When it comes to cruises, there’s one thing I’m sure of: when I ask someone what their favorite cabin is, they will almost always answer the balcony one!
But are we sure that this is always true? Are we sure that balcony cabins are always the best choice?
Today I want to write a somewhat divisive article. I have come up with 7 reasons why you should not choose a cabin with a balcony.
I’ve given these reasons a lot of thought, and I believe they’re all valid. Therefore, I encourage you to consider them, maybe they will make you rethink your decision.
The external noise
There is no debate on this point: balcony cabins are almost always noisier than inside cabins.
This is simply due to the presence of the balcony. If you leave the balcony door open and you are on some specific decks, you may hear people chattering or music coming from the pool deck.
Usually, this problem can be easily solved by closing the balcony door. They are very soundproof on modern ships although, on some older ships, I’ve encountered doors that didn’t close perfectly.
The strong wind
Strong wind is a real problem on cruises. It can be really annoying, especially when the ship is moving.
If you can’t stand the wind or for medical reasons you can’t be in windy areas, there is no point in choosing a cabin with a balcony.
If you still like a sea view, you can choose a cabin with a window. This way you can still enjoy the view without worrying about the wind.
The high price
According to our data, after analyzing about 100 cruises, balcony cabins cost between 50 percent and 60 percent more than inside cabins.
This is quite a significant price difference. Therefore, I recommend that you evaluate it well according to your needs.
Some passengers immediately aim for balcony cabins, even if they have a very limited budget. By doing so, they will not have much money for other activities or excursions.
In my opinion, it is better to save a little more on the cabin so that you can enjoy all the extra experiences during your vacation.
The safety for children
Parents traveling with young children may want to avoid the balcony cabin if they fear for their children’s safety.
Let me be clear, there are no particular risks for children in a balcony cabin.
The balcony railing is quite high on all ships, and many cruise ships have special locks to open the door that leads outside.
However, if you are a very apprehensive parent and want to enjoy your vacation without worries then do not choose this type of cabin.
The cold
If you are planning a cruise trip in winter or an itinerary to cold countries, the balcony cabin may not be the best choice.
If it is too cold, you cannot enjoy the outside of your cabin, you cannot have breakfast on the balcony, and you cannot sit to relax in the fresh air.
I personally recommend the balcony cabin in the summer and when you can enjoy the sunshine. Otherwise, it doesn’t make much sense.
Of course, it always depends on personal preference, but it’s something to consider.
The little time spent in the cabin
During my cruises, I have met passengers who spent very little time in their cabins.
In particular, a few years ago, I met a couple who would leave the room at 7 a.m. and return only at 6 p.m. to wash up and get ready for dinner.
If you are among these people, and you spend very little time in the cabin, it is quite unnecessary to book one with a balcony.
Rather save the money and spend it on something else like the spa or the many things to do on the ship.
The light
This last point is quite peculiar and I believe it applies to only a few people.
While reading an online forum, I came across a message from a person saying that he preferred interior cabins because he could only sleep completely in the dark.
When you think about it, this makes sense. Sometimes the curtains in balcony cabins can’t close perfectly and there is some glimmer of sun that tends to get in.
Consequently, if you can’t stand the sleeping mask, the only way to sleep completely in the dark is by booking an inside cabin.
To conclude
Dear cruise fans, as you have seen some valid reasons might lead people to avoid balcony cabins.
Let me know what you think in the comments! Which cabins do you prefer? Do you always book the balcony one?
