What is an Obstructed View Balcony on a Cruise Ship?

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Obstructed View Balcony on a Cruise Ship: What You Need to Know

Cruise ship balconies are a popular way to enjoy the fresh air and sea views while on vacation. But what if your balcony has an obstructed view?

In this article, we’ll discuss what an obstructed view balcony is, why it might happen, and what your options are if you’re assigned one. We’ll also provide some tips for making the most of your obstructed view balcony experience.

So whether you’re just curious about obstructed view balconies or you’re facing one on your upcoming cruise, read on for all the information you need to know.

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What is an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship? An obstructed view balcony is a balcony on a cruise ship that has some type of obstruction that blocks the view, such as a lifeboat, railing, or other structure. Obstructed view balconies are typically less expensive than balconies with unobstructed views.
What are some of the disadvantages of an obstructed view balcony? Some of the disadvantages of an obstructed view balcony include:

  • The view may be partially or completely blocked by a lifeboat, railing, or other structure.
  • The balcony may be smaller than a balcony with an unobstructed view.
  • The balcony may be located in a less desirable location on the ship, such as near the engine room or laundry facilities.
 Obstructed view balconies may not be a good option for passengers who are looking for a spacious balcony with a panoramic view.
What are some of the advantages of an obstructed view balcony? Some of the advantages of an obstructed view balcony include:

  • Obstructed view balconies are typically less expensive than balconies with unobstructed views.
  • Obstructed view balconies may be located in a more desirable location on the ship, such as near the pool or other amenities.
  • Obstructed view balconies may be less crowded than balconies with unobstructed views.
 Obstructed view balconies may be a good option for passengers who are looking for a more affordable balcony or who are not as concerned about having a panoramic view.

What is an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship?

Definition of an obstructed view balcony

An obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship is a balcony that has some form of obstruction that blocks the view of the ocean. This obstruction can be anything from a lifeboat to a neighboring ship. While obstructed view balconies are often less expensive than balconies with unobstructed views, they can still provide passengers with a great view of the ocean and the surrounding coastline.

Causes of obstructed view balconies

There are a number of reasons why a cruise ship may have obstructed view balconies. Some of the most common causes include:

  • The size of the ship: Smaller cruise ships typically have fewer balconies than larger ships. This means that there is a greater chance that a balcony on a smaller ship will be obstructed by something else on the ship.
  • The location of the balcony: Balconies that are located near the front or back of the ship are more likely to be obstructed by lifeboats or other structures. Balconies that are located on the sides of the ship are more likely to be obstructed by neighboring ships.
  • The time of year: Balconies that are located on the sun deck are more likely to be obstructed by sunshades or other structures during the day. Balconies that are located on the aft deck are more likely to be obstructed by waves during rough weather.

Impact of obstructed view balconies on passengers

The impact of an obstructed view balcony on a passenger will vary depending on the individual. Some passengers may not be bothered by an obstructed view, while others may find it to be a major inconvenience. Some of the potential impacts of an obstructed view balcony include:

  • Reduced enjoyment of the view: Passengers who have an obstructed view of the ocean may find it to be less enjoyable to spend time on their balcony. This can be especially true for passengers who are looking forward to spending their cruise relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
  • Less privacy: Balconies with obstructed views can offer less privacy than balconies with unobstructed views. This can be a problem for passengers who want to sunbathe or relax in peace.
  • Increased noise levels: Balconies that are located near the front or back of the ship may be more exposed to noise from the engines or the propellers. This can make it difficult to relax or enjoy the view from your balcony.

Types of obstructed view balconies

There are two main types of obstructed view balconies on a cruise ship:

  • Partially obstructed view balconies: These balconies have some form of obstruction that blocks part of the view of the ocean. This obstruction can be anything from a lifeboat to a neighboring ship.
  • Fully obstructed view balconies: These balconies are completely blocked from the view of the ocean. This is usually due to the presence of a large structure on the ship, such as a funnel or a mast.

Obstructed view balconies on a cruise ship can vary in terms of their severity. Some balconies may have only a small obstruction, while others may be completely blocked from the view of the ocean. The impact of an obstructed view balcony on a passenger will vary depending on the individual. Some passengers may not be bothered by an obstructed view, while others may find it to be a major inconvenience.

What Is An Obstructed View Balcony On A Cruise Ship?

An obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship is a balcony that has some type of obstruction that blocks the view. This could be anything from a lifeboat to a neighboring ship. Obstructed view balconies can be a major disappointment for passengers who are expecting to have a clear view of the ocean.

