Aft Cabin vs. Forward: Which Is Right for Your Cruise?

Most cruise ship balconies are on the port or starboard sides, but forward and aft (staterooms located at the back or stern of a cruise ship) cabins typically offer larger decks and more space. While both have pros and cons, we’ll help you compare them to choose the best cabin for your cruise.

Benefits of chosing Cruise Aft Cabins: Why they are worth it

Aft balcony cabins are located at the back of a cruise ship and offer some great perks for those who love outdoor space. Fans of these cabins rave about the sweeping, uninterrupted ocean views over the ship’s wake. Plus, aft cabins often provide significantly more space than standard balcony rooms along the port and starboard sides. If you’re seeking maximum deck space, aft corner cabins can offer wraparound balconies, doubling your view.

Concerned about noise? Aft cabins tend to be quieter since they’re farther from the midship buzz of bars, lounges, pools and the atrium.

Potential drawbacks of Aft Cabins. What to consider before booking

While aft cabins aren’t the worst for seasickness, they can feel more of the ship’s movement compared to midship cabins. If you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to opt for a midship balcony along the port or starboard sides.

Aft cabins may also experience engine or anchor vibrations, which can increase the sense of motion and cause occasional noise. In rare cases, smoke or exhaust from the ship’s funnels could drift onto your balcony due to wind direction.

Since aft balcony cabins are in high demand, some cruise lines price them higher than standard balcony rooms.

Benefits of forward balcony cabins. Reasons to chose the front of the ship

Cruisers in forward cabins enjoy being the first to see what lies ahead, making it a special way to sail into each port of call. Many cruise lines reserve their forward spaces for unique cabin layouts — like Royal Caribbean’s panoramic ocean view cabins — that you won’t find anywhere else on the ship. It’s worth asking us, your cruise master travel agents if your ship has a special forward cabin class.

Love the theater? Most cruise ship theatres are located at the front, so booking a forward cabin puts you just a few decks away from catching evening shows or afternoon lectures with ease.

Another perk of forward cabins is navigation. You’ll always know you’re heading toward the back when you leave your room, making it easier to navigate your ship, especially in the first couple of days. (The same goes for aft cabins, except you’re always walking toward the front of the ship.)

Potential drawbacks of Forward Cabins. What to know before booking

Worried about seasickness? Forward cabins might not be your best bet. Since they’re the first to dip in rough seas, these cabins feel the brunt of the waves, even on lower decks — making them challenging for anyone prone to motion sickness.

If you’re set on booking a forward cabin with a view, watch out for rooms with obstructed views from the bridge wing. Check deck plans or consult a travel agent before booking to avoid any surprises. Keep in mind, too, that forward balcony decks may be off-limits on certain days due to weather.

Another factor is noise. Forward cabins can pick up sound from bow thrusters (the ship’s propulsion devices) and water hitting the front of the vessel, which could add to the experience — especially for light sleepers.

But there is some good news: Obstructed-view cabins tend to cost less.

The bottom line: Aft Cruise Cabins V Forward Cabins

If you’re after a unique view but want to save some cash and don’t mind a bit of noise, a forward cabin could work well for you. It’s also a great choice if you’re worried about exhaust, soot or cigarette smoke drifting onto your balcony.

On the other hand, if you’re curious about the allure of aft cabins and dream of watching the ship’s wake, an aft cabin might be your match — just be prepared for a bit of vibration.

If seasickness is a concern, though, remember that while aft cabins experience less movement than forward ones, they still sway. Midship cabins are your safest bet if you want to minimize motion, especially on rough seas.

Linda Forster – TravLin Travel