Planning a cruise vacation with family or friends? You may come across an interesting sleeping option called the Pullman bed. But what is a pullman bed on a cruise ship, exactly?
In this article, we’ll explore the unique features of Pullman beds, the types of cabins where you’ll find them, and what to consider when deciding if this cozy sleeping nook works for your upcoming cruise.
What is a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship?
Pullman beds, also called Upper Berth, Pull Down Bed, or Bunk Bed, are common on cruise ships in smaller and more affordable cabins. They save space and let more people stay in a small area. The idea came from George M. Pullman’s sleeper train cars in the 1850s.
Pullman beds are usually folded against the wall or ceiling and can be pulled down for sleeping. They are smaller than regular beds to fit in the cabin. Most are for one person, but some can fit two snugly.
Families or groups can share a room without losing too much space. While not as comfy as a regular bed, they are an affordable choice for families with kids or groups on a budget. Cruise lines are working to make these beds more comfortable over time.
How Big is a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship?
The size of pullman beds on cruise ships can vary slightly depending on the cruise line and specific ship. Some newer ships have slightly larger pullman beds, but they are still smaller than regular hotel beds.
Here are common dimensions for pullman beds on cruise ships:
Length
Most pullman beds range from around 66 inches (5.5 feet) to 72 inches (6 feet) in length.
Width
Pullman beds are narrower than standard twin beds, ranging from 30 inches to 42 inches wide.
What Does a Pullman Bed Look Like?
A pullman bed, also called a pull down bed or wall bed saves space in small rooms.
Folded Stored Position: When not in use, it’s folded up against the wall or in a cabinet. It looks like a flat panel or bulge in the wall.
Bed Frame: It has a metal or wooden frame that holds the mattress. The frame pivots down from the wall.
Mattress: It’s a thin, lightweight mattress, about 4 to 6 inches thick. This makes it easier to pull down and fold back up.
Pull-Down Mechanism: It has a handle, strap, or lever to pull it down.
Safety Rails: Some pullman beds have guardrails to prevent falling out.
Ladder or Steps: Some pullman beds have a ladder or steps to climb in. When pulled down, it looks like a bunk bed or loft bed but can fold up vertically.
Weight Limit for a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship
Most cruise lines have weight limits in place for the use of pullman beds on their ships for safety reasons. The specific weight limit can vary between different cruise lines. Here are some general guidelines regarding weight limits for pullman beds on cruise ships:
Typical Weight Limit: The most common weight limit for pullman beds on cruise ships is around 200 lbs.
Range of Weight Limits: Some cruise lines may have slightly higher or lower weight limits for pullman beds. For example, some cruise lines may set the weight limit at 200 lbs, while others may allow up to 300 lbs or even 330 lbs for pullman cruise beds.
| Cruise Line | Pullman max weight (kg) | Pullman max weight (lbs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Cruises | 90 kg | 200 lbs. |
| Carnival | 113 kg | 250 lbs. |
| Princess Cruises | 113 kg | 250 lbs. |
| Cunard | 130 kg | 287 lbs. |
| P&O Cruises | 130 kg | 287 lbs. |
| Royal Caribbean | 136 kg | 300 lbs. |
| MSC Cruises | 150 kg | 330 lbs. |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 150 kg | 330 lbs. |
Height Limit for a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship
The height limit for Pullman bed can vary a bit between cruise lines, most don’t allow kids taller than 5 feet to use pullman beds. This rule is for safety because pullman beds are made for smaller people and might not be safe for taller kids or adults. If you are thinking about going on a Royal Caribbean cruise, note that there is a height limit of 6 feet 6 inches for upper Pullman beds.
Are Pullman Beds Comfortable?
The comfort level of pullman beds on cruise ships can vary. Pullman beds on cruise ships may not be as comfortable as regular beds. Several factors can affect their comfort.
Size
Pullman beds are smaller and narrower than regular beds, so they may feel tight and uncomfortable for taller or larger passengers.
Mattress Quality
Pullman bed mattresses are thinner and less plush than standard bed mattresses. This can make them feel firmer and less comfortable for passengers who like softer beds.
Accessibility
Accessing the pullman bed can be challenging as it requires climbing up a ladder. This can be difficult for people with mobility issues or at night when it’s dark.
Stability
Some pullman beds may not feel as stable as regular beds if the ship is experiencing rough waters or if they are not properly secured.
Not all pullman beds are the same on cruise ships. Some cruise lines have improved the comfort and design of these beds. Newer ships may have pullman beds cruise with thicker mattresses, better locking mechanisms, and easier access. Personal preferences and expectations also affect how comfortable the pullman beds are.
Some travelers are fine with pullman beds for short cruises or if they want to save money. If comfort is important, consider a cabin with regular beds or upgrade to a larger cabin.
Do Pullman beds have Guard Rails?
Most upper pullman beds on cruise ships have guard rails to prevent falls. The design and presence of guard rails can vary between cruise lines and ships.
Here are some common situations about guard rails for pullman beds on cruise ships:
Upper Bunk Guard Rails
It is standard practice for the upper pullman bed to have guard rails on at least one side (the open side facing the room) to prevent guests from falling out during sleep. These guard rails may be removable, foldable, or permanently fixed in place.
Lower Bunk Guard Rails
The lower pullman bed cruise may or may not have guard rails depending on the cruise line and room design. If there are guard rails, they are usually shorter than the ones on the upper bunk.
Guard Rail Height and Design
Guard rail height can vary, but they are made tall enough to keep kids and adults safe. Some guard rails may have vertical bars or slats, while others may be solid panels for added safety.
