Whether you are taking a weekend cruise to the Bahamas or on an epic sail to the furthest destinations, there are a lot of cruisers who think booking a balcony cabin is worth it every single time.

What makes a balcony room so popular is the private space that gives a convenient means of seeing the beauty of the ocean and landscapes your ship visits. No matter where your ship takes you, being able to have a view from your own veranda really makes a difference.

As a matter of fact, balcony cabins are the most popular type of cabin you’ll find on pretty much any cruise ship, and plenty of cruise fans love these rooms too.

Although balcony rooms do come at a higher cost than interior cabins, the extra cost can be justified by the stunning experience and private comfort. If natural views and private spaces are a priority to you, a balcony room may be the best option for your cruise vacation. 

We posted a challenge to our readers on the Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook page to share with us their best balcony photo, the sort of photo that really evokes what makes this cruise ship room category so desirable.

After receiving hundreds of entries, here are the top 19 balcony photos our readers took on their Royal Caribbean cruise.

Picture from Alessandra Stover.

This fun submission shows some of the beautiful advantages of a balcony cabin. While considering the pricier balcony option, remember the beautiful sunlight and sea view you’ll have available. 

If you’re celebrating or wanting special time with your loved one, a balcony room also provides a romantic and private outdoor space for couples to enjoy. You can see the ocean, stargaze, and enjoy meals outdoors, all from the comfort of your own room. 
 

Photo from Shearin Kidd Johnson, Independence of the Seas.

This view of Perfect Day At Coco Cay is from one of the Independence of the Seas’ balcony staterooms. This balcony room allows cruisers to view their destination as the ship approaches—a fun preview of what’s ahead!

The Freedom Class Independence of the Seas boasts fifteen decks and 1918 staterooms, 724 of which are balcony options. You can guarantee a unique and beautiful balcony view on this ship, with a wide array of choices. 

Photo from Josh Overmyer, Jewel of the Seas.

This view from Jewel of the Seas reveals one of the major benefits of a balcony room: the sights of the ocean all around! Josh wrote that “this was the view I stared at all the time, so I took this photo and used it as my phone background ever since!”

If you’re going on a cruise and enjoy a beautiful sea view, a balcony room will allow you to maximize your time with visible ocean views. Especially for a shorter cruise, taking the balcony option will ensure you get your money’s worth of the water. 

Photo from Dawn Flowers Gratzke, Wonder of the Seas.

Dawn’s photo shows a loft suite on Wonder of the Seas, complete with two levels.

For larger families, or those with young children, a loft suite can provide a bigger space and a more flexible schedule. Instead of leaving the comfort of your room to explore the public deck, you can experience the ocean right outside your room. 

Families will also appreciate the separate spaces: there’s always another area available if you need some peace and quiet.

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Photo from Kelly Lene-Tarman.

Deciding between an oceanview stateroom or a balcony? Keep in mind that a balcony stateroom is typically bigger and offers a private, outdoor seating area rather than just an ocean-facing window. 

If you want an extra area to enjoy breakfast and coffee, feel the wind on your face, and actually experience the outdoors, consider booking a balcony room. 

Photo from Dana Fox, Alaska.

Photographers and nature lovers will appreciate a balcony view on beautiful natural cruises like Alaska. The closer view provides fantastic views and photo opportunities from sunrise to sunset. 

Photo from Karin Geistert Reinhart.

Planning on bringing a furry friend along? Service animals, such as Karin’s, are permitted onboard, so consider their experience in the stateroom as well. 

Pets will need more space and fresh air than a typical cabin provides. Consider booking a balcony room to make sure your pet has just as positive an experience as you do. 

Photo from Taryn Dawson.

Taryn’s photo displays another fun aspect of a balcony stateroom: the deck views. Even with a view of the ship’s deck instead of the ocean, this room still offers natural light, an extra outdoor space, and a viewpoint to people-watch and preview the ship’s activities. 

As opposed to a suite, this balcony stateroom will still have a larger space and more perks and benefits included. 

Photo from Judy Vang.

Still wondering if a balcony stateroom is worth it? You can also consider factors such as the amount of time you will spend in the room. If you think you’ll spend a lot of time in your cabin, you’ll want to invest in a more quality, enjoyable room. 

For families with small children, it could be a long task to herd enough down to a main, public deck. Napping babies will also keep you close to the bedroom while they’re asleep, leaving you wishing for an extra space to spend time in. With a balcony, you’ll have that extra space and a method of entertainment for any other impatient children.

Photo from Katie Meyers.

“Golden Girls while the sun is coming up,” Katie commented. As mentioned previously, a balcony allows you to set your own schedule when it comes to mealtimes and downtime spent out on the water. 

Traditional dining times in the main room are limited. For example, an early riser like Katie might be up as early as five A.M. But traditional breakfast doesn’t begin until 7-8 A.M. Having a balcony space gives you something to do while you wait for that traditional schedule to open up. 

Photo from Ashley Holenstein.

If you’re worried about motion sickness or seasickness at all, a balcony might be a safer option. 

Having a larger room midship minimizes the ships’ movement around you, making it feel more stable than in a smaller fore or aft room. In a balcony, you can also focus more clearly on the outdoors and the line of the horizon, keeping you stable and in sync with the ship’s movement. 

Photo from Collin Hext, Adventure of the Seas. 

This photo shows a gorgeous balcony view of Cozumel, Mexico, from a Junior Suite on Adventure of the Seas. 

The Adventure boasts fourteen decks and 1,963 ​​staterooms, 125 of which are suites. The Junior Suites on this ship are some of the smallest suites, at 277 square feet, but they are still larger than other balcony staterooms.

As the cheapest of the suites available, Junior Suites have some—but not all—perks included, such as bathrobes, expresso machines, luxury bathroom amenities, and priority boarding. 

Read more: I stayed in the cheapest cabin on Adventure of the Seas. It was small and windowless, but for $300 a night, it was a great deal. Take a look inside.

Photo from Leigh Michael.

Leigh’s submission shows an amazing view of the Sydney Opera House, another example of the many views available from a balcony stateroom.

Cruises will, of course, provide a beautiful view of the sea. But ships visiting particular sites or cities, such as Royal’s Caribbeans’ new itineraries going to Australia and New Zealand, can provide a spectacular view of classic tourist sites and city scenes. 

Photo from ​​Jana Mishelle.

Are you worried about spending extra money on excursions? With the investment in a more upgraded room, you can stay in and relax with a glass of wine or a book, all while getting a great view of the port! 

Staying in while the rest of the ship enjoys a port excursion can be a great way to enjoy some peace and quiet, especially if you have a balcony to yourself.

Read more: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

Photo from Chris Slaight.

When it comes to the best cabin locations on a cruise ship, a hump balcony is one of the best balcony options. 

The hump balcony staterooms are the cabins on the middle outer edge, whereas the line of the ship curves outward. These rooms usually have a larger balcony and more space, in addition to being more centralized to the rest of the ship. 

Photo from Sandi Harris Villano.

This submission shows another Junior Suite view, this one from the Vision of the Seas, a Vision Class cruise ship. 

The Vision Class ships are the oldest and smallest of the Royal Caribbean ships. Although they include most of the typical entertainment and amenities you would expect from a Royal Caribbean fleet, the room sizes are smaller and the activities less modern.

For example, the Junior Suites on Vision of the Seas are just 243 square feet. If you are planning a Vision Class vacation and room size is an important factor for you, consider upgrading to some of the larger rooms.

Read more: The rare cruise ship cabins that everyone wants to book immediately

Photo from Ellis Mingin, Oasis of the Seas.

As a step up from the Junior Suites, this view from a Grand Suite cabin on Oasis of the Seas shows just how big the 371 square foot room looks. 

One of the large Oasis Class ships, Oasis of the Seas boasts eighteen decks and 2,801 staterooms. In addition to the modern activities and famous entertainment available on all Oasis class ships, purchasing a Grande Suite cabin will earn you perks such as priority boarding, free luxury amenities, concierge services, access to the Suite Lounge, priority boarding, priority bookings, ship tours, VIP pool deck seating, and so much more. 

Photo from Stacy Leveille, Freedom of the Seas.

