If you’re gearing up for a cruise, snagging a balcony room might seem like an apparent luxury. But is it really worth the splurge? Before you shell out extra cash for that ocean (or other) view, consider what you might be missing—and how you could score a better deal without sacrificing the experience. Let’s dive into the hidden truths about balcony rooms and whether they’re as essential as they seem.
They Are Usually First To Sell Out
Balcony rooms sell out faster than other cabins, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the best option for everyone. Demand often pushes prices up, making them a premium choice. Their popularity doesn’t necessarily make them the best choice for everyone. Many people book them out of fear of missing out rather than actual necessity.
They Cost Way Too Much
These spaces come with a hefty price tag due to their location and added porch space. The cost is often inflated because they provide views and more comfort. But when you’re paying extra for a room that’s not much larger than an inside cabin, you might question whether the balcony was worth it after all.
They Aren’t Eco-Friendly
The more balcony rooms a cruise ship has, the more resources are needed to maintain those private spaces. Larger rooms often use more energy, particularly on heating or cooling, which can have a higher environmental impact. For eco-conscious guests, this might not be the best way to travel.
They’re Too Small For Families
Balcony rooms typically fit only two people, which makes them a poor choice for families. With three or more people in one room, a family can’t sit comfortably on the balcony together. Instead of paying extra for a space that doesn’t suit your needs, look at other room types and enjoy the ship’s amenities as a family.
Not As Private As You Think
The idea of having a private outdoor space sounds great, but in practice, cruise ship balconies often lack the privacy you’d expect. Your neighbors can easily peer into your space, and the sound of the ocean or nearby cabins might make it less tranquil than anticipated. Is that illusion of a “private retreat” truly worth the splurge?
Things Might Fly Out Mid-Voyage
A single moment is all it takes for something to slip off a hotel balcony. Be it a phone, a TV remote, or something even more valuable. If you’re traveling with kids or tend to drop things yourself, a balcony room might bring more anxiety than relaxation, making the extra cost hardly worth it.
Balconies Can Attract Unwanted Smells
While fresh ocean air sounds great, balconies can sometimes be downwind of cooking exhaust, cigarette smoke from designated areas, or even fumes from the ship’s engines. If your balcony is near these spots, you may find yourself taking it all in—the pleasant and the unpleasant.
You Don’t Spend Much Time On Them Anyway
Cruise lines market balcony rooms as an upgrade to get you to spend more, but the truth is that many cruise-goers spend little time in their rooms. Skip the trend and go for a more practical cabin. You’ll save money without missing out on any of the cruise’s best features.
The View Isn’t Always Pretty
The value of a balcony depends heavily on the itinerary. If you’re cruising through scenic areas like Alaska’s glaciers or Norway’s fjords, a balcony might be worthwhile. But for many routes (especially Caribbean or Mediterranean cruises where you spend most days docked), your ship will be at the port, facing a concrete pier, not the ocean.
Wind Is Not Your Friend
Another issue with balconies is unpredictable weather. On many cruises, strong winds can make this time anything but relaxing, sometimes turning your room into a wind tunnel that sends objects flying every time you open the door. Avoid the frustration and opt for the comfort of indoor spaces instead.
Interior Balconies Are Mostly Not Worth It
Interior-facing balconies on cruise ships may seem appealing because they could offer views of entertainment areas instead of the open ocean. The issue here is that they often serve little purpose beyond drying swimsuits. Privacy concerns can make them less enjoyable than expected, leaving you with a balcony you barely use.
“Discounted” Balcony Rooms Could Be Worse
If you’re set on having a balcony but want to save money, some ships offer obstructed-view balcony rooms at a lower rate. These may have lifeboats, railings, or metal structures partially blocking the view. While it’s a budget-friendly compromise, they’re often still pricier than a standard ocean-view or inside cabin.
Limited Nighttime Use Makes Balconies Less Valuable
While a balcony might seem like a dream relaxing spot, it loses much of its appeal at night. Without proper lighting, it’s often too dark to enjoy the view, and depending on the cruise route, the scenery may just be endless black water. Most passengers enjoy ship amenities instead of sitting outside in the dark.
Just Book A Cabin On A Higher Deck
You don’t need a balcony to enjoy breathtaking ocean views. Cabins on higher decks often offer stunning vistas at a fraction of the price. With a little research into deck plans, you can find an ideal spot to soak in the scenery without overspending.
Take Advantage Of Public Deck Spaces
Instead of paying extra for a private balcony, many ships have public deck spaces with plenty of seating. These areas often provide expansive views of the ocean and ports. By spending time in these shared spaces, you get the same balcony experience without the added cost of a room upgrade.
Some Ports Require You To Keep Your Balcony Door Shut
Cruise lines require passengers to keep their balcony doors closed in specific ports due to local regulations, security concerns, or wildlife risks. If your itinerary includes these stops, you might find yourself unable to use your balcony for significant portions of your trip.
Save The Money For Port Adventures
If you’re the type who prefers exploring at each stop rather than lounging on your balcony, why spend extra on a room you’ll hardly use? Choose an interior room and use the money saved for excursions at the ports. These give you a richer, more hands-on travel experience.
Upgrading To A Suite Might Be Better Value For Money
If space is important, upgrade to a suite instead of a balcony room. The extra money spent on a suite will offer more amenities and much more living area than a standard balcony room. Plus, suites often include perks like priority boarding and VIP services that make the experience more enjoyable overall.
Spend The Extra Money On Dining Instead
Instead of splurging on a balcony room, use that money to enjoy some of the cruise’s fine dining options. A balcony room might give you a good view, but exceptional meals at specialized restaurants create lasting memories. Why not enjoy the best the cruise has to offer instead of spending on a private outdoor space?
Interior Rooms Are Way Better
If you’re open to saving a significant amount of money, interior rooms are the way to go. You may find them cheaper, and it provides all the basics you need. With more funds in your pocket, you can invest in much better experiences like excursions or spa treatments.
