Thread: Outside or Balcony

We are planning another cruise and have never had a balcony. We are wondering if ya'll think it is worth the extra $500 bucks for the balcony? Do you really spend much time there?

Going to the Eastern Carib in Dec 09, yeah, I know, a long ways off. Going on NCL because we love Freestyle!

We have only ever sailed with a balcony. So I guess I would have to say yes. But then and again, how would I really know? But I do love the balcony. Just sitting there and watching the ocean go by is quite peaceful. Plus I love to have my coffee out there in the morning. I know lots of others could care less though. I think it's a matter of personal opinion.

Rideev .... You could always spend the extra $500 and see for yourself. Even if you don't use it lots, it's so nice to be able to step outside any time you wish.

Originally Posted by hanna

We have only ever sailed with a balcony. So I guess I would have to say yes. But then and again, how would I really know? But I do love the balcony. Just sitting there and watching the ocean go by is quite peaceful. Plus I love to have my coffee out there in the morning. I know lots of others could care less though. I think it's a matter of personal opinion.

We booked a balcony when we sailed in Feb partially because it was our first cruise and my wife can be a little claustrophobic, and it was hard to tell how small the rooms were actually going to be. I'll tell you though, being able to escape outside now and then is really nice. In fact, we ate breakfast on the balcony every morning except the first I believe, and that was worth it alone!

We used to sail in only inside cabins, then we tried a balcony so see what the fuss was all about!! It is awesome, your own piece of space whenever you want it, awesome at night, break in the afternoon, before getting ready for dinner, and pulling into/leaving port. If the money is not an extra burden I would try it, and then you know and the choices after for the next cruise will be easier!!

I have to agree with the others about a balcony cabin. We've sailed in all types of cabins from inside, oceanview, balcony, and suites. There's just no comparison; a balcony cabin is the only way to cruise - at least for us.

But as with everything else, it's a personal choice. If your budget is tight, then do the cabin that best fits, don't overextend yourself. It's better to do a cruise within your budget than not to cruise at all. If you spend most of your time outside of your cabin, then perhaps a balcony might not be to your needs. But if you enjoy having some private space outside to enjoy a romantic breakfast, or cocktails and cigar in the evenings, or just a quiet place to read a book during days at sea, then you really can't beat a balcony cabin. To be able to open the door and smell the ocean is one of the great pleasures of being out to sea. Some people leave their doors open all night to really enjoy the smell and sounds.

Pete

never tried either myself but if i had to choose and the money was good then i'd try a balcony just to see what the fuss was about.

We always sail with a balcony! Being older, we prefer the quieter atmophere that a balcony provides as opposed to the pool deck area. We enjoy the public decks, too, but it's nice to be able to sit and read or nap without the steel band or the kids in the pool or the CD announcing games.

Breakfast in the morning--cocktails before dinner---sitting out in my PJs looking at the stars and the sea before bedtime---what could be better?

True story. We met a man on the elevator on our latest cruise. Said "Good morning. What a great day!" His answer was "I don't know, I haven't been out yet. Going to find out now". We had a balcony, he didn't. Unless you have one, you have to go topside to even know how warm it is. An outside cabin can tell you if it's raining or snowing , but a balcony cabin gives you a full report.......plus all the things the other folks said. I'd go for it.

Thanks for all the input. Guess I will book that balcony now!