enclosed balcony cruise ship

What Does an Enclosed Balcony Mean on a Cruise Ship?

By Michael Ferguson

The cruise industry is booming and it’s easy to see why. From luxury liners with all the bells and whistles to budget-friendly cruises, there is something for everyone.

One of the features that many cruise ships offer is an enclosed balcony. But what exactly does this mean?

An enclosed balcony on a cruise ship is a room that has walls on three sides and a sliding glass door or window on the fourth side, creating an indoor space that opens up to the outdoors. This type of balcony is typically larger than standard balconies and offers more privacy than open balconies, which are open to the elements.

The walls on an enclosed balcony can provide protection from wind and rain, making it more comfortable for passengers during inclement weather. This type of space also offers more sound insulation from other passengers, so you can enjoy peace and quiet while still enjoying the view outside.

Enclosed balconies can also be used for storage, as many cruise ships offer additional storage space within these walls. This makes it convenient to store items when not in use or when wanting to make more room in your cabin.

For those who are looking for some extra amenities during their voyage, some cruise ships have even added features like Jacuzzi tubs or private hot tubs within these enclosures. These bonus features can make your vacation even more luxurious!

No matter what type of cruise you’re looking for, an enclosed balcony may be something that you want to consider when booking your voyage. They offer additional comfort and privacy without sacrificing any of the beautiful views of the ocean or ports along your journey.

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Everything to Know about Balcony Cabins on a Cruise (Read Before Booking)

Think of a cruise, and you might picture sitting on a cabin balcony, sipping a drink, and watching the waves go by. It’s a classic staple of taking a cruise.

Cruise ship balcony cabins are popular, and for good reason. They provide your own little oasis, away from the rest of the ship, along with million-dollar views that you simply can’t get on land. 

But before you drop the money to book that balcony, there are some things you’ll want to know about sailing in this type of cabin. 

Note: This article contains links to our partner, Cruise Critic. We earn a commission for clicks made on their website, at no charge to you.

Balcony Cabins Are Often Larger (Even Without the Outdoor Space)

Of course the biggest perk of a balcony cabin is having the outdoor space; that’s no argument. But one thing you might not realize is another perk — balcony cabins are normally larger than non-balcony rooms.

For instance, an interior cabin on a ship might be 140 square feet in space, while a balcony cabin might be 170 square feet, plus the additional outdoor space. Of course, the figures will change from ship to ship, but you can expect to see the trend on many cruise lines.

For example, you can see the difference on this Royal Caribbean cruise aboard Navigator of the Seas where the balcony room is considerably larger than an interior even before the balcony space is added in:

The Rooms Are More Expensive (50%-100% Over Interior)

We all understand that a balcony cabin is also going to come with a higher price tag. What you might not realize is that the increase  can vary widely. Pricing will vary ship by ship and even down to the specific cruise.

Instead, you should just anticipate the price difference between a basic bare-bones interior cabin and a balcony room. In our estimation, it seems to run between 50%-100% more for a balcony cabin.

So if a 7-day cruise for an interior cabin is $500 per person, expect a balcony to be between $750 and $1,000.

You can check prices for balconies versus interior cabins for specific cruises with our partner Cruise Critic, here .

You’ll Likely Use the Balcony Less Than You Think (But It’s Still Wonderful to Have)

If you are considering booking a balcony cabin, you might picture yourself sitting out and taking in the view for hours on end each day. The reality is a bit different.

Yes, you definitely can do that if you want to, but you might be surprised at how little time overall you actually spend there. Between activities around the ship, mealtimes, and being out in ports of call, the amount of time to actually just sit and do nothing is less than you think, unless you make it a priority. 

All you have to do is take a look at a ship in port and see how few people are actually out on the balcony. It seems what’s more common is to sit occasionally and other times simply popping out for a few minutes to take in the view before heading off to do something else.

Even so, being able to have that outdoor access to take in some fresh air and a view is still a great thing to enjoy, even for a short bit.

Balconies Themselves May Not Be That Large

When you think of your balcony, maybe you think of a large area where you can lay out and get some sun, or enjoy a meal sitting at a table. The reality is somewhat different. Balconies will vary in size, but for the most part they are relatively small.

While they are the width of the cabin — usually around 8-10 feet, the typical balcony doesn’t offer much depth. We’d estimate about 4-5 feet. There’s enough space for a couple of chairs and a small table between, but that’s about it.

That’s not to say you can’t find larger balconies on the ship — there are some large enough in some high-end cabins to have their own hot tub — but in general the space is modest.

These Rooms Are Great for Longer Trips (6+ Days)

We’re strong believers that on a short cruise of five days or fewer, you can get by without having a balcony cabin. On a short trip, between everything to do on board and being in ports of call, the amount of time you’ll take advantage of the balcony is relatively small. It’s nice to have, but not a must.

On trips longer than that, the amount of “downtime” you have increases. That means more time to take advantage of the balcony space. As well, on longer trips simply having access to some fresh air and natural light in the cabin is a major benefit. ( See cruise offers for trips of 6 days and longer here .)

