Serenade of the Seas Cabins to Avoid (Check THIS Before Booking)
Embarking on Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas feels like stepping into a world of wonder, with over a thousand cabins to choose from, it’s enough to set your mind sailing (we had to.)
While the cabins might seem deceptively identical at a casual glance, the devil is in the details – and those details make all the difference.
With Royal Caribbean, you can handpick your ideal cabin for a little extra, ensuring you get the best location available. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, let fate decide and have them assign you a cabin within your selected category.
But if you are spending the extra cash to guarantee a better spot on the ship, you’ll want to make sure you pick correctly.
There aren’t necessarily any bad cabins on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, but there are definitely some that are better than others..
Cabin Categories on Serenade of the Seas
Interior Cabins
Standard Interior Cabins offer a compact and efficient space of approximately 165 square feet (15 m²). Located on various decks, these cabins provide a cozy and economical option for travelers, offering a comfortable retreat without external views.
Ocean View Cabins
Standard Ocean View Cabins provide a more expansive feel with around 170 square feet (16 m²) of space. These cabins feature windows for ocean viewing, located on decks 2 (with portholes), 3, 4, 7, and 8.
Balcony Cabins
Balcony Cabins vary in size, with the Superior options offering about 205 square feet (19 m²) and the Deluxe versions around 180 square feet (17 m²). Each comes with a 45 square feet (4 m²) balcony, located on decks 7 through 10, allowing guests to enjoy private outdoor space with sea views.
Suites
Junior Suites measure approximately 300 square feet (28 m²) with a 65 square feet (6 m²) balcony. Located on deck 10, these suites offer a blend of luxury and space.
Owner’s Suites provide a more spacious layout with around 590 square feet (55 m²) and a 60 square feet (6 m²) balcony, situated midship on deck 10.
1-Bedroom Royal Suites are the epitome of luxury, boasting a generous 950 square feet (88 m²) with a 105 square feet (10 m²) balcony, also located midship on deck 10.
Cabins to Avoid on Serenade of the Seas
Deck 2
While lower decks on ships like the Serenade of the Seas are not our top preference due to their closer proximity to the waterline, which often results in less impressive views compared to higher-situated cabins, they do have their advantages.
These lower cabins can be a tad noisier, being near the ship’s engines and ocean waves. Yet, they are a a great option for those who might struggle with seasickness.
The lower deck’s closeness to the waterline can result in a more stable and comfortable experience, lessening the likelihood of nausea.
For those specifically seeking lower deck accommodations to mitigate motion sickness, it’s important to be selective.
If you want to be near the waterline and choose to be on Deck 2, there are only a couple oof cabins we recommend avoiding due to their proximity to the elevators.
This location tends to draw considerable foot traffic throughout the day and night, potentially disrupting your rest.
On the Serenade of the Seas, cabins 2026 to 2029 are situated near the elevators.
For a more tranquil stay, it’s advisable to steer clear of these busy areas where elevator queues are common.
Deck 3
Our reservations about Deck 2 extend to Deck 3 on the Serenade of the Seas as well. Its position near the waterline can limit the grandeur of the ocean views you might find on higher decks.
A primary concern, however, is its location right underneath key areas like the Reflections Dining Room, the R Bar, and the Tropical Theatre.
While not necessarily overly noisy, there’s a possibility of sound transfer from these active spots.
Cabins situated under the Dining Room and R Bar are towards the ship’s rear, specifically cabins 3106-3144 and 3606-3644.
In contrast, cabins near the ship’s front, positioned below the Tropical Theatre, include 3000-3020, 3500-3520, 3009-3019, and 3509-3519.
Additionally, it’s always advisable to avoid rooms near elevators and restrooms, as these areas are prone to constant foot traffic and noise.
Specifically, cabins 3030-3038, 3530-3538, 3539-3541, and 3080-3104 are in high-traffic zones, potentially impacting the tranquility of your stay.
Deck 4
While Deck 4 on the Serenade of the Seas has certain areas we’ve marked to avoid, it generally offers a good compromise.
It’s higher above the waterline than the lower decks, providing greater ocean views, yet it remains sufficiently central for those concerned about seasickness during rough waters.
Being just a short walk from the Dining Hall and directly beneath the bustling Promenade Deck, Deck 4 is conveniently located.
However, you should be mindful of potential noise from above, particularly from the active shopping areas, though we’re less concerned about shop noise compared to areas near Theatres and Nightclubs.
We suggest steering clear of cabins near the elevators on this deck, especially 4008-4014, 4508-4512, 4017, and 4517.
Additionally, cabins at the ship’s front, close to the Tropical Theatre, such as 4000-4004 and 4500-4503, might experience noise disturbances, especially if you’re planning early nights.
On the ship’s opposite end, cabins 4054-4061, 4555-4560, and 4580-4590, near the dining hall, could be subject to early morning activity and increased foot traffic.
