Is a Balcony Worth It on a Cruise? (Plus 5 Tips for Choosing the Right One)

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Cruise Ship Balconies: Are They Worth It?

When it comes to booking a cruise, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether or not to book a balcony cabin. Balconies offer a number of benefits, but they also come with a higher price tag. So, is a balcony worth it on a cruise?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of balcony cabins, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not one is right for you.

We’ll cover everything from the cost of balcony cabins to the benefits they offer, and we’ll also provide some tips on how to get the best possible deal on a balcony cabin.

So, if you’re still on the fence about whether or not to book a balcony cabin, read on for all the information you need to know.

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Pros of Having a Balcony Cons of Having a Balcony Overall
  • Fresh air
  • Privacy
  • Scenic views
  • Ability to relax and enjoy the outdoors
  • More expensive than an interior cabin
  • Smaller than an interior cabin
  • More noise from the outside
  • If you can afford it, a balcony cabin is a great way to enjoy the cruise experience.
  • Just be aware of the potential drawbacks before you book.

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Benefits of Having a Balcony on a Cruise

Having a balcony on a cruise ship can offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Increased privacy and space. A balcony provides a private outdoor space where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air. You can also use your balcony to entertain guests or simply enjoy some peace and quiet.
  • Fresh air and sea views. A balcony offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. You can wake up to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore and enjoy the fresh sea air.
  • Ability to relax and enjoy the outdoors. A balcony is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sunshine or take in the stars at night.
  • Opportunity to entertain guests. If you’re traveling with friends or family, a balcony can be a great place to entertain guests. You can have drinks and snacks, play games, or just relax and chat.
  • Convenience of having your own private area. A balcony gives you a private area where you can relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the ship. You can come and go as you please and don’t have to worry about disturbing other passengers.

Drawbacks of Having a Balcony on a Cruise

There are also some drawbacks to having a balcony on a cruise ship, including:

  • Higher cost. Balconies are typically more expensive than interior staterooms. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider an interior stateroom instead.
  • Smaller stateroom. Balcony staterooms are typically smaller than interior staterooms. If you need a lot of space, you may want to consider an interior stateroom instead.
  • More noise and light pollution. Balconies are located closer to the outside of the ship, which means they can be more noisy and have more light pollution. If you’re sensitive to noise or light, you may want to consider an interior stateroom instead.
  • Potential for seasickness. If you’re prone to seasickness, you may want to avoid a balcony stateroom. The movement of the ship can be more pronounced on a balcony, which can make you feel sick.
  • Increased risk of theft. Balconies are more exposed to the elements than interior staterooms. This means that there is a greater risk of theft if you leave valuables on your balcony.

Whether or not a balcony is worth it on a cruise depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a private outdoor space, fresh air and sea views, and the opportunity to relax and entertain guests, then a balcony may be a good option for you. However, if you’re on a tight budget, need a lot of space, are sensitive to noise or light, or are prone to seasickness, then you may want to consider an interior stateroom instead.

Here is a table summarizing the benefits and drawbacks of having a balcony on a cruise:

| Benefit | Drawback |
|—|—|
| Increased privacy and space | Higher cost |
| Fresh air and sea views | Smaller stateroom |
| Ability to relax and enjoy the outdoors | More noise and light pollution |
| Opportunity to entertain guests | Potential for seasickness |
| Convenience of having your own private area | Increased risk of theft |

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a balcony on a cruise is a personal one. You should weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully to decide what is best for you.

3. Factors to Consider When Deciding Whether a Balcony is Worth It

When deciding whether or not to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise, there are a few factors to consider.

Your budget

Balcony cabins typically cost more than interior cabins, so it’s important to factor this into your budget when making your decision. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider an interior cabin or a cabin with a window instead.

Your desired level of privacy and comfort

If you’re looking for a private and relaxing space to relax and unwind, a balcony cabin is a great option. You can enjoy the fresh air and sea views without having to worry about being disturbed by other passengers. However, if you’re not interested in having a private outdoor space, an interior cabin or a cabin with a window may be a better option.

Your travel preferences

If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on your cruise ship, a balcony cabin can be a great way to enjoy the views and fresh air. However, if you’re planning on spending most of your time exploring the ports of call, a balcony cabin may not be as necessary.

The length of your cruise

If you’re only going on a short cruise, a balcony cabin may not be worth the extra cost. However, if you’re going on a longer cruise, you’ll have more time to enjoy the benefits of having a balcony.

4. Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Balcony

Once you’ve decided that a balcony cabin is worth the investment, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of it.

Choose a stateroom with a good view

When choosing a balcony cabin, it’s important to consider the view. If you want to be able to see the ocean, choose a cabin on a higher deck. If you want to be able to see the city skyline, choose a cabin on a side deck.

Make sure your balcony is well-equipped

Your balcony should be equipped with a comfortable chair or two, a table, and some sort of shade. If you plan on spending a lot of time on your balcony, you may also want to consider investing in a few extras, such as a hammock, a sunshade, or a grill.

