When cruising the shores of Alaska or the Bahamas just stepping onto the deck and taking in the sights and sounds makes the trip worth it, but what about having the scenery and the nature sounds with you for the entirety of the excursion by getting a balcony cabin--is it worth it?
"I think it's usually worth it,'' said Mike Driscoll, editor of industry newsletter Cruise Week, to USA Today. "But that depends on the cruise itself, and why you're going."
Well, now that the question has been answer, the next thing to consider is if it is in the budget?
According to Driscoll price may not have to be an issue.
"A few years ago you'd be paying double to get a balcony," he said. "Now, cabins with balconies on a standard, seven-day cruise generally cost $100 more than those with a window, and between $150 and $200 more than a stateroom inside the ship."
However, with cruise ships being more like a resort, most having pools, fitness centers, enternatinment shows and even casinos, passengers might not be spending much time taking in the scenary.
"They'll be out in the casino and running about most of the time," Driscoll said to USA Today. "For them, it really isn't as important."
But, for Marshall Jackson, a blogger for BoardingArea, it is all about duration.
"If it's at least seven nights, he says, there's more time to relax in your own outdoor space, particularly on days the ship is not in port, he said, reported USA Today. But if the cruise lasts only three or four days, Jackson said, 'he rarely bothers to get one."
If speaking with Brian Matos, director of sales for a supply chain services company based in Frisco, Texas, the balcony has nothing to do with the beuty of nature, it has to do with health.
"It really limits the claustrophobia that sometimes comes with small cabins on a cruise ship." Adding, "(It's) great to be able to sit outside late at night with a glass of wine, looking at the sea and stars," according to USA Today.
So, it appears the critics are all in agreement, balcony is the way to go.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
