Independence of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

Independence of the Seas is a magnificent ship with quite a variety of activities available, highly sought after by Royal Caribbean Liners. With so much happening, the room chosen can either make the cruise experience perfect or bad. Generally, the cabins are quite nice but still, a few of them have the unique issues—noise, motion, privacy, or location—that can affect one's comfort positively or negatively depending on the individual.

This comprehensive guide will inform you about the cabins, to be avoided on Independence of the Seas, the reasons behind their being undesirable and how to select the right one. You will be able to make the booking with ease and confidence, no matter if you are a light sleeper, suffering from seasickness easily, or going on a cruise with kids.

Reasons for Avoiding Specific Cabins

Cruise cabins are different even in the same category. Some staterooms:

• Are located right under the most frequent public places
• Have their views partially blocked
• Feel more movement from the ship
• Getting noise coming from late-night activities
• Are located at the farthest from elevators and amenities
• Have some privacy issues
• Are at a wall shared with crew areas that make noise

Being aware of which accommodations come with these downsides is a great help for you to plan and avoid any surprises.

1. Cabins Above the Royal Promenade (Promenade View Rooms)

Promenade View Cabins are quite special as they have interior windows viewing the busy Royal Promenade. People-watching might be interesting, but these cabins have several disadvantages along with.

Reasons to Avoid These Rooms

• Disturbance caused by nightly entertainment (parades, live music, themed parties)
• Sound is very easily transmitted during the night, especially
• Lack of privacy-people can see your cabin if the curtains are opened
• The Promenade lights are on until late at night.

Suitable for: Those who love nightlife and families that love activities

Not suitable for: Light sleepers or those who prefer quiet nights

2. Cabins located directly under the Pool Deck (Decks 11 & 12)

The excitement of poolside makes Independence of the Seas very lively but if your cabin is situated right under this place, then most probably you will hear:

• Dragging of early-morning sun-beds
• Guests walking towards the restaurant for breakfast
• Pool activities, DJ playing and live music
• Children running or splashing during deck events
• Avoid it if: If You love morning sleep or afternoon naps.

Better alternative: Deck 7–9 midship balcony cabins

Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International

3. Cabins Near Studio B (Ice-Skating Venue)

Studio B is one of the most entertaining places on the ship it has got everything — spectacular ice-skating and event rehearsals besides ice-skating shows.

• Potential Problems
• Daytime rehearsal noise
• Music and subwoofers during performances
• Vibration from ice movement

Cabins to avoid: Deck 3 midship and low Deck 4 cabins above Studio B

Not Suitable for: travelers who seek a quiet environment or who nap during the day.

4. Cabins Near the Casino Royale (Deck 4)

The casino area is bustling even at the late hours. There is a combination of slot machines, music, and foot traffic which makes noise heard in the neighboring cabins.

• Problems
• Sounds from the night
• Smoke coming near the hallway entrances (smoking areas do not reach on-cabin but may smell in the adjacent areas)

Stay away: midship cabins on Deck 4 or spots that are directly under the casino.

5. Cabins With View Limitations or Partially Obstructed Views

Half of the view is cut off as cabins on Deck 6 are next to the lifeboats.

Disadvantages

• Blocking of view by lifeboat mechanisms
• Ocean visibility is reduced
• Less light

If you are paying for a balcony or oceanview it will probably not feel worth the price.

6. Forward Cabins on High Decks (Worst for Seasickness)

The forward part of the ship is very much affected by the movement regardless of the cause, especially during:

• Windy days at sea
• Rough waters
• Fast cruising

The following cabins suffer the most motion:

• Forward balconies on Deck 10–12
• Forward interior cabins
• Forward oceanview rooms

Avoid if: You or someone has seasickness

Better choice: Midship cabins on Deck 6–8

7. Very Aft Cabins (Vibration & Long Walks)

Back cabins are one of the most frequently requested rooms due to their marvelous post wake vistas-but they are not quite suitable for everyone.

