Kabinen

Kabinen is the plural of Kabine in German and refers to enclosed spaces designed for occupancy or privacy in various contexts. The term is used for private rooms on ships and submarines, passenger compartments in airplanes and trains, as well as smaller rooms in buildings or equipment where a defined function is carried out. The word Kabine is derived from French cabine, integrated into German usage with the sense of a compact, private space.

In maritime use, cabins serve as living quarters for passengers and crew. They range from simple interior rooms to multi-berth configurations and en-suite suites. Location, size, and onboard amenities influence classification and pricing. Modern ships are designed to meet international safety and welfare standards, with requirements for adequate ventilation, lighting, emergency access, and fire protection in living spaces, along with appropriate life-saving equipment.

In aviation, the cabin denotes the main interior of an aircraft where passengers and crew are seated. Cabin configurations vary by aircraft type and service class and include areas such as galleys and lavatories. The cabin is equipped with environmental controls, seating arrangements, and safety features. Aircraft must comply with airworthiness and safety regulations that govern materials, fire resistance, evacuation provisions, and passenger safety equipment.

In rail transport, the term cabin can refer to passenger compartments in coaches or the driver’s cab, depending on regional usage. Passenger cabins emphasize comfort and accessibility, while the driver’s cab houses controls and instrumentation. Rail regulations address safety features, ergonomic design, and accessibility within the cabin spaces.

Other uses include small enclosed rooms in architecture, workshops, or studios, where a Kabine provides a defined, private work or service area.