This view of Castries, St. Lucia was taken from deck ten of Freedom of the Seas, a Freedom Class ship. 

Hailing from the midsize Freedom Class ships, Freedom of the Seas has 14 decks in total, with 1,963 staterooms. Between the Freedom’s balcony options, the Deluxe is 177 square feet, while the Superior upgrades to 189 square feet. For a medium-size ship, the balcony rooms are a larger upgrade.

Read more: 10 things you should know before cruising onboard Freedom of the Seas

Photo from Scott Ciarlone.

“Love me an aft balcony!” Scott wrote. An aft balcony overlooks the back of the ship, displaying a wider view and different perspective than available from other balcony staterooms. 

The aft balconies are popular because they offer a larger balcony space and a special view of the wake of the ship as it passes through the water.

How do you pick a cabin on a Royal Caribbean ship that will be the right choice for you?

There are so many cabins you can choose from when booking a cruise, that the decision can be downright daunting. Royal Caribbean sails some of the biggest new cruise ships, and its newest ship will have 2805 rooms on just that vessel!

Besides the total amount of rooms, you also have to figure out the cabin categories.

As an example, Icon of the Seas has 28 unique cabin categories. Why so many? Primarily, Royal Caribbean wants to ensure they can offer something for everyone, and the goal is to be able to handle nearly any family onboard. Since cruisers come in all sorts of configurations, the cruise line has developed many cabin types to offer the most choices possible.

No matter which ship you choose, you'll find inexpensive windowless "inside" cabins that are small, but practical, to opulent and sprawling suites that seem more like an apartment.

In terms of cabins, Royal Caribbean has something for everyone. There are small, inside cabins that will get you on the cruise at a reasonable price to huge suites that add more benefits than you can probably use on a sailing.

Royal Caribbean cabin basics

You will find four main categories of cabins on any Royal Caribbean cruise ship: inside cabins, oceanview cabins, balcony cabins, and suites.

No matter which room you book, there is a base set of amenities any room will come with:

• Bed that can be split apart and put together to sleep at least 2 people
• Private bathroom with shower
• Vanity with mirror and chair
• Safe
• Mini-fridge
• Closet
• Television

There are more balcony cabins than ever on Royal Caribbean's newer ships because the popularity of these rooms has become enormous.  Plus, balcony cabins cost more than interior rooms, so it's a win-win for the cruise line and consumer.

No matter which ship you consider, suites are the category with the least amount of rooms available. Suites take up more space, and so there just isn't enough room to build as many.  Between the few that are available and the surging demand for suites, they are typically the first category to sell out. If you want a suite, you will want to book a cruise as early as possible.

Read more: The 5 best cabin locations on a cruise ship

Within each category of stateroom are subcategories that divide up rooms by configuration.  As an example, you will see a Superior Oceanview Balcony compared to an Oceanview Balcony.  The Superior room is larger, with more square footage than the other cabin.

There are also accessible cabins for those with mobility needs, as well as very limited cabins designed for solo cruisers. 

Inside cabins on Royal Caribbean ships

Inside cabins are attractive to anyone looking to cruise on a budget. Inside rooms are usually the least-expensive choice when booking a cabin on a Royal Caribbean ship. Compared to higher category rooms, you could save quite a substantial amount of money by staying in an inside room.

Inside staterooms are distinguished from other rooms primarily because they offer no natural view of outside the ship. These rooms have no windows or balconies.  There's just four walls.

You will also find the smallest amount of living space in an inside cabin. A regular inside cabin on Icon of the Seas measures just 156 square feet, compared to a regular balcony cabin that has 204 square feet of space, plus 50 square feet of balcony space.

The compelling reason to book an inside stateroom is for the value, since they are often the least-expensive rooms you can book and that means it is the lowest entry point to getting on the cruise.  The exact size of the room will vary depending on the class of ship you are sailing on, but inside rooms will offer the least amount of space at the least price.

Read more: I always stay in an inside cabin on a cruise ship. Here's why I actually like these rooms

Over the years, Royal Caribbean has introduced new kinds of inside staterooms that retain the basic qualities of an inside stateroom, but with a new twist.

Promenade view: Promenade view staterooms are inside staterooms that feature a bay window that overlooks the Royal Promenade.  While the room has no view outside the ship, it does provide something to look at, with great opportunities for people watching as well as a great vantage point for events on the Royal Promenade.

Another added benefit of this room category is the bowed windows offer more square footage compared to standard inside staterooms.

The exact size of Promenade stateroom varies depending on the class of ships. Voyager and Freedom class ships Promenade staterooms are 160 square feet, whereas on Oasis class ships they are 193 square feet.

Read more: Royal Caribbean ship classes ultimate guide

Virtual Balcony: One of the newest innovations to the inside stateroom is the virtual balcony stateroom, which takes a conventional inside stateroom and adds an 80-inch LED high-definition television that provides live views around the ship.

The screens are 4K ultra high definition capable screens that stretch from floor to ceiling and receive a video feed from the ship's cameras that are mounted at the stem and stern of the ship.

With virtual balcony staterooms, guests can enjoy a balcony experience without the balcony price.

Oceanview cabins on Royal Caribbean ships

The next category up from an inside cabin is an oceanview cabin, which are slightly larger and have a porthole or window to the ocean. You can't open the window or get any fresh air, but there is natural light.

Generally speaking, oceanview cabins on Royal Caribbean ships are around the same size of a balcony cabin (minus the balcony space). In fact, some oceanview cabins at the front of a ship are substantially larger than balcony rooms, because of their odd shape.

Oceanview cabins at the front are a hidden gem because of how much more space they provide. Some are categorized as family cabins, and have bunk beds for the kids, along with separate bedrooms. Given their odd shape, you may find sloping walls and even a pole in the middle of the room.

Much like the inside staterooms, oceanview cabins are on the inexpensive side and provide guests with an affordable means of being on the ship and still have a view.  Natural light is important to many guests, and the ocean view provides that.   Essentially, oceanview rooms are slightly larger inside rooms with a window.

The reason to consider an oceanview room is if a view is important to you, but the price of a higher-category stateroom is not possible. Alternatively, sometimes the price difference between an inside room and an oceanview is not too large, and someone may want to upgrade their room option at not a lot of extra cost.

There is one variation on the oceanview stateroom, which offers even more of a windowed view without the balcony.

Panoramic oceanview: Panoramic Ocean View Stateroom gives much more of a view than a traditional oceanview room, with a floor to ceiling wrap around panoramic window that is 76 inches high by 103-321 inches wide.  That is a big window.

As you might imagine, the reason to book a stateroom like this is for the amazing views without the balcony view price.  

Balcony cabins on Royal Caribbean ships

The most popular stateroom category on Royal Caribbean ships are balcony cabins because they are an affordable way to get enough living space, fresh air, and private outdoor space.

Not only do you get a larger bedroom area, but you will get your own balcony attached to your room that you can step onto and enjoy the outside views.

Having your own balcony means you have a special spot on the ship just for you to enjoy, that provides views all around the ship, as well as that terrific ocean breeze. Many cruise fans swear by a balcony for the added space, private area and ambiance that only a balcony room can provide.

A balcony cabin gets you more indoor and outdoor space, and that means more room for everyone to maneuver and makes the room feel less crowded.  Additionally, having a balcony means you have a great spot for sail away, enjoying the ocean passing by, or seeing the port you are docked in from the comfort of your stateroom.

Read more: 8 reasons to book a balcony cabin

On Oasis Class ships, Royal Caribbean created balcony cabins that face inwards, rather to the ocean.

Central Park balconies: On Oasis-class ships, Central Park balcony staterooms are available that instead of offering a balcony that overlooks the ocean, this stateroom category offers a view of the Central Park neighborhood.

The Central Park balconies offer the same fresh air and light that ocean view balconies do but with the opportunity to enjoy the ambiance of Central Park along with the people watching aspect. In addition, Central Park view balcony staterooms are often slightly cheaper than ocean balconies.

The exact size of a Central Park view stateroom with balcony is 182 square feet with a 50 square foot balcony.

Boardwalk balconies: Just like the Central Park balcony staterooms, the Boardwalk balcony staterooms trade the oceanview of a traditional balcony for a view of the Boardwalk neighborhood.

