When you’re cruising, your cabin will be looked after by a cabin steward or cabin attendant – but they do much more than just cleaning.
Cabin stewards are your go-to for anything you might need to improve your stay. Although they don’t offer butler-level services (some suites or ships do have those though), you can always ask if you need something.
As long as it’s a reasonable request, they’ll probably sort it out for you – and surprisingly quickly, too!
I asked my Facebook followers for the extras they asked cabin stewards for, and did some extra research too. Here’s the list of the most popular requests.
1. Ice and/or ice bucket
Nothing quite says ‘holiday mode’ like a chilled drink in hand! Whether it’s for a G&T on the balcony or keeping your water cool, an ice bucket is one of the most popular requests.
Some guests even ask for an ice bucket at a set time each day, so it’s ready right when they want it. Now that’s efficient cruising!
Cabin stewards are happy to keep you stocked, especially if they know it’s part of your daily routine. They might not always be able to do it for a certain time, but there’s no harm in asking.
2. Extra pillows (including thinner pillows)
Not all cruise ship pillows are made equal, and everyone’s got their own preference for the perfect pillow.
For some, that means piling on extra cushions for a bit of luxury. For others, a thinner pillow does the trick, especially if the standard ones feel a bit too plump.
Just ask your cabin steward, and you’ll likely get exactly what you need for a great night’s sleep.
Some cruise lines do make a pillow menu a perk of higher-class staterooms/suites. So if you’ve booked a regular cabin, don’t expect to always have the options you want.
Still, the attendants want you to sleep well – happy cruisers tend to tip better! – so they’ll do what they can, within the rules.
3. Extra towels
It’s no wonder that people often ask for a few extra towels, whether they’re lounging by the pool or getting ready for dinner.
Some guests like having a dedicated towel just for the beach or excursions. Others simply enjoy the convenience of a fresh one each day.
Suggested read: What You Need To Know About Cruise Ships Towels
Your cabin steward is usually more than willing to keep you well-stocked, so you’ll never be left damp and waiting.
If you’re a plus-size guest, and the provided towels don’t quite wrap around as much as you’d like, they may be able to rustle up a larger towel for you to use.
Don’t be ashamed to ask. I’m sure they’ve been asked for much worse!
4. Hangers (extra or thinner)
Closet space on a cruise is often at a premium, and chunky wooden hangers don’t always help when you’ve packed half your wardrobe (just in case, right?).
Extra or slimmer hangers can make all the difference, allowing you to keep things organised and wrinkle-free.
Just a quick word with your steward, and you’ll be able to hang up everything without needing to cram.
Some people pack their own hangers – don’t! You really don’t need to, there’ll always be more available and you’re just wasting suitcase space.
5. Body lotion
After a day in the sun, or just to pamper yourself, body lotion is a popular request. Especially if it’s a brand offered by the cruise line, like The White Company on P&O ships.
Sometimes this isn’t provided automatically, but cabin stewards often have a stash for those who ask.
It’s a small luxury that makes a big difference, and it’s a lovely treat for your skin after all that salty sea air.
6. Conditioner
Although most cabins provide shampoo and shower gel, conditioner isn’t always guaranteed. Let’s be honest: a day of sun, sea and pool water can leave your hair feeling a bit parched.
Many guests ask their steward to bring a bottle of conditioner to keep their locks in holiday shape.
Plus, it saves precious suitcase space if you know your steward can provide the essentials.
7. Blanket
Cruise ship duvets can be a bit heavy in warmer climates, and many guests prefer a lighter option.
That’s where a blanket comes in handy. It’s perfect for those who like a little warmth without being too toasty.
A simple request to your steward, and you’ll have a cosy but breathable blanket waiting on the bed. For some, a blanket is also great for curling up on the balcony for a bit of late-night stargazing.
8. Mattress toppers or pillow tops
If you’re don’t quite find the bed to your liking, asking for a mattress topper can make a world of difference.
Many experienced cruisers swear by this for a more comfortable night’s sleep. And it’s an easy request that cabin stewards are used to accommodating.
Whether you prefer a bit more cushion or just want that ‘hotel bed’ feel, a mattress topper can be the key to waking up refreshed.
9. Lemons and limes
It’s the little touches that make a holiday special. For many, that includes a slice of lemon or lime to accompany their favourite drink. From gin and tonics to an extra dash of citrus in your water, they can make all the difference.
Your cabin steward is often happy to bring a few slices of lemon or lime each day, ensuring your refreshments are just right – no extra trips to the bar required.
10. Fresh milk for morning coffees
If you’re a serious coffee drinker, the mini coffee creamers in your cabin might not quite cut it.
Many guests request fresh milk from their steward for a better-tasting morning brew. It’s a simple way to start the day with a smile.
Some cruisers like me even ask for alternatives like oat or almond milk. As long as they’ve got it onboard, your steward will usually be happy to oblige.
