When embarking on a cruise vacation, comfort becomes a crucial part of the experience.

A good night’s sleep is essential for enjoying the many activities available on a cruise.

An often overlooked but significant part of this comfort is the type of pillow provided.

Cruise lines know that guests have different sleep preferences, so they offer a variety of pillows to cater to all needs.

This post will delve into the pillow types you can expect on major cruise lines sailing out of the United States and explain how you can request specific pillows before your trip.

Why Pillow Selection Matters

Sleeping comfortably can make or break your vacation.

Whether you prefer a firm, soft, hypoallergenic, or memory foam pillow, finding the right option can significantly enhance your experience.

Cruise lines understand the importance of quality sleep, and many offer a wide range of pillow types to ensure guests wake up refreshed and ready to enjoy their day at sea.

Knowing what pillows are available—and how to request them—can help you prepare for a more enjoyable cruise.

Norwegian Cruise Line Pillows

Pillow Types on Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is all about flexible and relaxed cruising.

This “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy extends to the bedding options offered in their staterooms. Norwegian offers the following types of pillows:

• Memory Foam Pillows: Memory foam pillows conform to the shape of your head and neck, providing excellent support.
  
  These are ideal for passengers who need extra neck and back support.

• Down-Alternative Pillows: These pillows are made from synthetic fibers and mimic the softness of down pillows, making them a great hypoallergenic option for allergy sufferers.

• Feather Pillows: Available upon request, feather pillows are soft and luxurious, perfect for guests who prefer a plush sleeping surface.

How to Request Special Pillows on Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian offers guests the opportunity to customize their stateroom experience, including bedding.

While you can request special pillows once onboard, it’s best to contact their Guest Services before your cruise to make specific requests.

Call Norwegian’s customer service or log into your account to request special bedding arrangements.

It’s recommended to do this at least 72 hours before boarding to ensure availability.

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Enhance Your Cruise Experience:

In-Cabin	In-Port	General
Magnetic Hooks: Maximize cabin space by hanging items	Portable Safe: Secure valuables during excursions	Portable Power Strip: Cruise-approved, non-surge-protected strip
Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer: Great for accessories and toiletries	Mini Binoculars: Perfect for nature sightseeing	Motion Sickness Bands: Prepare for rough seas
Travel-Sized Wrinkle Release Spray: Keep clothing fresh and wrinkle-free	Bug Repellent Wipes: Avoid insect bites	Beach Towel Clips: Secure your towel to loungers
Suction Cup Hooks: Easy to reposition for hanging lightweight items	Portable Water Filter: Ensure clean water availability	Portable Solar Charger: Recharge gadgets in the sun

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Royal Caribbean Pillows

Pillow Types on Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is known for delivering high-end comfort, and their pillow selection reflects this commitment.

Whether you like soft, firm, or cooling pillows, Royal Caribbean offers something for everyone:

• Gel Pillows: Gel pillows combine memory foam with cooling gel.
  
  These pillows are ideal for sleepers who tend to get hot during the night, helping to regulate temperature.

• Hypoallergenic Pillows: Standard in many cabins, hypoallergenic pillows are filled with synthetic fibers designed to reduce allergens.
  
  These are great for passengers who have sensitivities or allergies.

• Contour Pillows: These pillows are ergonomically designed to support the neck and shoulders, making them perfect for guests who need extra orthopedic support.

How to Request Special Pillows on Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean allows guests to request special pillows before the cruise.

You can do this by contacting their Guest Services team either by phone or online.

Many guests prefer to make these requests through Royal Caribbean’s online portal, where you can manage your booking and add special requests.

Be sure to notify them at least a few days before your departure date to ensure they have your preferred pillows available.

Carnival Cruise Line Pillows

Pillow Types on Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is all about fun and relaxation, which extends to the bedding in their staterooms.

Carnival offers a variety of pillows to suit different comfort needs:

• Polyester-Filled Pillows: These are the standard pillows in most staterooms.
  
  They offer a medium-firm feel, making them a good all-around choice for most sleepers.
  
  They hold their shape well, providing consistent support throughout the night.

• Feather Pillows: These pillows, available in premium staterooms or upon request, are soft and fluffy.
  
  Feather pillows are an excellent option for guests who prefer a luxurious and plush sleeping surface.

• Foam Pillows: Carnival also offers firmer foam pillows for guests who need more support.
  
  These are often requested by those with neck or back issues who require a more structured pillow.

How to Request Special Pillows on Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival makes it easy to request specific pillows before your cruise.

Simply contact their Guest Services or your personal vacation planner at least 72 hours before your sail date.

You can also make special requests through Carnival’s “Manage My Booking” section on their website.

Once onboard, your cabin steward can also assist with pillow requests.

Celebrity Cruises Pillows

Pillow Types on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers an elevated and luxurious experience, and this extends to their pillow offerings:

• Down Pillows: For those who enjoy a plush, soft feel, down pillows are available in premium cabins and suites.
  
  These pillows are filled with natural down feathers, giving them a luxurious, cloud-like quality.

• Microfiber Pillows: These pillows are available throughout all staterooms and offer a soft yet supportive option.
  
  They mimic the feel of down pillows but are synthetic, making them hypoallergenic and perfect for guests with allergies.

• Gel-Fiber Pillows: Found in premium staterooms, these pillows are lightweight, breathable, and soft.
  
  They provide a balanced combination of support and softness, making them ideal for all types of sleepers.

How to Request Special Pillows on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity makes it easy for passengers to request special pillows before boarding.

By logging into your Celebrity Cruises account or contacting their Guest Services team, you can add specific requests to your booking.

These requests are typically accommodated as long as they are made at least 72 hours before departure.