In addition to the view of the Boardwalk fun, some Boardwalk balconies can offer views of the ocean and/or the AquaTheater, depending on where your room is located.  Boardwalk balcony rooms are also usually priced less than ocean balconies.

A Boardwalk balcony room offers 182 square feet of living space, with a private balcony between 47 and 52 square feet.

Suites on Royal Caribbean ships

If you want lots of space and benefits, you'll find a wide array of suites to choose from, with some even encompassing two decks in height.

Depending on which ship you select, there are various Royal Caribbean suite perks that you could choose between. There are rooms that come with a Royal Genie, which is kind of like a butler, and they will ensure you can get a spot in any restaurant, show, or venue and skip nearly every line.

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

As you might imagine, suites will cost more than any other Royal Caribbean cabin. These rooms are designed to attract travelers who can afford to spend more, and want to pay extra to get an elevated experience that gives them certain perks that other passengers will not have access to. 

Suites offer a tremendous amount of personal space, higher-end amenities, special bonuses and exclusive access.

Royal Caribbean has a few suites that really stand out compared to other cruise lines.

Read more: 5 best cruise ship suites on Royal Caribbean

The AquaTheater suites on the Oasis Class ships are enormous suites at the back of the ship, with even larger wraparound balconies that provide an unfettered view of the AquaTheater venue below, as well as the ocean.

Loft suites are two-story cabins that configured like a mini-apartment, with soaring ceilings.

And then there's the Ultimate Family Suites and Ultimate Family Townhouse.

These over-the-top suites are built with families that want to splurge in mind. You will find an in-suite slide, leg room, cinema, play room, and an enormous amount of living space.

These family suites can sell for as much as $80,000 for a week.

From Junior Suites to Loft Suites, there are a number of options to choose from. Nearly all suites offer access to a concierge lounge and the services of the concierge host. Cabin suites usually consist of more than one room in your cabin and have the most space of any cabin.  

In addition to the impressive rooms, suite guests typically enjoy double Crown and Anchor Society points for each night of their cruise, concierge planning assistance, complimentary drinks and a private lounge, reserved seating by the pool and shows, and a whole lot more.

On Royal Caribbean's Oasis, Quantum, and Icon class cruise ships, the suite program is enhanced, and referred to as the Royal Suite Class.  Suites on these ships offer the most benefits and highest level of service, split across three tiers of benefits. 

More on picking a cruise cabin

• 8 cruise tips for first-time Royal Caribbean cruisers
• What’s included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare
• 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own
• Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• What is the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise?

Is a balcony cabin worth paying extra for on a cruise?

There are advantages and disadvantages to every choice you make, but I think a balcony cabin is indeed worth the cost in many cases.

Of course, a balcony cabin will cost more than an inside cabin, but in many cases, the price difference is not significantly more. Every dollar counts in your vacation budget, but I've found with advanced planning, you can usually get a balcony room for a reasonable upcharge compared to an inside room.

One major component to getting a good price is booking a cruise as early as possible to take advantage of lower prices. The gap seems to grow as the sail date approaches and inventory gets booked up.

For some people, even a small price difference is enough to warrant sticking with a windowless inside cabin instead.

It can be a matter of maintaining a budget, or a preference to spend the extra money it would cost to move up to a balcony on cruise extras, such as a shore excursion or spa treatment. In fact, it's hard to argue with the logic of having more money leftover for add-ons, especially if you'll get more enjoyment out of it.

Read more: The 5 best cabin locations on a cruise ship

Regardless, I came up with eight reasons the extra cost of a balcony cabin is worthwhile if you can afford it.

More living space

If you thought the first reason to book a balcony room is because of the veranda, I think that's actually secondary to the fact a balcony room is bigger than an inside room.

No matter if you are sharing your stateroom with one person or three people, every square foot of space counts and I find the more space you get with a balcony room worth the cost.

Royal Caribbean's inside cabins are around 149 square feet in side, whereas a balcony room starts at 180 square feet. That may not seem like a lot of extra space on paper, but experiencing it in person gives all the perspective you need.

Let's not forget about the extra 50 or so square feet of space you get with your balcony.

That extra space means more room to maneuver through the room and the more people in your cabin, the more it matters.

And if you happen to have connecting balcony rooms, you can often have the stateroom attendant open up the balcony divider to create a larger balcony. We often book connecting balconies when sailing with my kids, and it feels almost opulent having that large of a combined balcony.

Access to fresh air

When you think of a cruise vacation, you probably have the ocean air in mind, and a balcony cabin gives you ample access to it.

It's quite refreshing to be able to open up you balcony any time of day and get the breeze immediately. The connection to the ocean is such a critical component for many on why they enjoy to cruise.

Even when the weather may be a bit chilly, having access to the fresh ocean air is refreshing. On some ships, the balcony forms a bit of an alcove, and it protects you from the wind and allows you to enjoy the crispness of the outdoors.

I took an Alaska cruise in 2022 and stayed in an oceanview room that had large windows, but no outdoor access. I didn't think I'd mind, but I really missed the fresh air component, as well as being able to peek your head over the balcony railing and get a wider angle of views.

Beautiful sailaways & arrivals

While I enjoy a fun pool deck celebration on the first day of a cruise when the ship sails away, enjoying your ship departing and arriving from your balcony is definitely more enjoyable.

Since you have a private balcony to enjoy, you don't have to contend with anyone else to get a spot (other than your cabin mates).

More importantly, I've found that I like to take things in in spurts. Sailaway and arriving in port can sometimes take a long time, so I don't mind going out for a few minutes to see us leave shore, go back inside to do something else, and return outside when there's something more scenic to take in.

In certain ports, the arrival and departure is more impressive.  This includes San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tampa, Florida, and New Orleans, Louisiana. Because there's more to see in these ports, it makes being able to see it easily more important.

Taking a seat in a chair and watching the world go by is a big reason why I enjoy being in a balcony cabin.

A private retreat

Besides what you can see from your balcony, I really enjoy having the outdoor space as simply a place outside to be.

My wife will grab her book and sit on the balcony and read. I prefer to take my laptop outside and write blog posts while on the balcony. Unlike the pool deck, it's quiet on a balcony, and the ocean waves are the perfect background noise.

While you might still hear other passengers talking on their balcony, I've found it serene enough on a balcony to make it noticeably more relaxing than the pool deck.

Piggybacking on the sailaway rationale earlier in this post, not having to worry about finding a spot.

Better cabin locations

This is a generalization, but I prefer the cabin placement of a balcony compared to inside rooms.

When I book a cruise, I always ask my travel agent for a cabin near an elevator bank for the convenience of being able to quickly get to and from my room. You'll find plenty of balcony cabins right off the forward or aft elevator banks, and they're usually just a quick turn to get to.

You'll find inside cabins on the same hallway, but they tend to be further down the hall.  Some inside cabins loop back on an internal hallway. Not a big deal, but most cruise fans will advocate choosing a stateroom midship, and that's where you'll find lots of balcony rooms.

Read more: Royal Caribbean cabins to avoid

The views

There are certain itineraries where a balcony room cost is justified just for the views you can enjoy.

If you ever take an Alaska cruise or a Norwegian fjord cruise, it's worth spending extra on a balcony room just to be able to make it easier to see the outdoors.

I took a solo cruise to Norway in 2023 and booked a balcony cabin because I wanted to ensure I did not miss any of the beautiful scenery. Usually when I cruise solo I just book an inside room because a balcony seems unnecessary, but being able to see the beautiful scenery from the comfort of my room was such a nice treat.

When something caught my attention, or I simply wanted to peek outside, it was so convenient to go out and get a view from my balcony. Afterall, you never know what you might be able to spot from a cruise ship on these kind of cruises.

Just as important as the views of the mountains or ocean are wildlife spotting opportunities. With a balcony, it is so much easier to see passing wildlife than even an oceanview cabin. Because you can peer over and around your balcony railing, you'll be able to see more around you.  Quite often dolphins or whales are just below to see.

Eating on your balcony

A vastly underrated perk of staying in a balcony room is you can have a snack or meal on your balcony.

Whether you bring food back to your room, or order room service, you can enjoy it on your balcony.

Having your morning coffee while sitting on your balcony is something I will never tire of, and something I can never replicate at home.