Light/Late Sleepers Might Have Issues

If you’re a light sleeper — or you like to sleep in — then a balcony room actually might have a disadvantage. You see, with one of these cabins the end of your room is essentially a wall of windows with a glass door that leads out. It’s wonderful for views, but can also be bright.

There is a blackout curtain that you can pull to close off the light coming in, but even then there will normally be light around the edges on the sides, top and bottom. The result is that even if you try to make it as dark as possible, there’s going to be some light entering the room in the mornings. So if you had a late night and want to sleep in, it could be enough to disturb you.

Infinite Balconies Are a New Style on Some Ships

As of now, most balcony cabins are a traditional style where you have the cabin, and then a door that leads out to the outdoor balcony. But some newer ships are changing that style with a few rooms.

Dubbed an “infinite balcony,” this style makes the balcony and the cabin one space. At the end of the cabin you’ll have a full window wall instead of a door leading outdoors. The top half of this wall slides down, essentially like a large horizontal window. With the window up, you have all the space of the cabin and balcony to enjoy indoors. With the window down, it’s as if your entire cabin is now the balcony as it’s open to the outside air.

Your Balcony May Not Be Private

To be sure, there is a lot of privacy to your own balcony. Traditionally, there are dividers on either side of you, meaning that you won’t have your neighbor staring at you if you both decide to sit outside at the same time.

But don’t think it’s completely private. For one, any sound will travel. So if you and your neighbors are both sitting outside, you will hear each other talking.

Meanwhile, the dividers usually leave gaps around the bottom and the edges, so just passing in and out you might catch sight of someone else, similar to a stall in a restroom.

All that’s to say if you were thinking about getting some sunshine where the sun don’t shine or maybe getting frisky with your significant other in the fresh air… you might want to be careful that others don’t catch a glimpse.

To search for a deal a balcony cabin, you can find the latest offers with Cruise Critic, here .

More on choosing a cabin:

• Should I Book an Interior or Balcony Cabin on my Cruise?
• Everything to Know About Interior Cruise Cabins
• Why You Should Never Go Nude On Your Cruise Balcony

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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With the infinite balcony keep in mind that the air automatically shuts off when the window is down. Even with the dividers closed.

We had a balcony on our cabin for the last cruise and it ended up that we could barely use it because we had noisy neighbors on both sides that would go out on the balcony and Blair loud music at all hours of the day and night

All true but we will not cruise without one. They are great but be sure to book ABOVE THE OBSTRUCTIONS such as lifeboats corners etc.

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6 reasons you’ll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

Is it worth paying extra for a balcony cabin?

As someone who has written about cruising for more than two decades , I have heard that question a lot, and I know where I stand on it: Absolutely .

You'll almost always pay more for a balcony cabin on a ship than for a cabin that just has a window — the latter being known in industry lingo as an "ocean-view" cabin. But often, it's not outrageously more. For example, at the time of this story's publishing, fares for balcony cabins on some fall 2024 cruises out of Galveston, Texas, were just 7% more than fares for ocean-view cabins. (Specifically, that was the differential on seven-night sailings in October 2024 on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas).

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Ocean-view cabins, in turn, were running about 29% more than windowless inside cabins — the third major category of cabins you'll find on ships.

These differentials aren't insignificant, of course. For many vacationers on a tight budget, though, an extra 29% or even 7% for a room can be a deal breaker.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

In addition, some people with extra money to spend would rather splurge on shore excursions or other extra-charge items, such as shipboard spa treatments, than on a higher-priced cabin. That makes perfect sense to me. What is most important to one person on a vacation may be different from what is important to another person.

However, here are six things you'll get out of a balcony cabin that I personally think make it worth the extra cost if you have the money to spare.

The fresh air

For me, this is the big reason to get a balcony cabin. At any time of the day — or night — you can slide open your balcony door and breathe in the fresh ocean air. You'll also be able to hear the sounds of the waves as they crash against the bow of your ship. It's a wonderfully soothing, rhythmic sound — so soothing that it can lull you to sleep.

Even on cruises in cold weather, there's nothing quite like stepping out on a balcony for a few minutes or more to soak in the salty breeze. It's invigorating.

Related: 5 reasons you might want to turn down a cabin upgrade

The fresh air available on balconies also can be a lifesaver — at least for your sanity — should you find yourself confined to your cabin due to an illness. That can happen if you come down with something like norovirus or COVID-19 on a ship. This happened to cruisers quite a bit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of the people who were isolated in cabins without balconies for days weren't thrilled with the lack of access to fresh air.

I can attest personally to the fact that it isn't a great situation to be stuck in a room that doesn't have a balcony for days. In late 2020, I was isolated in a cabin without a balcony for four days during a COVID-19-related ship quarantine, even though I wasn't sick. I would have paid just about anything during those days for even the smallest bit of outdoor space.

The ultimate privacy

Cruise ships can be crowded places . Even on luxury ships, which generally have more space per passenger than mass-market vessels, you'll likely be sharing the pool deck with dozens or even hundreds of other people. On some of the biggest vessels, such as Royal Caribbean's giant new Icon of the Seas , you'll compete for deck chairs with literally thousands of others. Private, it isn't — nor is it often quiet. The pool decks of cruise ships can be noisy places.

