16 Carnival Cruise Cabins To Avoid

Planning a Carnival cruise can be exciting, but choosing the right cabin is key to your enjoyment. While all rooms on Carnival ships offer comfort, some might not suit your needs.

It’s worth taking time to pick a spot that matches your holiday style.

You’ll find loads of cabin types and locations on Carnival ships. Each has its own perks, but some might not be ideal for you.

Let’s explore which rooms you might want to avoid when booking your next cruise. 

1. Cabins near noisy entertainment spots

When booking your Carnival cruise, you might want to think twice about choosing a cabin directly above lively areas like the theatre, nightclub, or atrium. These rooms can be a bit tricky if you fancy an early night.

The noise and vibrations from these spots can sometimes travel through the floor, making it a tad hard to catch those Zs.

On most Carnival ships, you’ll find the theatre at the front of Deck 5 and the nightclub towards the back. This means Deck 6 might not be your best bet for a quiet kip.

The newer Excel-class ships are a bit different, with these fun zones on Deck 7. So, if you’re sailing on one of these, you might want to steer clear of Deck 8.

Don’t forget about the atrium either! DJs often spin tunes here, which can carry up to higher decks. On most ships, this affects Deck 6, but on Excel-class ships, it can reach up to Deck 9.

To avoid any late-night disturbances, it’s best to pick a cabin away from these areas. This way, you can enjoy the party when you want and still get a good night’s rest when you need it.

2. Rooms Just Below the Swimming Area

Be wary of booking cabins directly under the pool deck. While these spots might seem appealing, they can be quite noisy.

Early risers often drag deck chairs across the floor to claim their spots, creating a racket that could wake you up.

If you fancy a lie-in on your holiday, these rooms might not be for you. The sound of scraping chairs can be surprisingly loud, especially when you’re trying to catch some extra sleep.

To avoid this, check the ship’s layout before booking. Look for the pool areas and steer clear of rooms right underneath. This tip applies to all Carnival ships, so keep it in mind no matter which one you’re sailing on.

3. Upper/lower inside cabins

If you’re looking to save money on your Carnival cruise, upper/lower inside cabins might be worth a look. These compact rooms are designed for space-saving and come with a single twin bed plus either a sofa bed or Pullman bed for a second guest.

However, it’s important to note that these cabins have drawbacks. Guests won’t be sleeping directly next to their partner, the second bed may not be as comfortable as a regular twin, and they are the smallest cabins in the Carnival fleet.

These rooms are great if you want to spend more on other parts of your holiday. You’ll find them on most Carnival ships, except for the Excel and Spirit classes.

If you’re okay with these trade-offs, an upper/lower inside cabin may be a good choice for your next cruise.

4. Cosy Balcony Nooks

On some of Carnival’s newest ships, snug balcony cabins make the most of limited space. These compact rooms offer a full-sized balcony but a smaller indoor area.

Imagine stepping out onto your private balcony in just a few strides from your bed! It’s perfect if you love spending time outdoors and don’t need much indoor space.

These cabins, found on Mardi Gras, Jubilee, and Celebration, feature a full-sized balcony but a more compact indoor space. They’re ideal for those who pack light, enjoy exploring the ship, and love spending time on their balcony. 

However, if you tend to bring a lot of luggage, prefer spacious rooms, or need extra space to spread out, these cabins might feel a bit cramped. 

Before booking, think about how you’ll use your cabin. If you’re happy with a cosy space and love having your own outdoor spot, these rooms could be just right for you!

Recommended Reading: Cove vs. Regular Balconies: Which is the Best For Your Carnival Cruise?

5. Rooms with Portholes

Fancy a peek at the sea without splashing out on a proper ocean view? Carnival’s porthole cabins might catch your eye. These quirky rooms sit in a strange spot between interior and ocean view cabins.

You’ll find two small, round windows in these rooms. But don’t expect sweeping vistas! The thick glass limits your view quite a bit. It’s more of a fisheye look at the waves than a panoramic seascape.

If you’re keen on natural light but watching the pennies, these rooms could be a good fit. But for most cruisers, they’re not the best choice. You might feel a bit let down by the limited view.

Keep in mind that not all Carnival ships offer porthole cabins. You won’t find them on the newest Excel Class ships or the older Spirit Class ships.