If you order room service, you can have the crew member set up your meal on your balcony.  There's a table on every balcony to put the food on, and with the ocean breeze and sound of the waves, it's surreal to enjoy. I'd recommend everyone try this at least once, because eating on your balcony is another fantastic reason to book a balcony.

Being able to check the weather

This may not seem like a big deal, but when I'm not in a balcony room, I always regret not being able to easily check the weather.

Royal Caribbean has a television channel with the temperature and even a view from the bridge, but being able to step out on your balcony and feel exactly how hot or cold it is, as well as if it's muggy, windy, or raining makes a big difference.

Later in the day, you might want to see what it feels like when preparing for dinner too.

Having a balcony to easily get out and experience the weather conditions for yourself helps every time.

What to think about if a balcony cabin cost is worth it

Depending on how long your cruise is, the decision to get a balcony may be more important.

On shorter sailings, where the amount of overall time you have on the cruise limited, you may find a balcony unnecessary since there is not much to enjoy it. 

However, if your cruise is 7-nights or longer, that provides significantly more time to relax and enjoy the private balcony area, especially on sea days.

Part of the decision is to determine what your plans are for the cruise and how much you plan on taking advantage of the room.

Royal Caribbean ships offer an incredible amount of activities, places to dine, and things to do onboard that you may not find much reason to stay in your stateroom, balcony or not. For some cruisers, a cabin is where you sleep, shower, and not much else.

While rock climbing walls, the casino, water slides and other activities are compelling options for some, other guests know they prefer to enjoy the weather from the comfort of their balcony. Book readers often cite having a balcony as a favorite activity.

Read more: Inside cabin vs. balcony room on a cruise ship

Conclusion

Ultimately, a balcony cabin will almost certainly cost more than an oceanview or windowless "inside" cabin, but I think the cost is justified in so many cases.

New cruisers may see a balcony room as a good investment and opportunity to try cruising in an ideal environment.

Someone who been on multiple cruises and wants to book more cruises may look at this conundrum as an opportunity to save money for a future cruise and book an interior stateroom.  Plus, they have already experienced a balcony cabin in the past.

Having access to a balcony and the associated benefits it brings makes the decision to splurge on a balcony worth it.

Planning a cruise? Start here:

• 8 cruise tips for first-time Royal Caribbean cruisers
• What’s included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare
• 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own
• Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• What is the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise?

Is it worth spending extra on a nicer cruise cabin? Many people planning a cruise have to debate if it's worth it to book an inside cabin or a balcony cabin. The choice isn't always simple.

If you're on a tight budget, an inside cabin is certainly a good choice. These cabins come in at the lowest price, but still include access to the same amenities around the cruise ship as someone in a balcony cabin.  However, will a room without any natural light or views be satisfactory?

Balcony cabins are probably the most popular type of cruise ship cabin because they offer more living space than interior rooms, and have a private veranda that guests can use all day and night. In many cases, these rooms are affordable for most budgets and not nearly as expensive as a suite. But you'll still spend considerably more for a balcony than an inside room, so is spending extra worth it?

If you're considering which type of accommodation to book, here's what you need to know to make the choice between a more expensive balcony cabin and a windowless inside room.

What are the differences between an inside and balcony cabin?

A balcony room will be larger, and that means more living space both inside the room and on the balcony itself.

In addition, a balcony room will have natural light, whereas inside rooms have no windows or doors to an outside view. Moreover, there's no fresh air in an inside cabin. The only illumination in an inside room is from the lights.

Most inside and balcony categories are designed for double occupancy, although you can find some variations that can accommodate up to four passengers. You'll find in either room two twin beds that can convert into one king size bed, a vanity area with mirror and chair, and a private bathroom. There's usually a sofa or love seat as well in the room. Rooms that can sleep more than two will likely have pullman beds that drop down from the wall or ceiling.

You can also expect to find a television, closet, minifridge, safe, and hair dryer in both rooms.

Cost

It should come as no surprise that interior staterooms are usually cheaper than balcony staterooms.  The added room size, balcony and view of a balcony come with a higher cost.  The thing is, how much more expensive can vary.

The price gap between an interior stateroom and a balcony will vary from ship to ship and sailing to sailing.  Sometimes it is measured in the thousands of dollars, and other times it is just a few hundred (or less).

When considering the price difference, one should look at the nightly price and what that gets you.  Nearly everyone that books a Royal Caribbean cruise is on some sort of budget, so even if they want to book a balcony stateroom, it may not be financially viable.  It is important to at least consider the options because there are many scenarios in which the difference in price is quite low.

Often inside staterooms are the least expensive option, which means guests can spend less money on their cruise vacation or have more money to spend during the cruise on things like drinks, shore excursions, specialty restaurants or anything else for sale.

The difference in price will depend on factors like itinerary (balconies on Alaska itineraries are more expensive than Caribbean itineraries), time of year (peak vs low season) and ship class (newer ships have more balconies, so more supply).

Living space

Balcony staterooms are significantly larger than interior staterooms. As an example, on Allure of the Seas a standard interior stateroom offers 150-172 square feet of space, whereas a Superior Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony comes in at 182 square feet, plus a 53 square foot balcony.

Room size is hard to quantify in a blog post, but every extra foot you have of living space does make a difference and it becomes noticeable quickly. It all adds up to more room for everyone to maneuver in and makes the entire experience less crowded.

Beyond the size difference, balcony staterooms have natural light, which makes the room feel less dark and gloomy.  You also get fantastic views of the ocean and ports you are visiting.  

Even the most ardent interior stateroom fan will be hard-pressed to debate the virtues of an interior stateroom over a balcony.  Personally, I think the best part of an interior room is the fact it can get pitch dark, which makes for excellent sleeping conditions.

Is it important to book a balcony on certain sailings?

While it's always nice to have a balcony cabin on any sailing, certain itineraries might lend themselves more to a balcony.

On a shorter cruise, an inside cabin is more than satisfactory given how limited your time onboard is and how likely it is you'll spend more time on the pool deck or around the ship enjoying everything there is to do.  On these cruises, people end up just using their room for sleeping and changing clothes.

In fact, if you're the type of person that spends most of their time on a cruise out and about, not having access to your own veranda probably won't matter since you won't be in the room that much. Plus, there's plenty of places on public decks to take in the views, sunsets, and ocean breeze. The extra money you would have spent on a balcony could be reallocated towards a drink package or specialty restaurant.

However, if you're going to take a longer cruise with more sea days (and think you might spend time in your cabin during the cruise), then you'll want the view and extra space that comes with a balcony room. On Alaska or Mediterranean itineraries, it's great to be able to take in the scenic views without having to run upstairs to the pool deck.

In fact, cruises that take you on more scenic journeys where you can see glaciers or fjords are when spending extra for a balcony cabin is more important.

Having your own balcony is really nice when you can sit in a chair and read a book, have your room service delivered to the veranda, or enjoying sail away.

Should the amount of people in your cabin determine which cabin I choose?

The more people you are sailing with, having enough space makes a difference in the room you book.

Both types of room are large enough to fit everyone, but on a longer sailing, being in an inside room could be more problematic. On short cruises, there's more than enough space for two people in an inside room considering how busy you'll be around the ship and on shore. On a longer cruise, a balcony could be more useful to have time away from the public decks.

Sharing a standard inside cabin for families can be an issue because of how small those rooms will feel. You may determine that a larger room that costs extra is worthwhile considering you'll also get additional beds and more space.

If you're cruising with kids, the extra space from a balcony room really pays off. It's great to have the outdoor balcony as a place to go to while kids are inside.

For someone cruising solo, the decision between a balcony or inside cabin comes down to cost. You'll pay double due to the single supplement fee regardless of which room you book (although some ships have cabins designed for solo cruisers). Depending on your budget, the extra cost could dictate which option you can afford.

Advantages of an inside cabin vs. a balcony cabin

People that prefer inside cabins usually talk about how much better the sleep can be in an inside cabin.

Sleeping in a pitch-black room of an interior stateroom means you won't be woken up by the sun. Many of us go on vacation to catch up on sleep and the notion of "quality of sleep" really means something when you avoid getting woken up by natural light entering the room. This is a good reminder to bring an alarm clock with you because you won't know what time it is when waking up.

