Guarantee staterooms can be money-saving options for many cruisers. For others, they are more of a headache then they’re worth.
Booking a Guarantee gives you just that — a discounted price for a guarantee that you will be on the ship in your category. If the cruise line cannot put you in that category, you get an upgrade.
That, in short, is the allure of Guarantees. They work well for many cruisers who book them willingly. We have had more than our share of upgraded clients, one lucky pair who received a double upgrade on the Mediterranean.
On the flip side, we feel awful for those who unwittingly find themselves playing stateroom roulette.
Often, it happens because the focus was on price so much that the details were not discussed or not absorbed. Those finer points include the possibility that the cruiser might not have a cabin assignment until boarding. Some people find this adventurous. Others find it worrying. That’s why we won’t book a Guarantee without documented permission from our client.
Who Should Avoid Guarantees?
People traveling in groups
Those who want their cabins together should not book Guarantees, period. Chances are very slim they will be assigned near each other.
People with specific sleep or environmental preferences
If you are unable to tolerate extraneous noise, there is no reason to gamble on a cabin that could be below the nightclub or the pool deck. Spend the extra money and select the location you want. The same goes for those who fear or suffer seasickness — you will do far better with a cabin of your choosing.
People with mobility issues
If you have mobility issues that are not significant enough to book a cabin with accommodations, avoid a Guarantee anyway. The distance from your stateroom to the nearest elevator could be a lengthy hassle. It’s just not worth it.
People who want to see everything off their balcony
Balcony staterooms can be obstructed and assigned as Guarantee. If it is important that you have a complete view, choose your stateroom.