First time cruisers

I’m sure nobody goes out of their way to be a ‘bad’ cruise passenger, but there might be some of you reading this who are actually causing issues for the crew without realising it.

Especially the cabin stewards. These hard-working legends put a ton of effort into keeping your cabin at its best, and making sure you have everything you need (within reason), but some passengers don’t half make their job even more difficult.

Perhaps you’re one of them, and you don’t realise it? Here are the 11 things that cabin stewards hate that cruise passengers do without realising, so that you can adjust your behaviour onboard if you need to.

1. Hiding Room Service Trays Or Food

I understand that, once you’ve finished with your room service tray or that buffet plate you brought back to your cabin, you might want it out of sight.

I get it, dirty plates are one of the worst offenders for just making a room look cluttered and dirty.

The best advice is generally to put the plate outside your door so it can be collected, but some people don’t like to do that. And so instead they might try to hide the plates temporarily, maybe behind a curtain, under the bed, or in the wardrobe.

An utterly terrible idea, because your cabin steward is not doing a deep-clean every single time they enter your room, and so there’s a good chance they’ll miss the plates if they’re hidden.

This can lead to odours and also means that, if you keep ordering more room service or bringing more plates back, you’ll end up with quite the collection that becomes harder to tidy away properly.

If you don’t want to leave the plate outside your door, make sure it’s in plain sight so it can be removed.

2. Overusing Do Not Disturb Signs

Of course, everyone needs privacy at times, but keeping the “Do Not Disturb” sign up all day can cause issues.

Stewards work to very tight schedules, and if they miss their window to clean your cabin it disrupts their flow. It’s fine to use it for a little while but don’t leave it up there permanently!

In some cases, a cabin left on “Do Not Disturb” too long will even trigger a welfare check from security. That’ll be awkward if you’ve just left it there because you want a bit of peace…

If you want service later, flip the sign to “Make Up Room” when you head out, or simply let your steward know your preferred cleaning time.

3. Mixing Clean And Dirty Towels

Folding a damp towel neatly and leaving it on the floor may seem helpful, but it only creates confusion. Is it clean enough to reuse, or should it be replaced?

To keep things clear, always put used towels in the shower or bath, and hang up anything you plan to use again.

This saves your steward wasting precious time sorting through piles of linen.

4. Bringing Your Own Toilet Paper Or Flushing Wipes

Cruise ship plumbing is sensitive and designed only for the thin paper provided onboard.

And I know it might not be as luxurious as the kind you use at home, but there’s no way around that.

Some people who’ve cruised before might even bring their own to get around the problem but trust me, you shouldn’t!

Using thick, plush toilet paper from home – or worse, flushing wet wipes – can block the system, causing problems not just in your cabin but across the deck.

Always stick to the supplies provided and bin anything that isn’t toilet paper.

5. Rearranging Furniture

Cabin furniture is carefully positioned and often secured for safety.

Moving it around, even just to “make more space”, creates hazards and extra work, as everything needs to be put back before the next guests arrive.

In fact in some cases your steward will be under instruction to move it back immediately, and to keep moving it if you continue to shift it.

If you really want a different set-up, speak to your steward instead of dragging chairs or beds yourself.

6. Drying Wet Clothes On Furniture Or Sprinklers

It’s tempting to drape swimsuits or towels over chairs or lamps to dry, but this can cause damp smells, damage furniture, or even trigger the fire-safety system if hung on sprinklers (yes, some people apparently do this – crazy!)

Most cruise cabins I’ve sailed in have a retractable clothesline in the shower – use that instead. If you need more drying space, ask your steward for extra hangers.

Suggested read: 17 Extras You Can Get From Cruise Cabin Stewards (For Free!)

7. Turning The Cabin Into A Messy Dressing Room

Cabins aren’t huge, and when clothes and shoes are spread across the bed, floor, and chairs, it makes cleaning much more time-consuming.

Stewards end up carefully moving items just to make the bed or vacuum. Keeping your belongings in the wardrobe or drawers helps them do their job faster and more efficiently.

8. Complaining About Things Stewards Can’t Control

Problems with air conditioning, noisy neighbours, or technical faults aren’t within a steward’s power to fix.

While they can report issues, it’s quicker and more effective to contact guest services directly.

Save your steward for cabin-specific requests like extra pillows or replacing light bulbs – they’ll appreciate it and you won’t be burdening them with extra things to remember.

Oh, and if guest services are a little slow, don’t take it out on your cabin steward. It’s not their job to just sit and take your complaints!

Read more: 19 Cruise Freebies You Can Ask For At Guest Services

9. Expecting Laundry Service Without Preparation

Leaving a pile of clothes on the bed won’t magically result in clean laundry.

Cruise lines require guests to bag their items, complete the laundry form, and specify the service required.

Stewards are there to collect properly prepared laundry, not to sort through piles and guess your preferences.

Or you can always use the self-service laundry machines onboard, if you prefer. Most cruise lines have them!

Read more: How To Do Laundry on Cruise Ships: The Ultimate Guide

10. Leaving Valuables Out

Expensive jewellery, passports, and wads of cash left on display don’t just slow cleaning down – they put stewards in a difficult position.

