When deciding on a cruise ship cabin, most passengers opt for one of the three standard categories: inside, oceanview, and balcony. However, some guests may want to splurge on a suite to enhance their onboard experience. Cruise ship suites offer a range of perks that justify the high price tag, from priority embarkation to spacious accommodations.
For example, top-tier suites on the newest Royal Caribbean ships are appointed with butlers and a more inclusive cruise fare. In contrast, the perks that come with the most expensive suites on Carnival Cruise Line are pretty simplistic compared to Royal Loft Suites, Ultimate Family Suites, etc. Certain cruise lines also have themed family suites that have additional beds and kid-friendly features.
At the end of the day, whether you choose to book a cruise ship suite depends on your personal preferences and current financial situation. Investing in a suite might be worthwhile if you value extra space, privacy, and luxury amenities; however, if you plan on spending most of your cruise enjoying the ship's amenities and ports of call, a standard cabin may suit your needs and help stretch your vacation budget even further.
Is upgrading to a cruise ship suite worth it? Let's investigate!
Read more: Cruise ship cabins: Everything you need to know
Royal Caribbean International
Starting with one of the largest cruise giants at sea, Royal Caribbean offers a range of suite options designed to cater to diverse travelers. The experience varies depending on whether you're sailing on an older ship class (i.e., Vision, Radiance, Voyager, Freedom) or newer (Oasis, Quantum, Icon).
That said, no matter which cabin you book above a Junior Suite, whether it's a Grand Suite onboard Vision of the Seas or Oasis of the Seas' Royal Loft Suite, you'll have access to a dedicated suite lounge and suite concierge, receive double Crown and Anchor Society points, and get priority embarkation and disembarkation.
One important thing to note about Royal Caribbean suites is that they can only be reserved with a non-refundable deposit, so if you cancel before the final payment date, you'll lose the entire deposit.
Royal Suite Class
Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class is divided into three tiers: Sky Class, Star Class, and Sea Class. Each offers unparalleled accommodations with spacious living spaces and top-tier experiences. These suites are exclusive to Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Class ships.
The only suites in the Sea Class are Junior Suites. As such, these cabins have fewer amenities compared to those within the Star and Sky Class. If you're looking for extra cruise points to help climb Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society's ranks, booking a Junior Suite is a smart choice.
Other benefits include a luxury pillow-top mattress, upscale bathroom amenities, plush bathrobes, priority boarding, and a Lavazza espresso machine. Unlike other guests within Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class, those in the Sea Class can only dine at Coastal Kitchen for dinner based on availability.
Read more: Comparing Carnival's Ocean Suite to Royal Caribbean's Junior Suite
If you book a Grand Suite or above, you'll receive more perks than standard Junior Suites. Sky Class suites include 1- and 2-Bedroom Grand Suites, 1-Bedroom Owner’s and AquaTheatre Suites, Crown Loft Suites, Sky Loft Suites, and Sky Junior Suite (Icon Class).
When you book one of the above suites, you'll get the following benefits:
- Concierge Service
- All-Day Access to Coastal Kitchen
- Specialty Bottled Water Upon Arrival
- VOOM Wi-Fi Package
- Flexible Arrival & Priority Departure
- Priority Dining Reservations
- Reserved Seating in Select Entertainment Venues
- Access to Suite Lounge + Suite Sun Deck
- All Sea Class Benefits
Finally, Star Class takes luxury to the next level, offering dedicated butlers and complimentary access to specialty dining. This class of suite is perfect for travelers who desire the ultimate cabin experience.
