The Captain's Code: 11 Cruise Secrets That Guarantee an Empty Pool and Better Service

5. Reserve a cabana or daybed when available

Renting a cabana or daybed creates a reserved zone and often comes with dedicated attendant service. That privacy reduces interruptions and discourages others from crowding your space. Reservations are typically available online before sailing or at the pool concierge on embarkation day, and some lines release last-minute options at discounted rates. If your budget allows, a cabana is the most direct way to claim a calmer pool experience. If cabanas are sold out, watch for cancellations and ask pool attendants about wait lists. Combine a cabana reservation with off-peak swim times—early morning or port-day afternoons—for a quieter, more luxurious feel. Even when a formal cabana isn’t available, a well-chosen cluster of loungers near a quieter corner can function similarly if you arrive early and politely claim a small area.