Deck 7
Deck 7 on the Serenade of the Seas stands out as a solid choice, mainly because the deck directly above is also reserved for cabins. This arrangement significantly reduces the likelihood of noise throughout the day and night.
However, as with any deck, there are specific areas we advise you to avoid, particularly those near the elevators.
The cabins in these high-traffic zones include 7038-7050, 7538-7551, and 7090-7110.
Being close to the elevators, these rooms might experience more noise due to the movement of passengers at various times.
We’ve also highlighted some cabins in the front that are directly above the Tropical Theatre.
If you plan on having some early nights in, there is a chance of late night noise and vibrations during shows. These to cabins to avoid above the Theatre are 7014-7038 and 7514-7538.
Deck 8
Deck 8 on the Serenade of the Seas is an excellent option for those seeking a quieter stay, as it is flanked by cabins both above and below. This layout greatly minimizes the potential for noise disturbances.
Regarded as one of the most desirable decks for booking, Deck 8’s tranquility is mostly uninterrupted, save for the standard areas near the elevators that are best avoided due to potential foot traffic and associated noise.
The specific cabins in these areas include 8030-8038, 8530-8538, and 8086-8104. These locations might be more prone to noise due to their proximity to the elevators.
Considering Allure of the Seas instead? Check which cabins to avoid on Allure of the Seas
Deck 9
Deck 9 on the Serenade of the Seas mirrors the advantages of Deck 8, especially regarding the location of cabins near elevators.
Like Deck 8, it is sandwiched between decks that also feature only cabins, significantly reducing the chances of noise disturbance.
The primary cabins to be cautious about on Deck 9 are those near the elevators, due to potential foot traffic and noise. These include cabins 9020-9032, 9520-9532, and 9074-9096.
Decks 8 and 9 are among the top choices on the Serenade of the Seas, as both are cushioned by decks with only cabins above and below. On top of this, they offer a variety of appealing room categories.
Deck 10
Deck 10 on the Serenade of the Seas is situated just beneath the lively pool deck. While this doesn’t inherently make it a less desirable deck, it’s worth noting that some cabins may be subject to noise.
Passengers have occasionally reported sounds of sun loungers being moved on the deck above during early morning preparations.
For those who cherish a quiet, undisturbed sleep and wish to avoid early morning wake-ups, this deck might not be the ideal choice.
However, for early birds, sound sleepers, or those who prefer quick access to the ship’s activities, Deck 10 could be quite suitable.
As with other decks, it’s advisable to avoid cabins near the elevators, as these areas typically see more chatter and foot traffic. The cabins near the elevators on this deck include 1020-1028, 1520-1528, and 1054-1060.
What Are The Best Decks On Serenade Of The Seas?
The best decks on Serenade of the Seas are decks 8 and 9.
These two decks have only cabins above and below them, making the likelihood of noise from Theaters and pool decks minimal.
Pro-Tip: Whenever booking any cruise, the best deck is always one sandwiched between other cabin-only decks.
What To Consider When Booking Your Perfect Room
Cabins Near Elevators
We’re a broken record! But many (many!) past cruisers have complained numerous times about the noise associated with cabins near the elevators.
These cabins may seem convenient but unfortunately, they come with a lot of foot traffic and chit-chat.
These areas get especially busy on disembarkation days, making the likelihood of sleeping in slim (unless you’re a deep sleeper, then ignore everything mentioned.)
Opting for a cabin a few doors away from elevators can significantly enhance your peace and quiet.
Cabins Underneath Public Areas
Choosing cabins below active public spaces like dance clubs or pool decks should be done cautiously. Noise issues could arise, affecting those who are light sleepers or prefer early nights.
Thumping music and foot traffic can be especially disruptive.
Our favorite cabins, and the ones we always recommend, are on decks that have cabins above and below them.
On Serenade of the Seas, that would be Decks 8 and 9.
High Traffic Areas
Areas near buffets, galleys, lounges, fitness centers, and casinos are also best avoided if you prefer a quieter cabin.
While it’s tempting to be close to the ship’s heart, the noise and congestion might not be ideal.
This one may be a matter of preference, as some can sleep through noice easily, but we still recommend booking cruise ship cabins a little farther away from the hustle and bustle.
Cabins With Obstructed Views
This one should go without saying.
If you are splurging on a nice Ocean View or Balcony cabin, the last thing you want is an obstructed view.
Make sure your cabin isn’t below the lifeboats or other structures. When you are selecting your cabin, they will always let you know if the one you are booking has an obstructed view.
But do your due diligence and double check you are booking a cabin with a beautiful, scenic view.
Connecting Cabins
Useful for families needing interconnecting rooms, but otherwise not recommended.
The shared door can allow noise to travel between cabins, which might be disruptive, particularly for light sleepers or if neighbors are noisy.
These cabins should only be used if you will actually utilize the connecting door. Otherwise, the thin walls are not worth the risk.
