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Cruise vacations are known for their comfort, convenience, and the perfect blend of luxury with adventure. But one question travelers often ask when planning a cruise—especially families with small children, travelers with limited mobility, or those who love long soaks—is: Do ships have bathtubs in their cabins? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no. Whether you’ll find a bathtub in your cabin depends entirely on the cruise line, the ship, and most importantly, the category of the stateroom you book.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about cruise ship bathtubs—where to find them, which cabin types include them, what to expect in terms of size, design, and accessibility, and how to choose the perfect cabin if a bathtub is a priority. From family cabins to luxury suites, here is a complete breakdown to help you make the right decision for your next sailing.
Not all cabins are created equal, and bathtubs on cruise ships are far from standard. While most standard staterooms come equipped with compact showers, certain categories offer full or partial bathtubs, often designed with luxury or family needs in mind.
Across nearly every major cruise line, suites are the most likely cabins to include bathtubs. Suites are designed to offer a more luxurious experience, so they frequently feature spacious bathrooms with bathtubs, whirlpool tubs, or even jetted soaking tubs. In high-end suites on luxury cruise lines, bathrooms can even resemble hotel spa setups.
Some ships include family-friendly staterooms designed specifically for those traveling with children. Many of these cabins include small bathtubs to make bathing children easier. These tubs are usually shallow and compact, but they are still full tubs—ideal for infants, toddlers, or anyone who prefers a sit-down soak.
While not common, some accessible cabins offer bathtubs if needed for medical or mobility reasons. However, many accessible cruise cabins instead feature large roll-in showers for ease of use. Any bathtub included is designed with safety in mind, featuring handrails, low entry points, and slip-resistant surfaces.
Spa staterooms—available on lines like Celebrity Cruises, Princess, Costa, and MSC—sometimes include upgraded bathrooms. A few may feature soaking tubs or deep shower-tub combos, designed to complement the wellness theme of the cabin.
Bathtubs vary widely based on the cruise line. Each company designs its cabins differently, and some prioritize showers for space efficiency, while others offer bathtubs as an added luxury.
Royal Caribbean includes bathtubs in many of its Junior Suites and above, as well as in certain family cabins. Some Oasis- and Quantum-class ships have bathtubs in select balcony cabins, though this is not standard.
Carnival ships often include bathtubs in their Ocean Suite and higher categories. Certain family staterooms on newer ships may also feature bathtubs.
NCL typically features bathtubs in The Haven suites, as well as penthouse suites. Mainstream balcony and interior cabins rarely include tubs except for family-focused categories.
Princess offers bathtubs in many of its Mini-Suites and Suites, making it one of the more bathtub-friendly lines.
Disney is one of the best cruise lines for families, and many of its staterooms—especially Family Oceanview and Family Verandah cabins—include split bathrooms, with one room featuring a full bathtub. This makes Disney one of the easiest options for passengers who require a tub.
Celebrity includes bathtubs in many of its AquaClass, Concierge Class, and Suite-level cabins. Luxury suites offer spa-style bathrooms with large soaking tubs.
MSC typically includes bathtubs in Yacht Club suites and select premium cabins.
Holland America, known for its premium offerings, frequently includes bathtubs in balcony staterooms, signature suites, and above.
Luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Cunard, and Seabourn almost always include bathtubs due to their upscale design.
While a bathtub on land feels like a standard fixture, cruise ship bathtubs can differ significantly in size, design, depth, and functionality. Understanding what to expect helps avoid disappointment.
Cruise ship bathtubs are generally smaller and shallower than average residential tubs. They are designed to conserve both water and space. Although not ideal for deep soaking, they are perfectly suited for:
Bathing children
A quick warm soak
Passengers who need to sit while bathing
Anyone who prefers baths to showers
High-end suites offer full-size or extra-deep tubs, and some even feature whirlpool or jetted options.
Most cruise ship bathtubs are combined with a shower. This space-saving design includes:
A showerhead mounted above the tub
Safety handrails
A curtain or glass partition
Non-slip flooring
Only upscale suites tend to offer fully separate bathtubs and walk-in showers.