Porthole cabins are a more affordable option than full ocean view rooms, and they do allow some natural light into the space.

 However, these cabins have their drawbacks. The view through the small portholes is limited, and they might not be available on all Carnival ships. Additionally, the experience of looking out of a porthole may feel disappointing for those who anticipate a more expansive view offered by traditional windows.

6. Rooms near the lifts

Booking a cabin close to the lifts might seem like a brilliant idea at first. You’d be just steps away from easy access to all decks, saving you time and energy. But there’s a catch to this seemingly perfect spot.

While the lifts themselves are quiet, the areas around them can be quite lively. You might hear chatty groups waiting for lifts, frequent ‘ding’ sounds as lifts arrive, and late-night revellers heading back to their rooms

Many people forget to lower their voices until they’re well down the corridor. This can make for a noisy stay, especially if you’re a light sleeper.

To avoid these potential disturbances, it’s worth taking a peek at the deck plans before you book. Opting for a room a bit further from the lifts could lead to a more peaceful holiday. You might have to walk a tad more, but the extra quiet time could be well worth it.

7. Front-facing Balcony Cabins

Fancy a unique view from your cruise cabin? Front-facing balconies offer just that, letting you see where the ship is headed. But there’s a catch – these spots can be quite blustery!

While many cruisers love aft balconies for their wake views, front-facing ones have their own charm. Carnival ships like Mardi Gras, Jubilee, and Celebration offer these rooms.

If you’re keen on fresh air but want a calmer spot, you might prefer a side balcony instead. These give you sea views without the strong gusts. Remember, your comfort matters most when picking a cabin.

8. Havana Cabins (for those who aren’t keen on sunbathing)

Carnival offers themed cabins with extra perks, and Havana rooms are one such option. Available in various types, including Havana Cabana, Balcony, and Interior, each room type comes with its own features but shares some common benefits. 

One of the main draws of these rooms is exclusive access to the Havana pool area, a peaceful spot reserved for guests aged 12 and up. However, if you’re not interested in lounging by the pool, these rooms may not justify the extra cost.

The Havana rooms have several advantages, such as exclusive pool access, a quiet atmosphere, and upgraded décor. However, they do come at a higher price, and if you’re not a sunbather, the value might be limited. Additionally, some balconies lack privacy, as people can walk past them, especially in the Havana Balcony rooms.

Havana Cabana rooms feature a patio, while the Balcony and Interior rooms mainly offer enhanced décor. It’s important to note that the balconies might not feel as private as expected, so they may not provide the secluded experience some guests desire. 

You’ll find Havana rooms on Vista Class and Excel Class ships, but if sunbathing isn’t a priority for you, it might be worth spending your money on other exciting activities onboard.

Related Reading: Which Carnival Cruise Ship Suits Your Style Best?

9. Family-Friendly Cabins: A Noisy Affair?

Family Harbor rooms on Carnival ships might sound appealing, but they’re not for everyone. These cabins come in various sizes, from cosy interiors to roomy suites. They’re decked out in a fun seaside style and sit near the Family Harbor Lounge.

This lounge is a hit with families. It’s got breakfast, snacks, and games. Sounds great, right? Well, it depends on what you’re after.

If you’re not travelling with kids, you might want to think twice. These areas can get quite lively. You’ll likely hear little ones running about and having a laugh. It’s all good fun for families, but maybe not if you’re after some peace and quiet.

The corridors near these rooms can be busy and noisy during the day. If that’s not your cup of tea, you might want to look at other cabin options.

You’ll find these family-friendly rooms on Excel Class and Vista Class ships.

10. Cosy Seaside Nooks

If you’re looking for a unique cruise experience, consider the cosy seaside nooks available on some Carnival ships. These special cabins offer a different take on the typical balcony room. Instead of the usual open-air space, you’ll get a snug outdoor area with solid walls, a roof, and a sturdy steel rail for added privacy.

These nooks have both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, they offer more privacy, better protection from wind and rain, and are generally quieter than standard balconies. However, the downsides include limited views, less sunlight, and a slightly enclosed feel that might not suit everyone.

These cabins are found on newer Carnival ships, and they’re perfect if you want some fresh air without feeling too exposed. Just remember that you won’t enjoy the same sweeping sea views as you would with a regular balcony.

