When it comes to cruising, everyone has an opinion on room location and room choice. My personal favorite way to travel on a cruise is staying in a balcony room. Most people can agree while others still need a little more convincing that spending the extra money for the balcony is worthwhile. Here are a few reasons why a balcony is a great investment.

Privacy

Yes, you can see the ocean from almost everywhere on ship, but it’s not as private as one may want. Sometimes you just want that peace and quiet time away from it all. If you are a morning person, like myself, waking up with a cup of coffee and sitting out on your balcony and taking in the sights is breathtaking. And what about a finishing off the night with a cocktail while you and significant other reminisce about your day…what more can you ask for?

Scenery

Just picture yourself traveling the Caribbean, Bahamas, or an exotic destination. While staying in a balcony room, you get to enjoy every port of arrival and departure directly. If not, you are forced to be up on deck and you don’t have the luxury of staying inside of your room. Your room location will determine what you will be able to see while in port. I typically prefer to stay port side since these rooms offer the view of the dock when departing and arriving. Aft facing balconies usually give you a better view of sunsets since your room is located on the back of the boat. Every ship is different, so it’s always a good rule of thumb to ask which way the ship with docks, so you know exactly which views you are in for.

Space

The biggest concern most have when cruising is feeling trapped like sardines inside of your “cramped” room. I have noticed that when staying in a balcony room, you feel like you have more space to walk around especially if your entire party is hanging out in the room. You actually will end up utilizing your room a lot more whereas staying in a non-balcony room, you usually only sleep in there.

Time of Day

If your sailing in an inside room, be cautious with time, there are no windows so it makes it feel like night all the time. You do not necessarily need to be staying in a balcony room to allow natural light inside, but if you decide on a ocean view room, you maybe stuck with a small port hole or a window that does not open.

Smokers

While you might think that since you are out on your own balcony at sea, you are free to smoke. This is not always the case. Most boats feature designated smoking sections and your balcony isn’t necessary one of them. Most people, as long as they are courteous, are able to get away with having one but making sure to check the rules of your ship since most have a smoking policy. Just remember not to litter your butts!

While balcony rooms can be a bit more pricey, the benefits truly offset the costs. For all of those that I have talked to, including myself, not having a balcony isn’t an option anymore. Beautiful views, privacy, and comfort are just other ways for you to experience the Leesure Lifestyle!