Sailaway celebrations on the Lido Deck, pina coladas by the pool, room service on the balcony and everything else we love about cruising are once again within reach. With federal approval and cutting-edge safety measures building cruisers’ confidence in returning to the high seas, some still want to further distance themselves from other passengers when they’re onboard.
If you look beyond the popular outdoor spaces, you’ll find that cruise ships are sprinkled with “secret” sun decks, hot tubs and lounging nooks unknown to most passengers. We’ve combed through reviews and deck plans to locate these eight secret spots on cruise ships for you – even on some of the industry’s newest vessels. Find them before anyone else does, and social distancing will be a (salty) breeze.
1. Carnival Cruise Line’s Forward Decks
Planning to sail on Carnival Cruise Line? You’ll be pleased to know that most of the line’s fleet features “hidden” forward decks.
The location varies by ship but generally includes decks 5, 6, 7 and 10. To reach these more secluded areas, you’ll enter through two doors that take you outside. Note: Most of these doors are unmarked, and they are usually locked at night and whenever there are high winds.
Where to Find Them: Carnival Radiance, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Vista, Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream, Carnival Magic, Carnival Glory, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Valor, Carnival Splendor, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Elation, Carnival Paradise, Carnival Sunrise and Carnival Ecstasy
2. Royal Caribbean’s Aft Chairs
Some of the world’s biggest cruise ships offer plenty of space for social distancing, though most of it’s not a secret.
For a tranquil hideaway with picture-perfect views, head to the back of deck 5 on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships. Situated on the running track, ironically enough, is a quiet deck area unbeknownst to many passengers. There are only a few deck chairs, overlooking the wake, so you’ll want to get there early to claim your spot.
Where to Find Them: Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas
3. Princess Cruises’ Viewing Decks
You won’t find lounge chairs on Princess Cruises’ “secret” viewing decks, but you will be able to take in awe-inspiring vistas without having to navigate crowds.
The line offers a wide array of itineraries, including many exotic destinations, so another place to sneak away and savor the scenery is a welcome retreat. Only two ships offer these decks, but on either one, you’ll need to access via an unmarked door at the end of the hallway.
Where to Find Them: Island Princess (decks 10 and 11 forward) and Coral Princess (deck 10 aft)
4. Disney Cruise Line’s Aft Overlook
The doors are marked, but many cruisers still don’t know about the Aft Overlook on some Disney Cruise Line ships.
Walk all the way toward the back of the ship on deck 7, enter through the door at the end of the hallway, and you’ll be welcomed by a crowd-free oasis – complete with lounge chairs. The views are unobstructed, making this an ideal spot not only for sunbathing but also during sailaway.
Where to Find Them: Disney Magic and Disney Wonder
5. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Top Deck
Private lounging space tucked away on the top deck sounds too good to be true. But that’s exactly what you’ll find on Norwegian Cruise Line, and it’s completely free.
Next to The Haven, an exclusive suite sanctuary, and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, is a small, public deck space with chairs. This “secret” deck is found on the line’s newer ships, varying between decks 17 and 19. Some of these ships have an additional “hidden” deck space on deck 18 aft.
Where to Find Them: Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway (deck 17) and Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss (deck 19)
6. MSC Cruises’ Forward Decks
They say “the best things in life aren’t easy,” and that’s certainly the case with MSC Cruises’ forward decks. Those willing to make the trek to this seemingly undiscovered area will be greeted by what some say are the most breathtaking views from the ship.
To find them, head to the deck 10 forward elevators, enter the cabin corridor and continue walking all the way toward the front of the ship until you reach an unmarked door. Several MSC Cruises’ ships have this space, as well as similar ones on decks 9 and 11, but you’ll find them on only one U.S.-based ship.
Where to Find Them: MSC Divina
7. Carnival Cruise Line’s Lanai
While cruisers battle it out for lounge chair space on the Lido Deck and adults-only Serenity area, those looking for more peace and quiet will find it on Carnival’s Lanai. Found on only a handful of ships, including some of the line’s newer ones, are cozy seating nooks along deck 5 that offer respite from the crowds and equally beautiful views.
Select ships’ Lanai decks also feature balconies that extend out over the ocean. Bars and eateries are conveniently located only a few steps away, for when hunger strikes or you need a drink refill.
Where to Find Them: Carnival Panorama, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Vista (deck chairs only) and Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic (deck chairs and hot tubs)
8. Royal Caribbean’s Helipad
During the day, Royal Caribbean’s helipad offers an escape from all the action and the chance to soak up stunning sea views. At night, this “hidden” deck treats passengers to some of the best stargazing, as long as the weather conditions are conducive.
To reach the helipad, passengers must walk all the way forward on decks 4 or 5 to unmarked doors.
Note: Depending on the ship and deck, you might need to take some stairs.
Where to Find Them: Freedom of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas
Gina Kramer
Flip through Gina’s passport, and you might be surprised to see that her extensive stamp collection excludes a lot of major cities. It’s a reflection of her appetite for exploring more underrated destinations. From climbing the remote mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina to town-hopping in Tunisia, Gina is always on a mission to take the road less traveled ... even if it’s shared by Burmese pythons, rabid dogs and other precarious creatures. Her solo-traveling days might be over, but the search for humbling moments and “Indiana Jones” adventures still serve as inspiration for future travels with her husband and son.
