Picking the wrong cabin on a Costa cruise can lead to sleepless nights, noisy hallways, or a balcony with a disappointing view. But with the right choice, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, quiet space that enhances your cruise experience.
I’ve analyzed hundreds of real cruiser reviews, studied deck plans, and gathered insights from experienced travelers to rank Costa’s best and worst cabins. Whether you’re looking for an affordable inside cabin, a peaceful retreat, or a balcony with stunning views, this guide will help you book the right stateroom for your needs.
Some cabins deliver privacy, comfort, and breathtaking views, while others come with surprising drawbacks that catch travelers off guard. Let’s break down which Costa cabins to book—and which ones to skip.
Cabins Below Restaurants, Kitchens, and Theaters (Worst for Noise)
Cabins below restaurants, kitchens, and theaters—typically on Decks 2, 3, and 6—can be some of the noisiest on Costa ships. Guests often report hearing chairs scraping, carts rolling, and the constant movement of staff preparing food late into the night.
On Costa Fascinosa, cabins directly under the theater are impacted by amplified music and sound effects from shows, sometimes continuing past 11 PM on the final night. Deck 2 is particularly problematic, as it sits under major dining venues and the atrium, where noise carries from live performances and gatherings.
If avoiding nighttime disruptions is a priority, make sure to choose a cabin on a higher deck or away from major public areas.
Cabins Near the Atrium, Bars, and Entertainment Areas
Cabins near the atrium, bars, and entertainment areas—especially on Decks 3 through 6—are also prone to noise issues. These areas remain lively well into the night, with music, conversation, and general crowd noise spilling into nearby rooms. On Costa Smeralda, one traveler booked a cabin above a nightclub and struggled to sleep as the bass vibrated through the walls into the early morning.
Cabins beneath the Lido Deck and pool areas, such as those on Decks 14 and 15, also experience early-morning disturbances, as deck chairs are rearranged and cleaning crews get to work before sunrise. Some guests have also reported late-night pool parties with loud music and cheering continuing past midnight. For a quieter experience, it’s best to select a cabin sandwiched between other passenger decks rather than directly above or below high-traffic public spaces.
Obstructed View Cabins
Certain Costa ships, particularly older ones, may have cabins with obstructed views due to lifeboats positioned directly outside the windows or balconies. For example, some passengers have reported obstructed views from lifeboats on ships like Costa Mediterranea and Deliziosa on deck 4.
In addition to lifeboat obstructions, some cabins may also have their views blocked by being positioned directly under the wing of the bridge. One passenger who booked Cabin 7208 on the Costa Deliziosa was surprised to find their premium balcony had an obstructed view, stating, “Cabin 7208 is just under the wing of the bridge. We only saw some iron bars under the wing and the feet of the captain while maneuvering.”
Newer Costa ships, however, are generally designed with better lifeboat placement, ensuring they don’t obstruct cabin views as much. While obstructed-view cabins aren’t a widespread issue across the fleet, it’s still worth checking the deck plans before booking, especially if you’re sailing on an older ship.
Cabins with Glass Walls & Exposed Balconies (Privacy Nightmare)
Balcony cabins on Costa Smeralda, particularly on Deck 15, have a unique privacy issue—glass-wall bathrooms. Instead of a traditional solid bathroom wall, these cabins feature a semi-transparent glass partition with only a thin curtain for separation. This has been a source of discomfort for guests who prefer more personal space.
One reviewer expressed confusion over the design, mentioning that while the middle of the glass is frosted, parts of the bathroom remain visible from the main cabin. Another issue is that at night, light from the bathroom seeps into the sleeping area, potentially disturbing other passengers in the room. This setup is far from ideal for travelers who aren’t comfortable with shared bathroom visibility.
Some of Costa’s high-end suites also have privacy concerns due to their proximity to public decks. On Costa Toscana and Costa Smeralda, certain suites—particularly those forward on Deck 17 and aft on Deck 15—are located beneath public sun decks and lounge areas. As a result, passengers walking above may have a clear view into these balconies and large suite windows, diminishing the sense of seclusion.
Guests have pointed out that while the interior of these suites can be luxurious, the lack of shielding from nearby foot traffic makes the outdoor space feel exposed. Similarly, cabins located just below pool decks or jogging tracks can have the same issue, with people looking over railings into private areas.
For travelers looking for a more discreet cabin experience, it’s best to avoid suites or balconies positioned directly below open-deck public spaces.