Even though theft is rare, the presence of valuables creates stress for them and risk for you. They don’t want to be accused of something they didn’t do if anything goes missing!

For everyone’s peace of mind, always use the in-cabin safe for anything important.

11. Holding Stewards Up For Long Chats

A quick “hello” or “thank you” is always welcome, but long conversations can throw a steward’s schedule completely off track.

They’re often responsible for 15 to 20 cabins or perhaps more, and on some cruise lines those cabins are still serviced twice a day, so every minute counts.

If you’d like to chat, catch them at a quieter time rather than when they’re rushing with a trolley of supplies.

Final Word

Cabin stewards work tirelessly to keep your cruise experience smooth and comfortable.

By avoiding these small but significant habits, you not only make their lives easier but also help ensure you receive the very best service in return.

A little consideration goes a long way – so next time you’re on board, be the kind of passenger your steward is secretly delighted to look after.

And if you really want to get in their good books, read my post about the ‘Things Your Cabin Steward Secretly LOVES You Doing‘ next.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Want better service, surprise treats, and an extra-clean cabin on your cruise? Or do you just know that it’s good to value the people who are working hard for you?

How you treat your cabin steward matters. These hardworking heroes keep your floating home spotless, and the way you interact with them can make all the difference.

The good news? You don’t need to do anything dramatic – just a handful of small, thoughtful habits…

1. Use the “Do Not Disturb” Sign Thoughtfully

Your cabin steward works to a tight schedule, so those little door signs are more than just decoration.

If you’re heading out, flip it to “Make Up Room” so they know it’s a good time to pop in.

If you’re having a lazy morning or napping, keep it on “Do Not Disturb”.

The key is consistency. Mixed signals – or forgetting to use the sign at all – can leave your steward guessing and can throw their whole routine out of sync.

2. Tip Fairly (And Maybe Early)

Cruises often include gratuities in your fare, but a personal tip is always appreciated.

Slipping your steward a little cash at the start of your cruise is a lovely gesture of respect and sets a warm tone right away.

Many guests swear by this trick, reporting service that feels extra attentive – from perfectly chilled ice waiting in the bucket to towel animals appearing like magic.

Personally, I haven’t tried this as I prefer to tip at the end. Tipping at the beginning feels a bit like demanding extra-attentive service. It’s the same as when people stand at the bar holding a $1 bill to get served first. I find that a bit cringe, but each to their own.

Your tip doesn’t need to be a huge amount; the thoughtfulness matters just as much as the money. And as for which currency to use? That doesn’t matter either.

Suggested read: How Much Extra To Tip Cruise Staff

3. Keep Your Cabin Floor Clear

A cluttered cabin floor is every steward’s nightmare. Bags, shoes, and a scatter of clothing slow them down and make cleaning much harder than it needs to be.

Plus, nobody wants to see your dirty underwear, let alone pick it up!

With storage space cleverly tucked away in cruise cabins, there’s usually a spot for everything – wardrobes, drawers, even under-bed storage.

By keeping things off the floor, you’ll make their job far easier and ensure you come back to a room that feels truly cared for, rather than one that’s been tiptoed around.

4. Tidy Away Your Dirty Laundry

It’s tempting to toss worn clothes into a pile in the corner, but imagine trying to vacuum or dust around that heap! Instead, pop dirty laundry in a suitcase under the bed, a section of the wardrobe, or the laundry service sack provided.

Or better yet, you can even do your own laundry onboard on most ships!

Tidying up your laundry instantly makes your cabin look neater and allows your steward to do a proper clean without playing detective with your socks.

This small step helps keep the space fresh – and keeps you from accidentally kicking yesterday’s gym kit under the bed.

Read more: How To Do Laundry on Cruise Ships: The Ultimate Guide

5. Put Room Service Trays Out Quickly

That late-night club sandwich might have been delicious at the time, but nobody wants to share a cabin with the smell of congealed cheese and cold chips.

As soon as you’re done with room service, place the tray neatly outside your door and then call room service to let them know.

Yes, it’s absolutely fine (and expected) to leave your try outside. The key is to give them a call so that they know to collect it. This minimises the time it’s there.

Leaving it inside the room only leads to mess, odours, and a trickier job for your steward later. Think of it as a little kindness for both you and them.

6. Consolidate Your Rubbish

Stewards don’t expect a spotless cabin, but they’ll love you forever if you make clearing up straightforward.

Instead of leaving a breadcrumb trail of receipts, wrappers, and water bottles across every surface, gather them in the bin provided – or even a spare bag if you’re feeling organised.

It makes tidying up a one-step process for your steward and avoids the awkward guesswork of whether that half-full cup is rubbish or something you’re still nursing.

Many ships have sectioned trash cans for recycling and non-recyclables. Paying attention to this is sure to make someone’s job easier down the line.

7. Be Friendly – Briefly

A smile, a hello, and a thank you go a long way.

Using your steward’s name makes the exchange warmer and more personal. They’ll remember you, and it sets the tone for a friendly relationship.

That said, don’t keep them chatting for ages – they’re usually juggling a long list of cabins to get through.

A quick word of kindness is more than enough to brighten their day without slowing them down.

8. Leave Clear Notes for Requests

Need extra towels, a fresh ice bucket, or an extra pillow? A simple sticky note or a short written message is your best friend.

