Why You Should Never Go To The Top Deck On A Cruise Ship
Alright, buckle up, folks. You’ve probably found yourself here because you’ve been dreaming about a little vacation, right? A little R&R, sea spray, and a rum-filled coconut in your hand as you cruise into the sunset. I get it. I’ve been there.
But I’m going to throw you a curveball that might sound like blasphemy to the cruise enthusiast. That top deck you’ve been eyeing with visions of sizzling sunbathing sessions, heart-stopping vistas, and poolside cocktails? Well, it may not be all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, I’ve got some pretty compelling reasons why you should give the top deck a wide berth on your next cruise.
9 reasons why you shouldn’t go to the top deck on a cruise ship
1. It’s a wind tunnel up there
Ever tried to relax with a cocktail when it’s trying to blow away? The top deck on a cruise ship is often a wind tunnel. High winds can make it difficult to enjoy your time up there, turning what could have been a breezy afternoon into a hair-whipping, napkin-chasing escapade.
2. Burn, baby, burn
Look, I get it. You want to soak up that beautiful vacation sun. But remember, the top deck of a cruise ship offers little to no shade. This means you’re at a higher risk of sunburn and sun damage. Slathering on SPF 100 every hour isn’t everyone’s idea of a vacation.
3. Sounds like a racket
Want some peace and quiet? Well, you might want to reconsider your top deck dreams. That wind we spoke about isn’t just going to mess with your neatly-lain hair, or sweep your cocktail off the table, it’s also going to add a consistent whooshing soundtrack to your relaxation time.
Add to that the music blasting from poolside speakers, kids squealing in the pool, chatter from other passengers, and let’s not forget the occasional booming overhead announcement or the ship’s horn. It’s not exactly the tranquil oasis you had in mind, is it?
4. Weather or not
That open-air setup leaves you exposed to all sorts of weather elements. An unexpected rainstorm can turn your sunbathing session into a sopping wet fiasco. And on hotter days, there’s no escaping that relentless sun. I’d prefer my cruise vacation with a side of indoor climate control, thank you very much.
5. Crowded house
Everyone has the same idea as you, and that’s to flock to the top deck. This can lead to overcrowded pools, long lines for drinks, and a shortage of loungers. If fighting for a deck chair isn’t on your vacation to-do list, you might want to avoid the top deck.
6. Motion in the ocean
The higher up on the ship you are, the more motion you’ll feel. If you’re prone to seasickness, spending time on the top deck might not be your best bet. It’s much calmer in the lower levels of the ship.
7. The view, or lack thereof
Sure, there’s the vista of endless ocean, but beyond that, the view can often be…well, more ship. Unless you’re pulling into port, the views from lower decks, where you can see the water gliding by, can actually be more interesting.
8. Far from everything
The top deck is often a trek from your cabin, the dining areas, and other onboard facilities. Frequent trips up and down can become tedious, especially if you’ve forgotten your sunglasses or book back in your room.
9. The danger zone
It might sound a tad dramatic, but the top deck can indeed become the danger zone, especially under certain conditions. Those high winds we keep harping about? They can make the deck slicker than a water slide, upping the risk of slips and falls.
The railing might be lower than you think, which can be a safety concern, especially for the little ones. No one wants to end up falling overboard. Remember, those onboard safety drills are there for a reason! So, while the top deck isn’t exactly a minefield, it does warrant a little extra caution.
Wrapping things up
The draw of the top deck might be strong, with its promise of panoramic views, sun-kissed relaxation, and a lively atmosphere. However, as we’ve explored, there are several reasons why it might not live up to the hype.
But the heart wants what the heart wants, and if your heart is telling you that the top deck is where you need to be, by all means, go for it! Just be aware of the potential downsides and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.