Not every cruise ship has facilities to make tea or coffee in your room, but if they do, fresh milk is a reasonable request to make.
11. Coffee (extra or decaf)
Again, not every cruise ship will have tea and coffee facilities in your room. If they do, you might not have many options provided, or not enough if everyone in the room likes a hot drink.
If you need extra coffee or prefer decaf options, let your cabin steward know. They’ll be able to rustle up some before you know it, so you’ll always have the hot drink you need to start the day.
12. Kettle
British cruise lines such as P&O Cruises and Marella will typically provide a kettle in your cabin for you. It’s a staple of British hotel rooms – we like a tea tray and our favourite drinks ready to enjoy.
But American-style or American-owned cruise lines won’t usually provide one, and you often aren’t allowed to bring your own.
The solution? Request one. Sometimes – but not always – you’ll be given a kettle that you can use.
Not all cruise ships have a stock of kettles for guests, so don’t assume it’s guaranteed. But the cabin steward will help track down a kettle if it’s possible.
13. Fan
If you prefer a bit of extra airflow in your cabin, you’re not alone. Some cruisers find cabin air-con doesn’t quite do the job, or they prefer the gentle hum of a fan to help them sleep.
You may be allowed to bring fans onboard some cruise ships, but they’re usually bulky items, so it’s better to leave them at home.
Instead, many cabin stewards can provide a small fan upon request. It’s a lifesaver during those warmer nights, especially when sailing in tropical climates.
Suggested read: Is It Warm Or Cold On A Cruise Ship?
14. Extension cable
With limited plug sockets in many cabins, an extension cable can be a game-changer for guests with phones, tablets, cameras and all the other gadgets we travel with.
Instead of juggling devices or charging one at a time, you can keep everything powered up and ready to go.
Cabin stewards often have a few extension cables spare, or they might be able to source one for you if you ask. Priority will typically be given to guests with a medical need, such as those using CPAP machines.
Feel free to ask if you didn’t bring your own, or you did but it was a surge-protected cable and was confiscated at check-in.
15. Bathrobe
For a bit of added luxury, nothing beats a cosy robe. Guests love having a robe to lounge in, whether for a morning coffee on the balcony or winding down after a day of exploring.
Just ask your steward, and you might find one waiting on your next return to the cabin.
Some lines include them as standard in certain cabin categories, while others only provide them upon request. That’s understandable, since it can significantly cut down on laundry costs. If not all guests use them, it’s a waste since they will need cleaning between cruises even if unused.
Suggested read: 6 Places You Can Wear A Bathrobe On A Cruise (And 4 You Can’t)
16. Corkscrew and/or wine glasses
If your cruise line lets you bring wine on board, you’ll probably need a corkscrew and a couple of glasses to enjoy it.
Rather than struggle to open a bottle, or drink from coffee mugs, a quick chat with your steward can ensure you have everything you need for a private wine tasting on your own balcony. Cheers to that!
Suggested read: Can You Bring Alcohol On A Cruise?
17. Towel animals
This one’s for the animal lovers! Many guests adore the towel animals that stewards sometimes leave on the bed each night, but they aren’t always created as standard now. You might need to ask for your steward to make them, if possible.
Some guests even ask to keep them displayed for the entire cruise. Over a week, you can build up your own ‘towel zoo’ of elephants, swans and more.
Whether or not it’s possible will depend on the steward and the ship’s policy. After all, that’s a lot of laundry to build up for the end of the cruise. But you never know!
How to make cabin steward requests
Making requests to your cabin steward is simple – it’s really just a matter of asking!
Cabin stewards are there to make your stay as comfortable as possible. So they’re usually happy to help with any reasonable requests.
If you spot your steward in the hallway or nearby, feel free to politely ask for whatever you need. They’re generally quite responsive, and will take note of any specific requests you have.
But what if your steward isn’t around when you’re in the cabin? No problem – leaving a polite note works just as well.
Many cruisers write down their requests on a piece of paper and leave it somewhere for the steward to see, like on the desk or bedside table. Just make it friendly and clear, and they’ll take care of it as soon as they can.
Some people even like to leave a small thank-you note alongside their requests. It’s a thoughtful touch that’s always appreciated by these hard-working crew members.
On most cruise ships you can also call the housekeeping department from the phone in your cabin and leave a message with your request.
A quick ask or a small note can go a long way in getting the most out of your cabin experience. It’s all part of making your cruise as enjoyable as possible!
Final word
Some people don’t feel comfortable asking their cabin steward for extras, but honestly, it’s fine to do so! Their job is to help out, and while they can’t wave a magic wand, they’ll always try their best to help.
A lot of people prefer to tip extra for these requests. It’s a nice touch to do so, especially if your cabin steward goes above and beyond.
Suggested read: How Much Extra To Tip Cruise Staff
Just remember that cabin stewards work really hard. So if a request takes a little longer than you’d like, feel free to remind them but be polite when you do!
Let me know your own frequent cabin steward requests in the comments.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
