Going on a cruise is an unforgettable experience filled with stunning vistas, exciting activities, and endless opportunities for relaxation. But to fully savour every moment of this incredible adventure, one key element is crucial – a good night’s sleep.
It’s the secret ingredient that rejuvenates you, allowing you to enjoy each day to its fullest. So, what are the best ways to get to sleep on a cruise ship?
Sleeping on a cruise ship can feel a little unusual if you’ve not experienced it before. But don’t fret! Our guide on how to have a good sleep on a cruise ship is here to help you enjoy a peaceful slumber aboard your floating paradise.
Dive into our nine top tips for sleeping on a cruise ship below, and you’ll be more likely to secure those sweet dreams when sailing on the high seas!
1. Find the best place to sleep on a cruise ship
The location of your cabin can be a game-changer when it comes to sleep quality. The best deck to sleep on a cruise is lower on the ship, with a centrally located cabin to minimise the ship’s motion.
These spots tend to be more stable, which is especially helpful for those prone to seasickness. Moreover, with these cabins being away from high-traffic areas, you’ll also experience less noise and disturbance during your restful hours.
Finding the best cabin location for sleeping on a cruise ship can make all the difference to your holiday. So, if you think you may struggle with drifting off, it’s worth booking your cruise holiday early so more cabin options are available.
2. Luxuriate in the comfiest cruise ship beds
A good night’s sleep starts with a great bed. Many cruise lines pride themselves on their luxurious bedding, often investing well in ensuring you sleep soundly and enjoy your experience. We’re talking about high-end memory foam mattresses that contour to your body, plush linens that are soft to the touch, and various pillow options to cater to all sleeping styles.
Finding the best cruise ship beds is a priority for many cruisers, and for good reason! Most cruise lines publish details of their cruise ship sleeping quarters on their website. So, take some time to research these details in advance to help ensure a good night’s rest.
3. Master the art of darkness
Typically, cruise ship cabins are extremely dark when you turn off the lights. This is particularly the case with interior cabins. However, outside-facing or balcony cabins usually have heavy, light-blocking curtains to create the same effect.
While sleeping in the pitch black may take some getting used to; it can work to your advantage when mastering how to sleep on a cruise ship. Creating a dark environment is essential for signalling to your body that it’s time for sleep, particularly if you’re cruising through different time zones or in areas with extended daylight hours.
4. Stick to a sleep schedule
It’s tempting to throw routine out of the porthole on your cruise holiday, but maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial for quality rest. Our bodies thrive on habituality, and keeping a consistent sleep-wake cycle helps regulate our internal clocks.
This routine is even more critical when travelling across time zones, as it can help mitigate the effects of jet lag.
5. Craft a pre-sleep ritual
When looking for how to sleep well on a cruise ship, establishing a calming pre-sleep ritual can significantly help your ability to drift off. This routine could involve reading a book, listening to soothing music, or practising gentle yoga or meditation.
The key is to find activities that relax your mind and prepare your body for rest.
6. Mindful eating and drinking
What you consume in the evening can significantly impact how well you sleep on a cruise ship. Heavy meals can lead to discomfort, while stimulants like caffeine and alcohol can disrupt your sleep cycle.
Try to dine at least a couple of hours before bedtime and opt for lighter, easier-to-digest meals in the evening. Herbal teas can be an excellent nightcap, as many have natural sleep-inducing properties.
7. Embrace white noise
When sleeping on a cruise ship, its unfamiliar sounds – from the hum of the engines to the occasional hallway chatter – can be jarring for some. Try using a white noise app or device to help mask these disruptions, providing a consistent and soothing soundtrack that can lull you to sleep.
8. Daytime activities for better nighttime rest
One of the best tips for sleeping on a cruise ship is to think about what you are doing during the hours you are awake. Engaging in physical activities during the day can significantly improve your sleep at night.
Most cruise ships offer a fantastic range of options, from swimming and fitness classes to dance workshops and sports activities. These pastimes not only enrich your cruise experience but also help tire you out in a good way, ensuring a more restful sleep.
9. Leverage the expertise of cruise staff
If you still need help with how to sleep well on a cruise ship, reach out to the cruise staff. Never underestimate their willingness to enhance your stay, and, of course, cruise staff have the best experience to offer help!
They can provide additional comfort items like extra pillows, blankets, or even tips on which areas of the ship are best for relaxation.
Can I sleep on the balcony of a cruise ship?
A question we often hear from cruise enthusiasts is, “Can I sleep on the balcony of a cruise ship?” While the idea is enchanting, and on most cruise ships, there are no rules against getting your shut-eye here, many discourage it.
Balconies are not designed for overnight sleeping, so it’s essential to prioritise safety. Additionally, changing weather conditions and the need to respect other cruise guests’ comfort make balcony sleeping less practical.
For those longing to stargaze, some cruises offer special events or cabins with stargazing-friendly features, providing a safer and more comfortable alternative. Your cruise holiday is a time to relax and rejuvenate, and ensuring you get quality sleep is a big part of that.
With these top tips for sleeping on a cruise ship, you’ll be well on your way to peaceful nights on the ocean waves.
