7 Ways to Beat the Poolside Chair Hogs on Your Next Cruise

You’ve finally made it to the pool deck, cocktail in hand, sun blazing — and every single lounger is “taken.” Not by people, mind you, but by towels, flip-flops, and the occasional paperback that hasn’t been touched since breakfast. Yep, you’ve just met the infamous cruise ship chair hogs.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever circled the deck like a sun-seeking shark. Chair hogging is one of the biggest gripes among cruise passengers, and while many cruise lines have policies to stop it, enforcement can be patchy.

So, what can you do? Here are seven smart (and polite) strategies to help you claim your spot by the pool — without becoming that passenger.

1. Rise and Recline: The Early Bird Gets the Chair

The pool deck on the NCL Sun cruise ship features multiple pools, hot tubs, and rows of blue lounge chairs arranged around the deck. The area is open and spacious, with a clear view of the horizon, providing a perfect setting for relaxation under the sun. Large spherical structures and shaded areas add to the deck's amenities, enhancing the overall experience for guests.

If you want to beat the chair hogs, your best weapon is a slightly earlier alarm. Most lounger-hogging happens before breakfast, with towels mysteriously multiplying like tribbles on deck. Get there before the rush, and you’ll have your pick of the best spots.

Early mornings by the pool can actually be one of the most peaceful times onboard — the sun isn’t too strong yet, the crowds haven’t descended, and you can enjoy a quiet coffee or sunrise view. Just remember: if you claim a chair, use it. Reserving a lounger only to disappear for hours makes you a chair hog, too — and nobody wants that.

2. The Tucked Away Decks No One Talks About

Most cruisers make a beeline for the main pool deck, which is exactly why it’s always packed. But here’s the secret: many ships have hidden-away areas with far less crowded loungers.

Check your ship’s deck plan before you sail, or spend some time exploring on embarkation day. You’ll often find quiet loungers near the aft pool, promenade deck, or tucked away on higher decks. They might not have the party vibe of the main pool, but they often come with better views, fewer people, and a much higher chance of finding a free chair.

3. Know the Rules — and Use Them

Reserved sun lounger sign on P&O cruises

Most major cruise lines have official policies to stop chair hogging — but not all passengers know about them, and even fewer take advantage of them.

Carnival, for example, has a “ChairShare” programme where staff place stickers on unattended loungers. If belongings aren’t claimed within 40 minutes, they’re removed. Royal Caribbean and MSC enforce similar time limits, usually between 30–40 minutes. The key is to know your cruise line’s policy before you sail.

If you spot a lounger that’s been “reserved” for over an hour with no one in sight, don’t confront anyone — just ask a nearby crew member. They’ll handle it for you, and you might just free up a prime spot without any awkwardness.

4. Speak to the Crew

It might be tempting to move someone’s towel and claim the chair yourself, but that’s a fast track to an uncomfortable confrontation — or worse, a sun-drenched argument that ruins your day.

Instead, let the crew handle it. Towel attendants and pool staff are well-versed in the art of dealing with chair hogs. If you notice loungers sitting idle for ages, discreetly point them out to a crew member. They’ll apply a time sticker or monitor the situation, and if no one returns, they’ll free it up for someone who’s actually there to enjoy it, like you.

5. Treat Yourself: Book a Premium Sun Deck

Luxurious sundeck and pool area of the MSC Yacht Club on MSC World Europa. This exclusive space features a modern design with a large infinity pool and a smaller circular jacuzzi, surrounded by white sun loungers. The area is partially covered by a geometric white canopy, offering both sun and shade to guests against a panoramic backdrop of the open sea. — The MSC Yacht Club on MSC World Europa

If you’d rather not play the lounger lottery at all, consider upgrading to a reserved sun deck. Many cruise lines offer exclusive areas for suite guests or for an additional fee, and they usually come with guaranteed loungers, shade, and a much more relaxed vibe.

Depending on your ship, look out for names like The Retreat (Holland America), The Sanctuary (Princess Cruises), Loft 19 (Carnival), or Vibe Beach Club (Norwegian). These spaces often include extras like comfy loungers, private cabanas, waiter service, and quieter surroundings.

It’s not the cheapest option — but if you’re planning a few sea days and want guaranteed poolside bliss, it might just be worth the splurge.

6. Make Port Days Your Pool Days

Lido deck showing the Pool on Seranade of the Seas

Here’s a smart move most cruisers overlook: stay onboard during port days. While everyone else is off exploring, shopping, or on excursions, the pool deck becomes a ghost town — and those once-elusive loungers are suddenly yours for the taking.

It’s the perfect time to enjoy a quiet swim, soak up the sun, or finally finish that book without battling the crowds. You’ll also get quicker bar service, shorter buffet queues, and a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere. If you’ve already visited the port or just fancy a chilled day, this tactic is golden.

7. Just Ask — You Might Get Lucky

A row of sun loungers on a cruise ship deck, covered with towels and personal items to reserve spots. The loungers are arranged in tiers, allowing for optimal sunbathing and views. Stairs and railings in the background lead to higher deck levels, where additional loungers are also reserved in a similar manner.

Not every “taken” lounger is actually in use. Sometimes, it’s just holding a towel for someone who popped into the buffet or may not return at all. Rather than guessing (or stewing in silent frustration), just ask.

A quick, polite question — “Hi, is anyone using this chair?” — can save you a lot of hassle. Often, nearby guests will let you know it’s been sitting empty for ages or that the person isn’t coming back. A friendly approach goes a long way, and you might end up with a prime spot without needing to wake up at dawn or book a cabana.

Wrapping It Up

Chair hogs might be as inevitable as the buffet queue, but with a bit of planning (and a dash of patience), you can still claim your spot in the sun, without turning into one yourself.

Whether you’re up at sunrise, scouting out hidden decks, or treating yourself to a premium sunbed, these strategies will help you enjoy your cruise like it was meant to be: relaxed, sunny, and drama-free.

Got your own deck chair hack? Let us know in the comments — or share this with a fellow cruiser who’s always stuck standing!