One of the first things many people notice when they step into a cruise cabin is that the walls are magnetic.
It’s not something most people expect, but once you realise it, it’s surprisingly useful.
I get asked about this quite a lot, especially when people see magnets stuck to the walls onboard.
There’s actually a very simple reason behind it.
Why Cabin Walls Are Magnetic
Cruise ships are made primarily from steel.
Steel is magnetic, which means many of the walls in your cabin will naturally attract magnets.
This isn’t something cruise lines added for passengers, it’s just a result of how ships are built.
The structure needs to be strong and durable, so steel is used throughout the ship.
Cabins are made on land and slid into the side of the cruise ship, fully formed. Watch that happening here:
The Doors Are Magnetic Too…
Some people like to fix personalised magnets to their cabin doors.
Disney cruisers seem to take that to an extreme!
Not All Walls (And Not Always Strong)
Not every surface in a cabin will be magnetic.
Some areas are covered with panels, mirrors, or other materials that block the effect.
The strength can vary depending on the ship and the wall.
You’ll usually find the main cabin walls work best.
What Most People Use Them For
Many cruisers bring magnetic hooks and organisers.
They use them to hang hats, bags, lanyards, and even full storage systems.
It’s especially popular with people who like to stay really organised or are cruising with families.
My Experience
I’ve never actually used the hooks myself.
I know loads of people love them, but I’ve just never felt like I needed them.
What I do use magnets for is much simpler.
I like bringing a few magnets just for fun, and I’ll often stick my iPad to the wall using its magnetic case.
It’s surprisingly handy, especially when you want to watch something without holding it.
It’s one of those small things that feels a bit unexpected but actually works really well.
What To Bring (If You Want To Try It)
If you do want to use the magnetic walls, strong magnets are key.
Cheap ones often won’t hold much weight.
You don’t need loads, just a couple of decent ones will do.
A Common Mistake People Make
People either don’t realise the walls are magnetic at all, or they bring magnets that are too weak.
Not every wall works equally well, so it can take a bit of trial and error.
My Advice
You definitely don’t need to bring a whole set of organisers or hooks.
But bringing a couple of magnets is an easy win.
Even if it’s just to stick up notes or, like me, attach your iPad to the wall, it’s a simple little trick that can make your cabin feel more practical.
Have a look at the strangest cabin I have ever stayed in onboard a Uniworld river cruise ship below. The walls, the doors and even the ceilings were covered with material! Magnetic hooks would have been of no use in there. It was eye-watering…
Before You Go:
Find out about other ideas to keep your cabin organised here:
5 Things Smart Cruisers Do To Keep Their Cabins Organised
Because cabin walls are metal, they aren’t very soundproof. Find out more about that here:
Are Cruise Ship Cabins Soundproof? (Thin Walls, Balconies and Travelling Sound)
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