If you have a balcony cabin, you're always guaranteed an outdoor space where you can lounge for a few hours in complete privacy. And, in general, it will be a quiet outdoor space. While you will sometimes hear the sounds of other passengers nearby on their own balconies, for the most part, it's a much more serene experience than being up on the top deck.

The best views

Balcony cabins don't just offer you access to an outdoor space. They typically also offer you a great view of the outdoors from inside your cabin.

This is because the doors leading to balconies in balcony cabins usually are made almost entirely of glass running from floor to ceiling. Often, a balcony cabin will have both a floor-to-ceiling glass door leading to the outside as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that make for what is, in effect, an outward-facing wall made entirely of glass. Ocean-view cabins without balconies, by contrast, often have just a single window. Some just have portholes.

Related: 7 reasons to splurge for a suite on your next cruise

The result is that you'll generally have a much better view of the outdoors from the inside of a balcony cabin than from the inside of an ocean-view cabin.

The chance for wildlife encounters

Speaking of the view, you're going to be able to see passing wildlife much better from a balcony cabin than an ocean-view cabin. If you stand at the edge of your balcony railing, you'll be able to twist your head side-to-side to get a 180-degree view of the passing waters. That's two or three times the field of vision that you'll get from gazing out a cabin window.

Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship

I've found balcony cabins to be particularly wonderful to have in wildlife-filled destinations such as Alaska, where ships sometimes pass such spectacular creatures as whales in the water or bears along the shoreline. Often, the captain of a vessel will spot such animals first and then make a public announcement to passengers to head to the sides of the ship to look. If you're in a balcony cabin (and on the correct side of the ship), you'll be gazing down upon these sights in no time.

The chance for a romantic dinner

There's nothing that says romance like a private dinner for two under the stars. And that's exactly what you can do on your balcony on many cruise ships, with the waves as a background soundtrack.

Some upscale lines will arrange an elegant, private dinner for two on your balcony — think white tablecloths, multiple courses, the works — at no extra charge. Among mass-market lines, Princess Cruises offers an Ultimate Balcony Dining experience at an extra charge that brings a four-course meal, Champagne and cocktails or a glass of wine. In the case of the Princess offering, you'll even get fresh flowers and a (flameless) candle on your table.

The perfect spot to watch a port arrival

I'm a big fan of getting up early to watch as cruise ships pull into ports. In some places, such as New York and Sydney, the experience is a highlight of the trip. The arrival into New York, in particular, is one of the great cruise experiences. Your ship will glide under the giant Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (often with just feet to spare) before passing the Statue of Liberty and the skyline of lower Manhattan.

Related: What's a cruise cabin guarantee — and can it save you money?

But as spectacular as they are, these arrivals into ports often take place very early in the morning, before you (or at least your bed-head hair) may be ready to go out into the world. What's great about having a balcony is that you don't have to get dressed and ready for the day to watch a port arrival. You can just roll out of bed in your jammies and head out on the balcony.

Of course, you have to be on the correct side of the ship to get certain views. Arriving in New York, there is an allure to watching the arrival from both sides of a vessel. From the port side, you'll get the best view of the Statue of Liberty. But the starboard side brings you the best views of downtown Manhattan, assuming you're on a vessel heading to a midtown pier.

Bottom line

Balcony cabins cost more than ocean-view cabins or windowless "inside" cabins. But they can be worth the splurge if you're the kind of person who likes a private place to be outdoors during a vacation. No matter how crowded your ship is, you always can escape to your balcony, if you have one, and watch the world go by with few distractions.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your 1st cruise

• Norwegian Cruise Line

What is an enclosed balcony on the Jewel?

By mooshipalmdale , June 19, 2019 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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mooshipalmdale

I just noticed on our upcoming New Zealand Jewel cruise January 2020 that we were booked in an enclosed balcony, room 8030, I can find no explanation of what this means. One of my favorite things is to listen to the ocean while in our rooms! 

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These are often called "hull balconies," because the balcony is in the hull of the ship.  So you sort of have a square metal frame around the balcony.  (NCL calls them "Privasea balconies.")  If you do a search in this forum for "hull balconies," you'll find many threads discussing them.  Below is a video I found showing a hull balcony on the Pearl (a sister ship of the Jewel).  I have never sailed in such a balcony; they look too enclosed for me.  But some folks find them appealing (in part because they shelter you from the wind).

And here is a closeup of the port side of the Jewel; the large squarish frames are the hull balconies.  You can see that they are not as open as the regular balconies.  (Deck 8 is the lowest deck you can see in this photo.)

(photo by turtles06)

There are several videos on youtube - - sometimes called hull balcony or priva sea balcony.  Here is link to one of the videos.   The table on the balcony is really small so the lower ledge looks like a good place to set a drink and may even work as a footrest.  This type of balcony makes it harder for your neighbor to look into your balcony and also offers more protection from wind/rain than the normal balcony.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2LVXmRTMJM

29 minutes ago, kjquilts said: There are several videos on youtube - - sometimes called hull balcony or priva sea balcony.  Here is link to one of the videos.   The table on the balcony is really small so the lower ledge looks like a good place to set a drink and may even work as a footrest.  This type of balcony makes it harder for your neighbor to look into your balcony and also offers more protection from wind/rain than the normal balcony.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2LVXmRTMJM  

lol you are exactly right about using the ledge for your drink .   We had one of these on a Transpacific from Japan and  loved it ...would book it again

my friends had this on our cruise in January.  It was fine, and they preferred it because they have a little one with them.  Same size as the other oceanview balconies.