Something else to think about is if you are prone to motion sickness. If the seas start getting rough, having access to fresh air and being able to see the horizon can help substantially in feeling better. While you could go up to a public deck and get the same thing, many people prefer the comfort of being in their own bed (especially if you want to sleep off the feeling a bit). In this case, spending extra on a balcony cabin may be worthwhile.

What are the best inside cabins?

In addition to the run-of-the-mill inside cabins that make up most of the cabins on a Royal Caribbean ship, here are a few variations worth considering.

A fun inside room upgrade is a virtual balcony room, which is an inside stateroom with a 80-inch LED television that provides live high-definition views from outside the cruise ship, right into your stateroom.

On Icon of the Seas, there is a new type of interior cabin you might be interested in.

The Interior Plus room is an inside room that doesn't compromise on space. It comes with 157 square feet of space, and that includes much more storage space.

What are the best balcony cabins?

Because balcony cabins are so popular, Royal Caribbean has quite a few balcony choices beyond a standard oceanview balcony.

There are balcony staterooms that do not face the ocean, but instead offer views of the Boardwalk and Central Park neighborhoods. These balcony staterooms have the same balcony experience of ocean-facing balconies, but often at a discounted price and perfect for people watching.

Another "secret" balcony choice among people that cruise a lot are the aft balconies.

Located on the back of the ship, these rooms lack the cookie-cutter design most balcony cabins have and tend to be elongated or oddly shaped, providing extra-large verandas. Aft balcony cabins are a great choice when you want more space inside and out.

Another option if you want a larger balcony space is a hump balcony, which is a fan-generated term for balcony rooms located on the ship's outward bulges. Cabins located where the ship begins to jut out often have extra-large balconies to accommodate the curve or angle of the ship’s superstructure.  To find these balcony rooms, look at the deck plans and you’ll see where these special balcony cabins are located. 

Conclusion

Depending on how you vacation, the choice of cabin may not matter much. Those that prioritize being out and about to enjoy their trip may prefer to save money on cruise ship extras rather than use that money for a nicer cabin.  In that case, an inside cabin may be the way to go.

However, if you prefer to have the views that only a private balcony can provide (along with the seclusion), booking a balcony cabin will be a better choice.

In addition, if you have more than two people in your group, a balcony would be a better choice for the additional space it provides. A balcony will cost more, but if you're flexible with your travel dates and where you sail, there are deals to be found on balcony cabins that will be less expensive.

Planning a cruise? Start here:

• 8 cruise tips for first-time Royal Caribbean cruisers
• What’s included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare
• 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own
• Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• What is the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise?

Cruise ship cabins usually fall into four main categories, but some ships feature unique variations that set them apart from the standard options.

While most balcony and inside cabins share similar designs, certain ships offer exclusive cabin layouts tailored to fit the ship's specific design. These distinctive cabins have gained popularity among frequent cruisers due to their extra space, special perks, or unique benefits not typically found in standard rooms.

These extraordinary cabin layouts have become sort of a hidden gem, known only to insiders, and they tend to sell out quickly. It's akin to a "secret menu" at a restaurant that attracts those in the know.

Whether you're interested in booking one of these cabins for yourself or simply curious about their offerings, let's explore a few rare cruise ship cabins that stand out from the rest and are in high demand.

Sky Junior Suite

As soon as Royal Caribbean announced an upgraded Junior Suite with better suite perks, it got a lot of attention.

Located in Suite Neighborhood on Icon of the Seas, this is the first Junior Suite that has Sky Class benefits.

Sky Junior Suite benefits include Suite Neighborhood access, all-day dining at two suites-only restaurants, free wifi, and concierge service.

Sky Junior Suites are only available on Icon Class cruise ships, and there are only 8 of them on each ship.

Ultimate Family Suite

Believe it or not, there is a huge amount of demand for one of Royal Caribbean's most expensive suites.

As an example, the Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas is going for an average price of $80,000 and it's completely sold out of every sailing in 2024.

This cabin is a 1,772-square-foot mega suite that will be three decks high and sleep up to eight people. There's just one on Icon of the Seas.

It features an in-suite slide, movie-viewing room, karaoke machine and a "backyard" with a ping pong table, outdoor seating and a white picket fence leading directly to the Surfside area.

It's super expensive and super in-demand.

Solo cabins

On some Royal Caribbean cruise ships, there are a few staterooms meant for someone traveling by themselves.

These studio staterooms are smaller than a traditional cabin, but they have just enough space for one person. Best yet, they do not get charged the single supplement fee.

The single supplement fee is traditionally charged to someone booking a cruise alone, because cabin pricing is based on double occupancy,

When Royal Caribbean added these rooms, they designed them to be respective of the ship's business model and this means solo cruisers do not have to pay double the cost of what the cruise should be.

Depending on the ship, there could be as few as two studio rooms, or as much as a dozen.

You can view a list of which ships have studio cabins and if you want one, book it early.

Hump balconies

Most balcony cabins across the fleet look the same, but you might be able to get a larger balcony if your room is positioned perfectly.

The so-called "hump" balcony cabins are the rooms on the outwards part of the curvy outline of the ship.  If you look at a deck plan, you'll notice around mid-ship, the hull design jets outward. 

On many ships, balcony cabins in these areas are significantly larger than other balcony cabins.  And usually the price is the same.

You'll find hump balcony rooms with massive balconies on Radiance Class, Voyager, Freedom, Oasis or Quantum, but look closely at the deck plan to see which balconies are larger.

Aft balconies

Similar to the aforementioned hump balcony rooms, some ships have rather large balcony rooms on the back of the ship.

There are aft balcony rooms on every Royal Caribbean ship, but some of the rear-facing cabins on Vision Class, Radiance Class, and Freedom Class cruise ships have very large balcony space.

This means you not only get an interesting vantage point to enjoy, but much more living space outdoors.

People that cruise a lot will book up the aft balcony cabins on an Alaska cruise for the viewing opportunities.

Four Bedroom Family Suite

If you have a big family, you might be eyeing one of the biggest suites available on any Royal Caribbean ship.

This is one of the best kept secrets within the Royal Caribbean fleet, because you can get 4 separate bedrooms and 5 different sleeping areas. And it comes with the Star Class benefits, such as a Royal Genie.

The Four Bedroom Family Suite is available on Symphony, Harmony, and Liberty of the Seas, formerly known as the Presidential Suite on some ships. 

Surprisingly, some cruisers have found that off-season sailings, combined with certain sales and promotions, can make the Villa Suite pretty affordable. Some have found the sailings for as little as $1,000 per person, which is extremely affordable for a Star Class Royal Suite.

Extra large Central Park Balcony rooms

Ever since I learned about the handful of Central Park balcony rooms on Oasis Class ships, I always look to book these first.

There are two Central Park balcony rooms on each deck that have almost double width balconies for the same cost as other Central Park balcony staterooms.

The cabin numbers are on decks 10, 11 and 12:

• 10229
• 10629
• 11229
• 11629
• 12229
• 12629

Why do these rooms have extra space? There's no actual cabin next door because the area is used by Royal Caribbean for something else.

Having that extra balcony space is a very nice benefit during your sailing.

Family cabins

If you have two or three kids with you, it could be a great idea to try out one of the family oceanview and family inside cabins available on select ships.

While these cabins don't have a balcony, they do offer a ton of living space.

First and foremost, these cabins offer a bedroom for the parents, and either an additional bedroom for the kids, or a nook with bunk beds for the kids.

There's also two bathrooms, which can be a godsend for parents sailing with older kids.

These cabins are typically located at the very front or very rear of the ship and offer a ton of living space, meant to be shared by families of 4 or more guests. 

Family rooms are cheaper than a suite and in many cases offers more space.

I sailed onboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas and booked an interior cabin, which was the cheapest available option. 

Measuring 139,999 gross registered tons, Navigator of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world when launched in 2002.  

In early 2019, she completed a $115 amplification, adding new dining venues, water slides, activities, and more that are round on newer ships in the fleet. 

Today, Navigator is the only Royal Caribbean ship deployed out of Los Angeles, operating 3-, 4-, and 7-night cruises to Baja California and the Mexican Riviera. 

