What is a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship?
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Cruise ship cabins are generally designed to support two travelers in a room. But if you book a cabin for three or four travelers, you might find a bunk bed, sofa bed, or Pullman bed.
What is a Pullman Bed on a Cruise Ship?
A Pullman bed on a cruise ship is a type of bed designed to save space in a cabin. Pullman beds pull down from the wall or ceiling. They are named after the Pullman Company, which originally designed these beds for train compartments.
Pullman beds offer additional sleeping space in the cabin without permanently occupying the limited floor area.
The Pullmans, sometimes called “upper berths,” in conjunction with convertible beds and sofa beds, allow cruise ships to change the room configuration as required by the number of occupants.
These beds allow cruise lines to transform a two-person cabin into a four-person in a matter of minutes.
When the Pullman beds aren’t needed (for example, two people booked in a four-person cabin), they can be tucked away out of sight.
A Pullman bed can be stowed away when not in use, usually folding up against the wall or into the ceiling, thereby freeing up space and making the cabin more versatile and comfortable during the day. These beds are especially useful in cabins that accommodate families or groups, as they provide extra sleeping arrangements without needing a larger, more expensive cabin.
The beds are designed with safety in mind, often featuring guardrails to prevent the sleeper from falling out.
Cruise ship cabins might have one or two Pullmans with a convertible bed on the floor. When joined, a convertible bed can be used as two twin beds or a queen-sized bed.
Pullman beds were invented by George M. Pullman, who sought to create a space-saving solution for sleeping on trains. The style of beds was first introduced in sleeper cars on trains in the late 1850s. At the time, they were known as “upper bands,” “bunk beds,” or “pull-down beds.”
Although they were considered a luxury amenity then, modern Pullman beds on a cruise ship are not a luxury.
The beds are small and far less comfortable than regular beds. As an adult, getting a good night’s rest in the small, uncomfortable upper Pullman bed on cruise ships is difficult.
Your cabin steward will raise and lower the bed for you. If you need assistance, you can always ask your stateroom attendant.
Pullmans often have weight limits. And there isn’t much clearance between the bed and the ceiling. The beds are generally best for children and smaller adults, who won’t hit their heads every time they sit up.
Pros
Allow cruise lines to fit more passengers in a cabin
Best for families on a budget who require a four-person cabin
Fun for kids
Cons
Some ships have low guard rails, which may be unsafe
Some Pullmans are smaller than a single bed
Uncomfortable for sleeping
What is the Weight Limit on a Pullman Bed?
The weight limit on a Pullman bed on a cruise ship can vary depending on the cruise line and the specific design of the bed. However, the weight limit for these beds is usually around 200 to 250 pounds (approximately 90 to 113 kilograms).
The weight limit is set to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the bed when in use.
It’s important to note that this is a general guideline, and for specific weight limits and safety instructions, it’s always best to check directly with the cruise line or refer to the information provided in your cabin on the ship. Cruise lines often provide details about the cabin amenities, including any restrictions or guidelines for using Pullman beds, either in their brochures, on their websites, or in the information available in the cabin itself.
Below are some of the weight limits listed by cruise lines.
| Cruise Line | Pullman Bed Weight Limit (kg) | Pullman Max Weight Limit (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Carnival | 113 kg | 250 lbs |
| Royal Caribbean | 136 kg | 300 lbs |
| Disney Cruise Line | 100 kg | 220 lbs |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 163 kg | 360 lbs |
| Virgin Voyages | 136 kg | 300 lbs |
| Celebrity Cruises | 90 kg | 200 lbs |
| Princess Cruises | 113 kg | 250 lbs |
| MSC Cruises | 150 kg | 330 lbs |
| Cunard | 130 kg | 285 lbs |
| P&O Cruises | 115 kg | 287 lbs |
Safety Considerations for Children
Although the upper bunks come with guard rails, there are considerable size differences between ships. Even cruise ships of the same class have major variations in guard rail sizes.
If you’re worried about your child falling out of bed, here are some precautions you can take:
- Age and Maturity Level: Pullman beds are generally not recommended for very young children, especially those under 6, due to the risk of falling.
- Guard Rails: Ensure the Pullman bed has sturdy guard rails to prevent the child from rolling off during sleep. You can ask for an extra guardrail or an inflatable one for added safety.
- Switch Places: You can switch places with your child and take the upper berth. Keep in mind that the small bed is very uncomfortable for an adult.
- Have a Backup Plan: You can bring a small inflatable bed as a backup if you feel the Pullman bed is unsafe for your child.
- Use the Sofa: Your child can sleep on the sofa if your cabin has one.
How Big is a Pullman Bed?
Pullman beds vary in size but are generally the size of a single bed. Depending on the cruise ship, they might be slightly narrower or shorter and are rarely larger than a single bed.
The beds are close to the ceiling, so it’s difficult for adults to sit up fully. Pullman beds are best for children, but if you are traveling with adults, it’s usually best if the smallest adult takes the Pullman.
Can You Raise or Lower the Pullman Bed?
For safety reasons, the stateroom attendant can only raise Pullman beds on cruise ships. If you need help with the bed, you can ask your cabin steward or call guest services.