Thanks so much all, I never even thought of checking you tube, it looks good to me! Now I’m hoping for an upgrade 😀 one can wish! 

I guess I'm in the minority as I had this "enclosed" balcony booked when I did a balcony guarantee on The Epic.  To me it is too confining as it looks like a big picture window surrounded by metal.  Definitely not my idea of a balcony!  I had to pay to upgrade to a cabin that had a regular balcony and was so glad that I did it.

We had one on Alaska cruise and it came in handy for blocking the cold wind. If it were Caribbean and you liked sun then the open balcony might be a better choice. Sent from my SM-G970U using Tapatalk

Generally people say they don't like them including the bride who reported here that her honeymoon was ruined and she stayed in bed and cried the whole trip after entering the room and seeing the enclosed balcony.  

That was before the "Priveasea" term so maybe they should market towards newlyweds so they can have their privacy.

This is an old image that I uploaded years ago. It should help explain...

53 minutes ago, robin13 said: I guess I'm in the minority as I had this "enclosed" balcony booked when I did a balcony guarantee on The Epic.  To me it is too confining as it looks like a big picture window surrounded by metal.  Definitely not my idea of a balcony!  I had to pay to upgrade to a cabin that had a regular balcony and was so glad that I did it.

The Epic (one of a kind ship) has some enclosed balconies I would NOT be happy with.  Here is link to a youtube video showing Epic 12015.  Luckily the enclosed balconies on the Jewel class ships are not like this one on the Epic.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZagHWrxC48g

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Understanding the Six Types of Norwegian Epic Balcony Staterooms

With all the excitement that surrounded the 2014 launch of the Norwegian Getaway and the 2013 sister ship Norwegian Breakaway, it’s easy to forget the 2010 Norwegian Epic. A prototype for the Breakaway and Getaway, the Epic is larger and carries more guests than the other two ships.

I was aboard the Norwegian Epic for the inaugural sailing from Southampton, England as well as the transatlantic crossing to America, in 2010. More than the exciting arrival into New York City, it was the quirky design of this ship that created a major buzz.

In a bold move, Norwegian Cruise Line built the Epic with 128 solo-occupancy staterooms (Studios), a first in the cruise industry. Aside from a total of 688 inside staterooms including the Studios, all of the remaining 1,426 staterooms have balconies. That amounts to quite a few options when it comes time to reserve a balcony stateroom.

Traditional rectangular staterooms were redesigned with curved walls, rounded bed corners, and a sink and vanity area in the main living space. But the one feature that garnered the most comments was the split shower and bathroom with translucent sliding doors.

Cleverly designed for convenience and comfort, there are no less than six types of balcony staterooms, all with the same modern design.

Not including mini-suites, suites or The Haven categories, here’s a quick run-down on the various types of balconies aboard the Epic. Keep in mind that unless otherwise shown, most of these balcony staterooms have a near-identical design. It’s the square footage that differs.

Also, please note that the square footage given includes the balcony, which can vary from 34 – 107 sq. ft. You can ask your travel agent for size as to stateroom and balcony once you choose your stateroom category.

Standard Balcony Stateroom

Spacious enough to accommodate up to three guests with floor to ceiling glass doors that open onto the private balcony. Curved interior walls, separate bathroom and shower areas and a sink and vanity in the main living space are a trademark of all the balcony staterooms on the Epic. Two lower beds convert into a queen-sized bed and the sitting area includes a sofa sleeper. Typical of the balcony categories, there is a large flat screen TV and ample closet space. Staterooms measure approximately 203-230 square feet.

Aft-Facing Balcony

Spa Balcony

Family Balcony

Large Balcony

Mid-Ship Balcony

Same design, décor and colors. Ranging in size from 204-221 sq. ft. including balcony, Mid-Ship Balcony staterooms sleep up to three guests. As the name implies, these staterooms are located “mid-ship” with easy access to dining, many of the onboard entertainment venues, dining and activities. Two lower beds convert to a queen bed and the sofa converts to a one-person sleeper. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto the private balcony. 203-257 sq. ft including balcony.

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Carnival Cruise Cove Balconies: Everything You Should Know

On my last Carnival cruise, I was checking out Cove Balconies, and guess what? I went for it because these rooms have some cool perks. Regular balconies don’t. 

Cove Balconies give you extra privacy and are super close to the water. They’re a smart choice for budget-savvy travelers who still want a private outdoor spot. 

So, hang on, fellow cruisers. In this guide, I’ve discussed everything you need to know about Cove Balconies and why I think they’re better than the standard ones. Also, in the end, I’ll help you make a great decision for your cruise.

So let’s get started.

Table of Contents

What Is A Cove Balcony on Carnival?

A Cove Balcony on Carnival Cruise ships is a unique type of balcony stateroom located on the ship’s lower decks and is more enclosed than a standard balcony.

