The Truth About Guaranteed Staterooms
A guaranteed stateroom might sound like a great option for your next cruise vacation.
But is this accommodation really the best option for you?
In today’s post, I’ll share everything you need to know about this popular option, including what a guaranteed stateroom is and its pros and cons.
Let’s get started!
What is a Guaranteed Stateroom?
Booking a guaranteed stateroom is like buying the cheapest ticket for air travel.
You’ll get a seat on the plane, but you won’t get to choose where it is.
Similarly, when you book a guaranteed stateroom, you have zero control over where you’ll stay during your cruise.
And yes, you could save anywhere from $150-400 on your cruise, but is it really worth it?
Maybe! Let’s go over the pros and cons.
Pros of a Guaranteed Stateroom
If the location of your state room isn’t a significant factor for your vacation, or if proximity to noisy shipboard activities won’t bother you or disrupt your enjoyment of the cruise, a guaranteed state room may be a good option for you.
When it comes to location of your stateroom, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
“Does noise typically bother me or interrupt my sleep?”
“Do I want to be far away from certain areas of the ship, such as noisy nightclubs or busy restaurants?
“Do I need a window with a view in order to feel comfortable when I’m in my stateroom?”
If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” a guaranteed stateroom might be a great option for you.
Why? Because you will save some money.
How much? Let’s take quick a look:
The above examples were taken from three separate cruise lines comparing balcony staterooms of similar itineraries, departing in the same month/year, of equal duration.
So, consider booking a guaranteed stateroom if the price is the absolute driving factor and the only way you can budget a cruise.
Cons of a Guaranteed Stateroom
We’ve touched on this a bit already, but guaranteed staterooms give you zero control over where you stay on the ship.
So, if the idea of waking up at 3 a.m. to the sound of pool chairs scraping on the deck above you makes you want to cringe, a guaranteed stateroom probably isn’t the best option for you.
You might also get an obstructed view or be near a noisy nightclub.
Also, when you book a guaranteed stateroom, you can’t make changes once the room has been assigned.
So, don’t book a guaranteed stateroom if …
You are a planner, or if you like having control over the details of your vacation
You expect to see the ocean
If you are a light sleeper or will be bothered by loud activities near your stateroom
Final Thoughts
Always read the fine print or work with a travel planner who will help you navigate the jargon.
You may save a little by booking a guaranteed state room, but you could also lose out on additional promotional offers such as free Wi-Fi, onboard credit, or specialty dining.
So that “savings” just may add up to an expense in the end.
Also of note: booking a guaranteed state room may come with a nonrefundable deposit only; you may not have the option for a refundable deposit.
Let’s Chat!
If you’re ready to book your cruise vacation, go ahead and fill out my Travel Quote Request Form.
After I learn about what you're looking for in your dream cruise, I’ll create an itinerary that will knock your socks off.
And tell me: have you ever stayed in a guaranteed stateroom? What was your experience? Let me know in the comment section!