Cruising the high seas has long been a favoured holiday option for Aussies, especially those who appreciate the convenience and luxury of seeing the world comfortably.

However, with the rise of social media and the sharing of holiday experiences online, a new trend is causing quite a stir among frequent cruisers.

In March 2023, online content creator Sarah Goodwin took a video of herself moving her mattress to her cabin's balcony, insisting travellers they will 'not regret it'.

Since then, passengers have followed suit, stating it's an innovative way to enjoy outdoor space.

This behaviour, labelled as a 'bad idea' by passengers and cruise professionals, has reignited a debate about cruise ship etiquette.

A recent image of a couple lounging on a mattress on their balcony on a Royal Caribbean Cruise sparked the latest round of controversy in social media.

'Wondering if this bloke got in trouble,' one commented.

Online content creator Sarah Goodwin shared this one cruise 'tip', starting discussions about cruise safety and etiquette. Image Credit: TikTok/Sarah Goodwin

Cruise planner and online content creator Mandy voiced her concerns on social media and highlighted the issues of exposing a mattress in the open.

'It rains out there. It gets wet out there,' Mandy said, pointing out that mattresses can’t withstand outdoor conditions.

The risk of high damage from rain, sea spray, and humidity can lead to unpleasant consequences.

'Please be considerate and think of the people that are going to sail after you,' she said.

The concerns go beyond the potential damage to beds.

Hygiene issues may arise for subsequent guests who will use the cabin.

Mandy recounted an incident where a passenger struggled with allergies due to a 'tonne of mould' underneath the mattress, likely caused by a previous guest taking it out onto the balcony.

The debate has prompted questions about cruise operators' policies, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, and P&O.

However, as of this writing, companies have yet to comment on their stance regarding the trend or any safety measures in cabins.

Always consider the impact of our actions on others and the property we're using during holidays.

Cruise ships offer comfort and luxury; part of that luxury is respecting and maintaining the space for everyone's enjoyment.

So, before getting creative with your cabin space, think about the potential repercussions.

It's always best to check with the cruise line's policies or ask a crew member before doing any cabin modifications.

There are many ways to enjoy the fresh sea air and beautiful views without harming anyone!

Key Takeaways

• An image of a couple with a mattress on their cruise suite balcony has sparked a debate about passenger etiquette on cruises.
• Cruise passengers dragging their mattresses outside is considered disrespectful and unwise due to the outdoor conditions.
• A trend of placing mattresses on balconies opened conversations about risks such as damage from rain, salt, and humidity.
• Cruise experts and past guests have raised concerns over the potential hygiene issues and the impact on future passengers.

Have you ever witnessed unusual or disrespectful behaviour on a cruise? Share your stories and advice in the comments below.

 

[Pommyoz]

Good grief!! I cannot believe these people. Sleep inside with the door open for heavens sake. Or, sleep on one of the many lounges by the pool if you are that hot.

 

[BellaJugar]

Cruise passengers who take the mattresses out onto the balcony are stupid ignorant idiots. There are chairs out on the balconies that they can relax on. If they want to stretch out, go down to the pool areas where there are the lounges they can stretch out and lay on. Stop putting future passengers' health at risk and damaging and destroying the mattresses which will in the end result in costs of cruises going up to cover the replacement costs. Think about what you're doing and the repercussions and take responsibility for your actions, or are you too selfish and self-centred to do that?

 

[Veggiepatch]

Ever though that Sarah Goodwin needed to air her mattress after a night of fetish filled fun?

 

[MariaG]

I have been on one cruise in my life. I remember what it was like on deck.
I was in a cheap cabin with no windows, let alone a balcony. Even so, there is no way I would even consider taking my bed out on a balcony if I had one. Until you have cruised, you cannot imagine how quickly and ruthlessly the elements change out there.
The girl's a twit.

 

[Veggiepatch]

I have been on one cruise in my life. I remember what it was like on deck.
I was in a cheap cabin with no windows, let alone a balcony. Even so, there is no way I would even consider taking my bed out on a balcony if I had one. Until you have cruised, you cannot imagine how quickly and ruthlessly the elements change out there.
The girl's a twit.

So you didn't have a bed??

Only kidding!

 

[TennzyAlyn]

I've seen some interesting behavior on cruises, but moving a mattress onto the balcony is a new one for me. It's definitely not a great idea due to the risks of rain, sea spray, and general wear and tear.
If you're looking to enjoy outdoor space on a cruise, there are plenty of ways to do it without causing problems. For example, cruises from Malaga Spain, offer stunning views and plenty of fresh air, and you can enjoy it all from the comfort of your balcony chairs.