Choosing the right cabin on a cruise can make or break your vacation. Book the wrong one and you might find yourself dealing with sleepless nights, constant foot traffic, or a disappointing view. On a ship the size of Star of the Seas — Royal Caribbean’s newest mega-ship — there are literally thousands of staterooms to choose from, and not all of them are equal. Some are noisy, some are poorly located, and others just aren’t worth the price.
This guide breaks down the Star of the Seas cabins to avoid, saving you time, money, and frustration so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying the world’s largest cruise ship to the fullest.
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Why Your Cabin Choice Matters
Choosing the right cabin on a cruise can make or break your vacation. Book the wrong one and you might find yourself dealing with sleepless nights, constant foot traffic, or a disappointing view. On a ship the size of Star of the Seas — Royal Caribbean’s newest mega-ship — there are literally thousands of staterooms to choose from, and not all of them are equal. Some are noisy, some are poorly located, and others just aren’t worth the price.
This guide breaks down the Star of the Seas cabins to avoid, saving you time, money, and frustration so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying the world’s largest cruise ship to the fullest.
Star of the Seas cabins to avoid are something every cruiser should know about before booking. With more than 2,800 staterooms spread across 20 passenger decks, there are plenty of fantastic options — but also some hidden pitfalls. The wrong cabin choice can quickly turn a dream vacation into a restless experience filled with hallway chatter, thumping bass from onboard entertainment, or obstructed ocean views.
Not all staterooms are created equal. Whether it’s being directly under a busy pool deck, too close to elevators, or stuck at the very front of the ship where you’ll feel the most motion, where you sleep each night has a huge impact on your cruise.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly which cabins to avoid on Star of the Seas and, just as importantly, discover the best alternatives nearby. That way, you can book with confidence and ensure your cabin is a highlight, not a regret.
Overview of the Ship & Cabins
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is the second Icon Class ship, following her sister Icon of the Seas. At nearly 250,000 gross tons, she ranks among the largest cruise ships ever built, carrying up to 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members across 20 decks. To keep things manageable, Royal Caribbean split her into eight distinct neighborhoods like Chill Island, Surfside, AquaDome, and Central Park.
The ship features more than 2,800 staterooms across four main categories, each designed to fit different budgets and travel styles:
| Room Type | Sleeps | Size (including balcony) |
|---|---|---|
| Interior | 2 to 4 | 157 to 187 sq ft |
| Ocean View | 2 to 4 | 160 to 258 sq ft |
| Balcony | 2 to 6 | 196 to 285 sq ft |
| Suite | 2 to 8 | 322 to 1,772 sq ft |
Interior Cabins
The most affordable option. Ranging from 157–187 sq. ft., some include virtual views or neighborhood windows facing Central Park or Surfside. Great for budget cruisers, but they can feel tight for families.
Here’s a breakdown of the interior stateroom categories you can choose from:
- Interior
- Interior Plus
- Spacious Interior
- Surfside Family View Interior
- Central Park View Interior
Oceanview Cabins
At 160–258 sq. ft., these feature a real window for natural light without balcony pricing. Panoramic Oceanviews on Deck 14 offer some of the ship’s best forward-facing views.
Only two types of ocean view cabins to choose from:
- Ocean View
- Panoramic Ocean View
Balcony Cabins
The most popular choice. At 196–285 sq. ft., options range from standard Ocean View Balconies to Infinite Balconies, where the upper window slides down. Neighborhood-facing balconies in Central Park and Surfside are cheaper but noisier.
Balcony stateroom categories include:
- Ocean View Balcony
- Large Balcony
- Infinite Balcony
- Family Infinite Balcony
- Connecting Balcony
- Central Park Balcony
- Surfside Balcony
Suites
The luxury tier, from 322–1,772 sq. ft. These include Junior Suites, the Royal Loft, and even the Ultimate Family Townhouse with a private slide and fenced yard. Suites include concierge service, Coastal Kitchen access, and private sun decks.
