Ocean View vs. Balcony Cruise Ship Cabins
Choosing a cruise ship cabin can be a daunting experience. With so many different options to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s explore some of the similarities and key differences between two popular cabin types: ocean view and balcony.
I have had the pleasure of doing more than 15 cruises, and I have primarily stayed in two different cabin types on these cruises: ocean view and balcony. I have enjoyed all of my cruises, regardless of the cabin type. While there are many similarities with these two cabin types, there are also a few key differences. Read on to see which cabin type may be better for you on your next cruise.
Comparing Ocean View and Balcony Cabins
First, let’s dig into the terminology when it comes to cruise ship cabin types:
- An interior or inside cabin is located in the ship’s interior and it does not have any windows or a balcony (note: this post does not include any information about this cabin type)
- An ocean view cabin is one with a window or a porthole that offers views of the outside, but it does not have a private balcony
- A veranda or balcony cabin includes a private, outdoor balcony furnished with chairs and a small table
Some key factors to consider when comparing cabin types include size, location, amenities, and pricing. While many of these are the same or similar between ocean view and balcony cabins, there are some crucial differences that may tip the scale one way or another for you. My feedback below focuses on the three ocean cruise lines I have sailed with: Azamara, Crystal, and Virgin.
Size and Location
An ocean view cabin is often smaller than a balcony cabin. On Azamara, an ocean view cabin is 143 square feet, whereas a balcony cabin is 175 square feet. On Virgin, the ocean view cabin is between 130-190 square feet, and the balcony cabin ranges from 185-225 square feet. Crystal is the outlier here, because both the ocean view and balcony cabins measure 215 square feet. The balconies themselves also range in size – Azamara and Virgin balconies are up to 40 square feet, and Crystal balconies are up to 54 square feet.
When it comes to where the cabins are located on the ship, this will also vary by cruise line. Each line offers both ocean view and balcony cabins on several different decks. These cabin types are often available forward (front of the ship), mid, and aft (rear of the ship). Many cruise lines offer variable pricing based on cabin location and type, so if cost is your focus you can definitely check for less-popular locations to get a lower price. However, if you prefer a specific location on the ship (mid-deck, lower-level cabins are the best option for those who may be prone to sea sickness), check to confirm that they cabin type you want is available in the location you desire.
- Azamara
- Oceanview: Decks 4, 6, 7
- Veranda: Decks 6, 7, 8
- Crystal
- Single or Double Guest Room with Ocean View: Decks 5, 7, 8 (single cabins are only available on Deck 7)
- Double Guest Room with Veranda: Decks 8, 9
- Virgin
- Sea View: Decks 5, 9, 10, 11, 12
- Sea Terrace: Decks 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
Amenities
In my experience, the amenities are usually the same whether you are in an ocean view or a balcony cabin. The services offered, such as room service and turndown service, are the same regardless of cabin type. Also, the features are generally the same in either an ocean view or a balcony cabin. Some of the amenities that are available in either ocean view or balcony cabins include:
- Room Service
- Turndown service with treats
- Two twin beds / one Queen size bed
- Sitting area with flat screen TV
- Refrigerator / mini bar
- Thermostat-controlled temperature
- Direct-dial telephones with voice mail
- Writing desk
- In-room safe
- Hair dryer
- USB ports
Pricing
One of the key differences between ocean view cabins and balcony cabins is the price. Many factors will affect cabin pricing, including itinerary, seasonality, availability, etc. In general, though, cabins with balconies will usually be anywhere from 105-130% of the price of an ocean view cabin.
- Balcony cabins are generally anywhere from 105% – 130% of the cost of Ocean View cabins on Azamara, Crystal, and Virgin
Is a Balcony Cabin Worth It?
Many people struggle with the question of whether a balcony cabin is worth it, because it is usually more expensive than an ocean view cabin. Having a private balcony and direct access to fresh air is definitely a plus, but depending on the type, location, and season of your cruise it may not be used much (if at all!). Also consider how much time you plan to spend in your cabin – if it is a very active itinerary with few or no sea days, your time on the ship and in your cabin will likely be limited. Finally, cost and/or location may be the defining factor for you.
- Consider the location and season of your cruise – if you are sailing during cold weather and the views will be limited, a balcony may not make sense.
- The type of itinerary may also influence your decision – an itinerary with few or no sea days may limit the amount of time you spend on the ship and in your cabin, so the balcony may get little to no use here.
- Is the price of a balcony cabin a bit out of your budget? If so, getting an ocean view cabin is a great option, as it still gives you outside views.
- Are you prone to seasickness and the only balcony cabins available are on a high deck at the extreme forward or aft of the ship? Staying in an ocean view cabin more mid-ship and on a lower deck will likely be a better option.
Common Questions
Do you feel “cooped up” in an ocean view cabin if you can’t get any fresh air?
I have never felt cooped up in an ocean view cabin. If I ever need to get any fresh air, I simply walk out to a common area to get some. Places like promenade decks, pool decks, or other exterior lounge areas are quick and easy to get to from the cabins, so it is usually just a short walk to get outside.
Are ocean view cabins easy to look into by people walking by on the promenade deck?
Yes, if you are staying in an ocean view cabin next to a promenade deck, the people walking by on the deck can usually see at least partially into your cabin. You will definitely want to close the blinds when getting dressed or doing anything you may not want others to see! But, generally speaking, most people out on the promenade deck are there to enjoy the sights of the water or are getting some exercise in, so they typically don’t bother to look into your window.
Can you leave your balcony door open all the time?
On most cruise ships, the air conditioning will automatically turn off when the balcony door is open. So, if you leave the door open for a long time, the cabin itself may become quite warm and stuffy. Also, on windy days the open balcony door will create a bit of a ‘wind tunnel’ effect, sometimes with very loud howls or screeches! Finally, if you are in an area prone to a lot of insect activity, an open balcony door will allow them to get into your cabin. So, while there is nothing technically preventing you from keeping that door open all the time, you definitely want to consider the environment and decide if that is really the best option.
Are there full size lounge chairs on balconies?
Not typically. Most standard balcony cabins have pretty small balconies, so the chairs provided are typically upright chairs and not lounge chairs. Standard layouts include two upright chairs and a small table. Balconies on suites or larger cabins will be larger, and you are more likely to find full size lounge chairs on these larger balconies.
Can I eat a meal on my balcony?
Yes, there is typically a table and two chairs on the balcony, which makes for an ideal dining spot. Whether you use the room service option or you bring a snack back to the cabin with you, the balcony is a great spot for a snack or a full meal. Just be sure to bring all items back into the cabin with you once you are done…you don’t want anything blowing over the side of the ship!
Can I use my balcony if the weather is bad?
There is technically nothing that prevents you from using a balcony at any point in a cruise, but you definitely want to use your best judgement here. On rough sea days, using a balcony is certainly not advisable. But if it’s just a bit colder than usual, or perhaps there is a small bit of rain falling, a cruise cabin balcony can still be a fantastic spot! If you expect any sort of inclement weather on your cruise, be sure to pack the appropriate gear to help keep you warm and/or dry. Most cruise cabins have extra blankets in them, which can be used to snuggle up on a chilly balcony as well!
Even More Travel Ideas
Comparing Azamara and Crystal Cruises
