When booking a ferry to Sardinia, choosing between an inside and an outside cabin affects the cost of the trip and your comfort during the crossing. The former is generally more affordable and suitable for those who want to rest without spending too much; the latter features a porthole or window that lets in natural light and, when the view permits, allows you to look out at the sea.
The price difference isn’t always the same: it depends on the route, the season, the ship, and availability at the time of booking. But how much can you save by choosing an inside cabin? And when is it worth spending a little extra for an outside cabin?
Indoor or outdoor cabin: What’s the difference?
The interior cabin has no windows. It offers a private space where you can rest, store your luggage, and spend the hours of the crossing away from the common areas. It’s a practical solution, especially for those traveling at night who want to sleep without paying the extra cost of a cabin with a sea view.
If you want to keep your budget even lower, you might also consider berths, if they’re available on the ship and for your chosen route. They’re different from a private cabin because you may have to share the space with other passengers. Before booking, it’s helpful to know a few tips for sleeping in ferry berths and getting a good night’s rest at sea.
An outside cabin, on the other hand, has a porthole or a window. Natural light makes the cabin brighter and provides a visual connection to the outside, although the size of the window and the view vary depending on the ship and the assigned cabin. Therefore, you shouldn’t assume that every outside cabin offers a panoramic view.
The choice depends mainly on how you plan to approach the trip. For an overnight crossing, during which the cabin is used primarily for sleeping, an inside cabin may be sufficient. However, if you’ll be spending many hours on board, traveling during the day, or prefer a naturally lit environment, an outside cabin may offer greater comfort.
It’s also important to consider your personal needs. Those who suffer from claustrophobia might prefer a cabin with a window, while those who are sensitive to the ship’s motion should also consider the cabin’s location (hint: sometimes interior cabins are preferable) and the ship’s features: the presence of a porthole alone does not guarantee a more comfortable voyage.
Prices for Cabins on Grimaldi Lines Ferries to Sardinia
There is no fixed surcharge for an outside cabin. To get an idea of the cost, we can start with some maximum agreed-upon rates published by Grimaldi Lines for the 2026 off-season. These are reference prices, not guaranteed quotes for a reservation.
On the Naples–Cagliari route, the maximum agreed-upon fare for an interior double cabin is 43.95 euros per person one way, while for an exterior cabin it is 54.20 euros. The difference is 10.25 euros per passenger, or 20.50 euros for two people sharing the cabin.
On the Civitavecchia–Arbatax route, on the other hand, the price for an interior double cabin is 44 euros per person, compared to 47 euros for an exterior cabin. In this case, the surcharge is 3 euros per passenger, or 6 euros for two people.
Also on the Palermo–Cagliari route , the difference is different: the page dedicated to this route lists, for the off-season, a maximum fare of 38.95 euros per person for an inside cabin and 47.50 euros for an outside cabin. The difference is therefore 8.55 euros per passenger.
When should you choose an outside cabin on a ferry?
An outside cabin can be a good choice when the price difference compared to an inside cabin is minimal and you plan to spend a lot of time in your stateroom. Natural light helps you keep better track of the passing hours and can make a daytime crossing more enjoyable.
If, on the other hand, the trip takes place mainly at night, the cabin is used primarily for sleeping, and saving money is a priority, then an inside cabin may be more affordable. The same applies to those who prefer to spend most of the crossing on the outdoor decks or in the common areas, when accessible.
It’s also important to consider personal needs. Those who suffer from claustrophobia might prefer a cabin with a window, while those who are sensitive to the ship’s motion should also consider the cabin’s location and the vessel’s features: the presence of a porthole alone does not guarantee a more comfortable voyage.
Traveling by Ferry with Children or People with Disabilities
When traveling with children, a private cabin can provide a convenient space to rest, change the little ones, or organize your luggage. The choice between an inside and an outside cabin also depends on the length of the crossing and how much time you plan to spend on board.
Passengers with mobility challenges or who use a wheelchair should check for the availability of accessible cabins, elevators, and accessible routes on the ship scheduled for departure. It is advisable to inform the cruise line of your needs and request the necessary assistance in advance. To learn more, see our guide on barrier-free ferries and services for passengers with mobility impairments.
What time do we need to check out of the cabin before arrival?
You must vacate your cabin before arrival, in accordance with the instructions provided by the cruise line and the crew. The exact time may vary depending on the ship and the route; for this reason, it is important to pay attention to onboard announcements and communications received during the crossing.
After checking out of your accommodations, you can generally wait to disembark in the common areas designated for passengers. It’s therefore a good idea to pack your luggage in advance and keep the items you’ll need for the final hours of your trip within easy reach.
Your phone can also be useful for checking messages and information while sailing, but cell service isn’t guaranteed in every area of the sea. To find out whether your cell phone works on the ferry, it’s a good idea to consider the distance from the coast, your carrier’s coverage, and any connections available on board.
How to Find the Most Affordable Accommodations on Board
Choosing the best cabin isn’t just about whether or not it has a window. Other factors that matter include the duration of the crossing, the departure time, the number of passengers, and the price difference between the available cabin options for your chosen date.
An interior cabin may be sufficient for those who are primarily looking for a private place to rest. An exterior cabin may be worth the extra cost if you want natural light and a greater sense of openness. The comparison should be based on a single trip, because fares can vary significantly depending on the time of year.
Book with Ferryfinder
On Ferryfinder.com, you can choose routes and purchase ferry tickets using a search engine directly linked to the ferry companies’ databases. The search engine compares fares and available options, helping you find the most affordable choices based on your route and needs. Compare departure times, check prices, and transparently choose the connection that best suits your trip.