Compliance with Safety Regulations
Cruise lines must follow safety rules from maritime groups. These rules mandate the presence of guard rails or barriers on upper pullman beds to prevent falls and injuries.
Which Cruise Ships Have Pullman Beds?
Most major cruise lines offer staterooms with pullman beds on some of their ships. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Holland America, Norwegian and Princess Cruise Line have pullman beds. Each ship has its own unique way of setting up these beds, whether they fold down from the ceiling or unfold from the wall.
When booking a cruise, you can find information about the specific stateroom configurations, including the presence of pullman beds on the cruise line’s website or through a travel agent.
It’s worth noting that Pullman beds are often in smaller and cheaper rooms like interior, Oceanview, and standard balcony cabins on cruises. Some cruise lines don’t have pullman beds in newer or fancier rooms, choosing larger spaces instead.
Can Adults Use Pullman Beds?
Adults on cruise ships can use pullman beds if a child is too young to use the top bunk. Adults can switch and use it while a child sleeps below. Taller adults may feel cramped in pullman beds due to limited headspace. These beds likely have weight limits of 250 to 350 lbs for safety. Climbing up a ladder or steep steps to get in and out of a pullman bed can be challenging for adults with mobility issues.
Many adults with families or groups choose pullman beds to save money and fit more people in one room.
How to Prevent your Child from Falling out of Pullman Bed on Cruise Ship?
Here are some tips to prevent your child from falling out of an upper pullman bed on a cruise ship:
Use the guard rails: Make sure that the guard rails on the pullman bed cruise are secure and at the right height to prevent your child from falling out. Ask the cruise line if they have adjustable guard rails.
Position the pullman bed carefully: Request the pullman bed to be positioned against a wall if possible, providing an extra barrier on one side.
Use bed rails or bumpers: Bring portable bed rails or bumpers that can be secured to the pullman bed frame. These provide an extra barrier around the edges.
Tuck sheets and blankets tightly: Tuck sheets and blankets tightly to create a snug sleeping space and prevent rolling out.
Take turns with supervision: An adult should take turns sleeping near the pullman bed on cruise ship to watch over your child at night.
Use a portable travel bed: Use a portable travel bed for young children. Bring a bed that sits on the floor to prevent falls.
Consider a cabin layout change: If possible, request a cabin with two lower beds instead of a pullman beds on cruise ship for younger children.
Types of Cabins with Pullman Beds on Cruise Ship
Pullman beds are commonly found in certain types of staterooms or cabins on cruise ships, particularly those designed for higher occupancy or to offer a more economical option. Here are the main cabin types with pullman beds:
Interior Cabins: These cabins have no windows or portholes, often feature pullman beds to accommodate triple or quadruple occupancy in a smaller space.
Oceanview Cabins: Oceanview cabins have a window or porthole overlooking the ocean, are equipped with pullman beds for extra guests.
Standard Balcony Cabins: Standard balcony cabins advertised pullman bed for third or fourth occupancy in addition to a primary bed or two lower beds.
Family Cabins: Cabins designed for families include pullman beds along with other bedding configurations to accommodate larger groups or families with children.
Suites (Rare): Some larger suite categories on certain ships may include a pullman bed or additional upper berth to increase the maximum occupancy if needed. Higher-end cabins like concierge-level rooms or luxury suites usually have regular beds instead of pullman beds.
At What Age Can Children Use Pullman beds on a Cruise Ship?
The age at which children can use pullman beds on cruise ships can vary depending on the specific cruise line’s policies. Here are some general guidelines from popular cruise lines:
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line allows Children aged 2 to 11 to use pullman beds, but they need an adult in the same cabin. Children under 2 are not allowed to use pullman beds.
Royal Caribbean International
Children under 6 are not allowed to use pullman beds on Royal Caribbean. Children aged 6 to 12 can use pullman beds when accompanied by an adult in the same cabin.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruises allow children aged 4 to 11 to use pullman beds with an adult in the same cabin. Children under 4 cannot use pullman beds.
Disney Cruise Line
Children under 3 are not allowed to use pullman beds on Disney Cruises. Children aged 3 to 12 can use pullman beds.
Princess Cruises
Children aged 4 to 12 can use pullman beds when accompanied by an adult in the same cabin on Princess Cruises.
Note: These age limits and policies are subject to change. It’s always recommended to check with your specific cruise line for their latest guidelines and regulations regarding pullman bed usage for children.
FAQs – Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship
What is the Difference Between a Pullman Bed Royal Caribbean & Carnival Cruise Pullman Bed?
The primary difference between a Pullman bed on Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise ships lies in their weight capacity. Royal Caribbean Pullman bed can hold more weight than Carnival’s bed. This means Royal Caribbean can welcome a wider range of passengers, including those with larger builds, while keeping them safe and comfortable.
Which Cruise Line has the Most Comfortable Beds?
Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line are known for their comfortable pullman beds. They use high-quality mattresses and provide plenty of space. Viking and Seabourn, which are luxury cruise lines, also offer very comfortable pullman beds.
What is the Difference Between Pullman Bed and Sofa Bed on a Cruise Ship?
The main difference between a pullman bed and a sofa bed on cruise ships lies in their design, location, functionality, and the way they are used to create additional sleeping spaces.
Pull man beds save space by folding up vertically on walls or in cabinets. Sofa beds are sofas that can turn into beds by unfolding or pulling out the mattress or cushions. Pullman beds work well in small cabins, while sofa beds are common in larger spaces, offering seating and sleeping choices.