connecting inside cabins for large families wanting budget accommodations with privacy control. Two inside cabins often cost less than one large balcony cabin while providing more space and bathroom access.
Cruise Line Inside Cabin Standouts
Royal Caribbean: Innovation Leaders
- Virtual balconies and promenade views
- Sizes range 150-199 sq ft (14-18 m²)
- Best storage solutions and modern amenities
Disney: Family-Focused Design
- Split bathrooms and magical portholes
- 169 sq ft (15.7 m²) average size
- Premium finishes despite inside category
Norwegian: Solo Traveler Champions
- Dedicated studio cabins with lounge access
- Traditional inside cabins 142-160 sq ft (13-15 m²)
- Good value for money
P&O/Cunard: Traditional Comfort
- Generous 160-170 sq ft (15-16 m²) sizing
- Tea/coffee facilities and British touches
- Solid construction and good soundproofing
Common Questions
Are inside cabins really that dark?
Yes, inside cabins are completely dark when lights are off – that’s actually a benefit for quality sleep. Bring a small nightlight or use your phone’s flashlight for midnight bathroom trips.
Can I feel claustrophobic in an inside cabin?
Some people do experience claustrophobia, especially those unaccustomed to windowless spaces. If you’re concerned, book a refundable inside cabin for your first cruise to test your comfort level.
Do inside cabins have the same amenities as other cabins?
Modern inside cabins include identical amenities to oceanview cabins: convertible beds, sitting areas, bathrooms with showers, televisions, and climate control. You’re only missing windows and natural light.
Can I upgrade from an inside cabin after booking?
Yes, cruise lines offer upgrade opportunities through their mobile apps 60-90 days before sailing. Paid upgrades often cost less than rebooking higher categories.
Are inside cabins noisier than other cabins?
Actually, inside cabins can be quieter since they lack balcony doors that might rattle or allow wind noise. However, avoid cabins near elevators, stairwells, or above public areas.
Do inside cabins affect seasickness?
Inside cabins can actually help with seasickness since you can’t see horizon movement that triggers motion sickness. The lack of visual motion cues helps many people feel more stable.
6 responses
In the last three years I’ve taken about ten cruises and apart from two have had an inside cabin.
Being a solo traveller I use my cabin for sleeping, showering etc., I prefer to be in the beautiful public areas at all other times.
I love the darkness so I don’t wake at the crack of dawn!
I normally travel with either Cunard or P&O and choose to have an inside cabin as it is less expensive. Even so I still have to pay mostly 100%.
Which I think is well over the top, just because my husband passed away.
Many thanks for the info on Inside Cabins. Very interesting and helpful.
Mostly book an inside cabin because of the dreaded single supplement. It’s the only way I can afford to cruise as I usually go alone.
I am also a single traveller but enjoy being able to go out in the fresh air of a balcony, being able to relax and watch tv (I do like my own company).
Yes I know it’s an arm and a leg but no way could I travel inside, makes me claustrophobic to even think about it.
On all my cruise holidays bar one on Princess to the Caribbean for my 60th birthday when my family got me a balcony cabin.
It was lovely but prefer an inside mid ship as it is quiet and the movement on bad sea days is not as bad.
That is just my opinion and i am sticking to it.
So roll on spring when I can pick my next adventure!