To reduce motion sickness, choose a stateroom in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. You will feel any sway of the ship less in this section. Although it may seem counterintuitive, if you're worried about seasickness on a cruise, book a stateroom with a window or a veranda.

If you are prone to motion sickness or nausea, the best cabin location on a cruise ship is Mid-Ship and on a Lower Deck. Think of the ship like a seesaw: the front (bow) and back (stern) experience the most vertical movement as they pitch over waves, while the middle remains the most stable pivot point. Being on a lower deck—closer to the ship's center of gravity and the stabilizers—further minimizes the "sway" felt in rough seas. For many, an Oceanview or Balcony cabin is superior to an Interior room because having a view of the natural horizon allows your brain to reconcile the motion your body feels with what your eyes see, which is the key to preventing seasickness. In 2026, newer "Mega-Ships" (like Royal Caribbean's Icon-class) feature advanced computer-controlled stabilizers that make the ride smoother than ever, but the "Low and Middle" rule remains the gold standard for travelers who want to ensure their vacation isn't ruined by the "motion of the ocean."