Suite stateroom categories include:
- Junior Suite
- Owner’s Suite
- Grand Suite
- Royal Loft
- Ultimate Family Townhouse
Jim’s Note: Bigger isn’t always better. Some staterooms come with obstructed views or sit too close to busy venues, so always double-check the deck plan before booking.
Related: Check out our Royal Caribbean Ships by Age guide to see how Star of the Seas compares with her fleetmates.
Cabins to Avoid on Star of the Seas
Not every cabin on Star of the Seas is created equal. While Royal Caribbean designed this ship with comfort in mind, some rooms come with hidden drawbacks that can easily spoil your cruise. From excessive noise to motion sickness risks, it pays to know which staterooms to skip before you book.
Below Chill Island
Avoid: 14164 to 14286, 14564 to 14686
One of the most exciting new features on Star of the Seas is Chill Island, the sprawling pool neighborhood that stretches across multiple decks. With multiple pools, whirlpools, a swim-up bar, and endless loungers, it’s one of the busiest spots onboard — and that’s exactly why cabins located directly beneath it are a problem.
Why it’s a problem: At first, being near the pools sounds convenient. But pool decks are among the noisiest areas on any cruise ship. Guests in these cabins report hearing the sound of chairs scraping across the deck, music from pool parties, and foot traffic late into the evening. Even worse, the crew starts setting up loungers early in the morning, which means noise as early as 6:00 AM. If you like to sleep in, these cabins can make your cruise feel exhausting.
Specific cabins: Avoid cabins directly under Deck 15 in the forward and midship zones. On Star of the Seas, this includes Deck 14 staterooms 14100–14150. These are the most directly affected by pool activity overhead.
Extra considerations: Noise isn’t the only drawback. Cabins under the pool deck can sometimes experience reduced privacy. Guests above might look down from the pool area, and in some balcony cabins, this creates an overlooked feeling. You may also notice vibrations from heavy foot traffic during peak hours.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★☆
- Privacy: ★★★☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: If you enjoy being near the action but still want a good night’s sleep, aim for Deck 12 balcony cabins. You’ll still be close to Chill Island, but you’ll avoid the worst of the scraping chairs and late-night music. Another smart choice is a midship oceanview balcony on Deck 10 or 11, which balances convenience with peace and quiet.
Near AquaDome
Avoid: 12134 to 12162, 12530 to 12562, 14138 to 14162, 14538 to 14562
The AquaDome is one of the most spectacular new features on Star of the Seas. This forward neighborhood is home to breathtaking high-diving aqua shows, aerial acrobatics, and immersive performances that combine water, lights, and music in a way no other ship has attempted. With panoramic ocean views during the day and dramatic productions at night, it’s an absolute must-see for guests.
But while AquaDome is a highlight when you’re in the audience, staying in a cabin too close to it can feel like living backstage rather than enjoying a peaceful vacation.
Why it’s a problem: AquaDome shows rely on powerful sound systems with booming bass, spotlights, and even special effects like water splashes and fog machines. That energy is great inside the venue, but it often carries through walls, floors, and ceilings to nearby staterooms. Since performances typically run until 10:30–11:00 PM, you may hear loud music long after you’ve gone to bed. Rehearsals are another issue — they’re usually held in the daytime, but if you’re hoping to nap or spend quiet time in your room, you may be out of luck.
Another factor is foot traffic. After each performance, hundreds of passengers spill into the hallways at once, creating a rush of noise and chatter that can last for 15–20 minutes. Cabins right along these routes feel especially busy.
Specific cabins: Steer clear of cabins on Decks 7–9, forward sections 7100–7700 and 8100–8700, which sit directly beside or underneath the AquaDome. Noise and vibration are most noticeable in these locations.
Extra considerations: Light sleepers should be especially cautious. Even if the shows end before midnight, the combination of late-night crowd noise and music basslines can disrupt rest. Families with small children may also find it difficult to get kids to bed early in these cabins.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★☆
- Privacy: ★★☆☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: If you want to be close enough to catch AquaDome shows without the noise, opt for midship balcony cabins on Decks 10–12. These are still only a short walk from the venue but are far enough removed to guarantee quieter evenings. Another good choice is an aft-facing balcony on the same decks, where you’ll enjoy peaceful sea views and less hallway traffic.
