Guarantee Cabin or Choose Your Room: Best Way to Save

For many travellers, choosing the perfect cruise isn’t just about destinations and dining — it’s also about getting the best value for money. However, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make during the booking process is whether to choose a guarantee cabin or select your own room. Both options come with clear advantages, yet the right choice ultimately depends on your flexibility, preferences, and budget.

To help you decide, this guide breaks down each option clearly and reveals the real secret to saving money on your next cruise.

What Is a Guarantee Cabin?

A guarantee cabin (often referred to as a “GTY”) means you book a category — inside, ocean view, balcony, or suite — but the cruise line chooses the exact cabin for you.

You’ll receive your cabin number closer to departure, sometimes only a few days before you sail.

This option adds an element of surprise, but it also comes with significant benefits.

Why Travellers Choose Guarantee Cabins

Many people choose guarantee cabins because they often provide:

• Lower prices than selecting your own room

• A chance of a free upgrade to a higher deck or cabin category

• More availability, especially close to departure

Therefore, if you’re flexible and more focused on price than location, a guarantee cabin can be an excellent money-saving option.

What Are the Benefits of Picking Your Own Cabin?

On the other hand, if you prefer certainty, comfort, and control, then selecting your own cabin is usually the better choice. This option allows you to tailor your cruise experience exactly as you wish.

Reasons to Choose Your Own Cabin

• Pick your preferred location, such as mid-ship to reduce movement

• Avoid potential noise from lifts, theatres, or busy public areas

• Choose a specific layout, view, or balcony style

• Ideal for families, light sleepers, and special occasions

By picking your own cabin, you remove the risk and ensure everything aligns perfectly with your needs.

Guarantee Cabin vs Picking Your Room: Which Saves More?

If saving money is your top priority, guarantee cabins usually offer the best fares. Cruise lines use them to fill remaining inventory, which often results in excellent prices.

When a Guarantee Cabin Saves You Money

A GTY cabin works best when:

• You’re flexible on location

• You don’t mind where the cruise line places you

• You want the lowest price available

• You’re open to — or excited by — the possibility of an upgrade

This makes guarantee cabins ideal for bargain hunters, solo travellers, and anyone happy to go with the flow.

When Choosing Your Own Cabin Is Worth It

However, selecting your own cabin is often worth the extra cost if:

• You’re travelling in a group and want cabins close together

• You’re prone to seasickness and prefer mid-ship

• You want a specific view, balcony, or cabin layout

• You value predictability and peace of mind

In these situations, paying a little more can make a big difference to your onboard experience.

Can You Get Upgraded with a Guarantee Cabin?

Yes — and this is one of the biggest appeals of a GTY cabin.
While upgrades aren’t guaranteed, many travellers do receive complimentary upgrades to a better deck or cabin category, depending on availability.

So, if you enjoy a little suspense (and the thrill of an upgrade), guarantee cabins can offer incredible value.

Quick Comparison: Guarantee vs Picking Your Own

Top Tips for Choosing the Right Cabin

• Choose a guarantee cabin for maximum savings and upgrade potential.

• Pick your own cabin for comfort, control, and convenience.

• If you’re sensitive to movement or noise, you may want to avoid a GTY.

• Book early for the best choice and prices.

Final Thoughts: The Secret to Saving Smart

Ultimately, both options offer great value — but in different ways. If your priority is to secure the lowest fare, a guarantee cabin is usually the best choice. If you want to tailor your holiday and ensure your cabin is perfect, selecting your own room gives you total control.

With the right guidance, you can enjoy the ideal holiday at sea — at the best possible price.

Let Ocean World Travel Help You Save Even More

When you book your cruise with Ocean World Travel, you’ll benefit not only from our expert advice and 30 years of experience, but also:

✨ Exclusive additional discounts
✨ Complimentary champagne and chocolates on most Southampton departures

We’re here to help you find the best cabin, the best deal, and the best cruise experience.

📞 Call us now on 02380 714790 to start planning your next holiday at sea or contact us now