Treat yourself to a balcony cabin

It’s always hard to pick your cabin type, the balance of budget and comfort but if You can afford it I would seriously recommend a balcony cabin. If you’ve cruised before and you’ve treated yourself to a balcony cabin then you will know the joys of having a wonderful view to wake up to each morning and fresh air entering your cabin.

The balcony gives that extra space and peace and quiet from other guests, picture yourself with your sliding doors wide open, lounging on your chair with a good book in one hand and a gin and tonic in the other watching the world go by and topping up your tan.

The cruise lines are now taking the cabins with a view to another level with new and exciting cabin layouts and designs to really bring the outside in . Here are some of my favourites.

CELEBRITY EDGE

This is the brand new class of ship from Celebrity which will be debuting next year. It has taken the lead by actually making the balcony part of the room itself rather the being welded to the side of the ship. The doors fold back and a window that slides up at the touch of a button. Its almost like having an extra room and giving you 25% more space. This give the balcony the feel of being a seamless , infinitive space that allows the best views at sea.

MSC MERAVIGLIA – FAMILY CLUSTER CABIN

These cabins cater for large families or groups with a maximum capacity of ten. They have two separate balconies which is a real bonus for families as it gives everybody the chance to relax in peace on their own balconies.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S SKY LOFT SUITE

Theses cabins offer a split level accommodation type which debuted on the Oasis Of The Seas. They sit right at the top of the ship and have the double height on them which means the windows looking out are huge from floor to ceiling and let lots of light into the room making them so bright and airy and giving you panoramic views. The balcony area is huge and even has space for a dining area so you can eat al fresco at sea which is amazing.

ROYAL CARIBBEANS FAMILY PANORAMIC OCEANVIEW

These cabins so not have a balcony but they have an outward wall which is floor to ceiling glass  windows that wrap around the cabin with an unobstructed view of the ocean , including straight down to the water. The views from here are spectacular and you could spend many a happy hour gazing out and taking in the view. The huge windows really given an open and airy feel to the cabin which is perfect if larger families book this cabin type.

And finally, if your budget is more limited try Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 sheltered balconies. Built into the metal hull of the ship these are generally cheaper but still give you that extra space and allow you to throw up the doors and let the air in. On her transatlantic sailings they are great for allowing you the freedom of the outdoors whilst protecting you from the wind.

Which one will you pick for your next cruise?