By David Downer

Choosing the right cabin is crucial if you want to avoid noise on a cruise. Here are some of the potentially noisiest areas on a ship and why you might want to avoid them:
1. Under or Near the Pool Deck (Lido Deck)
Why?
- Early morning deck chairs scraping as crew sets up.
- Loud music, movies, and pool parties throughout the day.
- Late-night gatherings near bars & hot tubs.
Avoid: Cabins directly below the pool deck or outdoor bars.
2. Near Lifts & Stairwells
Why?
- Constant foot traffic with people talking loudly. Late at night people tend to stand around these areas chatting and saying their goodnights after a few drinks.
- Possible congestion before/after dinner and during shore excursions.
Avoid: Cabins next to or opposite lifts and stairwells.
3. Below the Buffet or Main Dining Room
Why?
- Early morning noise from crew setting up breakfast.
- Clanging pots, pans, and chairs scraping.
- Heavy foot traffic at peak dining hours.
Avoid: Cabins directly under the buffet or near main dining venues.
4. Near Nightclubs, Theatres & Live Music Venues
Why?
- Loud bass and music vibrations until late at night.
- Noise from crowds leaving the venue.
Avoid: Cabins above, below, or next to theatres, nightclubs, or piano bars.
5. Below or Above the Gym & Spa
Why?
- Treadmills & weights dropping can be loud early in the morning.
- Music from fitness classes like Zumba or spin.
Avoid: Cabins below the fitness center or near spa treatment rooms.
6. Aft Cabins (Near the Engines & Propellers)
Why?
- Engine vibrations & propeller noise can be noticeable, especially on older ships.
- Possible noise from crew areas or late-night staff movement.
Avoid: Lower deck aft cabins (especially on older ships).
7. Forward Cabins (Near Anchor & Bow Thrusters)
Why?
- Loud vibrations & mechanical noise when the ship docks.
- Stronger wave movement can cause creaks & rattles.
Avoid: Very forward cabins on lower decks.
8. Below the Main Promanade Deck
Why?
- You may be disturbed (particularly early morning) by runners thudding heavily around the promanade deck.
Avoid: Cabins below the promenade deck if this concerns you.
9. Near the Laundry Rooms
Why?
- You may experience noise disturbance near to the laundry rooms. Both noise from the machines and from guests coming and going, including early in the morning and late at night.
Avoid: Cabins near the laundry rooms
When it comes to cabin selection, working with the ship’s deck plan I will take great care to identify the perfect cabin for you, including taking into consideration factors such as those I have listed here.
For all cruise enquiries please contact me via any of the methods below.
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David Downer
Personal Cruise Planner
Not Just Travel
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Tel: 01202 798558
Email: david.downer@notjusttravel.com
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