It’s far easier for your steward to act on clear instructions than trying to catch you between comings and goings.

Notes also prevent misunderstandings – so instead of you waiting for ages, your steward knows exactly what to bring, when, and how. Everyone wins.

Read more: 19 Cruise Freebies You Can Get From Guest Services (Just Ask!)

9. Lock Away Your Valuables

Cabin stewards are professionals who take great pride in their work, but keeping your valuables locked in the safe is simply common sense.

Cash, passports, and jewellery tucked away protect your belongings and prevent any hint of awkwardness.

It also helps your steward relax, knowing they’re not working around piles of expensive items that they could be worried about damaging.

The safer your items are, the more peace of mind you’ll both have – and that means a happier holiday all round.

10. Reuse Your Towels

This little habit is a classic win-win.

If you hang your towels up, they’ll be left for reuse – helping the environment by saving water and reducing laundry loads.

It also gives your steward more time to focus on other aspects of your cabin rather than endlessly swapping towels.

If you really do need fresh ones, just leave them on the floor. Clear signals mean less waste and a smoother routine for everyone.

11. Don’t Leave Food Lying Around

A few biscuits left out on a plate might not seem like a big deal, but ship cabins are small spaces – and food left lying around quickly leads to unwanted smells.

Keep snacks sealed, clear away leftovers promptly, and use the bins or room service trays to dispose of food waste.

Your steward will thank you, and you’ll keep your cabin feeling clean and comfortable.

12. Report Issues Politely

Something not quite right in your cabin? It can often be fixed quickly if you mention it directly to your steward.

They usually know the right person to call and can sort things out. Or just nip to Guest Services – they should be able to sort it quickly.

The key is to be polite – a gentle mention goes much further than a grumble. Your steward wants you happy, and kindness makes everything easier. And certainly never blame the steward for something that’s gone wrong, or something that’s taken too long to fix!

13. Say Thank You

At the end of your cruise, take a moment to properly thank your cabin steward.

Whether it’s a heartfelt word, a handwritten note, or a small extra tip, the gesture means far more than you might imagine.

Stewards work incredibly hard, often with long hours and little downtime. Knowing their efforts were noticed and appreciated gives them a boost that lasts well beyond your sailing.

Gratitude is the simplest – and loveliest – etiquette of all.

Read more: 56 Amazing Examples of Royal Caribbean Customer Service

Final Word

These little gestures don’t just make you a dream guest – they also lead to a smoother, happier cruise for you.

A tidy cabin, a smiling steward, and maybe even a few surprise towel animals along the way are all part of the magic.

Treat your steward with thoughtfulness, and you’ll be amazed how much more special your holiday feels. After all, kindness on the high seas goes a very long way.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Whether it’s your first time at sea or your fiftieth, your cruise cabin can still hold a few surprises.

These compact spaces are clever, quirky, and full of little tricks – some obvious, some not so much.

Trust me – if you don’t make the most of some of these features, you’re missing out on some classic cruise experiences.

1. The Walls Are Metal – and It’s a Game-Changer

Cruise cabin walls (and doors) are typically made of steel, which means they’re magnetic. With the help of a few strong magnetic hooks you can instantly declutter.

I use hooks to hang lanyards, jackets, beach bags, even wet swimwear near the bathroom. Clip up your daily schedules, shore excursion tickets, spa appointments, or invitation slips so they’re always in view.

A small whiteboard with a magnetic back is also great for leaving messages for cabinmates, especially when you’re a family who might be splitting up throughout the day for different activities.

2. Storage Is Hiding in Plain Sight

Cabins may be small, but they’re designed with storage in mind – if you know where to look.

There’s usually a decent amount of space beneath the bed (high enough to fit full-size suitcases), but also check:

• Behind or beside mirrors (some open like cabinets)
• Inside stools or ottomans (often hollow)
• Under sofas or pullman bunks
• Above wardrobes or bathroom doors

Tuck away snorkel gear, bulky shoes, wine bottles, or travel laundry bags. If you’re travelling light, you can even pack into collapsible cubes and keep them in drawers without fully unpacking.

3. Your Cabin Lights Might Drive You Mad

Lighting varies wildly between ships.

Newer ahips often add LED night lights along the floor, but be warned… On Carnival, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line’s newer ships, the night lights have all sparked complaints for being too bright at night and waking everyone up when one person visits the bathroom, or even rolls over in bed!

You can pack tape or stickers to cover the sensors, or ask your cabin steward to do it for you. That’s what happened on my cruise on Sun Princess. Barely any sleep on the first night – but lots after that!

You may want to bring a clip-on book light or battery-powered nightlight if you want to read in bed without waking others.

I sometimes pack battery operated tealights – these are handy to keep in the bathroom, especially if you have an inside cabin and your choice is total darkness or one bright light!

4. The Bathroom Fan Isn’t the Best

Most cruise ship bathrooms don’t have very strong extractor fans. The result? Steam lingers, and let’s just say… other scents do too. A little preparation goes a long way.

Bring a hanging car air freshener (ocean breeze is better than new car smell), a travel-sized odour spray, or a few drops of essential oil on a flannel in the bin.

Just don’t bring candles or incense – open flames are strictly prohibited and will likely be confiscated during luggage checks.