Close to Elevators
Avoid: 6000 to 6400, 10000 to 10400
Elevators are one of the busiest spots on any cruise ship, and Star of the Seas is no exception. With more than 7,600 passengers onboard, the elevator banks are constantly in use. While being right next to the lifts might sound convenient, it can quickly become a noisy and frustrating experience if your cabin is too close.
Why it’s a problem: Elevators operate 24/7, and sound easily carries into nearby cabins. The mechanical ding of doors opening, the chatter of crowds waiting, and the shuffle of people coming and going at all hours can be surprisingly disruptive.
Traffic also peaks at certain times:
- Pre-dinner rush (5–7 PM) as guests head to the main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.
- Post-show crowds (9–11 PM) when theaters, comedy clubs, and AquaDome performances let out.
- Morning rush (7–9 AM) on port days when everyone is trying to leave the ship.
- Last night of the cruise, when passengers roll luggage down the halls for disembarkation.
If you’re a light sleeper or value privacy, cabins near elevators often feel like you’re staying in the middle of a busy hotel lobby.
Specific cabins: Avoid cabins closest to elevator banks on Decks 6–14, particularly midship staterooms in the 6000–6400 and 10000–10400 ranges. These areas are directly exposed to the heaviest traffic.
Extra considerations: It’s not just noise — you may also experience reduced privacy since people often loiter in hallways while waiting for elevators. Families with kids sometimes let little ones run ahead, meaning random knocks or hallway commotion.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★☆
- Privacy: ★★☆☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: Choose cabins located at least 8–10 doors down the corridor from elevator banks. This keeps you close enough for convenience while ensuring peace and quiet. Another smart option is a midship balcony on Decks 9–11, which balances quick access with less hallway traffic.
Forward Cabins
Avoid: 7100 to 7300, 8100 to 8300, 9100 to 9300
Forward cabins may look appealing when you’re scanning deck maps, since they often seem more private and offer dramatic ocean views. But on a ship as massive as Star of the Seas, these rooms are also the roughest ride onboard. Because they sit at the very front of the ship, they’re the first to feel every swell, wave, and gust of wind.
Why it’s a problem: Guests prone to seasickness will feel the most movement in forward cabins compared to anywhere else on the ship. Even though Star of the Seas has advanced stabilizers, physics still applies — the bow rises and falls more sharply in rough seas. That motion is what leaves many passengers queasy.
Tip: If seasickness is a concern, check out our full guide on which part of a Royal Caribbean ship has the least motion.
Noise is another issue. The ship cuts through waves with noticeable force, and at higher speeds, the sound of crashing water and whipping winds can make forward cabins feel less restful. On stormier nights, some guests report hearing the hull “slap” against waves, which can be jarring if you’re trying to sleep.
There’s also the matter of obstructed views. Some forward staterooms look directly over structural elements like steel railings, lifeboats, or parts of the bow, which can block the otherwise beautiful ocean scenery.
Specific cabins: Be cautious of forward staterooms on Decks 7–10, particularly in the 7100–7300 and 8100–8300 ranges. These are most affected by both motion and wind noise.
Extra considerations: Forward cabins also tend to be farther from most dining and entertainment venues, meaning you’ll spend extra time walking long corridors. That’s not ideal if mobility is a concern or if you’re traveling with kids.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★☆☆
- Privacy: ★★★★☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: If you love ocean views but want a smoother ride, choose midship cabins on Decks 9–12. These offer the best balance of motion control, accessibility, and convenience. Another smart option is an aft-facing balcony, where you’ll enjoy quieter seas and panoramic wake views without the pounding noise of the bow.