There are a few different types of obstructions that can occur on a cruise ship balcony. The most common type of obstruction is a lifeboat. Lifeboats are typically located on the side of the ship, and they can block the view of the ocean for balconies that are located directly below them. Other common obstructions include other ships, cranes, and cargo containers.

Obstructions can also be caused by the design of the ship itself. Some ships have balconies that are located on a lower deck, which means that they are more likely to be obstructed by other ships or structures. Other ships have balconies that are located in a recessed area, which can also block the view.

How to Avoid Obstructed View Balconies

There are a few things that you can do to avoid getting an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship.

  • When booking a cruise, ask about the location of your balcony. The cruise line will be able to tell you if your balcony is likely to be obstructed by any structures.
  • Consider purchasing a higher-priced balcony that is less likely to be obstructed. Higher-priced balconies are typically located on a higher deck, which means that they are less likely to be obstructed by other ships or structures.
  • Be aware of the ship’s design. If you are concerned about getting an obstructed view balcony, you should choose a ship that has balconies that are located in a more open area.

Remedies for Obstructed View Balconies

If you are not satisfied with your obstructed view balcony, you may be able to get a refund or a cabin change. The cruise line’s policy on obstructed view balconies will vary, so it is important to check with the cruise line before you book your cruise.

If you are unable to get a refund or a cabin change, you may be able to find other ways to enjoy your balcony. You could try sitting on the balcony at different times of day to see if the obstruction is less noticeable at certain times. You could also try using binoculars or a telescope to see around the obstruction.

If you are still not satisfied with your obstructed view balcony, you can always try to talk to the cruise line’s customer service department. They may be able to offer you some other solutions, such as a partial refund or a free drink.

Obstructed view balconies can be a major disappointment for passengers who are expecting to have a clear view of the ocean. However, there are a few things that you can do to avoid getting an obstructed view balcony, and there are also some remedies available if you are not satisfied with your obstructed view balcony. By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a great time on your cruise, even if your balcony is obstructed.

What is an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship?

An obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship is a balcony that has some type of obstruction that blocks the view, such as a lifeboat, a structure on the ship, or another balcony.

What are some common obstructions on cruise ship balconies?

Some common obstructions on cruise ship balconies include:

  • Lifeboats
  • Structures on the ship, such as masts or funnels
  • Other balconies
  • Cargo containers
  • Water spouts
  • Other objects that may be placed on the balcony by the cruise line or other passengers

Is it worth getting an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship?

Whether or not it is worth getting an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship depends on your individual preferences. Some people may not mind the obstruction and may be willing to save money by getting an obstructed view balcony. Others may find the obstruction to be too distracting and may prefer to pay more for a balcony with a clear view.

What are some things to consider when choosing a balcony on a cruise ship?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a balcony on a cruise ship, including:

  • The location of the balcony. Balconies that are located on the upper decks of the ship will have a better view than those that are located on the lower decks. Balconies that are located on the side of the ship will have a better view than those that are located on the front or back of the ship.
  • The size of the balcony. Larger balconies will offer more space to relax and enjoy the view.
  • The obstructions on the balcony. If you are concerned about obstructions, be sure to ask the cruise line about the specific balconies on the ship that you are considering.

How can I get the best view from my obstructed view balcony?

There are a few things you can do to get the best view from your obstructed view balcony, including:

  • Choose a balcony that is located on the upper decks of the ship.
  • Choose a balcony that is located on the side of the ship.
  • Avoid balconies that are located near lifeboats, structures on the ship, or other obstructions.
  • Move your furniture around to create the best possible view.
  • Use binoculars to see over the obstructions.

Can I get a refund for an obstructed view balcony?

It is possible to get a refund for an obstructed view balcony, but it depends on the cruise line and the specific circumstances of your case. Some cruise lines may offer a full refund, while others may only offer a partial refund. If you are not satisfied with your obstructed view balcony, it is best to speak to the cruise line’s customer service department to see what options are available to you.

an obstructed view balcony on a cruise ship is a balcony that does not offer a clear view of the ocean. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as being located below the waterline, being obstructed by other structures on the ship, or being located in a heavily populated area. While obstructed view balconies may not offer the same panoramic views as other types of balconies, they can still provide a comfortable and enjoyable place to relax and enjoy the cruise.

Here are some key takeaways about obstructed view balconies:

  • They are typically located below the waterline or in heavily populated areas.
  • They may offer limited views of the ocean.
  • They can still be a comfortable and enjoyable place to relax and enjoy the cruise.

When choosing a balcony on a cruise ship, it is important to consider your priorities and budget. If you are looking for a balcony with unobstructed views of the ocean, you will likely need to pay more for a higher category balcony. However, if you are willing to sacrifice some views for a lower price, an obstructed view balcony can still be a great option.

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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.