Star Class suites include the Ultimate Family Townhouse and Ultimate Family Suite, Royal Loft Suite, Villa Suite, Owner’s Loft Suite, Grand Loft Suite, 1-Bedroom Owner and Grand Panoramic Suites, Star Loft Suite, and 2-Bedroom AquaTheater Suites. In other words, they're the most expensive accommodations onboard and have the most extensive list of perks:
- Exclusive Access to Royal Genie Service
- Complimentary Specialty Restaurants
- Complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package (21+, or 18 and over where applicable by law)
- Complimentary Refreshment Package (for guests under legal drinking age)
- Still and Sparkling Water Replenished Daily
- Complimentary Gratuities
- Expedited Boarding and Departure
- Best Seats in the House in Select Entertainment Venues
- Priority Entrance to Many Onboard Activities
- Complimentary Mini-Bar stocked with Coca-Cola® Beverages and Water
- Complimentary Laundry and Pressing Services
- Luxury Mattress and Frette® Linens
- All Sky and Star Class benefits
Other suites
The suite experience onboard Vision, Radiance, Voyager, and Freedom Class ships is more standardized. Similar to the Royal Suite Class, though, the suite you choose determines your benefits. Junior Suites, for example, only include priority boarding, bathrobes, double loyalty points, luxury bathroom amenities, and a Lavazza espresso machine.
Those looking for a bit more luxury can opt for the larger Grand, Ocean View, Panoramic, and Owner's Suites, which offer additional benefits such as more spacious living areas, access to private lounges, private dining reservations, and more:
- Pillow-Top Mattress
- Priority Departure
- Concierge Service
- Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access
- Priority Dining Reservations, Spa Bookings, Shore Excursion Ticketing, and Tendering
- Suite Party (Cruises 5+ Nights or Longer)
- Bridge, Galley, & Backstage Tours
- VIP Pool Deck Seating (Voyager Class and Above)
- Welcome Evian & Fruit Amenity
- Main Dining Menu Available for In-Suite Dining (During Operating Hours)
- Complimentary 24-Hour Room Service
- Private Lunch Seating on Ships without Coastal Kitchen
- Private Breakfast Seating on Ships without Coastal Kitchen
- Departure Breakfast
- Reserved Section in Theater
- Complimentary Pressing on First Formal Night
- Sign-up Fee Waived for Luggage Valet Service
Royal and Villa Suites are the largest, most expensive suites on older ship classes. In addition to the benefits listed above, they include an officer escort on board the vessel during check-in and a welcome bottle of Moët & Chandon.
Gratuities for Grand Suites and above are $21 per person, per day, while the daily rate for Junior Suites and below (i.e., standard cabins) is $18.50. Remember that gratuities for Star Class passengers are included.
Carnival Cruise Line
Compared to Royal Caribbean, Carnival's suite program tends to offer a more straightforward experience with fewer exclusive perks. Carnival's suites focus more on spacious accommodations and comfort, but they lack some luxury benefits other programs provide, such as exclusive dining venues.
All Carnival Cruise Line suites include the following perks:
- Priority Check-In, Embarkation, and Disembarkation
- Priority Dinner Reservations & Main Dining Room Time Assignment
- Two Complimentary Large Bottles of Water
- Pillow-Top Mattress
- Bathrobes
Read more: I paid $3,600 for a suite on Carnival Vista
Select Carnival ships have specialty suites that come with additional perks. These include Havana Suites, Family Harbor Suites, Cloud 9 Spa Suites, and Excel Suites on Excel Class ships. Each category comes with its own exclusive benefits.
Havana Suites, for example, feature upgraded decor, a luxurious rain shower, an extra-large patio with hammock, and access to an exclusive pool. That said, to stay in a Havana Suite on Carnival Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Mardi Gras, Panorama, or Vista, you must be at least 12 years old.
Families have no reason to fear—Family Harbor Suites are more tailored to children, anyway! These rooms sport a nautical theme and include access to the Family Harbor Lounge, where daily breakfast and snacks are provided, as well as board games, video games, and family-friendly movies.
Read more: Carnival Cruise Line cabin guide
Children in Family Harbor Suites also dine for free in many onboard specialty restaurants, and parents benefit from one free night of Night Owls Babysitting. These suites are exclusive to Carnival Jubilee, Celebration, Mardi Gras, Horizon, Panorama, and Vista.
Cloud 9 Spa Suites are ideal for passengers seeking to hone in on relaxation and wellness during their cruise. This category of stateroom includes ELEMIS bath products, upgraded bathrobes and slippers, complimentary fitness classes, unlimited thermal suite access, priority spa reservations, and discounted spa treatments on port days.
