A reporter from Business Insider had an unsettling experience during her first cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world. After booking a room at the front of the ship, she found herself facing a night filled with unsettling motions and loud noises that left her feeling anxious and alert for potential disasters.
Spending $2,000 for a seven-night stay in a 179-square-foot ocean-view stateroom on the eighth deck, the reporter described her first night as terrifying. As the ship rocked, she struggled to comprehend the booming sounds echoing from above and below her cabin. In her state of unease, she reviewed emergency instructions repeatedly until exhaustion finally overcame her.
Upon waking, she discovered that other passengers appeared unfazed by the ship’s movements, enjoying breakfast and various onboard activities. This realization prompted her to seek insight from more seasoned cruisers, who informed her that cabins at the front are often considered the worst location for those susceptible to seasickness. Instead, they recommended booking rooms in the middle of the ship, where the motion is less pronounced.
Throughout the cruise, the reporter experienced consistent swaying in her stateroom, exacerbated by the ship’s height and position at the front. On rougher nights, the booming sounds and vibrations in her room intensified, resembling thunder and causing her discomfort. These conditions made it challenging for her to fully enjoy onboard activities and excursions, ultimately hindering her relaxation during port stops.
Reflecting on her experience, she recognized the importance of researching stateroom locations before booking future cruises. For any travelers prone to motion sickness, her advice is clear: book a cabin in the middle of the ship to ensure a more stable and enjoyable cruise experience. This lesson learned highlights the significance of preparation and awareness when embarking on a new adventure, emphasizing that knowledge can enhance the enjoyment of future travels.