Why should you book a balcony cabin on a cruise?

A balcony cabin is one of the most sought-after accommodation types on a cruise ship by those looking to bag some secluded space à plein air without splurging precious cocktail funds on a suite.

These cruise balconies are perfect for that gulp of cooling breeze if you can’t sleep at night, for soaking up the sun away from prying eyes on a lazy afternoon, for checking out gorgeous coastal views with a morning coffee, and, if you’re in a wildlife hotspot, maybe even animal sightings right from your deckchair. All this just a mere few steps away from your comfy bed!

Cabins with balconies on a cruise aren’t the cheapest option, however – inside cabins and oceanview cabins tend to come in less – so are these rooms with a dollop of al fresco worth the extra cost?

Here’s everything you need to know about balcony cabins (no, they don’t come with a resident Romeo), their benefits and what to expect from different cruise lines – plus some wonderful holiday deals from travel agent Iglu Cruise.

What is a balcony cabin?

A balcony cabin is a cruise stateroom that features a private veranda with outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy fresh air and sea views without leaving their room – or getting out of their pyjamas. These cabins often come with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors leading to the balcony, where you can relax, sunbathe or watch the sunset in peace (with a glass of something tasty).

Is it worth getting a balcony cabin on a cruise?

Whether a balcony cabin is worth it depends on your cruise preferences. If you love waking up to ocean views, enjoy personal (outdoor) space, or plan to spend a lot of time in your room, a balcony is a great investment. It’s particularly valuable on scenic cruises such as the Norwegian fjords or Alaska, where you can enjoy the scenery from your own enclosure – bring some binoculars and you might catch the local fauna’s commute in the early hours.

If you’re on a very long cruise you may also want to pay extra for a balcony to beat any claustrophobic concerns that might kick in on week two or three. However, if you only use your cabin for sleeping, an interior or oceanview cabin might suffice. If you can afford it, we say it’s well worth it.

If you want to go the extra mile (well, a couple of square feet) can you could look into snagging a deluxe balcony cabin (although note some on some lines these rooms, for instance the MSC Virtuosa deluxe balcony cabin, are actually standard).

What is the difference between an outside cabin and a balcony cabin?

An outside (or oceanview) cabin has a window or porthole but no private outdoor area. A balcony cabin, on the other hand, offers a veranda where guests can sit outside and watch the world go by.

What is the difference between a balcony cabin and an interior cabin?

An interior cabin has no windows or outdoor access, making it the most budget-friendly option on a cruise. A balcony cabin, in contrast, provides a dinky al fresco terrace just for you, plus natural light and fresh air, making it a more comfortable (and Vitamin D-level-boosting) choice.

Are balcony cabins worth it on scenic cruises?

Balcony cabins are especially worth it on scenic cruises such as Norway fjords, Alaska, and Mediterranean itineraries where you’ll want to soak in the coastline from your own space. For shorter or budget-friendly sailings, an interior cabin may be fine, but many cruisers consider a balcony essential once they’ve tried it.

Is a balcony private?

Balcony cabins are semi-private. While the space is exclusively yours, neighbouring balconies are often separated by partitions which may not be completely soundproof. In some cases, balconies can be overlooked from higher decks.

It’s quite likely, if you’re leaning over your balcony to admire a passing highlight, you’ll catch eyes with others along your deck doing the same. In short, be mindful of any conversations or pastimes you partake in here – you may end up with an unsuspecting (and unwilling) audience.

Note also that when your ship docks there’s a 50/50 chance your side will be facing the port – so maybe keep the bathrobe on when floating around your balcony during shore days…

Can you fall off a balcony on a cruise ship?

Falling off a balcony is highly unlikely unless you’re engaging in reckless behaviour. Cruise ship balconies are designed with safety in mind, featuring high railings and reinforced structures to prevent accidents. Just keep two feet on terra firma at all times.

Which balcony is best on a cruise?