Finally, Excel Suites—found only on Carnival's Excel Class—feature contemporary design, large living areas and balconies, and an extensive list of perks:
- Complimentary Access to Loft 19
- Priority Cabana Reservations at Loft 19
- Dedicated Concierge Phone Line
- Guaranteed Main Dining Room Time Assignment
- Guaranteed Reservations at Most Specialty Restaurants
- Sparkling Wine and Fruit Bowl Upon Arrival
- Bottomless Bubbles Drink Package, the Non-Alcoholic Soda Package
- Complimentary Room Service
- Upgraded Bathroom Amenities
- Complimentary On-Demand Movies
- Complimentary Laundry Service
Read more: Here's what a 7-night Carnival cruise should cost you
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises' suite program features luxurious accommodations and premium amenities. From the expansive 2,850-square-foot Iconic Suite to modest Sky Suites, each suite provides passengers with elevated experiences. Thankfully, Celebrity's suite program is pretty easy to understand. Most cabins have the same benefits—though some have a few premium perks, such as included specialty dining and exclusive sleepwear.
Here are the features that guests interested in The Retreat can look forward to:
- Priority Check-In and Disembarkation
- Dining at Luminae
- Suite-Only Lounge
- Private Sundeck
- Premium All Included (Premium Drinks Package + Premium Wi-Fi)
- Retreat Butler
- Destination Experience Specialist
- Reserved Theater Seating on Evening Chic Night
- Premium Bath and Body Products
- In-Suite Dining
If staying in an Aqua Sky Suite, you’ll receive the benefits associated with other cabins within The Retreat, as well as access to the SEA Thermal Suite or Persian Garden, Blu restaurant, complimentary fitness classes, and a dedicated spa concierge and personal consultant.
That said, guests who book a Royal Suite or above can also access the SEA Thermal Suite or Persian Garden. These lavish suites have extra perks that help justify the higher price tag, including:
- Unlimited Specialty Dining Package
- Complimentary "Extend Your Stay" Package
- Exclusive Sleepwear
- Complimentary Laundry and Pressing Services
- Premium In-Suite Coffee Set-Up
- Two Bottles of Premium Spirits or Wine
Read more: 17 things I wish I knew before setting foot on a Celebrity ship
Finally, those lucky enough to head to the Galapagos on Celebrity Flora will embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey on an all-suite vessel. Regardless of which stateroom you book, you will receive:
- Refillable Water Bottle
- Stocked Mini-Bar
- Daily Treats
- Personal Suite Attendants
- Arrival Champagne or Sparkling Wine
- Complimentary Backpack and Poncho
- Premium Linens and Bathrobes
- Laundry Services Twice Per Voyage
- In-Suite Dinner Service
- Pre- and Post-Cruise Transfers
- Shore Excursions
- Drink Package
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers a variety of suite options that provide an elevated cruising experience, from Mini-Suites to the brand-new Sanctuary Collection on Sphere Class ships. Mini-Suites have the fewest perks, though you'll still enjoy amenities like a larger living area, a welcome glass of bubbly, and upgraded bathroom amenities.
If you want to benefit from priority boarding, consider splurging on a Reserve Collection Mini-Suite, formerly known as Club Class Mini-Suites. In essence, these cabins are an upgraded version of standard Mini-Suites and include:
- Priority Embarkation and Disembarkation
- Premium Location Onboard
- In-Room Wine Set-Up
- Reserve Dining (Expedited Seating, Private Entrance, Dedicated Wait Staff, Additional Menu Options)
- Evening Canapés Upon Request
- Upgraded Bathrobes
On new Sphere Class ships, there are also Reserve Cabana Mini-Suites, which feature a private cabana, access to an exclusive sundeck, and priority special dining reservations.