These balconies have a cove-like enclosure, and the bottom half of the balcony rail has a solid steel panel.

Due to their presence at the lower decks, cove balconies provide a great view of the ocean and the ship’s wake, making them a center of attention among the cruisers.

Which Decks Have Cove Balconies?

On a Carnival Cruises the Cove Balconies are on the lower decks, like Deck 2 or Deck 5, depending on the ship. You’ll find them in category 7C staterooms on Carnival’s Excel-class, Vista-class, and Dream-class ships. Every ship built since 2009 has them.

If you’re sailing on Excel-class ships like Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, or Carnival Jubilee, there are also some Cloud 9 Spa Cove Balcony rooms (category 7S). These are close to the spa and include a pass for unlimited use of the thermal suite facilities.

For families cruising on Vista-class ships like Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Panorama, there’s also the option of a cove balcony with the FM and FS categories of Family Harbor Suites.

How Are Cove Balconies Different From Standard Balconies?

The major difference lies in the shape of both balconies. Cove balconies are more enclosed, with small openings and more solid walls between you and your neighbor.

Below are other unique features of Cove Balcony:

1- The Privacy

Cove Balconies are surprisingly more private than the standard ones on Deck 2, below the hanging lifeboats.

So you won’t have to worry about nosy neighbors peeking around the divider into your balcony.

And don’t think people can look down and watch you enjoying your morning coffee. You won’t have any of these issues with a Cove Balcony stateroom because they’re above Deck 1 oceanview cabins, giving you privacy from below, too.

I was so surprised by the quiet environment; I didn’t hear any neighbor voices, thanks to the sound of water. 

2- The Extra Balcony Space

Cove Balconies are 10 square feet bigger than regular balconies, giving you more space to relax and enjoy the breeze and views.

Despite being enclosed partially, a cove balcony is 45ft² whereas a regular balcony is 35ft². That’s 28% larger than a regular balcony, giving you more space to enjoy.

3- The Coverage

As well as offering extra space, Carnival’s Cove balconies also provide more shade and coverage for sitting in on rainy and sunny days.

If you have a rainy sea day , the lifeboats cover your balcony well, so you can still sit outside and enjoy the breeze.

This also comes in handy when you want to enjoy the sea views on a sunny day and want shade. 

However, it’s important to note that the time of the day and direction of travel will impact this.

As mentioned above, cove balconies are on Deck 2 or 5, depending on the ship, meaning you are just feet from the water and the ocean’s roar.

Honestly, sometimes I could even feel the spray of the water. And if that beautiful, close-up, 180-degree view isn’t enough to convince you to book a Cove Balcony.

Some neighbors say they’ve seen dolphins swimming alongside the ship from their Cove Balconies.

However, due to the distance from the ocean, they can get wet at times and have a hatch that can be closed during bad weather and rough seas.

I suggest booking a cabin not too close to the front of the ship; that way, you won’t have to deal with as much spray from the ship’s movement.

5- Getting On And Off The Ship

Because it’s lower on the ship, getting on and off at ports is a breeze—you’re right near the gangway. This is also great if you or yours are prone to seasickness in rough seas .

Which Carnival Ships Have Cove Balconies?

Cove balconies are in category 7C staterooms on Carnival’s Excel-class, Vista-class, and Dream-class ships. That’s every ship that has been built since 2009.

• Carnival Breeze Cove Balcony
• Carnival Celebration Cove Balcony and Cloud 9 Spa Cove Balcony
• Carnival Dream Cove Balcony
• Carnival Horizon Cove Balcony and Family Harbor Suite Cove Balcony
• Carnival Jubilee Cove Balcony and Cloud 9 Spa Cove Balcony
• Carnival Vista Cove Balcony and Family Harbor Suite Cove Balcony
• Mardi Gras Cove Balcony and Cloud 9 Spa Cove Balcony
• Carnival Magic Cove Balcony
• Carnival Panorama Cove Balcony and Family Harbor Suite Cove Balcony

How Much Do Cove Balconies Cost?

Cove Balconies are cheaper than regular ones. Regular balconies usually cost more because of their location on the ship.

However, the actual price of Cove Balcony cabins depends on the ship, the cruise length, and the booking time.

I recommend checking the Carnival Cruise website to get the most updated and accurate information on the prices of the Cove balcony.

Carnival Cruise Latest Deals

With cove balconies, should you choose cove balcony cabins.

Choosing a cabin type on Carnival depends on your needs and preferences. To make your decisions easy, I’ve compiled a list of the pros and cons of these balconies. Have a look.

• Larger in size
• Provide more coverage and shade
• Best for people who have seasickness
• More private due to lifeboats
• Gives you more close-up vibes of the sea
• Super easy to get on and off the ship
• It can be less expensive than normal balconies
• Enclosed nature and smaller openings might be issues for some people
• It can get wet and salty
• Some people might not like the shade and coverage
• Further from the action on-ship
• Balconies may be off-limits in bad weather and rough sea

Now it’s your call. If you like the pros, go for the Cove Balconies; otherwise, stick with the standard ones.

Does Cove Balconies Have WiFi?