The best balcony cabins depend on personal preference and cruise ship layout. Aft-facing (i.e. facing off the back of the ship) balconies offer top-notch views and can often be more spacious, while midship balconies provide stability in rough seas – therefore best if you suffer from seasickness.

Forward balconies may be windy, but they offer an excellent vantage point for approaching destinations (shouting “Land ho!” optional) while higher deck balconies generally provide better views but may experience more movement – it’s swing and roundabouts but make it nautical.

Is it safe to sleep on a cruise ship balcony?

Kipping under the stars might seem romantically appealing – and indeed there are no strict ship rules that mean you can’t go full Captain Jack Sparrow – but cruise lines generally advise against it for health and safety reasons. After all, weather can change quickly at sea and you don’t want to get caught in a bad storm or lower temperatures in the middle of the night. Frankly, it’s unlikely your balcony chairs or loungers will be comfortable for serious slumber unless you’re sailing with an ultra-luxury line.

Can you smoke on a cruise ship balcony?

Most cruise lines, including popular favourites like MSC Cruises, Marella Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Cunard, ban smoking on balconies for safety reasons. Designated smoking areas are available on many ships, whether from areas on deck to inside cigar rooms.

Can people see you on a cruise balcony?

They might! Depending on the ship’s design, some balconies may be overlooked from higher decks or neighbouring cabins, as well as from the shore when the ship docks. Aft-facing and recessed balconies tend to offer more privacy.

Can you sleep with the balcony door open on a cruise?

While sleeping to the song of the ocean might seem like a jolly nice idea, cruise lines would rather you didn’t. They advise keeping the door closed for safety and to maintain cabin temperature control: open balcony doors can trigger the ship’s HVAC system, causing temperature fluctuations, so you might end up with a sweatier night’s sleep than you bargained for. It’s also important to lock the door when sleeping to prevent security concerns.

We’ve taken a look at some of the balcony cabins on the most popular cruise lines:

MSC Cruises

Best balcony cabins on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers a range of balcony cabins [above] across its ships, each with varying sizes and features. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular options to give you an idea:

MSC Virtuosa balcony cabins & MSC Euribia balcony cabins: Range from 12-17 sqm with private balconies of 4-8 sqm. They feature a sofa, a bathroom with a shower or bathtub, a vanity with a hairdryer, an interactive TV, a minibar, a safe and WiFi for a fee. Options include Studio Balcony (Euribia only), Deluxe Balcony, Deluxe Balcony with Partial View, and Balcony Aurea (17 sqm, best ship position).

MSC Preziosa balcony cabins: Range from 14-19 sqm with balconies of 3-12 sqm, featuring similar amenities. Options include Balcony Aurea (18 sqm, best ship position), Premium Balcony, Junior Balcony and Deluxe Balcony with Partial View.

MSC World Europa balcony cabins: Around 16-17 sqm with balconies of 3-10 sqm, some overlooking the Promenade or with a partial view. They include a wardrobe, a convertible double bed, air conditioning, and the same amenities as other MSC ships. Options include Balcony Aurea (17 sqm, balcony 3-8 sqm), Deluxe Balcony, Deluxe Balcony with Partial View and Deluxe Balcony with Promenade & Ocean View.

If you’re after proper swishness, check out the cabins in MSC Yacht Club where rooms comes with a plethora of perks.

MSC Cruises balcony cabin deals

Experience delightful sea views from your private balcony on an MSC cruise:

France Getaway from Southampton – 2-night mini cruise on MSC Virtuosa, perfect for a quick escape. Sail from Southampton to Cherbourg and back. Balcony from £369 pp.

Northern Europe from Southampton – 7-night voyage on MSC Preziosa, exploring Hamburg, Rotterdam, Bruges, and Paris. Balcony from £412 pp.

View more deals

Marella Cruises

Best balcony cabins on Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises offers a variety of balcony cabins [above], each featuring a private furnished balcony, twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed, an en suite bathroom with a shower and WC, and some with a sofa bed for additional sleeping space.