Also handy? Suction cup hooks for towels or a toothbrush holder for keeping counters tidy, especially if you’re sharing with family.

Read more: 14 Things Travellers Should Know About Bathrooms On Cruise Ships

5. You Can Move The Furniture

Most standard cabins come with two twin beds that can be pushed together to form a queen.

You’ll choose your setup at booking, but if it’s wrong when you arrive, your steward can fix it quickly. They might even suggest alternate layouts to free up walking space.

The side tables can usually be moved too, as can furniture items like coffee tables and armchairs.

I’ve even heard of people asking their cabin stewards to remove these to free up space. If you have a travel cot for your baby this may be worth doing. Otherwise, you’ll probably find that it blocks access to somwehere crucial, like your balcony or the fridge!

6. You Might Create A Wind Tunnel!

Leaving your balcony door open while your cabin door is also ajar might seem harmless… until you create a full-blown wind tunnel.

It’s not just a breeze – it can slam doors, scatter paperwork, and even knock over light items.

Secure loose items and consider using zippered pouches or magnets for receipts, daily planners, or tour tickets. It only takes one gust to send your “Meet at the pier” sheet sailing under the bed.

And generally, don’t have both doors open. If you’re leaving your cabin, close the balcony door first.

7. The Tap Water Is Safe to Drink

You might be tempted to buy bottled water packages, but honestly, the tap water in your cabin is completely safe. It’s desalinated, filtered, tested regularly, and often the same water you’re served at bars or in restaurants.

That being said, it won’t be the coldest when it comes out of the tap in your room. It’s OK for those middle-of-the-night sips for a dry throat, but during the day you’ll be better served going to find a chilled water fountain to top up a reusable bottle that you should bring.

You’ll save money, reduce plastic waste, and always have cold water for excursions. Some travellers swear that the water in the bathroom tastes different than the bar water. It’s just the pipes.

Read more: Can You Drink The Tap Water On A Cruise Ship?

8. Some Cabins Are Better… Without Being More Expensive

You don’t need to book a suite for a brilliant room. Some “hump cabins” – those on the outward curve of the ship – have larger balconies and better angles, but are priced as standard.

Likewise, aft corner cabins (especially on older ships) can come with wraparound balconies that feel almost penthouse-like. Look out for forward-facing oceanview cabins too – they’re often oddly shaped, oversized, and offer panoramic views through large windows.

These gems go quickly, so research your ship’s deck plans and book early if you want a hidden treasure.

9. Plug Options Are Often Limited

Don’t expect a wall of sockets. On some older ships you might only get a couple to use, and the type will vary depending on the cruise line too.

It’s best to bring a universal adapter and ideally, a non-surge protected power strip (cruise lines ban surge-protected ones due to fire risk).

A USB hub is also handy, as many newer cabins have USB ports in lamps or at the desk – rarely by the bed.

If you use a CPAP machine or medical device, let the cruise line know in advance and they’ll often provide an extension cord and distilled water, though you might need to pay for the water.

10. Cabin Location Matters More Than You Think

Choosing a cabin near the lifts might seem smart until you hear people chatting outside at midnight.

Likewise, anything directly beneath the buffet or pool deck can mean early wake-up calls thanks to chair scraping or trolleys rolling.

Best choices for quiet? Mid-ship, a few decks below the pool, away from high-traffic areas. And if you get motion sick easily, mid-ship and lower decks are also more stable in rough seas.

Read more: The Best Deck on a Cruise Ship (For Every Type of Cruiser)

11. Your Cabin TV Can Be Surprisingly Useful

On modern ships, the in-room TV isn’t just for old sitcoms and muster videos.

Many now let you:

• View your onboard spending
• Order room service
• Browse the day’s schedule
• Stream from your own device (on some lines, via HDMI)

It’s worth checking on day one so you don’t miss handy features like ordering breakfast from bed with the click of a remote.

If I have an inside cabin, I like to set the TV to show the ship’s camera, and it’s like having a window!

And you’ll definitely want to keep tabs on that spend account. I reckon it’s around 1 in 4 cruises that I’ve been on where I’ve had incorrect charges added to my account!

12. You Can Bring Handy Home Comforts

A few familiar items from home can make your space far more functional.

Consider packing:

• A hanging toiletry or shoe organiser (for the bathroom door)
• Over-door hooks (for extra hanging space)
• Wooden pegs (to clip curtains shut)
• A collapsible laundry basket or dry bag
• A travel coffee mug (great for keeping drinks hot or bringing poolside cocktails to your balcony)

It’s the little things that turn a cabin from a hotel room into your home for the week.

13. Your Cabin Steward Can Do a Lot!

Your steward can often provide more than just clean towels.

Ask if you’d like:

• Extra hangers
• A mattress topper for added comfort
• Additional pillows or a different pillow type
• Bath mats for beside the bed (handy for keeping sand off sheets)
• The minibar emptied so you can use the fridge for snacks or medication
• Ice delivered daily (or not at all)

They want to make your stay comfortable. A friendly chat early on makes a huge difference – and a little tip mid-way through doesn’t hurt either.

Read more: 17 Extras You Can Get From Cruise Cabin Stewards (For Free!)

