If you are aware of the proper ways to book rooms, then family cruises can really be a treat. Moreover, if your family has more than four members, then booking multiple cabins might not only be a good idea but it is often necessary. Most of the cruise lines do not permit more than four guests in one cabin and hence splitting into two or more staterooms is the most realistic option to have comfort, space, and sanity.
However, it is better not to book multiple cabins randomly. The overall experience can be affected by the room type, layouts, add-ons, and reservation management. Here is a renewed, updated guide that includes not only the original facts but also new sections that you requested.
Why Booking Multiple Cabins is Important for Family Cruises
Family cabins may completely alter the enjoyment of your trip.
- Comfort and space: Cramming fewer people into one room causes better sleep and less stress.
- Privacy: The parents get their time off and the children/ teenagers can have their own area.
- Flexibility: All the different circumstances related to sleep such as sleeping schedules, naps, early mornings, and noisy nights will be so much easier to adapt to.
- Smoother trip overall: The presence of two cabins creates a holiday atmosphere instead of mere week of cohabitation in one room.
Relaxation during the cruise will be your falsehood if you have two cabins even when your family fits in one.
How to Start Your Multiple Cabin Booking
Initially, when you double the number of cabins necessary for a family cruise, it is the right practice to compare cruise lines and what each of them offers at no specific price point. One cruise line could sell an inside stateroom at a cheap price, and, at the same time, another cruise line offers an ocean view, balcony, or concierge-level cabin with perks.
Follow these steps early in the process:
- Count the entire family and their ages.
- Check guest limit in each category of the cabin.
- Check various types of cruise ship cabins and provide additional services.
- Let the cruisebooking.com expert know the size of your family.
In most cases, you will still have to book separate rooms if there are more than four people but savvy selections can have you reaping the rewards of better pricing and better positioning.
Choosing the Right Cabin Types and Layouts
To have the proper multiple cabins booked, determine the following first:
- The number of cabins required
- Sharing arrangements for each cabin
- Proximity of cabins preferred (together or connecting)
- Your total budget (and how you prefer to spend more/less in certain aspects)
A common procedure based on the age category is to book a larger cabin and a smaller one.
Things to Keep in Mind While Booking Multiple Cabins for Family Cruises
You should have a good understanding of what the package includes before deciding about the cabins. To that end, consider the following points.
Members’ Count
The member’s count is the foremost factor that decides whether one cabin will suffice or more will be required. Family consists of three or less, can use just one cabin because cruise cabin is good enough for 4 members. On the other hand, if your family comprises more than four then it is better to have two or more staterooms. For that, you can have one big room and one small one based on age group. Make sure to mention your preferences as it will help cruise staff to provide you with a better deal.
Inclusions and Amenities
The next thing to do is to check the inclusions and amenities provided before purchasing your tickets. The inclusions and amenities should be arranged for both rooms in the case of multiple cabins booking. Moreover, they offer other facilities like soft drinks, snacks, and desserts along with 3 meals. Moreover, the activities are also included in the multi-cabin packages. When you are going on a family cruise, checking all the available family packages first before picking one of the best would be a prudent step.
Connecting Rooms
Cruise lines are aware of the needs of large families. So, with this in mind, most of the cruise lines provide connecting rooms so that you don't have to think about being out of reach from the other family members. The rooms are linked by door or a passageway, depending on the ship layout. It is always for family members to enter each other's room without stepping out of yours. Just make sure you inquire about connecting rooms at the time of booking.
Choosing the Right Cabin Types and Layouts
One size of cabin does not fit all, and this is a summary:
- Inside cabins: Excellent to cut down on cost, mainly if you are hardly in the room.
- Oceanview cabins: More brightness without the cost of a balcony.
- Balcony cabins: More space and ventilation—usually a choice for mothers and fathers.
- Suites/concierge cabins: Larger area and additional advantages, but the price is higher.
- Connecting cabins: The best option for families who love being together and want it easy.
There are also some things to consider regarding cabin location:
- Midship is usually the least affected by motion.
- Close to elevators is very convenient but may be noisier.
- Close to kids’ places can be a plus—or too loud—depends on your preference.
Also Read: Which cabins are best on a cruise ship?
Tips for Booking Multiple Cabins Smoothly
- Early cruise booking gets you better cabin locations and more options for connecting cabins.
- If possible, book the cabins under the same reservation to facilitate management.
- Ask for cabins that are next to each other (same deck and same area whenever it is possible).
- Always verify the occupancy rules for each cabin type.
- Be sure to clarify the payment deadlines and cancellation policies because booking several cabins may involve several deposit arrangements.
Also Read: How to pick a cabin on a cruise ship?
Managing Reservations and Group Perks
When you book two or more cabins, organization is important.
- Request the cruise line (or agent) to connect your bookings so that dining, activities and plans are easier to manage.
- Certain cruise lines provide group benefits for booking more than one cabin— even for families. This could mean onboard credit or discount, depending on the cruise line and the trip.
- If you are going with a large family, linking bookings can keep everyone on the same dining schedule and make planning excursions much simpler.
Also Read: What Is the Cheapest Cabin on a Cruise Ship?
Conclusion
When accompanied by the proper strategy, reserving several cabins for a family cruise can turn out to be your smartest decision. Follow this path and you will not only be able to stay in comfort, but also have everyone in different areas and thus, your trip will be more like a real holiday.
Before you confirm your choice, verify again your cabin types, inclusions and the possibility of connecting rooms or nearby cabins. As soon as everything looks great, then you are all set to have a good time on the cruise—together with your entire family—without feeling cramped in one area.