Yes, Cove Balconies provide WiFi, but their location might affect internet speed since they’re on lower decks. 

The strength depends on the ship’s design and technology, so if internet speed matters to you and yours, check with Carnival to confirm before deciding.

When To Choose Cove Balconies?

Choosing Cove Balconies is all about personal preference. If you’re after a cozy, private, shady, and close space to the sea, Cove balcony rooms are your best bet. 

Just keep in mind that these balconies might be off-limits in bad weather and rough seas. I’d suggest avoiding Cove Balconies on cruises during hurricane season.

Do Cove Balconies Cost Less Than Regular Ones?

Yes, Cove Balconies are less expensive than standard balconies.

Is There A Risk Of Cove Balconies Being Off-Limits In Bad Weather?

Yes, access to Cove Balconies may be restricted in bad weather or rough seas for safety reasons.

Are Cove Balconies More Private Than Standard Balconies?

Cove Balconies offer extra privacy due to their lower deck location and steel railing.

Final Words

Cove Balconies are favored for being quieter, private, shady, and close to the ocean, making them a popular choice among people while planning their cruise.

However, the only thing that you must consider before booking is the weather conditions because these balconies may be off-limit during rough seas and bad weather. 

But if you’re looking for more private, shady, and cozy options, Cove Balconies are your go-to option.

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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Norwegian Jade

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• What’s On Board?

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The edge of innovation: New cabin design on Celebrity ship brings floor-to-ceiling windows

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Balcony cabins on cruise ships may never be the same. 

Celebrity Cruises this week is unveiling an innovative new design for the standard balcony cabin on ocean ships that features a full wall of glass. 

Debuting on the Miami-based line's new Celebrity Edge , the Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda cabins lack a separated balcony area that is accessible through a doorway at the end of the room.

Instead, there is a wall of glass at the end of the room that slides open from the ceiling at the touch of a button. The glass descends to the level of a traditional balcony railing, creating a balcony-like feel.

The new design allows for a bigger-than-normal interior cabin area. The area that would have been devoted to a traditional balcony is incorporated into the main cabin area – increasing its size by about 23 percent. 

For passengers who want more of a traditional balcony feel in the cabins, Celebrity has added bi-fold doors a few feet away from the glass walls that can be closed to create a traditional room area separated from a balcony area.

In all, the Infinite Veranda cabins are about 243 square feet in size. 

The new design required a rethinking of the way that big cruise ships are built. Load-bearing steel structure that traditionally runs down the sides of ships between cabin interiors and balconies has been moved inward.   

USA TODAY EXCLUSIVE:   First look inside Celebrity Edge  | Edge's stunning mega-suites |  Why Celebrity's new ship could transform the brand  

"It took a lot of re-engineering (and) ... a lot of different thinking," Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo told USA TODAY this week in an exclusive interview . "It took a lot of people telling us 'I don't think we can do that.' "

Lutoff-Perlo said outfitting Celebrity Edge with the Infinite Veranda cabins required adding about 2 percent more volume to the vessel than otherwise would be needed. 

"That was a big deal," she said.

The extra interior space that resulted from the new design of Edge's balcony cabins allowed Celebrity to incorporate king-sized beds in the rooms and bathrooms that are about 10 percent larger than on earlier Celebrity ships. The larger size of the bathrooms allowed for larger showers.

Of 1,467 cabins on Edge, 918 are Infinite Veranda cabins. The ship also offers several classes of bigger suites as well as windowless "inside" cabins.

The wall-of-glass-that-can-open concept for a balcony cabin is something that has been done for several years by a handful of river cruise lines, including Avalon Waterways and Scenic Cruises. Avalon was an early innovator with standard cabins lined with walls of glass  that open wide. 

The new balcony design for the Infinite Veranda cabins isn't the only cabin-related innovation on Edge. The ship's cabins also feature new technology that lets passengers control room lighting, shades, temperature and televisions from an app on their phone.

The Infinite Veranda cabins were developed in collaboration with London-based interior designer Kelly Hoppen. 

Edge arrived at Florida's Port Everglades , in the Fort Lauderdale area, last week after a 15-night journey from the shipyard in France where it had been under construction for more than a year. It's schedule to sail its first cruise with paying passengers on Saturday and be christened in early December. 

What not to do on a cruise ship balcony

Y ou're super excited to be cruising in a cabin with a private balcony. You're daydreaming of kicking back with a book and a cocktail, watching the waves roll by and the sun sink over the horizon. The last thing you want to do is be concerned about a bunch of rules.

The truth is there are several things you're not allowed to do on your cruise balcony — and a few more that are not technically banned but that you shouldn't do anyway. Some are safety issues, while others are about being a good neighbor.

Trust me — you will enjoy having a balcony cabin for its access to sunlight, sea breezes and vacation-time relaxation without the crowds. But you'll have a better time if you do not do the following things on your private veranda.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Smoke a cigarette or cigar

Costa Cruises is the only cruise line I know of that lets you smoke on your personal balcony. That's because cigarettes on a balcony are a fire hazard.