Final Thoughts

Cruise cabins might look simple, but there’s a surprising amount of functionality hidden in every corner.

With a bit of planning, a few gadgets from home, and a cabin steward on your side, you can enjoy a more comfortable, organised, and relaxed space at sea.

Cruising is all about the experience – but it starts with making your cabin work for you.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Whether you’re about to set sail on your first cruise or you’re a seasoned traveller brushing up on cruise lingo, some terms can sound a little mysterious. Take “Lido Deck” for example, it might sound like insider jargon, but it’s actually one of the most exciting spots on the ship.

The Lido Deck is typically home to at least one outdoor pool, a sun deck, and plenty of places to eat and drink – often including the ship’s buffet. It’s the hub of activity, where you can soak up the sun, join in games or fitness classes, or simply relax with a cocktail in hand.

Depending on the ship, you might also find jacuzzis, giant movie screens for evening films, kids’ play areas, snack stands serving ice cream and cold drinks, or even a spa and gym – all within steps of your deck chair.

In this guide, you’ll learn what the Lido Deck is all about and how to make the most of it on your cruise.

What the Term ‘Lido Deck’ Actually Means

The word “lido” comes from a place in Italy named “Lido di Venezia”. In the early 20th century, it was a beach resort where people swam and relaxed. The term then made its way to cruise ships to refer to the deck on a ship with an outdoor swimming pool, similar to a beach resort.

This phrase makes people think about holidays, having fun, and feeling relaxed.

You Say Lee-Doh, I Say Lie-Doh…

In UK English, Lido is typically pronounced “lie-doh”. However, the Oxford English and Cambridge Dictionary both state that phonetically, lido is pronounced “liː.dəʊ” or “lee-doe”, from the Italian pronunciation. It is a topic that brings debate, as is often the case with words borrowed from other languages.

In short, it’s up to you whether you call it lie-doh or lee-doe. Whatever you prefer!

Where You’ll Find the Lido Deck

The Lido Deck is usually on the top floor of the cruise ship. However, this can vary depending on the design of the cruise ship. On many ships, it can be around the 9th to 11th floor, whereas newer, larger ships are as high as deck 16.

If you’re on a cruise soon, it’s always best to refer to the deck plan provided by the cruise line. 

Cabins on the Lido Deck

Whether a Lido Deck cabin is a bad place to stay on a cruise ship depends on your preferences. Cruise customers often like the convenience of being close to facilities such as the swimming pool, bars and buffet. However, cabins on the Lido Deck can sometimes be noisier than other cabins, as they are close to busy areas of the ship. 

Many of the reviews I’ve read from passengers staying on the Lido Deck report it to be their favourite place to stay on the ship due to the convenience. Also, some customer reviews have noted that the noise hasn’t been a problem, which they were surprised about.

Often, it’s the rooms directly below the Lido Deck that have the most noise.

Before booking your next cruise, it’s usually a good idea to look at the deck plan and read reviews from past passengers before choosing which room to stay in and whether the Lido Deck will suit you.

Read more: 12 Things You Must ALWAYS Check On The Deck Plan

Lido Deck Tips for First-Timers

• Go early for the best loungers – By mid-morning, prime spots by the pool are snapped up. Head out early if you want front-row sunbathing.
• Don’t forget your cover-up – Many cruise lines require a shirt or cover-up when moving between the buffet and pool area.
• Watch for slippery floors – Between splashes and spilt cocktails, it’s easy to forget the deck can get a little slippery.
• Don’t miss the Sailaway party – A lively send-off when the ship first sets sail. The sail away party often includes music, dancing and entertainment from the crew.

Final Word

The Lido Deck is so much more than just ‘the pool deck’ – it’s the beating heart of the ship. Whether you’re there for early-morning laps, a lazy lunch in the sun, or late-night movies under the stars, it’s where some of the best cruise memories are made. Yes, it can be lively (and sometimes a little noisy), but that’s all part of the charm.

If you’re booking a cabin here, weigh up the unbeatable convenience against the chance of extra foot traffic. And next time someone mentions the Lido Deck, you can smile, because now you know exactly what it is, where it is, and why it’s worth a visit on your next cruise.

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

The last thing you want on your cruise is to spend it feeling queasy instead of soaking up the sun and fun. While most people never get seasick, some of us are more prone to it – and once it strikes, it can really put a damper on your holiday.

The good news? There are plenty of simple, proven ways to keep seasickness at bay so you can relax, explore, and make the most of every cocktail, meal, and sunset at sea. Here’s how to stop it before it starts.

1. Choose a Large Ship

Seasickness on cruise holidays is caused when you feel the ship moving on the ocean. And it’s a simple scientific fact that the larger the ship, the less likely you are to feel the motion.

It takes a lot longer for a wave to rock a larger ship, slowing down that sensation of movement. And so, for a person standing on a ship, you’ll feel the actual movement a lot less.

If you’ve never cruised before, it’s definitely worth choosing one of the bigger ships as your first one. You’ll be more likely to enjoy it without worrying about nausea, and if you don’t feel any bad symptoms, then you can try a smaller ship on your next holiday.

Read more: Do big cruise ships rock less?

