What do Queen Mary 2’s sheltered balconies really look like?

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 often causes confusion because she has a few types of balcony cabin.

She offers the standard obstructed view and clear view  balcony cabins which most ships have and most of us have heard of and understand.

She then also has ‘sheltered’ balconies which are a balcony cabin that has been cut into the side of the ship. I have spent far too many years trying to describe these to customers over the phone and it is not easy. So when I was offered the chance to go on Queen Mary I grabbed my camera and headed for a sheltered balcony cabin.

A sheltered balcony is different in that the structure is cut in to the side of the ship and is therefore metal. It is great in that it is fully furnished and comes with a large opening out to sea. You can lean on the front, take in the fresh air and watch the world sail by. However as you can see, if you were to be seated the view would not be so great, you would still see the sky but not the sea.

The floor space of the balcony was large and front to back was definitely wider than many others that I have been on. These balconies are listed as the BZ – BU on Queen Mary 2 and are situated on decks 4, 5 and 6. They cover most of the length of the deck and you can choose from forward, mid ship or aft (back) positions. They are cheaper in price than the standard balcony cabins on deck 8 and above.

Personally I liked these cabins and would certainly recommend them. I liked the fact the the balcony is large and they do give you that bit of extra space, light and fresh air. They also have the added advantage of being ‘sheltered’ the smaller opening protects you from the winds which is particularly good on a transatlantic sailing. However if you are the type of cruiser who likes to spend hours on your balcony, sitting back and enjoying the view then really you would be better paying that little bit extra and opting for the standard balcony cabins, grade BF and above, with a clear glass front your view is perfect from all positions.