Luxury suites on high-end cruise lines may include jetted tubs or spa-style soaking tubs. However, these are rare and usually exclusive to penthouse-level accommodations.
Some of the most luxurious suites on ships like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer bathrooms with ocean views, where the bathtub sits near a panoramic window. This feature is found only in premium accommodations.
Bathtubs occupy more space than showers, and on a cruise ship, square footage is precious. Standard staterooms focus on maximizing efficiency and functionality.
Bathrooms in standard cabins prioritize compact design. A shower stall fits more easily into tight quarters than a full bathtub. Many cruise bathrooms are smaller than typical hotel bathrooms.
Cruise ships must carefully manage water usage. Showers consume less water than baths, making them more sustainable and practical.
Most adult passengers prefer showers. Families with small children are the main demographic requesting tubs, and cruise lines accommodate them primarily in family cabins.
If having a bathtub is important to you, it’s essential to choose the right cabin category. Here’s how to ensure your stateroom includes one.
Cruise lines specify which cabins have bathtubs in their detailed cabin descriptions. Look specifically for terms such as:
“Shower/tub combo”
“Full bath”
“Soaking tub”
“Whirlpool tub”
In most cases, upgrading from a standard balcony or interior room to a suite guarantees a tub.
Deck plans can give insight into cabin layout, including bathroom features.
If unsure, asking directly ensures you book a cabin that meets your needs.
Families with young children should focus on cruise lines with family-oriented design.
Disney is hands-down the easiest option for finding bathtubs in standard cabins. Their split-bathroom design—with a sink and tub in one room and a toilet and sink in another—is ideal for families.
Select family balcony rooms and family suites include bathtubs.
Many Princess mini-suites come with bathtubs, making them a great mid-range choice.
For passengers with mobility considerations, bathtubs may present challenges.
Some accessible cabins offer bathtubs equipped with:
Safety handrails
Low thresholds
Non-slip surfaces
Built-in seating
However, many accessible cabins instead feature roll-in showers, which are often more practical for mobility needs.
While many travelers value having a tub, others prefer the convenience of a shower. Both options have their advantages.
A warm soak is perfect after a long day of excursions or walking around the ship.
Bathing small children becomes easier with a tub.
A tub enhances the overall feeling of indulgence, especially in a suite.
Shower-only bathrooms often feel roomier.
Baths consume more water, which some travelers avoid for environmental reasons.
Stepping into a tub can be difficult for some passengers.
Cruise ship tubs differ from home tubs in a few key ways.
The ship may roll slightly, even in calm conditions. Always hold onto the grab bars when entering or exiting the tub.
Water conservation matters—and overfilling increases the risk of spills.
Cruise lines generally provide soap and shampoo, but if you enjoy baths, consider bringing:
Bath salts
Bubble bath (ship-approved, biodegradable recommended)
A bath pillow
Non-slip surfaces help, but always be cautious when standing in a tub to shower.
Some ships stand out for their exceptional bathtub offerings.
Celebrity’s Edge, Apex, Beyond, and Ascent feature luxurious bathrooms in many cabin categories, including large tubs with modern designs in suite-level cabins.
These ships offer bathtubs in numerous suite categories and select family staterooms.
Ultra-luxurious cabins feature deep soaking tubs reminiscent of five-star hotels.
Many staterooms include bathtubs, making these ships especially child-friendly.
Bathtubs are worth the upgrade if:
You’re traveling with children
You want a spa-like bathroom experience
You prefer bathing to showering
Mobility conditions require a sit-down bathing option
You’re celebrating a honeymoon or birthday and want luxury
If none of these apply, a shower-only cabin may be the better, more cost-effective choice.
Yes—but not in all of them. Bathtubs are most commonly found in suites, family cabins, spa staterooms, and premium accommodations. Standard interior and balcony cabins generally include shower-only bathrooms due to space and water considerations.
If having a bathtub is essential for your comfort or family needs, you’ll want to carefully choose your cabin category, focusing on:
Suites
Family staterooms
Spa cabins
Higher-end balcony cabins (on select lines)
By understanding cabin types, cruise line differences, and what to expect, you can ensure your next cruise provides the relaxing and enjoyable bath experience you’re looking for.
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