Of course, there are standard suites on ships fleetwide. Amenities for these cabins include:
- Priority Embarkation and Disembarkation, Including Tender Ports
- Lounge Access
- Upgraded Toiletries
- Bathrobes
- Slippers
- Welcome Glass of Bubbly
- In-Room Wine Set-Up on Embarkation Day
- One Complimentary Mini-Bar Set-Up
- Evening Canapés Upon Request
- Welcome Goodies from Chef
- In-Suite Afternoon Tea
- Fresh Fruit Upon Request
- Complimentary Laundry
- Access to The Enclave Thermal Suite
- 24-Hour Room Service
Sky Suites debuted on Sky Princess and are the ultimate stateroom choice for those who value luxury, offering spacious layouts, panoramic views, and expansive 700-square-foot balconies.
In addition to all perks available to standard suites and Mini-Suites, guests in Sky Suites will benefit from reserved theater seats, four TVs, breakfast and dinner on their balcony, a private bungalow at Princess Cays (when available), and more.
These cabins are exclusively available on Sky, Enhanced, and Discovery Princess. While also on Sun Princess, they were renamed to the "Signature Sky Suite."
Moving to the Family Suites on Caribbean, Crown, Diamond, Emerald, Grand, Ruby, and Sapphire Princess, these suites are essentially standard Mini-Suites connecting to an interior cabin via a shared living area. These two-bedroom suites are ideal for large families traveling together, as they can accommodate up to 8 passengers, except Diamond Princess, which can only fit six.
Family Suites include the full list of amenities available to standard Suite passengers, including a complimentary mini-bar set-up, upgraded bathroom amenities, and more.
Finally, those sailing on the brand-new Sun Princess can splurge on the Sanctuary Collection, Princess' take on the "ship-within-a-ship" concept.
Perhaps the biggest perk to booking a Sanctuary Collection cabin is the exclusive access to The Sanctuary Club, a tranquil top-deck space equipped with a private pool, bar, and cabanas available for rent. Additionally, Deck 8 is home to the elegant Sanctuary Restaurant, while Decks 15 and 16 host the Signature Lounge.
When you reserve a cabin within the Sanctuary Collection, you'll automatically receive Princess Premier, Princess Cruises' top-tier package that includes unlimited alcoholic beverages and specialty dining, Wi-Fi for up to four devices, gratuities, reserved theater seating for production shows, and more.
There are three categories of Sanctuary Collection suites: Sanctuary Suites, Sanctuary Mini-Suites, and Sanctuary Balconies.
MSC Cruises
Over the years, MSC Cruises has grown into one of the largest cruise lines in the world and recently increased its North American presence. Their newer ships have revolutionized the suite experience with the introduction of the Yacht Club, featuring a private sundeck, lounge, bar, and restaurant with elevated menu options.
Even if you're on an older ship without a Yacht Club, you'll enjoy the additional space MSC suites provide with Aurea Experience benefits, including discounted drink packages, access to the thermal suite, priority boarding, and more.
If, however, you have the option to cruise within MSC Cruises' Yacht Club, you're in for a treat. From private butlers to delicious meals in the exclusive dining room, the Yacht Club offers an exclusive oasis where luxury meets privacy.
Read more: I stayed in a 300-square-foot suite on an MSC Cruise that starts at $6,000 for a week
Yacht Club cabins range from interior staterooms to lavish suites. Regardless of which you book, you're entitled to all Yacht Club benefits, making it easier for cruisers on a budget to taste what upscale cruising is like:
- Premium Beverage Package
- Unlimited, High-Speed Wi-Fi
- Thermal Spa Access
- Priority Embarkation and Disembarkation
- 24/7 Butler and Concierge
- Exclusive Lounge, Restaurant, Sundeck, and Pool
- 24/7 Room Service
- Exclusive Access to the Ocean House at MSC's Ocean Cay
- Discounts on Prepaid Specialty Restaurant Packages (20%), Prepaid Spa Packages (40%), and Onboard Spa Treatments (10%)
- Aurea Experiences, including the Top Deck Solarium
- Extra MSC Cruises' Loyalty Points
MSC Yacht Club is featured on 15 of 23 MSC Cruises ships, ranging from MSC Divina to the upcoming MSC World America, scheduled to make her grand debut in Florida in April 2025.