11. Rooms with a Sea View (for Activity Lovers)

Want to enjoy the ocean views without breaking the bank? Sea view cabins might be just the ticket! These rooms offer more space than inside cabins and lovely views to boot. But there’s a catch – they’re often on lower decks.

If you’re keen on joining in all the fun, this could mean a fair bit of walking. Most of the exciting stuff happens on the upper decks.

So, before you book, take a peek at the deck plans. You don’t want to end up huffing and puffing every time you pop back to your room for a quick change or to grab your sunnies!

Sea view rooms are a great middle ground between cost and comfort. Just make sure you’re happy with the location before you commit. Your legs will thank you later!

12. Cabins to dodge if you get queasy at sea

If you tend to feel a bit green around the gills on boats, pick your cabin wisely. Steer clear of rooms up high at the front or back of the ship. These spots rock and roll the most when the waves pick up.

For a steadier stay, go for a cabin smack in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You’ll feel less movement there, which can help keep your tummy settled. Your sea legs will thank you!

13. Rooms close to the ship’s anchor

If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to think twice about booking a cabin on the lowest decks at the front of the ship. These rooms can be quite noisy in the early morning when the ship arrives at port. The sound of the anchor dropping can wake you up before you’re ready to start your day.

For a more peaceful night’s sleep, it’s best to choose a cabin in a different location. This way, you won’t be jolted awake by the loud clanking of the anchor as the sun rises. Your holiday is meant for relaxation, so pick a room that lets you rest easy and wake up refreshed.

14. Blocked-View Verandas

Some balcony cabins on Carnival ships come with a partially obstructed view due to lifeboats, which you’ll find on vessels like Spirit, Miracle, and Legend. Although the lifeboats may block part of your sea view, these cabins still provide fresh air and outdoor space, giving you the balcony experience at a lower cost.

If uninterrupted ocean views are a priority, you may want to avoid these cabins. However, if you’re simply looking for a balcony and don’t mind a slightly blocked outlook, these rooms can be a great option. They’re often more affordable than standard balcony cabins, allowing you to save some money while still enjoying the outdoor perks.

These cabins are available on Spirit, Miracle, and Legend. They offer views partially blocked by lifeboats and are less expensive than standard balcony rooms. They’re ideal for those who want fresh air but aren’t too concerned about having the perfect view. 

Booking one of these cabins means you’ll still get to enjoy the balcony experience, just with a slightly different perspective.

15. Windows with Limited Sea Views

Carnival offers cabins with picture windows that might not provide the ocean view you’d expect. These rooms are technically listed as interior cabins, despite having windows. The catch is that your view looks out onto the Observation Deck walkway, with the sea visible behind it. This means that while you do get some natural light, you’ll need to keep the curtains closed for privacy, especially when changing, as people may walk by your window.

These cabins are available on most Carnival ships, except for the Excel and Fantasy Class vessels. While they let in daylight and are cheaper than full ocean view rooms, the obstructed view may not be ideal if you’re hoping to relax and watch the waves from your bed.

These rooms offer the benefit of natural light and come at a lower cost than full ocean view cabins, but they lack privacy and have limited sea views. If you’re not too concerned about gazing at the ocean, they can still be a practical and affordable option.

16. Joined-up cabins (when unnecessary)

If you’re looking for extra space on your Carnival cruise, linked cabins might catch your eye. These are neighbouring rooms connected by a special door that the crew can unlock, allowing you to spread out and enjoy more room. It’s an appealing option, especially for larger groups.

However, if you’re not travelling with a big group, linked cabins might not be the best choice. The connecting door, while locked if not needed, isn’t the best at blocking sound. You could end up hearing your neighbours’ conversations, which might disrupt the relaxing atmosphere you’re after.

So, if it’s just you or a small group, you might want to reconsider booking a linked cabin. After all, no one wants their holiday mood spoiled by overhearing chit-chat from next door. A different cabin type could offer the quiet retreat you’re hoping for.

Key Considerations

Choosing the right cabin on your Carnival cruise can make a big difference to your holiday. While some cabins have drawbacks, they may also have unexpected perks. 

To help you decide, have a look at the deck plans for your chosen ship. This will show you exactly where your room is in relation to other areas. You can find deck plans for all Carnival ships online.

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