Below the Windjammer Buffet
Avoid: 14288 to 14350, 14352 to 14362, 14688 to 14750, 14752 to 14762
The Windjammer Marketplace is Royal Caribbean’s signature buffet, and on Star of the Seas it’s bigger and busier than ever. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with extended hours, this venue is packed from early morning until late at night. While it’s a great place to grab a meal, staying in a cabin directly beneath it can be a noisy experience. For a quieter sit-down option, check out the Royal Caribbean Main Dining Room experience instead.
Why it’s a problem: The Windjammer is filled with constant movement. You’ll hear the clatter of trays, chairs scraping the floor, and staff rolling carts throughout the day. Early mornings are the worst, since crew members begin setting up before sunrise. The combination of footsteps and furniture noise above your head makes it hard to sleep in.
Evenings can be equally disruptive. While the buffet doesn’t stay open as late as other venues, cleanup crews work after hours to prepare the space for the next morning. Guests in cabins below often describe it as hearing “a bowling alley” above their heads.
Specific cabins: Avoid aft-facing cabins on Deck 14, particularly in the 14600–14750 range, which sit directly under the Windjammer. Noise is most noticeable here during peak meal times and early morning prep.
Extra considerations: Families with kids may find this especially frustrating. Just as you’re trying to put little ones to bed, noise from rolling carts or late-night diners above can keep them awake.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★☆
- Privacy: ★★★☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: If you want to be close to dining venues without the noise, look for midship cabins on Deck 12 or 13. They offer quick elevator access to the Windjammer but none of the overhead disruption.
Surfside Cabins
Avoid: 7280 to 7346, 7680 to 7746, 9293 to 9347, 9693 to 9747, 10293 to 10347, 10693 to 10747, 11293 to 11347, 11693 to 11747
Surfside is Royal Caribbean’s brand-new neighborhood designed specifically for families with young children. Located on Deck 7, it features Splashaway Bay, Baby Bay, a carousel, family-friendly dining, and the Water’s Edge Pool overlooking the aft. It’s a fantastic addition for parents traveling with little ones — but if you’re not traveling with kids, staying in a cabin here can be overwhelmingly noisy.
Why it’s a problem: Surfside is essentially a children’s waterpark and play area, so you can expect squeals, laughter, and splashing throughout the day. Cabins overlooking Surfside have balconies that face inward, meaning your “view” is directly into a bustling family zone. Even oceanview balconies located nearby are louder than usual because of constant activity.
At night, Surfside may quiet down, but morning noise begins early as kids head straight for the splash areas. This makes it tough for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat or a romantic balcony experience.
Specific cabins: Avoid Deck 7 cabins in the 7280–7346 and 7680–7746 ranges, as well as neighborhood-facing cabins on Decks 9–11 (9293–9347, 10293–10347, 11293–11347, and their portside counterparts). These staterooms either overlook Surfside or sit directly above/below the loudest areas.
Extra considerations: Privacy can also be an issue. Inward-facing balconies in Surfside look directly across to other balconies. Instead of endless ocean, you’ll be staring into someone else’s cabin or watching kids run around all day.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★☆
- Privacy: ★★☆☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: Families with small children may find Surfside cabins convenient, but most travelers should choose midship oceanview or balcony cabins on Decks 10–12. You’ll still be close enough to access Surfside when you want, but you’ll enjoy peace and quiet when you don’t.
Connecting Cabins
Scattered across Decks 8-12
Connecting cabins are designed with families in mind. They feature a shared interior door between two staterooms, making it easy for larger groups to move back and forth without stepping into the hallway. While this setup is convenient for parents traveling with kids or multi-generational families, it can be a nightmare if you don’t know the guests next door.
Why it’s a problem: The shared door is the weak point. Even when locked, it doesn’t insulate sound the same way a solid wall does. That means you’ll often hear TV noise, conversations, laughter, or even alarm clocks from the adjoining cabin. Privacy can feel almost nonexistent if your neighbors are loud.
Another issue is that connecting cabins are sometimes sold at a slight discount, which means they’re popular with families traveling with kids. If you’re hoping for a quiet retreat but end up next to a family with toddlers, you might regret your choice quickly.