Disney Cruise Line
Though Disney Cruise Line operates a smaller fleet compared to cruise giants like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC Cruises, it carved out a unique niche in the cruise industry that emphasizes family-friendly experiences at sea with Disney magic. As such, Disney cruises tend to be more expensive than those of competitors, especially if you consider one of their Concierge Suites.
From the 2,000-square-foot Wish Tower Suite on the Disney Wish to modest Royal Suites with Verandahs, any Concierge-level room will cost more than traditional staterooms. That said, all Concierge rooms feature upgraded amenities to make the in-cabin experience feel more luxurious, including down duvets, ELEMIS bath products, personal robes and slippers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and more.
Higher-end products and plush bathrobes aren't enough to justify the cost difference between verandah and Concierge cabins, though. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line passengers staying in a Concierge-level suite will receive:
- Dedicated Concierge Assistant
- Earlier Access to Book Activities
- In-Suite Dining from Concierge Menu
- Priority Check-In and Tendering
- Access to the Concierge Lounge and Private Sundeck
Read more: Is Concierge on Disney Cruise Line Worth It?
Holland America Line
Holland America Line ships have four suites: Vista, Signature, Neptune, and Pinnacle. Each comes with its own list of benefits, with Neptune and Pinnacle offering the most perks.
Still, all four have standard benefits like complimentary 24-hour in-room dining, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a whirlpool bath (on select ships), daily housekeeping, deluxe bathrobes, binoculars for use during the cruise, ELEMIS bath products, and free shoeshine services.
Vista Suites are the most affordable. As such, they have the fewest perks compared to the other categories. Guests in Vista Suites enjoy a choice of firm, medium, or soft pillows and a no-host mini-bar. They do not benefit from priority boarding, use of the Neptune Lounge or concierge service, or complimentary laundry.
Read more: I tried a Holland America cruise to Alaska
The Signature Suite is one step above the Vista Suite. With this cabin, you'll have a queen-sized bed, a king-sized bed, and a sofa/murphy bed for extra guests (on select ships). The perks are the same as the Vista Suite, though.
Neptune and Pinnacle Suites take luxury to the next level. These cabins include:
- King-Sized Bed
- Binoculars
- Fresh Flowers
- Firm, Medium, or Soft Pillows
- No-Host Mini-Bar
- In-Suite Coffee/Espresso Machine
- Complimentary Mimosa with In-Suite Breakfast
- Complimentary Laundry, Pressing, and Dry Cleaning
- Welcome Glass of Sparkling Wine at Dinner on Embarkation Day
- Premium In-Room Dining Breakfast Menu
- Premium Bathrobes
- Exclusive Tote Bag
- Access to the Neptune Lounge
- Concierge Services
- Cocktail Party with Neptune Lounge Concierge
- Club Orange Dining Menu (Select Ships)
- Breakfast in the Pinnacle Grill (Select Ships)
- Priority Check-In/Disembarkation
- Priority Boarding for Tender Ports
- Priority Dining and Seating Requests
Read more: How a Holland America Alaska cruise is different from other cruise lines
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages is a relatively new cruise line and has redefined adult-only cruising. Their boutique ships feature upscale designs, luxurious accommodations, and an array of dining options, having axed traditional cruise ship buffets. Instead, guests will find over 20 restaurants, including Michelin-starred concepts and other unique experiences.
Plus, Virgin offers several suites that combine style, comfort, and a slew of VIP amenities that will leave you feeling like a rockstar, fitting since their suites are dubbed "RockStar Quarters." From the quaint 352-square-foot Seriously Suite to the 2,147-square-foot Massive Suite, each RockStar Quarter and Mega RockStar Quarter cabin is designed to provide an unparalleled experience at sea.