In mid-June, I went on a 7-night cruise that visited Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta and paid a little over $2,280 for two people to stay in an interior stateroom, including port fees and gratuities. This broke down to $1,140 each, or about $162 per night, per person.

To save a little extra money, I chose a guarantee rate, so I was not assigned my cabin until closer to the sail date. 

Not only was this my first time on Navigator of the Seas, it was my first-ever cruise on a Voyager Class ship! Since this was going to be the oldest Royal Caribbean ship that I had ever sailed on, I was interested to see the condition of cabins that were over twenty-years-old!

The first thing I noticed upon walking into my stateroom was that there was a small loveseat that was not pushed up against one side of the wall. Instead, it stuck out in the already tight walkway of the 160 square foot cabin. I am glad that I had the beds separated, as I feel like the floor space would've been minimal if they were pushed together!

The length of the loveseat exceeded the length of the wall, meaning that even if we wanted to try to rearrange the layout, it would have been impossible. 

Overall, I appreciated the lighter decor compared to the dark greens found in most staterooms on Freedom Class ships. It made the room feel newer than cabins I have stayed in on both Liberty and Freedom of the Seas. 

Beside of each bed was a small nightstand that had a single drawer with additional storage space underneath. 

While there were no outlets beside of the beds, there were two reading lights. Had the beds been pushed together, the nightstands would've been directly underneath them, rather than on the center of the wall.  

The only two American outlets were located on the vanity. There was one additional European plug; however, neither my travel companion nor myself had an adapter. Thankfully, she brought a cruise line approved power strip, so we had access to multiple USB ports through a single outlet. 

Since the plugs are located far away from the bed, I recommend bringing a longer cord, so you are able to use the device from bed! 

The vanity area itself had plenty of storage, with nine drawers and two cabinets "hidden" behind the mirror. Above the television was the safe and another larger cabinet.

Stateroom mini-fridges are hit or miss in that some keep your beverages colder than others. While this was not the strongest mini-fridge I have had while on a cruise, it kept a couple bottles of water cool. 

The bathroom in my inside cabin was exactly what I expected. Although it was dated, it had everything that was necessary.

There were two cups attached to the backsplash, and between the shelves behind the mirror and the large shelf underneath the sink, there was enough space to hold all of our toiletries, makeup, and hair products.

As someone who cruisers frequently, I was not surprised by the size of the shower; however, it was my travel companions first-ever cruise, and she could not get over how small showers are on ships!

In terms of closet space, there were plenty of hangers for both of us to hang everything that needed to be hung. That, coupled with the shelving, meant there was enough space to unpack a week's worth of clothes. Had the safe been in the closet like on other ships, we would have had one less shelf to use. 

My stateroom (#8447) was located on Deck 8 in the forward of the ship. We loved the location because it was not a far walk from the elevator bank.

Plus, it was only three decks above the Royal Promenade, making our morning coffee commute relatively painless! Three decks above us was the pool deck, so we did not have to rely on elevators much at all. 

While I am still a fan of the larger Royal Caribbean ships, I wouldn't hesitate to book another cruise on a Voyager Class ship, especially if the ports of call were places I had never visited before, such as those in the Mexican Riviera! 

I sailed onboard Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas and booked the cheapest stateroom possible. 

Making her launch in 2006, Freedom of the Seas is the namesake ship of the Freedom Class ship. When she debuted, she became the largest cruise ship in the world, a title that Royal Caribbean ships have held ever since.  

In early 2020, she received $116 million in upgrades through Royal Caribbean's Royal Amplification program, during which she got the Perfect Storm water slide duo, upgraded resort-style Caribbean pool deck, Splashway Bay, and new dining venues, such as an enormous Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, and El Loco Fresh. 

During a recent 4-night cruise to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, I paid a little over $1,500, including port fees and gratuities, for a guaranteed inside stateroom, meaning that I was not immediately assigned my exact cabin.  

If you're wondering why so much for an inside room, there's two reasons.

First, this was a holiday sailing over the very popular July 4th holiday. Cruises over a holiday will always cost more due to higher demand.

Second, I booked this cruise just a month before the sailing.  I booked it on June 2, 2023 for an embarkation date of July 3, 2023. Booking a last-minute sailing doesn't necessarily mean a deal.

Earlier this year, I sailed onboard Liberty of the Seas and was disappointed in the overall shape that my interior cabin was in-- it definitely needed some tending to! 

I was interested to see how my experience onboard an older Freedom Class vessel would be and was pleased to find that this cabin was in much better condition. 

As soon as I walked in, I noticed that the layout was extremely similar to that on Liberty, with the small loveseat pushed against the right wall. 

My cabin measured close to 150 square feet, which is the average size of most interior cabins across their fleet. 

Since I was sailing alone, I decided to keep the two beds pushed together. If you are traveling with friends and family, you might want to separate them into two twin-sized beds to help maximize the limited floor space.  

Beside the bed there were two nightstands. Even though the stateroom's phone was sitting on top of one, there was enough space for my glasses and a glass of water at night. 

Above each nightstand was a lamp attached to the wall and reading light. 

The desk area felt spacious with more than enough storage, especially considering that there were hidden shelves behind the mirrors on the left and right. 

One thing I have learned to be prepared for on older ships is the lack of available outlets, so that did not come as a surprise to me on Freedom of the Seas. 

There were no outlets or USB plugs beside of the bed. There were two American outlets, as well as one European plug, located at the desk. 

The cabin also came equipped with a mini-fridge. There was a single adjustable shelf inside that could be moved according to your preferences, and while I only used it once, it kept my beverage cool. 

Immediately after entering the cabin, you will find a closet on the right. Inside, there were plenty of shelves and hangers. Even if I was sailing with another guest, I do not think we would have struggled unpacking, especially since this was only a 4-night cruise. 

The safe was also located inside of the closet. On a recent cruise onboard Navigator of the Seas, it was in a shelf above the television. 

The bathroom inside of my stateroom was as I expected: a small, standard cruise ship bathroom. There were a few signs of wear and tear, especially along the top border of the mirror; however, it was minor. 

Compared to newer ships, such as Symphony of the Seas, the sink is located in the middle of the vanity, rather than to one side. This means that there is available storage space on both sides of the sink. Plus, the vanity tends to be wider, too. 

There was more storage underneath the sink, and this is where I kept my cosmetics bag and hair straightener. On the back of the door were two hooks to hang items like towels and wet swimsuits. 

One thing that pleasantly surprised me was the water pressure, both in the shower and the sink! It was so strong that I had to be careful turning the sink on. 

In terms of location, my cabin (#8677) was situated at the aft of the ship on Deck 8. While I enjoyed being able to walk three decks to reach either the pool deck or Royal Promenade, I wish it had been more centrally located. 

Overall, I was happy with my stateroom onboard Freedom of the Seas.It was cozy and a comfortable place to return to each evening. I had a fantastic stateroom attendant, which always makes the experience better, too.  

When booking a cruise vacation, you are faced with the decision of what stateroom category you would like to stay in at the time of booking. 

The cabin that you book will impact your cruising experience, whether it is an interior stateroom to help save money to allocate towards other incidentals or splurging on a suite for an upgraded cruising experience.  

Royal Caribbean's newest Oasis Class ship, Utopia of the Seas, offers guests a wide variety of staterooms to choose from, including larger interior cabins and brand-new suites. 

Overall, Utopia of the Seas will have the same staterooms that are found on Wonder of the Seas, with the addition of three new categories and a few other enchantments. 

Here is a breakdown of all the cabin options onboard Utopia of the Seas to help you make the best decision.

Related: Your really dumb cruise ship cabin questions answered

Standard staterooms

Interior cabins

The cheapest accommodations onboard any cruise ship are interior staterooms with no windows. Utopia of the Seas, however, will debut a new category of interior stateroom. Rather than having a rectangular shape, these cabins will be square to allow for more floor space. 

And as always with Oasis Class ships, you may select interior rooms with a window that overlook the Royal Promenade, Central Park, or Boardwalk. Note that all with a view of Central Park will be located on Deck 9 mid-ship, while those overlooking the Royal Promenade are located on Deck 7. 

These staterooms range from 172 square feet for a standard interior to 199 square feet for those with a view of Central Park. 