Marella Explorer balcony cabins: 17 sqm, with Large Balcony Cabins offering more outdoor space. Some cabins include a sofa bed.

Marella Explorer 2 balcony cabins: 16 sqm, with Deluxe Balcony Cabins at 19 sqm, featuring a double sofa bed. Some cabins also have a partitioned living area.

Marella Discovery balcony cabins & Marella Discovery 2 balcony cabins: Balcony Cabins are 13-14 sqm, while the Marella Discovery 2 Deluxe Balcony Cabin is 15-16 sqm, offering more space. Some cabins include a sofa bed.

Marella Voyager balcony cabins: 17 sqm, with Large Balcony Cabins featuring a 9 sqm balcony. Some cabins are 16 sqm and also include a sofa bed.

Marella Cruises balcony cabin deals

Sail all-inclusive with flights, luggage, transfers and tips included:

Aegean Gems from Cyprus – 7-night cruise on Marella Discovery 2, exploring Greece and Turkey, including Mykonos, Athens and Rhodes. Balcony from £1,568 pp.

Treasures of the Mediterranean from Majorca – 7-night adult-only cruise on Marella Explorer 2, visiting Sardinia, Capri, Rome, Corsica and Palamos. Balcony from £1,376 pp.

Limited-time savings available – book now for the best prices! View more deals.

P&O Cruises

Best balcony cabins on P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises offers a selection of balcony cabins [above], each with a furnished private space, air conditioning, an en suite bathroom with a shower, steward service, a vanity desk, tea and coffee-making facilities, a TV, a hairdryer, a safe and toiletries from The White Company. Deluxe Balcony Cabins provide extra space with a larger seating area, while Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabins add further luxury with champagne and chocolates on arrival, two TVs and additional comfort touches.

Here’s a look at some of the best balcony cabins on Ventura and other popular P&O ships:

P&O Arvia balcony cabins: Start at 107 sq. ft. with a queen-size or single bed. Deluxe Balcony Cabins provide more space at 226 sq. ft., while Conservatory Mini-Suites offer 274 sq.ft with an extended indoor seating area.

Azura balcony cabins: Standard cabins are 221 sq.ft with a convertible king-size bed. Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabins expand to 314 sq.ft with a larger seating area and include mineral water on arrival.

Balcony cabins on Britannia: Start at 205 sq.ft with a queen-size bed that converts into twin beds. Some include a sofa or have an obstructed view. Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabins are 280 sq.ft with a seating area for extra comfort, while Single Balcony Cabins are available at 164 sq.ft.

Best balcony cabins on Ventura: Standard cabins are 223 sq.ft with queen-size beds that can be converted into twin beds. Superior Deluxe Balcony Cabins offer extra space at 314 sq.ft, making them ideal for those seeking more room to jive ahead of a night out.

P&O Cruises Balcony Cabin Deals

Sail with P&O and enjoy no-fly options or fly-cruise getaways with onboard perks:

No-Fly Caribbean from Southampton – 35-night voyage on Iona, exploring Tenerife, St. Kitts, Barbados (overnight), Antigua and more. Balcony from £3,614 pp.

Eastern Caribbean from Barbados – 14-night fly-cruise on Arvia, sailing to St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Antigua (overnight) and beyond. Balcony from £2,515 pp.

View more deals.

Princess Cruises

Best balcony cabins on Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers an array of balcony cabins [above], each featuring a furnished private space, twin beds that convert to a queen-size bed, a private bathroom with a shower, a mini-fridge, a hairdryer, a safe, a desk, satellite TV, daily housekeeping, and evening turn-down service with chocolates. Some cabins accommodate up to four guests with an upper or Pullman bed.

Sky Princess balcony cabins: 222 sq.ft, including a 41 sq.ft balcony with patio furniture. The Princess Luxury Bed ensures extra comfort.

