Balcony Staterooms
Though more expensive than interior and outside staterooms, balcony staterooms are incredibly popular. Usually the same size as an outside stateroom, a balcony cabin offers the advantage of fresh air whenever you want it and is a great option for cruisers who enjoy their own space and who prefer to relax in privacy without having to go out on the open decks.
Balconies come in a variety of styles, varying greatly depending on which cruise line you are travelling with.
Much like outside staterooms may be obstructed in their view, so too may balcony staterooms. While obstructed balcony staterooms are uncommon, they can be found on ships including P&O Cruises’ Britannia, Princess Cruises’, Royal Princess and on ships in the Celebrity Solstice-class fleet. Other balcony types include open and closed rail; closed rail balconies feature a glass panel from floor to railing, while open balconies feature a series of narrow safety barriers in either wood or metal. Balconies may also be classed as open, stretching out over the sea with nothing above, or closed, which is a more enclosed version.
The position of your balcony stateroom can also vary. Side-on balconies for either port or starboard are the most common, while aft facing balconies are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their ability to offer sun all day long and for the great views they provide at sail away.
Cruise lines including P&O Cruises now offer Superior Deluxe Balcony Staterooms. These cabins are similar to a mini-suite; larger in size and with a larger balcony than standard balcony staterooms, plus a separate seating area and larger bathroom.
Royal Caribbean offers several different balcony types on its Oasis class ships, including balconies overlooking the Royal Promenade, Central Park, the Boardwalk and the Aqua Theatre.