Wonder of the Seas was the first Oasis Class ship to include virtual balconies off of the bat; they were added during amplifications to other ships. Like Wonder, Utopia will have virtual balconies. These staterooms include 80-inch LED televisions that provide live HD views from outside the cruise ship, so while you may not have a window or sliding door to allow fresh air to flow into your room, you will be able to see what is going on outside!

Ocean view cabins

Ocean view cabins do not have any direct access to the outdoors like balcony staterooms do; however, you will be able to wake up each morning to natural light! When deciding between an interior and ocean view, this is a selling point for many people.

At 179 square feet, they are larger than the basic interior cabins. Plus, some feature a forward facing view of the ship overlooking the helipad on higher decks.

Balcony cabins

Oasis Class ships were the first cruise ships in the world to feature interior facing balconies, meaning that you could book a cabin with a balcony facing the ocean or one of the interior neighborhoods. These staterooms will return on Utopia of the Seas! 

All balcony cabins have 182 square feet of interior space, as well as 50 square feet of balcony space. Unless, that is, you book a Central Park balcony. With 52 square feet of balcony, they are slightly larger than Boardwalk and ocean view balcony staterooms. 

Likewise, ocean view staterooms with large balconies have more space outdoors, with a balcony of 80 square feet. 

Suites

Sea Class

As with other ships with the Royal Suite Class, the only suites included in the Sea Class are standard Junior Suites. These tend to be the smallest suite options and come with fewer perks than suites in higher tiers.

You, for instance, will not be able to access Coastal Kitchen for breakfast or lunch. Likewise, wi-fi will be an additional expense, and you will not be able to utilize the concierge service. 

One of the primary benefits is the additional living space, as these suites are 287 square feet with an additional 80 square feet of balcony. And, of course, they are cheaper than other Royal Suites. 

Related: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Sky Class

The new Sky Junior Suite will be similar to standard Junior Suites; however, those staying in these specific suites will receive Sky Tier benefits, meaning that they will have access to the Suite neighborhood, as well as dining at Coastal Kitchen any time of day and complimentary wi-fi, among other perks. 

Other Sky Class suites include Grand Suites, Owners Suites, Crown Loft Suites, and One-Bedroom AquaTheater Suites.

The total square footage of these suites ranges, as One-Bedroom Grand Suites clock in around 371 square feet, while One-Bedroom AquaTheater Suites are a little over 600 square feet.  

Related: 10 things to know about Sky Class suites on Royal Caribbean

Star Class

Suites within the Star Class are the only ones to include a Royal Genie, who serve as personal butlers and concierges for the duration of your cruise. In fact, their services begin prior to your vacation, as they can help arrange specialty dining reservations, entertainment seating, and shore excursions. This, among other benefits, is what makes this suite tier a costly investment. 

Solarium Suites are brand-new to Royal Caribbean and are only available on Utopia of the Seas. Each of the two suites will be located above the bridge wings on the port and starboard side of the ship on Deck 14. The stateroom numbers are 14130 and 14530. 

The panoramic windows will offer guests sweeping 280 degree views of the ocean from the large living space.

And while neither suite will have a balcony, it will offer the infinite balcony technology introduced on Icon of the Seas. With the push of a single button, the windows will lower to provide fresh air!

The cruise line is also bringing back the Royal Loft Suite, Ultimate Family Suite for up to ten guests, and Two-Bedroom AquaTheater Suite. These are some of the most luxurious and fun suites available on any cruise ship. Who wouldn't want to watch the AquaTheater show from the comfort of their own balcony or play a game of ping pong in one of the most colorful and kid-friendly suites at sea? 

Note that the Royal Loft Suite will be a bit different than on Wonder of the Seas. Outside on the balcony, guests will find a brand-new outdoor shower. Plus, the primary bathroom will have a spa tub. In terms of square footage, though, you can expect to still over 1,500 square feet of living space. 

And if booking the Ultimate Family Suite is on your bucket list, you should plan on booking far in advance. Since there is only one of these suites onboard the entire ship, they tend to go quickly, despite the large price tag. 

What are the benefits to each Royal Suite Class?

Not all suites are created equally, both in terms of design and perks. If you book a standard Junior Suite, you may be disappointed when you board and discover that you have a limited number of benefits compared to higher tiered -- and more expensive -- suites. 

Star Class Benefits

• Complimentary gratuities and internet
• Expedited embarkation and disembarkation
• Reserved premium seats in select entertainment venues, as well as priority entrance to many onboard activities
• Access to Suite Lounge and Suite Sun Deck
• Royal Genie service
• All-day access (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to Coastal Kitchen
• Complimentary specialty restaurants, Deluxe Beverage Package and/or Refreshment Package
• Still and sparkling water replenished daily
• Complimentary minibar stocked with Coca-Cola, beverages, and water
• Complimentary laundry and pressing services
• Luxury mattress, pillows, and bathroom amenities
• Frette linens
• Royal Caribbean plush bathrobes for use onboard
• Lavazza Espresso coffee maker

Sky Class Benefits

• Concierge service
• All-day access to Coastal Kitchen (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Specialty bottled water upon arrival
• Complimentary internet 
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation
• Priority dining reservations
• Access to Suite Lounge and Suite Sun Deck
• Royal Caribbean plush bathrobes for use onboard
• Luxury pillow top mattress and bathroom amenities
• Lavazza Espresso coffee maker

Sea Class Benefits

• Dinner at Coastal Kitchen based on availability
• Royal Caribbean bathrobes for use onboard
• Luxury pillow top mattress and bathroom amenities
• Lavazza Espresso coffee maker

When Oasis of the Seas launched in 2009, it was the first time a cruise ship had ever had interior facing balconies. This increased the total number of balcony cabins available for booking on any given sailing. 

In addition to the standard ocean view balconies, Royal Caribbean added cabins that overlook the two open-air neighborhoods: Central Park and the Boardwalk. 

Other than the view, they are identical to traditional balcony staterooms. Often, they are cheaper, meaning that you can still experience having your own personal outdoor verandah at a lower price, allowing you to allocate additional money towards other incidentals. 

For some, it may make more sense to stay in a cheaper cabin if that means you will be able to purchase experiences to enhance your overall vacation, like specialty dining meals, shore excursions, and more. 

Here's a breakdown of Boardwalk and Central Park balconies. 

Related: Guide to balcony staterooms on Royal Caribbean

Stateroom features

Until Icon of the Seas launches in 2024, interior balconies can only be found on Oasis Class ships. You will not have the option when looking at other classes, such as Voyager and Freedom. 

Every balcony cabin comes with the same interior features: two twin beds that can convert to a queen, vanity area, sofa, television, minibar, and, of course, the balcony furniture. 

They are all about the same size, too, measuring roughly 180 square feet with a 50 square food balcony. 

The most notable differences are the view and location.  If you want to look at the ever-changing scenery, you will want to make sure that you book an ocean view balcony. 

Related: Everything about Royal Caribbean's Central Park View Balcony Staterooms

If, however, you are looking to save some money, Boardwalk and Central Park staterooms are great options. Compared to ocean view balconies, they are less windy and each offer a distinct experience. 

A cabin overlooking the Boardwalk means that you will be able to view the AquaTheater.

Depending on where your stateroom is located, you might have a prime viewing spot, especially if it is closer to the back of the ship. Plus, due to the neighborhood's open concept, Boardwalk staterooms may include an ocean view, allowing you to soak up some wake views from the comfort of your cabin. 

Central Park staterooms offer a more tranquil vibe, as they overlook the lush garden.

This neighborhood is also home to many specialty restaurants, and it boasts a more relaxed environment at night, unlike the Boardwalk, which is more lively at night. You will find people dressed up to enjoy dinner at Chops or listen to live music outdoors. 

Related: Are Boardwalk balcony cabins too loud?

Central Park is located midship on Deck 8, meaning that all balconies overlooking the neighborhood are on Deck 10 and higher; Deck 9 is where you will find staterooms with picture windows. 

The Boardwalk can be found at the aft of the ship on Deck 6, with balcony cabins starting on Deck 8. 

Related: What is the best location on a cruise ship?

If you have a preference in regard to midship or aft, Central Park staterooms are located closer to the middle of the ship, while Boardwalk cabins are located further back. 