Forward-Facing Cabins (Worst for Motion Sickness)
If you get seasick easily, steer clear of forward-facing cabins, especially on higher decks, as they experience the most movement. This movement is especially noticeable in rough seas, where the front of the ship rises and falls with the waves, creating a strong pitching motion that can make nausea worse.
Instead, midship cabins on lower decks provide the most stability, as this area is closest to the ship’s center of gravity and experiences the least amount of vertical movement. Additionally, choosing a cabin with a window or balcony can help some travelers by providing a clear horizon view, which can reduce motion sickness symptoms.
Cabins Near Anchor and Thrusters (Docking Noise)
Some reviewers suggested that cabins located near the front or back of a Costa ship can be especially noisy during docking, making them less ideal for light sleepers. From what I’ve found, this seems to be a common issue on Concordia-class ships with lower-deck cabin layouts.
Forward cabins on lower decks, such as Decks 1-3, are particularly affected by the ship’s thrusters, which create loud vibrations when maneuvering into port. This noise can be disruptive, especially in the early morning hours when most ships arrive.
Similarly, aft cabins near docking equipment on Decks 2-4 may experience sounds from rope winches and anchor chains as crew members secure the ship. Some passengers who stayed in these areas reported being woken up by loud mechanical noises and strong vibrations during docking procedures. While newer Costa ships are generally better at reducing these sounds, the issue can still persist in certain areas.
Again, this is typically an issue on older ships and it’s likely you won’t experience this problem unless you book a lower-deck cabin. Choosing a midship cabin on an upper deck is a safer bet for a quieter experience.
Connecting Cabins (Applies to All Ships)
Connecting cabins on Costa Cruises ships are a great option for families and groups traveling together. They provide the convenience of shared access while still allowing for separate sleeping spaces. These cabins are available across various categories, including inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. Many families appreciate the added space and privacy, as parents can monitor their children while still having their own room.
One of the biggest drawbacks of connecting cabins is the potential for noise leakage. The internal door between the two rooms is not fully soundproof, meaning conversations, TV sounds, or even snoring from the next cabin may be heard more easily than in a standard cabin.
To avoid surprises, it’s a good idea to check deck plans before booking. Websites like CruiseMapper make it easy to identify connecting cabins by looking for a symbol with two arrows (↔) between room numbers.
Cross-checking the deck plan legend will confirm which cabins have shared doors, and for extra certainty, it’s always worth verifying with Costa Cruises directly. If peace and quiet are a priority, it may be best to book a standard cabin without the risk of extra noise from an adjoining room.
Interior Cabins (Affordable, but Lacks Natural Light and Space)
Interior cabins on Costa ships are the most budget-friendly accommodations, offering a compact yet functional space for travelers who prioritize value over luxury. Interior cabins are approximately 150 sq ft (14 sq m) and come with two twin beds that convert into a queen. They also include a vanity desk, a private bathroom with a shower, and plenty of storage.
One of the biggest advantages of interior cabins is their affordability—they allow guests to enjoy the full cruise experience without the higher price tag of oceanview or balcony cabins. However, the lack of natural light can make the space feel enclosed, which may not be ideal for those prone to claustrophobia or who enjoy waking up to a view of the ocean.
For those who prefer more space or scenic views, Costa’s oceanview and balcony cabins provide larger layouts, natural light, and outdoor access. However, for travelers who plan to be out and about enjoying the ship’s amenities, excursions, and activities, an interior cabin offers a practical and cost-effective choice.
Sea View Cabins
Costa Cruises’ Sea View cabins provide a comfortable middle ground between interior and balcony accommodations. These cabins start at 215 sq ft. (20 sq m), offering more space than the average interior room while still remaining budget-friendly. Each cabin includes a spacious picture window, offering guests natural light and stunning sea views.
Unlike balconies, these windows are sealed and cannot be opened, meaning guests won’t have direct access to fresh air. However, the extra brightness and sense of openness make these cabins a great option for travelers who want a view without the higher cost of a balcony. They are available in a variety of configurations, accommodating up to four passengers, making them a good choice for couples, solo travelers, and small families.
One of the biggest advantages of Sea View cabins is their location. Since they are often found on lower decks, they tend to experience less movement compared to higher-up balcony cabins, making them a better option for those who are prone to seasickness. Additionally, these cabins are typically located in quieter areas of the ship, away from high-traffic public spaces like pools and entertainment venues.
That said, Sea View cabins have a few drawbacks. While larger than interior rooms, they are still smaller than most balcony cabins and may feel tight for families or those with lots of luggage. The sealed window also means no fresh sea breeze, which some travelers may miss. Still, they offer a comfortable, well-lit space at a budget-friendly price.