Sun Princess balcony cabins: 214 sq.ft, with a spacious closet and sitting area. Premium Deluxe Balcony and Cove Balcony Cabins expand to 235 sq. ft. All have floor-to-ceiling sliding doors.

Caribbean Princess balcony cabins & Ruby Princess balcony cabins: 231 sq.ft, including a 45 sq.ft balcony. Ruby Princess features identical amenities to Caribbean Princess, including Egyptian cotton linens.

Princess Cruises balcony cabin deals

Explore super destinations with Iglu Cruises’ handcrafted cruise and stay packages for Princess Cruises:

Tokyo Stay, Mt. Fuji, Kobe, Nagasaki & South Korea – 15-night adventure on Diamond Princess, including a three-night Tokyo stay, a Mt. Fuji & Hakone tour with a bullet train ride, and stops in Japan and South Korea. Balcony from £4,599 pp.

Niagara Falls & American Heritage from New York – 15-night journey on Island Princess, featuring hotel stays at Niagara Falls and Manhattan, plus scenic cruising through Canada’s east coast. Balcony from £2,479 pp.

View more deals.

Cunard

Best balcony cabins on Cunard

Queen Anne is Cunard’s newest ship – so what are balcony cabins like onboard the latest to join the fleet?

Best Balcony Cabins on Queen Anne: Queen Anne balcony cabins [above] are 236 sq.ft with a private furnished balcony, a king-size bed convertible to twins, a private bathroom, a refrigerator, safe, satellite TV, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and a direct-dial telephone. Guests receive a half-bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, a fruit basket on request, 24-hour room service, a daily shipboard newspaper, and a nightly turndown service with pillow chocolates.

Queen Anne Club Balcony Cabins offer additional perks, including priority embarkation and disembarkation, an Illy coffee machine, a pillow concierge menu, and exclusive dining in the Britannia Club Restaurant, with a concierge service alongside the cabin steward.

For extra bragging rights, consider Queens Grill rooms for even more spacious splendour.

Cunard balcony cabin deals

Sail in classic luxury with Cunard and enjoy elegant accommodations with exclusive perks:

Italy, France & Spain from Southampton – 16-night no-fly voyage on Queen Anne, visiting Gibraltar, Barcelona, Sardinia, Mallorca, and Ibiza. Balcony from £2,865 pp.

Canary Islands from Southampton – 12-night no-fly voyage on Queen Victoria, visiting Lanzarote, La Palma, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, with free onboard spend available. Balcony from £1,400 pp.

View more deals.

What is a balcony cabin on a cruise?
A balcony cabin is a stateroom with a private veranda where you can sit outside, enjoy sea views and get fresh air without leaving your room.

Is it worth paying extra for a balcony cabin?
If you value personal space, ocean views and natural light, then yes. They’re especially worthwhile on scenic itineraries like Alaska or the Norwegian fjords. If you mostly use your cabin for sleep, an inside room may be more cost-effective.

Are balcony cabins private?
They’re private to you, but not completely secluded. Balconies are separated by partitions that may not block noise, and some are overlooked from higher decks.

Can you fall off a cruise ship balcony?
No, balconies are built with high railings and reinforced safety measures. Accidents are extremely rare unless reckless behaviour is involved.

Which balcony cabins are the best?
Aft balconies tend to have the best views, midship cabins are more stable in rough seas, and forward balconies are breezier but great for spotting land first.

Can you smoke on a cruise balcony?
On most major cruise lines, no. Smoking is banned on balconies for safety reasons, though there are designated smoking areas elsewhere on the ship.

Is it safe to sleep on a cruise balcony?
Cruise lines don’t recommend it due to weather, safety and comfort. You may be allowed, but balcony furniture isn’t designed for overnight sleeping.

Can you keep the balcony door open at night?
It’s not advised. Open doors can interfere with air conditioning and may pose safety risks. Cruise lines usually ask guests to keep them shut.