Is privacy a concern?

When you book a Central Park or Boardwalk stateroom, the balcony is visible by everyone in the neighborhood, as well as those staying across on the opposite side of the ship, meaning that you will not have much (if any) privacy when sitting outside. 

When getting ready in the morning, it is best to keep the curtain closed to avoid having someone peek into your room while you are changing. 

If you are someone who enjoys people watching, these cabins are great options. 

Pricing

The cost of a cruise varies on multiple different factors, such as time of year, length, and ship's age.

A Boardwalk stateroom on a cruise on Wonder of the Seas in July will be more expensive than a Boardwalk cabin onboard a voyage on Allure of the Seas departing in October.

Looking at Royal Caribbean's website, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Wonder of the Seas departing on July 21, 2024 currently starts at $2,173 per person for a Boardwalk balcony, $2,241 for a Central Park balcony, and $2,303 for a traditional ocean view balcony, meaning that you can save over $120 per person if you opt for a Boardwalk stateroom. 

The cost for the same cruise in October drops significantly, with an ocean view balcony costing less than the Boardwalk in July.

On the sailing that departs on October 13, 2024, the current rates are $1,718 for a Boardwalk balcony, $1,772 for a Central Park balcony, and $1,848 for a traditional ocean view balcony. 

If you do not have a preference, you can always book a guarantee rate. This means that Royal Caribbean will assign your cabin closer to the sail date with whatever staterooms have yet to be booked. Sometimes, this can save you hundreds of dollars per person!

Related: I saved $100 by letting Royal Caribbean choose my cruise ship cabin location, and I would let them do it again

While nothing beats a private oceanfront balcony, if you are looking to save some money and still be able to enjoy the benefits of a balcony, consider booking a Boardwalk or Central Park stateroom for your next cruise. Central Park tends to be quieter; however, select Boardwalk cabins located further in the aft will give you a sliver of ocean to look at. 

Cabin attendants on Royal Caribbean work diligently throughout your cruise to service your cabin, but what should you expect with the services they provide?

You cabin attendant, also called a stateroom attendant, is a crew member who services your cabin during a Royal Caribbean cruise. They are responsible for cleaning your room throughout the sailing, from restocking towels to making your bed.

Your cabin becomes your home away from home while onboard, and cabin attendants visit your room every day in order to make your cabin as comfortable as possible.

It’s helpful to have an understanding of what services your cabin attendant provides before embarking a Royal Caribbean cruise. From knowing your cabin attendant’s responsibilities to tipping guidelines, here’s everything you should know about cabin attendants on a cruise ship.

What are the responsibilities of my cabin attendant?

Cabin attendants are responsible for serving you cabin, which entails the following responsibilities:

• Restocking toiletries and towels in the bathroom
• Tidying up belongings
• Getting pullman and sofa beds ready for bed
• Cleaning the room (cleaning bathroom, vacuuming floor, etc.)
• Making your cabin’s bed
• Emptying the trash
• Delivering documents and informational sheets about your cruise

Exact service can vary from cabin attendant to cabin attendant. Some cabin attendants may fold clothes laying on your couch or bed and organize belongings on top of your desk. Others, on the other hand, take a more hands-off approach to tidying up personal belongings albeit still cleaning your cabin.

Of course, cabin attendants are known for delivering cute “animals” made out of towels to your cabin. From elephants to monkeys and snakes, finding a towel animal in your room each evening adds extra fun to the cruise experience.

Cabin attendants are not responsible for answering questions about your onboard account, providing mechanical maintenance to your cabin, childcare services, laundry, delivering room service, and helping you unpack.

How do I meet my cabin attendant?

The best time to meet your cabin attendant is on embarkation day. On the first day of your cruise, your cabin attendant will knock on your door to introduce themselves. During the introduction, we recommend letting your cabin attendant know any preferences and requests for your cabin service.

Related: A Royal Caribbean to-do list after you board a cruise ship

Requests may include separating your cabin’s beds, asking for extra towels, and letting them know the time of day you’d prefer your cabin to be serviced. Letting your cabin attendant know any requests in advance helps ensure service goes smoothly throughout the sailing.

If you’re not in the room when your cabin attendant knocks on your door, you’ll likely meet your attendant on the evening of embarkation day. Whenever you see housekeeping carts in the hallway, it means cabin attendants are servicing rooms, and they will make it a point to introduce themselves whenever you pass through the hallway.

How many times (and when) does my cabin attendant clean my room?

In non-suite cabins, your cabin attendant will clean your room once per day. They will service your room in either the morning or evening, and guests can give preference as to which time of the day they would prefer service.

If you’re cruising with more than two guests in the cabin, your cabin attendant will visit your room twice per day in order to prepare your sofa/pullman beds for the day and night.

Guests in Junior Suites and above will receive standard service twice per day—once in the morning and once for turndown service in the evening.

During turndown service, stateroom attendants prepare your room for bed by turning on your cabin’s nightlights and placing informational sheets, such as a Cruise Compass and disembarkation documents, on your bed.

Each stateroom comes with a double sided magnet that lets your cabin attendant know if they can clean the room. If you plan to sleep in, put the do not disturb side of the magnet on your cabin door. If your cabin is ready to be serviced, on the other hand, switch the magnet to the side indicating that your cabin attendant can enter the room.

How do I contact my cabin attendant if there is a problem with my cabin?

We always recommend checking your cabin on embarkation day to ensure there are no problems with the room. If you notice anything wrong, such as a broken closet door or missing TV remote, you should contact housekeeping via your stateroom’s telephone.

Related: 15 things to do as soon as you get to your cruise cabin

Every Royal Caribbean cruise cabin has a phone you can use to contact various departments on the ship at no extra charge. To call housekeeping, simply press the button for housekeeping on the phone. Your cabin attendant or another crew member will answer the phone and respond to your request; service is usually provided quickly and efficiently.

If your cabin has a mechanical issue—a leaky toilet or stuck balcony door—you can call maintenance as opposed to housekeeping. Maintenance will send a crew member to resolve any problems in your cabin as soon as possible.

Should I tip my cabin attendant?

All passengers on a Royal Caribbean cruise are charged a daily gratuity fee—this covers the cost of tipping your cabin attendant.

Guests in standard cabins (interior, oceanview, balcony, and Junior Suites) are charged a daily fee of $16 USD per person, per day. Those staying in Grand Suites and above incur an $18.50 USD per person, per day fee.

Related: Tipping on a cruise ship: what you should and shouldn’t do

Despite the daily gratuity, some passengers choose to tip their cabin attendants extra for their service at the beginning or end of the cruise. Tipping extra is completely optional, but it’s an extra way to reward hard working cabin attendants. There is no recommended amount to tip a cabin attendant, but many passengers will tip around $25 to $50 USD extra.

What is a Royal Genie, and how is it different from a cabin attendant?

If you’re staying in a suite on a Quantum, Oasis, or Icon Class cruise ship, you may have access to the services of a Royal Genie in addition to your cabin attendant.

Guests in Star Class, the top tier of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class, have access to their own "magic maker" throughout the sailing. This special service is reserved only for top-tier suites such as AquaTheater suites, Owner’s Loft Suites, and Royal Loft Suites.

Related: What is Star Class?

As part of Star Class, each guest can use the service of a Royal Genie. A Royal Genie is a crew member that can enhance your cruise experience through added services and requests. While Royal Genies do not clean your cabin, they can provide services such as:

• Organizing in-cabin parties
• Delivering specialty restaurant meals to your room
• Accompanying you to onboard activities where you can skip the line
• Reserving seats at shows before you arrive
• Bringing Starbucks drinks to your room each day

Depending on your preference and travel style, your Royal Genie’s services can vary greatly. Within reason, most requests can be accommodated, whether you want sushi delivered to the cabin or snacks waiting for you in the room upon return from a shore excursion.

Related: My advice for someone using a Royal Genie on a Royal Caribbean cruise

If you’re staying in a Star Class room, it’s important to know the difference between your Royal Genie’s services and those provided by your cabin attendant. While you can certainly let your Royal Genie know of any cleaning preferences, your cabin attendant will be the one cleaning your cabin throughout the sailing.