Guest Author - Shasta Wilson

One of the most overwhelming parts of cruising is the sheer enormity of the cruise ships themselves. Except for those people who've recently been aboard an aircraft carrier, most people will be shocked at the number of decks, levels and regions on a ship. Keeping in mind that every ship is somewhat logically organized so that passengers can get where they're going quickly, and often all at the same time, the following is a breakdown of what you're likely to find aboard a major line.

Number of Decks: Most ships on major lines will have between 10 and 18 decks. The Royal Caribbean fleet, for example, ranges from 11 decks on their smallest ships to 16 decks on the largest vessels. The number of decks doesn't always determine the size of the ship or the capacity, but when combined with the ship's length, you can get an idea of how big the vessel is.

The Lowest Decks: The very lowest decks, typically 1 through 3 or 4, are usually crew and maintenance decks. Crew members have their own private deck or decks that are not accessible to passengers, though it's not uncommon to have lower decks with both passenger and crew areas. Disembarkation stations (to port or to tender boats) are located on a lower deck right at sea level, and the medical center is always on a low deck. It's not uncommon to find a few staterooms on these decks because they're considered the 'cheap seat' staterooms. The lowest levels are fairly undesirable decks because they're not as aesthetically pleasing as other levels (some have partial painting and decoration) and are frequently near maintenance or storage areas. Staterooms near the anchor will be loud during anchor lowering and raising.

Stateroom Decks: Staterooms are usually grouped together on decks immediately above and below the main entertainment decks (not including the pool deck). These decks are full of staterooms, and not much else. Though the halls do get a lot of foot traffic, noise from deck parties and activities is minimized. You're also only a few decks away from amenities like shops, dining rooms, and offices of the Purser/Cashier and Shore Excursions. There's not really a set rule regarding deck level and cabin pricing, though larger suites are most likely located on the highest stateroom decks.

Middle Entertainment Decks: Decks in the middle are entertainment levels. Indoor passenger areas like the dining rooms, restaurants, lounges, theater, bars, casinos, art galleries, and shops can be found on these levels. If you're looking for something to do indoors, go to one of the middle decks. Some ships do have staterooms on these decks, but they tend to be out of the way.

Pool Decks: The highest decks are reserved for outdoor entertainment. The main pool deck will have at least one uncovered pool, a few hot tubs, and plenty of deckspace with access to direct sunlight. A cruise band usually provides musical entertainment all day long and games put on by the cruise staff will always take place around the main pool. A handful of ships, like the Star Princess and the Voyager of the Seas, also have solariums with retractable coverings that are open during the day. Various bars and outdoor grill restaurants are located on these decks so passengers can get a quick bite to eat or drink during the day. Special activities like rock climbing walls or miniature golf courses will also take up residence on the top decks. Passengers are never at a loss for something to do or watch on the top levels.