Samsara Suites and Cabins (Not Worth the Price)
Samsara Spa Suites and Cabins offer a premium cruise experience with exclusive access to the Samsara Spa. Available on select ships like Costa Diadema, Fascinosa, and Favolosa, Samsara cabins offer a variety of wellness-oriented amenities. These include access to the Thalassotherapy pool, spa treatments, and the ability to dine at the Samsara Restaurant.
Cabin options range from more affordable choices like standard interior cabins and balconies to higher-end suites, including the spacious Samsara Grand Suite with a private veranda and whirlpool bathtub.
Though a Samsara cabin includes extra amenities, some passengers feel the price for spa access doesn’t fully justify the cost. The wellness perks are appealing, but those who don’t make full use of the spa or services may not find the price difference worthwhile.
Sea Balcony Cabins
Costa’s Sea Balcony cabins are a great option for those who want a private outdoor space while cruising. Typically ranging from 194 to 269 sq ft. (18 to 25 sq m), these cabins provide more room than standard interior and sea view cabins.
Each cabin features a private balcony, offering an outdoor area to enjoy meals, take in the sea breeze, or simply unwind with a view. The cabins come with standard amenities like air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, minibar, and 24-hour room service.
One of the main advantages of the Sea Balcony cabins is the added outdoor space. Guests can enjoy the luxury of having a private balcony, perfect for sipping drinks during sunset or watching the sea from their own room. Overall, they are a perfect choice if you’re looking for the luxury of a balcony without the higher price tag of a suite.
However, there are some trade-offs to consider. Sea Balcony cabins tend to be more expensive than interior or Oceanview cabins, which may not fit everyone’s budget. Also, if you’re more interested in ship activities than relaxing on the balcony, you might not get much use out of the space, making it less value for money.
Suites (Best Overall)
If you’re looking for a top-tier experience and have the budget, a suite is your best option. Depending on the ship, there are various suite options, such as the Grand Suite, Balcony Suite, and Mini Suite, each designed to offer extra comfort.
Costa’s suites typically start at 390 sq ft (36 sq m) and feature spacious living areas, upgraded furnishings, and a host of luxurious amenities like a personal butler, dedicated restaurant access, and priority embarkation and disembarkation.
The advantages of booking a suite are clear: guests enjoy enhanced comfort, more living space, and a premium experience overall. For those who enjoy dining in style, suites provide exclusive access to specialty restaurants and priority seating, making mealtime a more refined affair.
The suite amenities also extend beyond dining, offering added conveniences such as concierge services, in-room dining options, and some exclusive access to certain areas of the ship.
However, there are a few downsides to consider when booking a suite. The higher cost may be a barrier for some, as suites are priced significantly higher than standard cabins.
Additionally, availability is limited, with fewer suites offered across the fleet, making them harder to secure, especially during peak times. Finally, for guests who may not fully utilize the added space, amenities, and exclusive services, the suite experience could feel less cost-effective.
Read more: Costa Cruises’ Fleet Ranked: Best & Worst Ships Revealed by Cruisers
Which Costa Cabin Should You Choose?
Choosing the best Costa cabin for your cruise involves considering your priorities in terms of space, location, amenities, and budget.
If you’re looking for the most affordable option, interior cabins are your best bet. They offer compact but functional spaces with essential amenities. However, they lack natural light and a view of the ocean. So, if that’s a priority, Sea View cabins are a better choice, as they offer natural light through large windows and have more space than interior rooms.
For those looking for more luxury and outdoor space, Sea Balcony cabins offer a private balcony and a more spacious atmosphere, though at a higher cost than Sea View cabins. Suites, especially the high-end Grand Suites, provide the ultimate in comfort with larger living spaces, exclusive amenities, and extra perks such as butler service, private dining areas, and priority embarkation.
Keep in mind that while suites offer exceptional luxury, they are also significantly more expensive and may not always provide the best value if you’re not planning to fully utilize the extra space and amenities.
Some cabins have specific drawbacks, such as obstructed views from lifeboats or a lack of privacy in glass-wall bathrooms in certain Sea Balcony cabins. Also, cabins located near noisy areas like theaters, restaurants, or public entertainment spaces can be disturbed by late-night activity. So make sure to choose a cabin further from these areas to ensure a more peaceful experience.
Always check the deck plans and cabin layouts ahead of time to ensure your Costa cabin meets your preferences for space, quiet, and privacy.
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