2. Choose a Modern Ship

Going hand-in-hand with choosing a larger ship, it’s better to choose one of the newest ships for your first cruise, too. Ships have stabilisers that help to cut down on how much you feel the motion when you’re on the ship, and on more modern ships, these are a lot more effective and efficient.

I’ve only ever felt seasick on smaller, older cruise ships.

Older ships do have stabilisers, but they’re not as technologically advanced, so do yourself a favour and book yourself on the largest and newest ship that you can afford, and then you’ll be able to test your limits in comfort.

Plus, you’ll also enjoy all the other benefits of being on a modern, large ship packed with exciting features, too!

Read more: New Cruise Ships for 2025

3. Choose a Lower Deck Midship Stateroom

The location of your stateroom plays a huge part in how much you’ll feel the motion of a ship on the waves. A ship, when travelling forwards, almost pivots from its centre – moving up at the front of the ship before dropping back down.

So you can counter this by booking a stateroom as close to the middle of the ship as possible. Also, aim for a lower deck too – the ship moves the very least at the bottom, so the lower and more central you are, the least you’ll even feel it moving.

Read more: The best deck on a cruise ship

4. Choose a Balcony or Verandah Stateroom

When it’s the ocean causing you to feel sick, you might feel like you don’t want to look at the water. But a balcony or verandah stateroom can actually be really beneficial if you’re feeling seasick.

It’s been proven that being able to focus on a fixed point – in this case, the horizon – can help to steady you and get your senses in check. Also, fresh air is known to help calm any sickness feelings and make your stomach settle. So even if you’re just sitting on your balcony, you can breathe fresh air and focus on that horizon line – you’ll feel better before you know it.

One important tip – if you’re choosing a lower mid-ship stateroom with a balcony because you’re worried about seasickness, make sure you opt out of upgrades. Otherwise, you might get an ‘upgrade’ that you don’t want to a room that’s more likely to make you feel sick.

Read more: How to upgrade your cruise cabin

5. Choose Your Destination Carefully

Some cruise destinations are more notorious than others for choppy waters, and no matter how well you prepare, if the waves are rough, you are more likely to feel sick.

If you’re concerned, avoid booking cruises that cross an ocean – they’re more exposed, so waves aren’t broken up by land. The Bay of Biscay off the west coast of France and north of Spain also has a reputation, as does the Gulf of Alaska. One of the worst is the Drake Passage off the southernmost tip of South America.

Read more: The 8 roughest seas for cruise ships

6. Choose the Best Time of Year for Your Cruise

Even cruise destinations that are normally fine can sometimes have seas that are a little rougher at the wrong time of year. Choosing your itinerary carefully is a good way to minimise the risk of seasickness.

Avoid the Mediterranean during the autumn and winter months when storms are more likely, while hurricane season in the Caribbean (June to November) can also be a little more action-packed than you’d like. Aim for calmer seasons, and you should find calmer waters – simple, really.

Read more: What happens if there’s a hurricane while on a cruise?

7. Rest

One of the biggest causes of seasickness is simply not having enough rest, and while that can be hard when you’re already sick, it’s on you to make sure you’re well rested before the seasickness kicks in.

While it’s exciting getting ready for your cruise, make sure you do sleep the night before embarkation. When you’re on board, if you think you might suffer from nausea, then don’t stay up until the early hours partying. And take a nap if you need to. The better rested you are, the more comfortable you’ll feel.

Remember that seasickness is caused by your senses being imbalanced. Being tired makes that all the more likely as they become less effective.

8. Take Medication With You

There are various over-the-counter medications that you can buy before you travel, which can help to cut down on feelings of sickness. They aren’t strong, but they can help to calm any feelings of nausea before they properly kick in.

Be careful to check the side effects and make sure they don’t clash with other medications you’re taking, as they sometimes can. But most importantly – buy them before you travel. They cost a lot more from the doctor on your cruise ship, believe me.

Seasickness patches are handy as they can be used for kids as well as adults, and they don’t make you feel drowsy like some tablets do.

9. Use a Seaband

Acupressure has been known to help calm some of the feelings associated with seasickness, and so the Seaband has become one of the best preventative tools for anyone who worries they may suffer.

These simple wristbands apply pressure to you to help counter any sickness feelings even before they start, and they can even help with morning sickness – so definitely worth checking out if you’re pregnant and about to cruise!

10. Book an Acupuncture Treatment

What’s one step up from acupressure? Acupuncture. And depending on your cruise ship, the spa may offer acupuncture treatments that can help to relieve any sickness symptoms you’re experiencing.

It’s one of the most expensive tricks on this list, I’ll admit, but it can be very relaxing at the same time. You may walk out of the treatment not only feeling free of sickness but also feeling a lot healthier in general.

11. Get Some Fresh Air

When you’re feeling seasick, you often feel like you want to curl up and hide away, but that’s counterproductive. So, if you don’t have your own balcony, you need to force yourself to get to an open deck, even if you just sit there for 30 minutes or so.

The fresh outdoor air will offer some improvement and help to settle your stomach, and it can also sharpen your senses to get them aligned so that you don’t have queasy feelings in the first place.

12. Eat Regular Small Meals

Seasickness can also make you want to avoid eating food, but that’s not the solution. A full stomach is more likely to settle than one which is empty.