Just search online for photos of the 2006 fire on Princess Cruises ' Star Princess, and you'll see how much damage a discarded lit cigarette can do to a cruise ship. Cruise lines wised up after that and banned smoking on cruise ship balconies . Don't take this rule lightly. In addition to the safety risk you're creating, you will get fined hundreds of dollars and risk disembarkation if caught.

If you're going to get an all-over tan or sunbathe topless, your balcony is a better bet for privacy than the bustling pool deck. Just be aware that your balcony is still visible from several viewpoints.

Folks above you might be able to look down onto your balcony if it juts out beyond the higher decks. Security cameras might capture your naturist moment for posterity, and people on the ship docked across from you or on the pier below might have a direct line of sight into your veranda.

If this doesn't bother you, carry on. However, know that it might make others uncomfortable. (Consider booking a nude cruise if you want to enjoy a clothing-optional cruise vacation.)

While we're on the clothing-optional theme, the same commonsense rule applies to getting frisky with your travel companion on your balcony. Your shipmates and others might be able to both see and hear you if you choose to have an amorous encounter on your balcony.

While you might figure out a way to get some privacy on your expansive suite balcony, I have to think that having sex on a tiny standard-size balcony with sea-sprayed, highly trafficked flooring and metal upright chairs sounds as comfortable as getting romantic in your car. Be careful about up-against-the-railing interactions for the reasons we'll outline below.

Related: 6 reasons you'll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

Climb on balcony furniture and railings

Hey, hey, all you monkeys. Stick to your cruise ship's rock wall if you need to get a climbing fix. Please do not climb onto balcony furniture, sit on the railings with your feet dangling or — and yes, this has been attempted — climb from one balcony to the next. If you have little ones sharing your cabin, read them the riot act that their feet are not to leave the floor (unless their butt is in a chair) while on the balcony.

Losing your balance when climbing on your balcony is a prime way to fall overboard , and no one wants to make that kind of splash on their vacation.

Throw stuff overboard

In addition to your person, the other thing you don't want to go overboard is, well, everything. Do not throw items overboard, whether it be messages in plastic bottles, food or trash. It all goes into the ocean, where it does not belong and could harm sea life.

Not every well-meant message gets found, meaning your bottle could be clogging the seas with plastic for years to come. Your cruise cabin has a trash can by the desk; use it to dispose of garbage.

Related: The best cruise ship balcony cabins for your vacation at sea

Leave little kids unattended

Because your children might have trouble remembering the preceding two rules on their own, make it a family rule that little kids are not to go out on your balcony without an adult. You can stop them when the temptation to climb or throw things becomes too great. The balcony is great for an alfresco breakfast, but it's not a good hiding spot for a cabinwide game of hide and seek.

Tell secrets

I've had many heart-to-heart talks with friends out on a cruise ship balcony, and your personal onboard space is a better place to share secrets than the ship's coffee shop. If you plan to divulge any juicy details, know that sound does carry, and your neighbor planning to enjoy a nap on the adjacent veranda might have given up their snooze to eavesdrop on all your hot gossip.

Turn up the volume

On the "sound carries" theme, your neighbor might be less than pleased when you're having loud, late-night conversations on your balcony or blasting music. Your balcony might be private, but you're part of a cruise ship community. The passengers next to, above and below you might not share your taste in tunes or have a different sleep schedule. Be considerate and keep the volume low, especially during morning and evening hours.

Dry your swimsuits

I'll be honest — everyone does this. You return from the beach and drape your wet swimsuit over the back of the chair on your balcony. This is fine … until the ship sets sail. Then your favorite bikini or trunks get doused with salty sea spray or blown about by the wind, either onto that not-the-cleanest balcony floor or, worse, out to sea. Your cabin shower should have a pull-out cord to use as a clothesline; dry your clothes there, especially when the ship is moving.

Related: Cruise ship cabin hacks that will transform your voyage

Leave the lights on and the doors open

You might not be paying the utility bills for your cruise ship, but that's no reason not to be considerate. Turn your balcony light off when you're not sitting out there after dark. Not only does it save electricity, but the light won't bother your neighbors who are trying to sleep.

Leave the balcony door open, and it will create a wind tunnel when someone opens the cabin door. If you must sleep with the door propped open for fresh air, at least turn your room's air conditioning system off so you're not overworking it. Note that on some ships, the air conditioning goes off automatically when you open your balcony door.

Bring cabin bedding outside

I didn't know this was a trend until recently, but it's one that needs to stop. Some cruisers looking for the ultimate cruise ship snooze have been bringing the balcony furniture into their cabin each evening and lugging their mattress and bedding outside for an alfresco night's sleep.

You might love the glamping, but the cruise ship bedding is not designed to be exposed to moist, salty sea air. Your bedding will not only get dirty but might mildew, which is just plain gross. Future passengers might unknowingly be sleeping on less-than-pristine mattresses, and the cruise line will have to replace its bedding more frequently (passing that extra cost along to you in higher cruise fares). Do us all a favor and sleep indoors where you're supposed to. Reserve your outdoor naptime for days on the pool deck or beach.

Bottom line

What should you do when you're cruising in a balcony room? Order room service at least once, and enjoy it with views of the port or the open ocean. Spend a peaceful moment reading a book in the sun without the noise and splashing of the pool deck. Lean against the railing and watch the ship sail into or out of port, or catch the sun rising or setting.