Use your balcony to enjoy the outdoors

Your balcony is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can spend your mornings sipping coffee and watching the sunrise, or your evenings enjoying a glass of wine and watching the sunset. You can also use your balcony to catch some rays, read a book, or do some yoga.

Be aware of the potential drawbacks of having a balcony

While having a balcony cabin has many benefits, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider.

  • Balcony cabins are typically more expensive than interior cabins.
  • Balconies can be noisy, especially if you’re located near the pool or other public areas.
  • Balconies can be drafty, especially if you’re located on a high deck.
  • Balconies can be difficult to keep clean.

Overall, whether or not a balcony cabin is worth it is a personal decision. It depends on your budget, your desired level of privacy and comfort, your travel preferences, and the length of your cruise. By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a balcony cabin is right for you.

A balcony cabin can be a great way to enjoy the best of what a cruise has to offer. With its own private outdoor space, you can relax and unwind while taking in the fresh air and sea views. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of having a balcony cabin before making a decision. By considering your budget, your desired level of privacy and comfort, your travel preferences, and the length of your cruise, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a balcony cabin is worth it.

Is a balcony worth it on a cruise?

Answer:

Whether or not a balcony is worth it on a cruise depends on your personal preferences and budget. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Cost: Balconies typically cost more than interior cabins, so you’ll need to decide if the extra expense is worth it for you.
  • Privacy: If you want a private space to relax and enjoy the views, a balcony can be a great option. However, if you’re not bothered by being around other people, an interior cabin may be a better choice.
  • Weather: If you’re prone to seasickness, a balcony can be a good way to get some fresh air without having to go outside. However, if you’re worried about the weather, you may want to consider an interior cabin.
  • Activities: If you plan on spending a lot of time on your cruise ship, a balcony may not be as important as it would be for someone who plans on spending a lot of time exploring the destinations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a balcony on a cruise is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

What are the pros and cons of getting a balcony on a cruise?

Pros:

  • Privacy: Balconies offer a private space to relax and enjoy the views.
  • Fresh air: Balconies provide access to fresh air, which can be a welcome relief from the stuffy air inside a cruise ship.
  • Scenic views: Balconies offer stunning views of the ocean, coastline, and other landmarks.
  • Convenience: Balconies are convenient for taking in the sights and sounds of the ports of call.

Cons:

  • Cost: Balconies typically cost more than interior cabins.
  • Noise: Balconies can be noisy, especially if you’re located near the pool or other public areas.
  • Security: Balconies can be a security risk, as they can be accessed from the outside.
  • Maintenance: Balconies require regular maintenance, such as cleaning and repainting.

What is the best type of balcony for a cruise?

There are three main types of balconies on cruise ships:

  • Open balconies: These balconies are completely open to the elements, with no walls or railings. They offer the best views, but they can also be the most noisy and drafty.
  • Semi-private balconies: These balconies are partially enclosed by walls or railings. They offer more privacy and protection from the elements than open balconies, but they don’t offer as much of a view.
  • Private balconies: These balconies are completely enclosed by walls or railings. They offer the most privacy and protection from the elements, but they don’t offer as much of a view as open or semi-private balconies.

The best type of balcony for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. If you’re looking for the best views, an open balcony is the best option. If you want more privacy and protection from the elements, a semi-private or private balcony is a better choice.

What are some things to consider when choosing a balcony cabin?

When choosing a balcony cabin, there are a few things to consider:

  • Price: Balcony cabins typically cost more than interior cabins, so you’ll need to decide if the extra expense is worth it for you.
  • Location: Balcony cabins are located on the outside of the ship, so they can be noisy, especially if you’re located near the pool or other public areas. If you’re looking for a quiet cabin, consider choosing one that’s located further away from the noise.
  • Size: Balcony cabins vary in size, so you’ll need to decide how much space you need. If you’re traveling with a group, you may want to choose a larger cabin with a larger balcony.
  • View: The view from your balcony can make a big difference in your cruise experience. If you’re looking for the best views, choose a cabin with a balcony that faces the ocean.

What are some tips for enjoying your balcony on a cruise?

Here are a few tips for enjoying your balcony on a cruise:

  • Pack comfortable seating: You’ll want to have comfortable seating on your balcony so you can relax and enjoy the views.
  • Bring snacks and drinks: You can enjoy your own snacks and drinks on your balcony, which can save you money on food and drinks at the ship’s restaurants and bars.

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whether or not a balcony is worth it on a cruise depends on your individual needs and budget. If you want more privacy, a place to relax and enjoy the fresh air, and the ability to take in the views, then a balcony can be a great investment. However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t think you’ll use the balcony much, then you may be better off saving your money and opting for an interior cabin.

Here are some key takeaways to consider when making your decision:

  • Balconies are typically more expensive than interior cabins.
  • Balconies offer more privacy and space, as well as the ability to enjoy the fresh air and take in the views.
  • Balconies can be noisy, especially if you’re located near other balconies or public areas.
  • Balconies can be difficult to access, especially if you have mobility issues.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to book a balcony cabin is a personal one. By considering your individual needs and budget, you can make the best decision for your next cruise vacation.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.