Specific cabins: Connecting cabins can be found in nearly every category on Star of the Seas — interior, oceanview, balcony, and even suites. They’re scattered throughout the ship, but are most common in midship balcony categories on Decks 8–12. Always double-check the deck plan before booking to see if your room has that dotted connecting-door symbol.
Extra considerations: These cabins work beautifully if you book both sides of the connection. But if you’re only reserving one, there’s no way to know who your neighbors will be until you’re onboard.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★☆
- Privacy: ★★☆☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: If you don’t specifically need the connecting option, book a non-connecting cabin at least 2–3 doors away. On Decks 9–11, look for standard balcony cabins without the dotted line on deck plans. They’ll give you the same location perks without the sound bleed.
Cabins Near Entertainment Venues
Avoid: 3180 to 3200, 4180 to 4200, 4577 to 4591
One of the biggest selling points of Star of the Seas is its nonstop entertainment. From Broadway-style productions in the Royal Theater to late-night live music in the Music Hall and stand-up comedy in the Attic, there’s always something happening onboard. But while those venues are fun when you’re in the audience, staying in a cabin right next door is another story.
Why it’s a problem: Entertainment venues are designed for high-energy performances, which means loud sound systems, thumping basslines, and cheering crowds. Shows can run late into the night — often until 11:30 PM or later — and rehearsal sessions can take place during the day. Noise seeps through the walls and floors, making it hard to relax in nearby staterooms.
The Music Hall is especially notorious. As one of the ship’s main nightlife venues, it hosts live bands, DJs, and themed parties that attract large crowds. If you’re in a cabin directly above, below, or next to it, you’ll likely hear the music and feel the vibrations well past midnight.
Specific cabins: Avoid cabins on Decks 3–4 near the Music Hall (3180–3200, 4180–4200, and 4577–4591), as well as forward cabins near the Royal Theater on Decks 4–6. Cabins above the Comedy Club and Studio B (if used for late-night activities) can also be disruptive.
Extra considerations: Light sleepers, families with young kids, or anyone who values quiet evenings should steer clear of these areas. Even if the shows don’t bother you, crowds leaving the venues create hallway traffic and late-night chatter outside these cabins.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★★★★
- Privacy: ★★☆☆☆
- Comfort: ★★☆☆☆
Better alternatives: Choose cabins midship or aft on Decks 9–11, where you’re buffered from entertainment venues but still close enough to enjoy shows when you want. Aft balconies are another good choice for quiet, offering peaceful wake views far from the late-night party zones.
Obstructed View Cabins
Avoid: Deck 8 balconies above lifeboats; 10219 to 10235
At first glance, balcony or oceanview cabins on Star of the Seas look like the perfect choice. After all, who doesn’t want fresh air and a private view of the sea? But not every balcony or oceanview cabin actually delivers that postcard-perfect sight. A number of staterooms are considered obstructed view cabins, and if you’re not prepared, they can feel like a letdown.
Why it’s a problem: Obstructed view cabins are located where the ship’s lifeboats, support beams, or structural overhangs partially block your view. In some cases, the obstruction is minor — maybe a lifeboat hanging below your line of sight. But in other cases, the obstruction dominates your entire balcony view, leaving you staring at steel instead of the ocean.
These cabins are often priced lower than full-view balconies, but not always. If you don’t realize you’ve booked an obstructed room, you may end up paying premium rates for a second-rate view.
Specific cabins: On Star of the Seas, most obstructed cabins are located around the Central Park and Surfside neighborhoods (interior-facing balconies) or in areas near the lifeboats on Deck 8. In particular, balconies directly above The Pearl and Spacious Infinite Central Park Balcony Cabins on Deck 10 may have views blocked by structural elements.
Extra considerations: If you love waking up to unobstructed sea views, these cabins can be disappointing. On the other hand, if you value price over views, an obstructed balcony can save you money without sacrificing outdoor space.