Don’t go crazy and stuff yourself full of every snack imaginable, but instead take on light meals – foods that are filling but not too dense. Eat smaller portions, but keep yourself full, and you should see an improvement. And then once the symptoms subside, that’s when you can go to town on the missed desserts and pizza.

13. Stay Hydrated

Similar to the point above, you absolutely have to stay hydrated when you’re on a cruise if you’re worried about seasickness. Water will help to keep you feeling full, while staying hydrated ensures that you stay sharper and more refreshed.

This again contributes to those senses in your brain and nervous system that have to stay aligned to keep you from suffering from motion sickness.

14. Avoid Alcohol

If staying hydrated helps you to avoid seasickness, you won’t be shocked to learn that alcohol can cause problems. Yes, it dehydrates you, but the alcohol will also cause more disorientation in your body, which can amplify the motion sensation and make your sickness even worse.

Plus, as alcohol is a toxin, it can also make you feel sick on its own. That’s a triple-threat reason why alcohol is a terrible idea when you’re trying to avoid seasickness, even if you just want to get tipsy and forget your worries.

Suggested read: How To Cruise Alcohol-Free

15. Drink Ginger Beer and Eat Crackers

A lot of people recommend drinking ginger beer and eating crackers when you’re feeling sick. Crackers are a light food that will help your stomach feel fuller without causing any reactions due to their neutral pH.

Meanwhile, the ginger in ginger beer has properties that can help to alleviate feelings of nausea and stop you from vomiting. It’s also got other health benefits, such as being anti-inflammatory. So crack open a can.

16. Get an Anti-Sickness Injection

As a last resort, you can visit the ship’s onboard doctor and ask them for an anti-sickness injection. This will likely work since the medication is quite powerful, but it can also leave you feeling tired and dehydrated, so you’re not going to be able to get the injection and then get right on with enjoying your cruise.

The sea sickness injection for cruise guests can also be expensive, so make sure to try all of the other tips on this list first.

The Bottom Line

Most of these tips and tricks are designed with prevention in mind, although some will work once you’ve started suffering from seasickness too. 

Prevention always beats cure, so don’t wait until you’re feeling sick before consulting this list. If you’ve suffered from seasickness before or think you might be vulnerable, be proactive and get these tips lined up. That way, you’ll waste none of your cruise time and can just enjoy it from the moment you step onboard.

Related Posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

I can’t go on Facebook these days without seeing a post from someone about sun lounger hogs on cruise ships.

It is one of the hottest topics of conversation that always gets people riled up, and I get it – it’s infuriating when you’re on a really busy cruise ship and there are chairs that are covered in towels and other items but with no owner in sight.

However, you really don’t need to give up and let them win. There are some strategies you can use if you want to make sure you aren’t left waiting around…

1. Set Your Alarm and Beat Them to It

The simplest tactic is often the most effective: wake up early!

Chair hogs tend to strike at sunrise, claiming prime spots by draping towels and vanishing for hours.

If you’re willing to get up a bit earlier than usual, you’ll likely have your pick of loungers and can make sure you get one in a prime spot.

Just make sure you actually use the chair – don’t become a chair hog yourself by leaving your belongings and wandering off.

The tactic doesn’t work the best if you want to enjoy sit-down breakfast. But, if a coffee and aa pastry is all you fancy, you can definitely enjoy those from the comfort of your sun lounger.

And if you want a lie in? Then you’re going to have to rely on the other options on this list…

2. Explore Beyond the Main Pool Deck

Everyone flocks to the main pool area, which means it fills up quickly. That’s typically because it’s where the biggest open spaces are, or just because inexperienced cruisers haven’t taken the time to explore the other options around the ship.

The loungers right by the main pool always go first, but unless you have a swimming child that you want to keep an eye on, this isn’t actually a good spot at all.

Most cruise ships have at least a couple of decks with sun loungers, and many of these quieter spots are overlooked. Bigger ships will have several spaces for you to choose from.

Check the ship’s deck plan before you sail and explore areas at the front (bow), back (aft), or upper levels of the ship. The promenade deck is another great spot. You’ll often find better views, more breeze, and fewer crowds.

3. Know Your Cruise Line’s Policy

Many cruise lines are now cracking down on chair saving.

Carnival’s “ChairShare” team, for example, tags unattended loungers and removes belongings after 40 minutes.

Royal Caribbean, MSC, P&O Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line operate similarly – typically it’s around 30 minutes once the lounger has been noticed.

Check your line’s policy before you sail – it can be a useful tool if you need help claiming a chair that’s been sitting unused for hours.

And make sure you don’t break the rules yourself – if you wander off for a leisurely lunch and don’t return within an hour, you can’t be shocked to have lost your lounger.

Read more: P&O Cruises Tagging Sun Loungers To Prevent Guests Reserving Them

4. Speak to the Crew

If you find a seemingly abandoned chair, just have a quiet word with a crew member – usually at the towel station – and let them handle it.

And if you can’t see a lounger, just ask the crew for advice. They might be able to find a free one for you, or give you recommendations on other parts of the ship you could check.

They’re trained to enforce policy and keep things fair, and it helps you avoid any awkward (or heated) confrontations with other guests.

