USA Today ran a piece this morning, in which I happened to be quoted, “Is Paying Extra for a Balcony Cabin Worth It?” I have an opinion on that, and the answer is that it usually is. I personally am less inclined to book a balcony on a short getaway. On the other hand, I wouldn’t think of sailing without one to Alaska, the Mediterranean, or most any cruise of 7 days or longer. Others in the article had differing opinions.
This seemed like a great question for a reader poll. What do you think about balcony cabins on cruise ships, worth the money or not?
Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.
“My name is MJ and I’m a cruise-a-holic.”
😉
MJ, I don’t know if you cruise on NCL but have you heard about this? http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=5303 They have a great Grand Med itinerary for Sept 2014 and almost half the price of Princess.
I’d love to, but I’ve already got 3 RCL and 1 Disney cruise booked through next spring. 🙂
We were upgraded from inside to balcony on Coral Princess for a Panama Canal cruise and it was awesome! It was great to sit out and watch the canal go by and there was a commentator throughout. I wouldn’t pay extra for a balcony on a port intensive itinerary such as the Grand Med.
I’m glad to see @DaninSTL’s comment. maybe it’s a three-way choice. I don’t need a balcony … window’s fine. I won’t stay in a windowless (“inside”) room. Claustrophobia.
I agree it’s worth it on Alaska the med or longer scenic cruises. Not so much on those 3 day booze crusises. We usually are happy with ocean view.
Also some older ships have limited balconies and the price is a big jump. On many newer ships the balcony is less of a jump in price.
I’m not a cruise expert – only 3 cruises under my belt – but I had insides on all of them and have been quite comfortable with that. Having an inside cabin really encourages you to take advantage of ship amenities, meet new people, and get that tan up on deck!
Young kids are dangerous with balconies
The cabin is for sleeping and showering only. I spend the extra money I save by going inside on private areas and spa access. Who wants to spend their vacation in a confined space(even if it has a view)
Alaska? Yes. A lot of sea days? No.
If you’re traveling with kids, a balcony is a must as it’s the only escape you have from the room while they are sleeping! It’s also great if you still have a napper as you don’t mind being left in the room.
We usually purchase our cruise within 30-60 days of departure. We can usually get two trips in an inside cabin for the same price as a balcony for 1 cruise.
When the ship breaks and the halls smell like sewage and there is no air conditioning, you will wish you sprung for the balcony.
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