Ever since cruise ships have become a in style for family vacations, newer ships have been built keeping the family needs in mind. The ships which cater to families have larger cabins that can easily accommodate four (and sometimes five) people. These larger suites sometimes have a separate section for the kids, sometimes with bunk beds. Or depending on your budget, you may choose a smaller cabin next door (which may also be joined to your cabin).

While booking your cruise cabin, keep in mind that there are different types of cabins too- inside cabins, outside cabins and balcony cabins. The inside cabins are located inside the corridors, the outside cabins on the wall of the ship (so they will have a window) and the balcony cabins are outside cabins with a private deck.

Though the inside cabins are less expensive than the outside cabins, the amenities offered to the passengers are the same. However, it does lead to the feeling of confinement and sometimes causes confusion as you have no way of telling what the weather is like outside, or even what time of the day it is.

If you are choosing an Outside Cabin, you should be careful to confirm what the cruise is passing off as a “window”. Sometimes it may just be small portholes, while some are proper windows. Even then, sometimes the view is blocked life boats.

A helpful tip- if you are in doubt what cabin will be best for your family, always book a higher category. Underestimating the cruise categories and misjudging what you are paying for may be one of the biggest mistakes you may make on your otherwise perfect trip.