Is a Balcony Cabin Worth the Extra Money? Here's What 80+ Cruises Taught Us
The balcony upgrade question comes up in nearly every cruise consultation. The honest answer depends on how you cruise, where you're going, and what matters most to your vacation experience. After sailing in every cabin type across 80+ cruises, here's Trip Sturtridge's honest take.
What You Get with a Balcony Cabin
A balcony (also called a verandah or stateroom with veranda) adds a private outdoor deck — typically 35–75 sq ft — with two chairs and a small table. You get:
- Private outdoor space to enjoy the ocean air - Natural light and fresh air without going to public areas - Views of ports and scenery from your cabin - A more spacious feeling (average 185–220 sq ft vs. 175 sq ft for ocean view) - A quiet spot for morning coffee or evening cocktails - Romantic ambiance for couples
When a Balcony Is Absolutely Worth It
**Alaska cruises:** Scenic cruising through glaciers and fjords makes a balcony worth every penny. You'll want private space to watch the landscape unfold.
**Sea day-heavy itineraries:** If your sailing has 3+ sea days, a balcony significantly increases your enjoyment.
**Couples and honeymooners:** The added intimacy and romantic setting make balconies ideal.
**Caribbean repositioning cruises:** Long sea passages are dramatically better from a private balcony.
**Anyone who values privacy:** If you enjoy quiet time without competing for deck chairs, a balcony is your sanctuary.
When You Can Skip the Balcony
**Caribbean port-intensive sailings:** If you're spending all day in ports and only sleeping in your cabin, an interior or ocean-view cabin saves money without sacrificing experience.
**Budget-conscious family trips:** The extra cost of four balcony cabins (or a large balcony family cabin) adds up quickly.
**Short 3–4 night sailings:** You'll spend so little time in your cabin that the upgrade may not be worth the premium.
**Light sleepers:** Balcony doors can let in wind and noise; interior cabins are quieter and darker for sleeping.
Balcony Upgrade Cost Reality
Balcony premium varies widely: - On short sailings: $50–$150 extra per person - On 7-night sailings: $100–$400 extra per person - On luxury or suite-level sailings: $500–$2,000+ extra per person
During Wave Season or promotional periods, balcony upgrades are sometimes offered at minimal cost — or even free. Your travel advisor can watch for these opportunities.
Is a balcony cabin worth it on a 3-night cruise?
Generally no. On a short sailing, you'll spend minimal time in your cabin, and the extra cost may not be justified. Save the balcony upgrade for longer voyages.
Is a balcony cabin worth it in the Bahamas?
If the itinerary is port-intensive with lots of beach time, an interior or ocean-view cabin works fine. If you have multiple sea days or want to watch the sunset from your room, a balcony adds real value.
Do balcony cabins get more sunlight?
Balcony cabins face varying directions depending on their location on the ship. Some face the open ocean, others face a port side. Your travel advisor can help you select a balcony with your preferred sun exposure.
Are balcony cabins safe on a cruise ship?
Yes. Cruise ship balconies have sturdy railings meeting international safety standards. Children should always be supervised, and items shouldn't be thrown overboard (it's illegal and dangerous).