Princess Cruises Pillows

Pillow Types on Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises ensures a comfortable and luxurious experience, especially when it comes to their bedding:

• Memory Foam Pillows: These pillows are perfect for guests who need firm support while sleeping.
  
  They provide contouring support for the neck and head, ensuring proper alignment during sleep.

• Down Pillows: Available in suites and premium staterooms, down pillows are soft and plush, providing a luxurious sleep experience for passengers who enjoy a softer pillow.

• Polyester-Fill Pillows: The standard pillow option in most staterooms, these pillows offer medium firmness and are ideal for those who like a balance between softness and support.

How to Request Special Pillows on Princess Cruises

To ensure you have the pillow type you need for a comfortable sleep, Princess Cruises allows passengers to request special pillows before sailing.

You can do this by logging into your booking or contacting Princess Cruises’ customer service.

It’s recommended to make these requests at least three days before boarding to give the staff time to prepare.

Holland America Line Pillows

Pillow Types on Holland America Line

Holland America prides itself on classic luxury, and their bedding reflects this commitment to passenger comfort:

• Soft Down Pillows: These pillows are filled with real down feathers and are available in premium staterooms.
  
  They are perfect for guests who enjoy soft, plush bedding.

• Memory Foam Pillows: These pillows are available upon request and are ideal for guests who prefer firmer support.
  
  Memory foam pillows help to cradle the neck and head, ensuring comfort and proper spinal alignment.

• Synthetic Fill Pillows: Synthetic pillows are hypoallergenic and available throughout the ship.
  
  These are ideal for passengers who have sensitivities to natural fibers.

How to Request Special Pillows on Holland America Line

Holland America allows guests to customize their stateroom experience by requesting special pillows before the cruise.

To do this, contact Guest Services or your travel agent to add special requests to your booking.

You can also log into your Holland America account to manage your reservation and make pillow requests.

Make sure to do this at least 72 hours before your cruise.

Disney Cruise Line Pillows

Pillow Types on Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is known for attention to detail and guest comfort.

This extends to their pillow selection:

• Polyester-Filled Pillows: Most staterooms on Disney ships feature polyester-filled pillows.
  
  These medium-firm pillows offer the right balance of softness and support, making them perfect for a wide range of sleepers.

• Feather Pillows: For guests who prefer a softer, more luxurious pillow, feather pillows are available upon request.
  
  These pillows are filled with real feathers, providing a plush, cloud-like feel.

• Hypoallergenic Pillows: For guests with allergies, hypoallergenic pillows are available.
• These synthetic pillows are designed to minimize allergens, making them ideal for sensitive guests.

How to Request Special Pillows on Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers guests the opportunity to request special pillows before boarding.

You can contact Disney’s Guest Services team to make your request, or log into your Disney Cruise Line account to add special requests to your reservation.

It’s recommended to make these requests at least 72 hours before boarding to ensure the staff can accommodate your needs.

MSC Cruises Pillows

Pillow Types on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers a blend of European style and luxury comfort.

Their pillow offerings reflect this commitment to passenger satisfaction:

• Memory Foam Pillows: MSC offers memory foam pillows for passengers who need extra support.
  
  These pillows contour to the shape of your head and neck, providing a firmer, more supportive sleep surface.

• Microfiber Pillows: These medium-soft pillows are available in most cabins.
  
  They offer a luxurious feel while being hypoallergenic, making them suitable for guests with allergies.

• Feather Pillows: For those who prefer a softer pillow, feather pillows are available upon request.
  
  These pillows provide a plush, soft surface perfect for a restful night’s sleep.

How to Request Special Pillows on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises makes it easy to customize your pillow preferences before your trip.

You can contact MSC’s Guest Services team or log into your booking to make special requests.

It’s recommended to do this at least 72 hours before your sailing date to ensure availability.

Virgin Voyages Pillows

Pillow Types on Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is known for its bold, modern approach to cruising.

The cruise line provides high-quality pillows to ensure guest comfort:

• Memory Foam Pillows: These pillows contour to your shape, providing a personalized sleep experience.
  
  They are perfect for guests who need firmer support.

• Down-Alternative Pillows: For guests who prefer a softer pillow, down-alternative pillows are available.
  
  These pillows are hypoallergenic and ideal for guests who need to avoid allergens.

• Microfiber Pillows: These medium-soft pillows are the standard option in most rooms.
  
  They offer a balance of softness and support, perfect for most sleepers.

How to Request Special Pillows on Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages allows guests to request special pillows before their voyage.

You can contact their Sailor Services team by phone or log into your account to make special requests.

It’s a good idea to make your pillow request at least 72 hours before sailing to ensure your preferences are accommodated.

Customizing Your Pillow Experience on a Cruise

Most cruise lines are flexible with their bedding options, and you can often request specific pillow types before your cruise.

If you prefer a certain type of pillow—whether for support, allergies, or comfort—you can usually call the cruise line’s Guest Services team or log into your account to make these requests.

Doing this before you board ensures that your cabin is prepared to meet your needs.

Bringing Your Own Pillow

Some passengers prefer to bring their own pillows from home for added comfort.

While cruise lines offer a variety of pillow options, bringing a pillow that you’re used to can ensure you get the best sleep.

If you have special needs or require a specific type of pillow, it might be worth bringing your own.

However, cabin space is limited, so keep this in mind when packing.

Sleep Tight

The type of pillow you sleep on can significantly impact the quality of your sleep during your cruise.

Whether you prefer soft down pillows, firm memory foam, or hypoallergenic options, cruise lines offer a range of choices to meet your preferences.

By knowing what pillows are available and how to request them, you can make your cruise as comfortable and restful as possible.

Before your next cruise, consider contacting your cruise line to arrange for specific pillows to be waiting in your cabin.

This small step can make a big difference in your vacation experience.

Plan Your Next Cruise!

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