Potential Drawbacks

• Engine vibration can be felt
• Shaking during docking may occur
• Elevator to cabin takes a long walk
• Slightly louder propeller noises at night

Avoid if: you are looking for stability and convenience

Choose: Center aft balcony cabins on Deck 8 or 9 instead

8. Far Aft Interior Cabins

Interior cabins which are right at the rear of the ship, usually, are:

• Quieter but a bit of pain 
• Dining, entertainment, and pools are all quite far away 
• A long daily walk—especially for families with kids

If mobility or convenience is a priority, pick something more central. 

9. Promenade View Cabins (Privacy & Lighting Concerns)

Apart from noise (which was discussed earlier), these rooms are also equipped with:

Privacy Issues

• Depending on the lighting settings, people strolling through the Promenade can have a clear view inside.

Lighting Concerns

• The bright Promenade lights are on till late at night 
• The room has a dark atmosphere because of the privacy requirement that the curtains must be kept closed.

Moreover, they are not the best options for cruisers who wish to have a serene and secluded place.

10. Connecting Cabins (Noise Transfer)

Connecting cabins are wonderful for families who want more room, but they have some disadvantages.

Common Issues

• Sounds from the neighboring room can easily be heard through the connecting door 
• Talk, TV, and movements in the hallway are more prominent to you

If you’re not sharing the party next door, it’s better to go for a non-connecting room. 

11. Cabins Next to Crew Areas

The staff of the ship works nonstop and thus, the cabins near the crew doors may hear:

• Carts being rolled 
• Doors being slammed 
• Morning hustle and bustle 
• Cleaning operations

These cabins are usually located at:

• The corners of Deck 2 and Deck 3 
• Forward or aft service areas

Not all cabins in this area are noisy, but it is advisable to go through the deck plan thoroughly.

12. Cabins Facing the Smokestack (Certain Upper Decks)

Taking into consideration some certain upper-deck cabins might be affected by smoke coming from exhaust areas on windy days.

Problems

• Outdoor occasional smell
• Less pleasant balcony use

Cabins that are very few but still worth avoiding for those sensitive to smoke or odors.

13. Cabins Near Adventure Ocean or Teen Spaces

Family areas and teen clubs can be very noisy especially in the evenings.

Problems

• Teens occupy hallways
• Noise from video game rooms
• Converging spots during busy times

Parents like these cabins but couples looking for tranquility might not.

Find Your Perfect Cabin on Independence of the Seas

Choose the best stateroom for your comfort. Explore cabin options, avoid noisy locations, and book the perfect room for a relaxing cruise!

Explore Independence of the Seas Cabins

Photo by Royal Caribbean International

The Best of Cabins to Select on Independence of the Seas

It so much simpler to find the perfect cabin when one knows what to avoid.

Recommended Locations

• Midship on Decks 7, 8, and 9
• Between-stateroom balcony cabins
• Rooms that do not connect
• Areas quiet away from lounges, pools, and entertainment
• Balconies port or starboard for great views plus less noise

Best Options for Different Traveler

• Best for those prone to seasickness: Midship, Deck 6
• Best for Families: Joined rooms (only if both are booked)
• Best for Peace: Decks 7–9 aft-midship
• Best for Ease: Near elevators on Deck 8

Additional Tips for Choosing a Cabin on Independence of the Seas

• Know the Deck Plans in Detail: Cabins in the middle of staterooms are the quietest ones.
• Don't just consider pricing when booking your cabin: Sometimes, the most attractively priced cabinet is cheap for a distinct purpose.
• Look for Notes on the Renovation: Independence has had its share of refurbishments; the newer places might have better stateroom layouts.

Conclusion

Independence of the Seas is a fantastic vessel full of activities; however, the choice of cabin will greatly influence your comfort. The selection of not to stay next to entertainment that is too loud and vibrant, with obstructed view or difficult access, will increase greatly your chances of getting a quiet, relaxing, and hassle-free vacation.