But for the reasons spelled out above, do not do anything on your cruise balcony that is dangerous, embarrassing or inconsiderate of your neighbors or the environment. Your cruise will be better, not worse, for playing by those rules.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

• Cunard Line

What is a sheltered balcony?

By Aquadesiac , December 11, 2016 in Cunard Line

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Is it totally enclosed with just a larger than normal window? Is it open to view the sea above the rail with metal instead of glass on the lower part?

Do you think a balcony with glass is a better experience or does the difference in price equal a better value?

I'm asking because we're looking at longer voyages and I'm concerned we might feel confined--especially if the balcony is completely enclosed.

Thanks for your help!

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Share on other sites, novascotian.

My wife and I had a cabin with a sheltered balcony on a Mediterranean cruise. The bottom of the opening would easily be 3.5' so when you are sitting or in the lounge chair all you see is sky, the floor space is about 5' x 10'. However it kept you out of most of the wind. It also allowed more privacy then the open balconies and was a great place to get some fresh air without concern of being observed.

It's a balcony with white metal all around. When you look out at the sea, there is a big hole punctured in the white metal allowing you to see out. The sheltering is a good feature for sea days, especially when crossing the Atlantic, when winds can be unpleasant. With the sheltering, you can sit or stand outside, enjoy the sea, and not feel terribly cold. In warmer climates and in ports, the shelter gets in the way of the views and air. You can probably find lots of photos on line.

A couple of examples.

You can see three decks with rectangular openings in the hull, below the promenade deck (deck 7) and the lifeboats. Those are the sheltered balcony staterooms.

One significant difference is that if you're seated on the balcony (or in the room) you wont be able to see the ocean since the opening is probably about four feet above the deck. But in less than optimal weather they're more out of the wind and rain than a regular glass-front balcony. Also lower in the ship.

Great pictures of sheltered balcony "Underwatr". We enjoy the extra privacy the sheltered balcony has. You also can enjoy the balcony experience more while sailing in the colder Atlantic. 11 more days. [emoji41]

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Conventional wisdom has it that passengers who have any concerns regarding sea sickness should book lower deck, mid-ships - which means a sheltered balcony.

DreamflightPat

Is it totally enclosed with just a larger than normal window? Is it open to view the sea above the rail with metal instead of glass on the lower part?   Do you think a balcony with glass is a better experience or does the difference in price equal a better value?   I'm asking because we're looking at longer voyages and I'm concerned we might feel confined--especially if the balcony is completely enclosed.   Thanks for your help!

I personally prefer the balconies with the glass front. When you sit down on the balcony on a sheltered one you can't see the sea. I also like to lie in bed and see the sea through the glass front. I felt a bit "shut in" on the sheltered balcony. Just my opinion.

I found this confusing as, on many cruise lines, sheltered means metal fronted balcony.

We are booked on QM2 and are wondering how people find these 'enclosed' balconies.

Do you feel a bit 'enclosed' almost like an ocean view cabin?

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

cruiseluvva

The balcony itself is larger on the sheltered balconies, but I must admit we don't care for them greatly, for the very reason mentioned above - you can't see the sea unless standing up. The cabins are also darker because less light penetrates.

A week or so ago a passenger on QE posted here with displeasure that his/her stateroom looked over the tops of the lifeboats rather than being able to look straight down and see the ocean. On QM2 the only balconies that let you look straight down and see the ocean are the sheltered balconies on 4-5-6.

So it sounds like on the pro side, sheltered balconies are good for Northern Atlantic crossings and if located near midship are optimal for those who suffer from mal de mer (shyly raises hand).

On the con side, you can't sit & see the ocean. The cabins are darker. And my DH who likes to soak up sun on our balcony would be frustrated.

Soooo, it sounds like a sheltered cabin is best if we want to do the 21 day on Cunard from NYC bound for Norway & back. But we'd be disappointed in a sheltered cabin if we choose Cunard for our WC in '21.

Sound about right?

Aquadesiac, on QM2, there are lounge chairs by the Pavillion pool, on Deck 12, and on the Promenade Deck. Other than the Grill Categories, those are the only chairs that allow a full recline. So, if your wife likes to recline while soaking up the sun, those options for tanning might be preferable over the chairs on your (Britannia) balcony - if so, that tips the scale more towards the sheltered balcony.

Besides, whether or not a glass fronted balcony gets the sun depends on the position of the sun and the balcony, as well as the direction of the ship :D

The balcony is somewhat larger than a glass one. It's much more private, but don't count on working on your tan. If you sit in the lounger you get a great view of the sky & the wall surrounding the opening.

I'm the wife, you see. DH stands for Dear Husband. He's the one who's the sun seeker. I never tan. I crisp up like a marshmallow over a fire. ;)

• 2 weeks later...

Loveboat1995

My parents had the sheltered balcony on our QM2 crossing and we had the oceanview. The sheltered balcony is more like a mini-promenade (though you can't really do laps) because it's much more spacious than normal balcony cabins, although, I didn't really tour any regular balcony cabins so I cannot comment on anything other than the numbers of the square footage.

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