When booking a cruise, cabin choice plays a significant role in shaping your holiday experience – and your budget. One cabin category that often raises questions is the obstructed view cabin. You may have seen it listed at a lower price and wondered: what does obstructed view actually mean, and is it worth the saving?
This guide explains what causes an obstructed view on a cruise ship, the pros and cons of choosing one, and whether it could be the right option for your next holiday. With decades of experience helping guests find the best-value cabins on cruises from the UK and further afield, Bolsover Cruise Club is here to help you make an informed decision.
An obstructed-view cabin is a stateroom with a window or balcony whose view is partially or fully blocked by part of the ship’s structure.
The degree of obstruction can vary:
Obstructed-view cabins are necessary. A cruise ship sailing without lifeboats is a definite no-no for obvious reasons, and no matter how well designed a vessel is, there still has to be room for them somewhere. These boats are often used as tenders when a cruise ship is unable to dock directly in port, whether that’s because the ship is too large or due to challenging weather conditions on the day.
You may also find obstructed view staterooms where the obstruction isn’t caused by safety equipment at all, but by the design of the ship itself. In some cases, cabins are classed as obstructed simply because the vessel has been structured in a particular way, with overhangs, decks or framework affecting the view.
This obstruction might include:
The key thing to understand is that the cabin itself is usually identical in size and layout to a standard outside or balcony cabin – the difference is simply the view.
Some obstructed view cabins are only fractionally affected, perhaps by a beam running down part of the window. So yes, you’ll still get to see those pearly white sands as you arrive in the Caribbean, or the glassy seas of the Norwegian Fjords, all from the comfort of your cabin.
Another common – and often incorrect – belief about obstructed-view staterooms is that they’re tucked away in the least desirable locations on board, hidden deep within the ship where no one really wants to be. That simply isn’t the case.
In reality, obstructed-view cabins are often found in some of the best positions on the ship. They are typically located on mid-level decks, frequently close to the Promenade Deck, and within easy walking distance of many of the ship’s key on board attractions.
This central positioning is a real advantage. Being mid-ship often means less walking, easier access to public areas, and a more stable feeling while at sea. For guests who plan to spend most of their time enjoying the ship rather than sitting in their cabin, this location can be far more appealing than a higher-priced stateroom in a less convenient spot.
A common question we’re asked is: Can I upgrade from an obstructed view cabin?
In many cases, yes – upgrades may be available:
However, upgrades are never guaranteed and usually depend on how full the ship is. If having a clear view is essential, it’s often better to book the cabin category you want from the start.
Our cruise specialists can advise on upgrade options and whether an obstructed view cabin is likely to be a good fit for your sailing.
For many travellers, especially those who spend most of their time exploring the ship or ashore, the pros often outweigh the cons.
Obstructed-view cabins can offer excellent value, combining natural light with a lower price point. While the view may be limited, the savings can make a real difference to your overall cruise budget.
By understanding what causes an obstructed view, the difference between partial and fully obstructed cabins, and the pros and cons involved, you can decide with confidence whether this cabin category suits your holiday style.
Choosing the right cabin can make a real difference to your cruise holiday, and obstructed view cabins are a perfect example of where expert advice matters. With decades of experience and long-standing relationships with the world’s leading cruise lines, Bolsover Cruise Club is perfectly placed to help you decide whether an obstructed view stateroom is the right choice for you. Speak to our Cruise Experts today.
2 thoughts on “What Is An Obstructed View Cabin?”
As a first time cruiser I am loving the blogs and explanations regarding Tenders, Cabins etc. it has settled my mind a little thank you
Thanks Anita, we’re glad you find them useful!