Cruise ships are marvels of engineering, designed to provide guests with luxurious experiences while navigating vast oceans. But beyond the restaurants, pools, and entertainment venues, there are a number of hidden features and lesser-known areas on a cruise ship. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, here are 10 surprising secrets that most people don’t know about.
1. Magnetic Cabin Walls
Did you know that the walls of your cruise cabin are magnetic? This hidden feature can come in handy for organizing your space. Many experienced cruisers bring magnetic hooks and clips to hang personal items like clothing, bags, or even cruise itineraries. These hooks can help free up valuable floor space in a room where every inch counts, especially if you’re sharing a cabin with family or friends. Plus, it’s a great way to keep the room clutter-free and tidy.
2. Hidden Crew Pools
One of the most exclusive areas on a cruise ship isn’t for the guests at all—it’s for the crew. Most cruise ships have private pools and recreation areas hidden away where crew members can unwind when they’re off duty. These spots are tucked away from passengers, giving crew members a space to relax and enjoy the sunshine without being on display. While passengers won’t have access to these areas, it’s fascinating to know how well cruise ships cater to their staff’s well-being.
3. Luxurious Hidden Suites
While standard staterooms are cozy and comfortable, there are often ultra-luxurious suites hidden in plain sight, reserved for celebrities or high-profile guests. These suites can be found in unexpected places, like inside the ship’s funnels or tucked away on exclusive decks. For instance, Disney’s Wish Tower Suite is located within the funnel of the ship and offers breathtaking views, private elevators, and opulent interiors. These suites are often booked well in advance and come with a price tag to match their splendor.
4. Secret Entrances to Kids’ Clubs
Some cruise ships, particularly those catering to families, feature hidden entrances to their kids’ clubs. For example, on Disney Cruise Line ships, there’s often a small, hidden door or slide that leads directly to the kids-only area. These secret entry points add an extra element of fun for younger passengers, creating a sense of adventure as they enter their own private world. Meanwhile, parents can rest assured knowing that these areas are supervised by staff members.
5. The Onboard Morgue
Though it’s not something most people like to think about, cruise ships are legally required to have a morgue on board. This is a practical necessity, as many cruises are popular among older passengers, and, unfortunately, deaths can occur during a voyage. The morgue is located in a discreet area of the ship and is used to store bodies until the ship can dock at a port where proper arrangements can be made. It’s one of the many ways cruise lines prepare for every possible scenario.
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6. Pull-Down Bunk Beds
Traveling with kids and sharing a cabin can sometimes feel cramped, but many cruise lines have a clever solution. Some cabins are equipped with pull-down bunk beds hidden in the ceiling. These beds are tucked away during the day to maximize space, and cabin stewards will set them up while you’re out to dinner. It’s an excellent feature for families, providing extra sleeping space without cluttering the room during the day.
7. Access to the Bow
Not all parts of a cruise ship are accessible to guests, but some ships offer a secret way to get to the bow, where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the ocean. This is often a hidden gem for couples or photography enthusiasts who want a more private space to watch the ship sail into or away from port. While some ships keep the bow off-limits, others allow access through hidden doors that are often missed by casual cruisers.
8. Extra Storage in Cabins
Cruise ship cabins are designed with space-saving solutions in mind, and many have hidden storage areas that passengers may not notice at first. From drawers beneath the bed to storage spaces behind mirrors, these clever design features make it easier to stow away your belongings. Some cabins even have USB ports hidden behind the TV or extra shelves built into the walls. It’s worth exploring every nook and cranny of your cabin to maximize storage during your trip.
9. Book Your Next Cruise Onboard
If you’re loving your current cruise, you might want to consider booking your next one before you even step off the ship. Many cruise lines offer special deals and discounts for passengers who book their next voyage while still onboard. There’s usually a dedicated sales office where you can meet with an agent to lock in future trips at a reduced price. This is one of the lesser-known ways to score a deal and ensure your next adventure is already on the calendar.
10. Larger “Hump” Rooms
Not all staterooms are created equal, and savvy cruisers know to look for what’s known as “hump rooms.” These are cabins located on the curved part of the ship, where the balcony is often larger than standard rooms. Despite the extra outdoor space, these rooms are typically priced the same as other balcony staterooms, making them a hidden gem for experienced cruisers. The added space is perfect for enjoying ocean views in comfort and can make your cruise experience even more luxurious.
Cruise ships are filled with surprising features and hidden gems that make life at sea more comfortable, exciting, and luxurious. Whether it’s finding secret storage in your cabin or discovering hidden entrances and exclusive suites, these lesser-known elements add an extra layer of wonder to your cruise vacation.
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