When planning a Hurtigruten voyage, particularly on certain ships, it's wise to be aware of specific cabin locations that might detract from your experience. On ships like the Richard With, you should generally avoid interior cabins located at the aft (rear) of Deck 3.
Key Cabins to Avoid on Hurtigruten Ships
Based on common travel insights and specific details for vessels like the Richard With, certain cabin placements are known to be less desirable due to noise or vibration.
- Interior Cabins at the Aft of Deck 3: On ships such as the Richard With, interior cabins situated at the rear of Deck 3 are directly above the engine room. This can lead to noticeable engine noise and vibrations, potentially impacting your comfort and sleep quality during the journey.
For those preferring interior cabins on such ships, consider alternatives like the four interior cabins located at the front of Deck 3 or any of the four interior cabins on Deck 5, which tend to offer a quieter environment.
To summarize the specific avoidance recommendation:
| Cabin Type | Location to Avoid | Ship Example (if applicable) | Primary Reason to Avoid | Recommended Alternatives (Interior) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Cabins | Aft of Deck 3 | Richard With | Directly above the engine; high noise and vibration levels. | Front of Deck 3 or Deck 5 |
General Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cabin
While the specific advice above pertains to particular cabins on certain Hurtigruten ships, understanding general cabin placement can help you avoid discomfort on any cruise. When selecting your cabin, consider the following:
- Proximity to Noisy Areas:
- Engine Room: Cabins directly above or beside the engine room (typically on lower decks at the aft) can experience significant noise and vibrations, especially during maneuvers or at high speeds.
- Anchor: Cabins near the bow (front) on lower decks might be affected by anchor drop and retrieval noise, particularly when arriving or departing ports early in the morning.
- Galley/Kitchen: Cabins located directly above or below ship galleys can be subject to noise from food preparation, dishwashing, and crew activity.
- Public Areas: Cabins directly below or above bars, lounges, theatres, or children's play areas may experience noise from music, conversations, or entertainment activities, especially late at night.
- Lifts/Stairwells: While not always a major issue, cabins very close to central elevator shafts or heavily trafficked stairwells might have some noise from passenger movement and lift operation.
- Motion Sickness: If you are prone to seasickness, cabins located mid-ship on lower decks generally experience less motion than those at the very front or back, or on higher decks.
By being mindful of these factors and consulting deck plans, you can make a more informed choice to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Hurtigruten experience.
