Is it worth the extra money for a balcony on a cruise?

Is it worth the extra money for a balcony on a cruise? Even on smaller, more luxurious ships that don't feel crowded, a balcony is desirable; if the weather is such that you can spend a lot of time on your balcony, it's like having an additional room.

What part of ship is best for cruises?

The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balcony room, choose a low level and a room closest to the ship's center. The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.

Which part of cruise ship is best for balcony?

If you're after views, the best room on a cruise ship will be a balcony cabin at the ship's rear end.

Do most people tip extra on cruise?

While the automatic service charges will cover their basic gratuities, it's generally considered good form to tip them a bit extra for a job well done, especially if you have made any special requests. Should you choose to, for a seven-night cruise, consider tipping about $2 to $3 per person, per day.

Can you leave your balcony door open on cruise?

Leaving Your Balcony Door Open Can Make a Mess You might want to prop open your balcony door as you sail, but cruise lines aren't so keen on the idea. For starters, the warm air coming in will cause your cabin's air-conditioning to work harder (unless you turn it down), wasting energy on the ship.

What is guaranteed balcony on cruise?

So instead of requesting and being assigned a specific cabin on a specific deck you are booking a Guaranteed cabin category. So, 'Guaranteed Inside' means you will be guaranteed an inside cabin, somewhere on the ship. 'Guaranteed Balcony' means you will be guaranteed a balcony cabin, somewhere on the ship and so on...

Can you smoke on a cruise if you have a balcony?

Smoking is a fire and safety hazard on a ship. Consequently, it is strictly limited to specific exterior deck areas that can be monitored. All guests are expected to adhere to the following safety guidelines: All staterooms and suite accommodations, including outside balconies, are NON-SMOKING.

Can you smoke on your private balcony on a cruise ship?

Smoking is prohibited on stateroom balconies. Guests in the Garden Villas may smoke in their private garden and on private sun decks. Public areas throughout all ships are smoke-free. If you smoke regular or electronic cigarettes, you can do so in designated areas only.

How much extra should you bring on a cruise?

Many people suggest $100 per day, and this has generally worked well for me in my cruising experiences. Here are some guidelines to help you decide how much money to bring on a cruise.

What deck level is best on a cruise ship?

Midship staterooms on the lowest passenger deck are the most excellent spot to be on a cruise ship in this instance because you don't feel the vessel sway as much.

Is it better to be in the back middle or front of a cruise ship?

The back of the ship tends to be considered the next best cabin position after midships. Whilst the front of the ship gets the most movement the back also does get some. Whilst it's nowhere near as bad as the front of the ship, you may still notice some movement in rough seas.

Can people see you on cruise balcony?

Your balcony is somewhat private, but gaps around the dividers mean others might get an eyeful if you're not careful. As well, sounds can travel. At first glance, there's no one around to see you if you end up getting down on the balcony. But don't think that it is ultra-private.

How do you get freebies on a cruise ship?

What side of a cruise ship is best?

Eastbound cruises get the most sun on the port side; westbound on the starboard side. Watching a sunset over the ocean or seeing the sun slip behind distant islands can also be a reason for a side preference. To catch sunsets, you'll want to be on the port side on northbound cruises and starboard on southbound cruises.

Is ocean view or balcony worth it on a cruise?

Whether you choose an oceanview or balcony cabin should come down to two primary considerations: price and itinerary. Can you afford the extra money you'll pay for a balcony? Or, even if you can afford it, would you prefer to spend that extra money on some other cruise experience (drinks, shore excursions, the spa)?

What is the best floor to stay on a cruise ship?

Midship staterooms on the lowest passenger deck are the most excellent spot to be on a cruise ship in this instance because you don't feel the vessel sway as much.

Is it better to bring cash on a cruise?

In addition to security, it's also helpful to have cash as some places — such as smaller souvenir shops or taxi cabs — don't accept credit cards. Credit card usage simply isn't as widespread as it is in the United States.

What do you tip on a 7 day cruise?

Note that the amount should be tabulated for each individual in your party—don't try to tip once per couple or group. So if you're planning to go on a 7-day cruise, expect to give a total of between $112 and $161 per person in gratuities. Don't forget to factor those charges into your overall vacation budget.

Can you sleep on the balcony of a cruise ship?

Can You Sleep on a Cruise Ship Balcony? There are no rules that say that passengers on cruise ships can't sleep on their balconies. That said, cruise lines do generally advise against it. Despite this many people enjoy sleeping on their balconies and you won't have any problem doing so if you want to.

Is it cheaper to pay gratuities before or after cruise?

If you want to manage your budget more effectively, it's a good idea to prepay your gratuities for your Princess cruise. The only time you would be better off waiting is if you want to use any onboard credit towards the gratuity amount.