RockStar Quarter Suites include the Seriously Suite, Sweet Aft Suite, Cheeky Corner Suite, and Brilliant Suite. Perks of these staterooms include:
Read more: I spent $2,300 on a 4-night Virgin Voyages cruise
- Curated In-Cabin Bar
- Prime Access to Eateries, Events, and Experiences
- 24/7 Access to Rockstar Agents
- Access to Richard's Rooftop, Virgin Voyages' Members-Only Sundeck with Panoramic Views and Lavish Cocktail Hours
Mega RockStar Quarter Suites are the most exclusive, top-tier cabins onboard. In addition to access to Richard's Rooftop and prime access to eateries, events, and experiences, guests in Mega RockStar Quarter Suites enjoy additional features, such as a daily bar tab, complimentary access to the Thermal Suite, dedicated Mega RockStar Agent, bottomless in-room bar, Premium Wi-Fi, and free parking at Miami's Terminal V.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Like MSC's Yacht Club, Norwegian Cruise Line offers its own exclusive enclave known as The Haven. This "ship-within-a-ship" features a variety of suite categories, from spacious penthouses to multi-level villas. Those within The Haven enjoy perks like a private pool, sundeck, lounge, and more.
Staterooms within The Haven include the 3-Bedroom Garden Villa, Owner's Suite with Large Balcony, Deluxe Suite with Balcony, Aft-Facing Penthouse, 2-Bedroom Family Villa with Balcony, and more.
It's important to note that not all NCL ships have The Haven on board, such as Norwegian Sky, Sun, Star, Dawn, Spirit, and Pride of America.
Read more: Norwegian Cruise Line staterooms and suites guide
Even if the ship does have The Haven, some suites fall outside of the "ship-within-a-ship." For example, onboard Norwegian Viva, you can select one of five suites that do not come with access to The Haven, including the Aft-Facing Suite with Large Balcony and Family Suite with Master Bedroom & Balcony. Norwegian Gem is another example of a ship that offers both standard suites and The Haven.
Here's a list of all the perks that come with suites regardless of whether they're in The Haven or not:
- Distinctive Purple or Haven Keycard
- Personal Escort On and Off the Ship at the Pier and at Ports
- Priority Restaurant and Entertainment Reservations
- Concierge Service
- Butler Service
- 24-Hour Suite Room Service Menu, Including Continental Breakfast
- Mobile Phone for Onboard Use
- Nepresso Coffeemaker and Tea Forte Tea Bags
- Free In-Suite Movies
- NCL or Haven Umbrella
Read more: Norwegian Cruise Line suites: What's included & is it worth it?
Guests within The Haven have an even longer list of benefits meant to further enhance their onboard experience, as well as help justify the price of staying in the most exclusive cabins on the ship. These include 24-hour butler service; access to The Haven's pool, sundeck, hot tubs, and private restaurant (or designated specialty restaurant); Haven attendants on sea days; a cocktail party with the ship's officers; specialty dining delivered to your suite (cover charges apply); and a complimentary fruit bowl upon request.
Is a cruise ship suite worth it?
Booking a suite on a cruise is a splurge; however, these cabins come with unique perks that can make even a short 3-night getaway one of the most memorable vacations yet. Though most can't justify cruising in a suite annually, it can be a nice treat for your family to celebrate something special, such as a graduation, anniversary, birthday, or retirement.
At the end of the day, whether a cruise ship suite is worth it depends on your budget and priorities. Each line has its own suite program, meaning the actual benefits vary. Some may offer all-inclusive amenities like drink packages, specialty dining, and access to exclusive areas, whereas on others, the focus on others may be expansive living areas with amenities like priority check-in.
Not only that but sometimes the perks are dependent on the exact suite you book. Those staying in Junior Suites on Royal Caribbean ships, for example, won't have as many perks as those in Owner's Suites and above.
It's also worth considering the itinerary and cruise length. Are you going on a lengthy sailing with a lot of sea days? Then the additional space and amenities might be worth the extra cost. However, if you're going on a 7-night port-intensive sailing around the Mediterranean, you won't have as much time onboard to take advantage of all the perks.
Finally, think about your travel style. Do you prefer leisurely days spent lounging in your cabin and enjoying room service? Do chair hogs infuriate you? If so, a suite can make your onboard experience much more enjoyable, from upgraded in-cabin dining menus to exclusive sundecks and restaurants. On the other hand, if you plan to spend time exploring everything the ship has to offer, the luxuries of a suite may not be necessary.
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she had the privilege of traveling frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas her freshman year of high school. She wanted to pursue a career that highlighted her passion for travel and strengths as a writer.