Ratings:
- Noise: ★★☆☆☆
- Privacy: ★★★★☆
- Comfort: ★★★☆☆ (view dependent)
Better alternatives: Always check deck plans carefully before booking. If a balcony is marked as “obstructed,” call Royal Caribbean or your travel agent to confirm the extent of the blockage. For the clearest views, book midship oceanview balconies on Decks 9–12, where lifeboats and structural beams won’t interfere.
Guarantee Cabins
Avoid: Assigned randomly across all decks
If you’ve ever searched for cabins on Royal Caribbean’s website, you’ve probably seen the option for a “Guarantee” cabin at a slightly lower price. On Star of the Seas, Guarantee cabins are offered in almost every category — Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and even Suites. While the discount can be tempting, booking a Guarantee cabin is a gamble that often leaves cruisers disappointed.
Why it’s a problem: When you book a Guarantee, you’re letting Royal Caribbean assign your cabin at random. You’ll choose the category (for example, Balcony), but the cruise line decides exactly which stateroom you get. This means you could land in one of the least desirable spots on the ship — directly under the pool deck, next to an elevator bank, or in an obstructed view cabin. You also won’t know your cabin number until closer to sail date, which makes planning harder.
Some guests don’t mind the mystery, but if you’ve just spent thousands on your dream vacation, ending up in a noisy or awkwardly placed cabin can be frustrating.
Specific cabins: Since Guarantee cabins are spread across the ship, there’s no single number range to avoid. The risk is that you’ll get placed in one of the very same “avoid cabins” we’ve already highlighted — such as those under Chill Island, near AquaDome, or in Surfside.
Extra considerations: Guarantee bookings usually come last in the assignment order, meaning you’ll get whatever’s left after other guests choose their cabins. While you can sometimes score a nice upgrade, more often than not, you’re placed in less popular areas for a reason.
Ratings: Noise/Privacy/Comfort = Highly Variable (a total gamble).
Better alternatives: Unless budget is the top priority, it’s smarter to choose your exact cabin. That way, you’ll avoid all the common pitfalls and know exactly where you’ll be staying. If you do want to save money, look for promotional fares on specific cabins instead of rolling the dice on a Guarantee.
Quick Reference Chart
Not sure where to start? This quick chart makes it easy. Cross-check these cabins against the official Star of the Seas deck plans before you book.
| Problem Area | Cabins to Avoid (Deck & Range) |
|---|---|
| Below Chill Island | 14164–14286, 14564–14686 (Deck 14) |
| Near AquaDome | 12134–12162, 12530–12562 (Deck 12); 14138–14162, 14538–14562 (Deck 14) |
| Close to Elevators | 6000–6400 (Decks 6–8); 10000–10400 (Decks 10–12) |
| Forward Cabins | 7100–7300 (Deck 7); 8100–8300 (Deck 8); 9100–9300 (Deck 9) |
| Below Windjammer Buffet | 14288–14350, 14352–14362, 14688–14750, 14752–14762 (Deck 14 aft) |
| Surfside Cabins | 7280–7346, 7680–7746 (Deck 7); 9293–9347, 9693–9747 (Deck 9); 10293–10347, 10693–10747 (Deck 10); 11293–11347, 11693–11747 (Deck 11) |
| Connecting Cabins | Various across Decks 8–12 |
| Near Entertainment Venues | 3180–3200 (Deck 3); 4180–4200, 4577–4591 (Deck 4) |
| Obstructed View Cabins | Deck 8 balconies above lifeboats; 10219–10235 (Deck 10) |
| Guarantee Cabins | Assigned randomly across all decks |
Jim’s Pro Tip: Print this chart or screenshot it before booking — you’ll thank yourself when cross-checking the deck plan.
Best Cabins on Star of the Seas
While some cabins are worth skipping, Star of the Seas also has staterooms that shine for their location, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re traveling with kids, your partner, or on a budget, there’s a great option for you.
Best for Families: Spacious Family Balconies
Families will love the Spacious Family Balcony cabins on Decks 9–11. These offer more square footage, bunk beds for kids, and connecting-room options. Being midship also means a smoother ride, which is especially important if little ones are prone to seasickness.
