Imagine selling your house to live and work on cruise ships—sounds like a dream, right? Well, for Katrina and Kev Middleton, it’s reality. This adventurous couple has sailed on an astonishing 36 cruises, spending nearly 300 days at sea. But here’s the kicker: their top tip for choosing the best cabin on a ship might just challenge everything you thought you knew about cruising. Spoiler alert: it’s not the balcony suite.
Katrina, a former marketing professional turned cruise influencer, and Kev, an IT consultant, have turned their passion into a lifestyle. Through their Instagram page, 360Cruising, they share insider advice that’s both practical and eye-opening. For instance, they swear by interior cabins for short cruises. Wait, what? Yes, you heard that right. Katrina explains, ‘Interiors are not only budget-friendly but also darker and cooler, making them perfect for a good night’s sleep.’ After all, how much time do you really spend in your cabin besides sleeping and showering? They argue that splurging on a balcony might be better spent on unforgettable experiences ashore.
But here’s where it gets controversial: while many cruisers dream of a balcony view, Katrina and Kev suggest that the extra cost often outweighs the benefits. Is a balcony really worth it? They encourage travelers to rethink priorities, especially when the savings could fund a specialty dining experience or an exciting shore excursion. And this is the part most people miss: always check the cabin’s location on the ship. Being below public areas or near elevators can lead to unwanted noise, disrupting your peaceful retreat.
Sea sickness sufferers, take note: Katrina advises avoiding cabins at the front, back, or high up on the ship, as these areas tend to feel more movement. Another money-saving hack? Repositioning cruises. These journeys, where ships move between regions (like Europe to the Caribbean), are often longer, visit unique ports, and cost significantly less per night. Why isn’t everyone talking about this?
Pre-booking is another golden rule. Specialty dining, drink packages, and Wi-Fi are almost always cheaper when booked in advance. ‘The cruise fare is just the starting point, not the total,’ Katrina emphasizes. And once you’ve booked, keep an eye on price drops—cruise lines often honor lower rates if you call and rebook. How many of us have missed out on this simple trick?
When it comes to excursions, they recommend using apps like Shipmate to find affordable alternatives to pricey cruise-organized tours. Loyalty also pays off; sticking with one cruise line, like their favorite, Royal Caribbean, can unlock exclusive perks through loyalty programs.
Working from a cruise ship sounds glamorous, but it’s not all sunsets and cocktails. Katrina admits, ‘We often find ourselves working odd hours, like 3 a.m. or late into the night, depending on time zones.’ They balance work with relaxation, finding quiet spots to focus and still making time to unwind by the pool. Is the digital nomad life at sea as dreamy as it seems?
Staying connected is another challenge. They rely on the ship’s internet package and eSIM services like Gigsky to avoid hefty roaming charges. And their biggest packing tip? Don’t overdo formal wear. ‘One outfit is plenty,’ Katrina says. ‘People often overpack for formal nights, but sometimes you just want to keep it casual.’
So, what’s the real secret to cruising like a pro? It’s not about luxury cabins or endless formalwear—it’s about smart choices that maximize value and experiences. Do you agree, or do you think a balcony is non-negotiable? Let’s debate in the comments!
