Renovating Your Cruise Ship Cabin: A Journey

by Chris and Michael from ChartingOurCourse.com

Have you ever wondered what it's like to live on a cruise ship? It's a dream for many, but for us, Chris and Michael, it's a reality—and we've discovered it comes with a unique set of challenges and joys, especially when it comes to turning a cabin into a home. A video on our DC Hidden Gems YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@dchiddengems) recently explored this topic in depth, revealing that renovating a residential cruise ship cabin is a fascinating, resource-intensive, and rewarding "mission in progress."

It's about more than just picking out a new rug or a fresh coat of paint. It's about navigating a world governed by international maritime law, a constant search for materials, and learning to love the slow, deliberate process of making a small, metal box feel like a sanctuary.

What are the Major Hurdles of a Cabin Renovation?

Renovating at sea is unlike any other home improvement project you've ever tackled. The moment you step aboard, you're faced with a series of unique challenges that require creative solutions and a whole lot of patience.

• SOLAS Compliance is King: According to the U.S. Coast Guard, a primary challenge is adhering to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations. These are international maritime safety treaties that dictate everything from fire prevention to construction standards. This means you can't just pick up any furniture or wallpaper—materials must be marine-grade and approved for safety at sea.
• The Logistical Nightmare: Imagine trying to get a couch delivered to a home that is constantly moving. That's the reality of a residential cruise. Finding the right items and getting them to the ship in a specific port at a specific time is a logistical puzzle. As we’ve learned, you have to embrace the long game.
• Small Space, Big Demands: Cabin spaces are small, which means every item must be compact and multi-functional. A coffee table is also a storage unit; a footrest becomes an extra seat. It's a masterclass in making every square inch count. For more ideas on maximizing small spaces, check out our posts on https://chartingourcourse.com/charting-our-course-blog about living in tight quarters.
• Magnetic Attraction: The walls are metal, which makes traditional methods like drilling or using strong adhesives impractical. Instead, you get to embrace the power of magnetism! Magnets become your best friend for hanging art, shelves, and other decorations without damaging the ship’s structure.

Finding Joy in the Details

While the challenges are real, the rewards are what make it all worthwhile. The process of turning your cabin into a personalized space is an expression of self and a labor of love.

• Creating a True Home: The ultimate goal is to create a functional, comfortable, and personal space that feels like a real home, no matter where in the world you are. We’ve found that the simple act of personalizing your space can bring immense joy.
• The Power of Community: The residential cruising community is a supportive one, and we've learned that you're never truly alone. Our DC Hidden Gems video mentions how we received hundreds of ideas from our viewers, showing that a community of fellow travelers can be a great source of inspiration and support.
• Embracing Resourcefulness: We’ve discovered that some of the best solutions are the most resourceful ones. Sometimes, you don't need to shop for something new; you can use existing resources on the ship, such as leftover marine-grade carpet from other projects. It's a sustainable and clever way to get the materials you need.
• Seeking Expert Help: For major renovations, the best strategy is to plan ahead for when the ship is in dry dock. This is also a perfect time to consult with an interior designer who specializes in marine environments, as they have the expertise and a network of suppliers to ensure your vision is realized while staying SOLAS compliant.

Ultimately, as we, Chris and Michael from Charting Our Course, can attest, renovating and decorating a residential cruise cabin is not about instant gratification. It’s a journey that requires a thoughtful approach, but the feeling of having a cozy home that travels the world with you is a joy unlike any other.

What's one small change you would make to your space to make it feel more like home?

Sources:

• International Maritime Organization Ship Design and Stability https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/ShipDesignAndStability-default.aspx