Best for Couples: Junior Suites with Sea Views
Couples looking for a touch of luxury without the price tag of a full suite should consider Junior Suites on Deck 12, midship. These cabins include larger balconies perfect for private breakfasts at sea, plus upgraded bathrooms with double sinks and walk-in showers.
Best for Budget Travelers: Interior Midship Cabins
If you’re trying to cruise smart without overspending, Interior cabins in the midship zones of Decks 7–9 are the sweet spot. They offer a quiet, central location without the noise of entertainment venues or elevators, making them one of the best-value choices on the ship.
Want the quick answer? This chart highlights the best cabins on Star of the Seas for families, couples, and budget-conscious cruisers. Use it as a handy reference while you plan.
Quick Reference Chart
| Traveler Type | Best Cabins (Deck & Range) |
|---|---|
| Families | Spacious Family Balcony Cabins, Decks 9–11 (midship, connecting options available) |
| Couples | Junior Suites with Sea Views, Deck 12 midship (larger balconies, upgraded bathrooms) |
| Budget Travelers | Interior Midship Cabins, Decks 7–9 (quiet, central, less motion than forward cabins) |
| Luxury Seekers | Grand Suites & Owner’s Suites, Decks 10–12 midship (priority perks, large balconies) |
| Best Views | Aft-Facing Balcony Cabins, Decks 9–12 (wake views, quieter than Surfside balconies) |
Tips for Choosing the Right Cabin
Even if you already know which cabins to avoid, it’s smart to follow some general cabin-picking strategies. These tips can save you from motion sickness, sleepless nights, and long walks across the world’s largest cruise ship.
- Choose midship if you’re prone to seasickness. Cabins near the middle of the ship, especially on lower decks, feel the least movement.
- Stay a few doors away from elevators and stairwells. You’ll reduce hallway noise while still keeping convenience.
- Look at the deck plan before you book. Always check what’s directly above and below your cabin — pool decks, gyms, or theaters can mean unwanted noise.
- Balcony vs. Oceanview. Balconies give you fresh air and private outdoor space, while oceanviews are often more affordable with natural light.
- Suites for perks. If budget allows, suites offer priority boarding, exclusive restaurants, and private lounges that can make your cruise feel more relaxed.
For a deeper breakdown of room types and layouts, check out our Royal Caribbean Cabins Guide for photos, tips, and expert insights.
Jim’s Take
I’ve learned over the years that your cabin can make or break your cruise. On a ship as massive as Star of the Seas, being too close to the action might sound exciting, but it can mean sleepless nights, extra noise, or constant foot traffic.
One of my biggest mistakes was booking a cabin directly under a pool deck years ago. I thought it would be convenient, but instead I spent most mornings waking up at dawn to the sound of chairs scraping overhead. On another sailing, I tried a forward cabin to save a little money, only to discover that rough seas made it nearly impossible to sleep. After those experiences, I promised myself to always research deck plans before booking.
On the flip side, some of my best cruises came when I booked midship balcony cabins on lower decks. The ride was smoother, the hallways were quieter, and I had easy access to the ship’s heart without feeling like I was living in a nightclub. That balance of convenience and peace is what I now recommend to anyone planning a trip on Star of the Seas.
If you remember one thing from this guide, it’s this: don’t just pick the cheapest cabin or the first one available. Take a few extra minutes to study the deck plan and think about your priorities. A little planning now means a lot more peace and comfort once you’re onboard.
Final Thoughts
With over 2,800 cabins spread across 20 decks, Star of the Seas offers plenty of amazing stateroom choices — but also some that can seriously impact your experience. By avoiding the problem areas we’ve outlined and focusing on the best cabin zones, you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation without unwanted surprises.
The bottom line: your stateroom sets the tone for your entire cruise. Choose wisely, and your cabin will be more than just a place to sleep — it’ll be the quiet, comfortable retreat you look forward to after every adventure onboard.