5. Book an Exclusive Lounging Area

Many ships now offer premium deck spaces with reserved loungers, either included with suite cabins or available for a fee.

These zones go by names like Loft 19 (Carnival), The Retreat (Celebrity Cruises), The Sanctuary (Princess Cruises), Vibe Beach Club (NCL), or The Grove (Royal Caribbean).

They’re quieter, more spacious, and often include waiter service, hot tubs or private cabanas. If peaceful sunbathing is high on your cruise priority list, it might be worth the extra cost.

Be aware though – these spaces often book up fast! Make it a priority to head there the moment you board the ship to reserve your place.

6. Time It Right – Pool Days vs Port Days

Sea days and sunny afternoons are peak times for chair hogs.

But if you go early in the morning, late afternoon, or while the ship is docked in port, you’ll usually find plenty of available loungers.

Many passengers head ashore during port stops, making it the perfect opportunity to relax by the pool without the crowds.

Of course, you might be one of the crowd heading ashore too – don’t sacrifice port experiences just for a couple of hours by the pool.

But if it’s a port you’ve seen before, or your excursion ends early, get yourself to the pool and take advantage of the quieter moments.

Suggested read: How To Avoid The Crowds On A Cruise: My Quiet Sea Day Itinerary

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Sometimes a towel on a chair is just a placeholder – for someone who might not be coming back.

If you see a seemingly unoccupied lounger with a towel or book, and no one’s nearby, it’s perfectly fine to ask the person next to it if anyone’s using it.

A polite question often clears up confusion and can land you a spot without fuss. Often times the person will say – “that towel has been there all day, I don’t think anyone’s coming back for it”.

If you get an impolite response, that’s on them – and you can always speak to a crew member if things take a turn. They shouldn’t, though.

8. Book a Balcony Cabin

If your goal is simply to enjoy the sun and sea in peace, a balcony cabin might be your ideal alternative.

While it’s not the same as lounging poolside, having your own private outdoor space means no competition for chairs – unless your family gets there first!

It’s perfect for reading, relaxing, or enjoying a quiet drink with a view. And on some cruise ships with bigger balconies you might get a lounger, or even a hammock!

9. Pick a Smaller Ship

It may seem logical to assume bigger ships have more loungers, but that’s not always the case when you think about how many loungers there are per person!

While mega-ships have larger pool decks, they also carry thousands more guests. And while you might have split-level sunbathing areas, you can’t add 3 or 4 more pool decks just like you can add 3 or 4 more cabin decks.

Smaller ships often have a better guest-to-lounger ratio, making it easier to find a spot. If peaceful sunbathing is high on your wish list, a smaller vessel could be the better choice.

10. Aim for the Shade

Most people rush for the sunniest spots, especially near the main pool.

But if you’re happy with filtered sunlight or a bit of shade, you’ll have more luck. It might actually be more comfortable, depending on the weather.

Look for loungers under overhangs or on decks with partial cover. Not only are these chairs often left alone, but you’ll avoid the risk of sunburn as well.

11. Just Sit Down

There’s a difference between a chair that has lots of personal belongings – a water bottle, book, sun cream etc – and one that just has a towel.

If it’s just a towel, there’s a chance that it’s been abandoned. In this case, if no other loungers were available, I would probably just sit on it. If someone comes back for it, of course, they can have it back. But in my experience, it’s super rare that that happens.

What Not to Do!

There are a few things you absolutely shouldn’t be doing when you’re looking for a sun lounger – make sure you avoid these!

Don’t Reserve and Run

This is exactly what we’re trying to stop happening!

Leaving your towel on a lounger and disappearing for hours is what frustrates most cruisers. If you’re not actively using the chair – reading, sunbathing, or even just sitting nearby – it’s not yours.

Cruise staff are increasingly strict about removing items from unused loungers, so you might lose your spot anyway.

Don’t Move Other People’s Belongings Yourself

Even if a chair looks abandoned, it’s not a good idea to move someone else’s towel or belongings.

Doing so can create tension or lead to a confrontation. Instead, notify a crew member – they’ll know how to handle the situation according to the ship’s policy.

Some cruise lines will charge for unreturned pool towels too, so if you move a towel you could end up causing that person problems when they can’t find their towel to return it.

Leave it to the crew!

Don’t Confront Chair Hogs

It can be tempting to call someone out when you see obvious chair hogging, but direct confrontations rarely end well.

You’re on holiday – the last thing you want is an argument that ruins your mood (or worse, ends up reported). Stay calm and speak to a member of staff instead if the situation really needs addressing.

Don’t Hog More Than You Need

Saving one or two chairs for your partner while they pop to the buffet is fine, as long as they won’t take too much time.

Saving an entire row for your group that won’t show up for hours is not. It’s inconsiderate and goes against most cruise line policies.

If you’re not all ready to use the loungers, don’t try to claim them in advance.

Final Word

Cruise lines are doing their best to tackle the sun lounger problem, but the situation will never be perfect.

If you’re absolutely determined to grab a few loungers for your group by the pool, then you’ll need to rely on these tips to make sure you aren’t left frustrated.

Pool decks are always going to be popular on sea days, but just make sure you follow the guidelines for good behaviour and communicate with the crew when you notice loungers that aren’t occupied – you should be able to secure those seats you want!

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me