Uniworld-French-balcony-1.jpg

What is a French Balcony on a Cruise Ship (And Which Ships Have Them)?

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsRiver Cruising

Cabins with French balconies are common on river cruise ships. Yet people who are used to sailing on ocean cruise ships may get a surprise when they see that the French balconies of river cruise ships are something quite different!

This post explains exactly what is a French balcony and helps you to decide whether you should book one or not.

French Balcony Cabins explained

A French balcony is a balcony that you cannot step out onto. It has floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open to a railing, but no space for furniture. Also known as a Juliet balcony, a French balcony offers fresh air and the feel of a veranda, but with no outside space.

French balcony and window cabin on Uniworld river cruise

Other names for a French Balcony

When you book a river cruise, cabins with French balconies may be described with other words in the brochure or on the website. The exact names used vary depending on the cruise line.

Some other names for French Balcony include: 

  • Juliet balcony
  • Open-air balcony
  • Panorama balcony
  • False balcony
  • Balconette

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French Balcony vs. Juliet Balcony

A French balcony and a Juliet balcony mean exactly the same thing. Both terms refer to floor-to-ceiling doors that slide or open inwards to reveal a railing that you can lean out of.

The name ‘Juliet’ (sometimes spelled as Juliette) comes from the Shakespeare play ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Shakespeare’s writing doesn’t actually mention a balcony, but that Juliet looked out of her bedroom window. However, performances frequently feature French balconies, so the nickname caught on.

Avalon Waterways French Balcony

There’s a reason river cruise ships tend to have French Balconies…

River cruise ships are fairly small, especially when compared to ocean cruise ships, as they have to be narrow enough to fit through locks. Having a French balcony saves space, meaning that you can enjoy a larger cabin. 

On the waterways of Europe, it’s often not warm enough to sit out on your balcony. A French balcony offers the advantages of great views and fresh air without wasting space on cruises where it’s simply too cold to sit out.

French Balcony on AmaWaterways ship

Walk-out balconies are rare!

Most river cruise ships don’t offer true balconies that you can step out onto, but some do. On a river cruise ship, a true balcony is known as a veranda, which is sometimes spelt as ‘verandah’.

There may be up to four cabin types on a river cruise ship:

  • Window – If your cabin is below the waterline, this may be a small window up near the ceiling
  • French balcony – Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and a railing
  • Veranda – A true balcony that you can step out on to
  • Suite – Larger rooms, sometimes with a separate bedroom and living area

Unlike ocean cruise ships, you won’t find any inside cabins on a river cruise ship. This is because river cruise ships are narrow enough for everyone to get at least a window. 

If you opt for a cabin with a window, be sure to check the size of it. Some cabins have standard windows, but others have very small windows that you may even have to stand on a chair to be able to see out of! Cabins that are below the waterline with a high-up window are sometimes affectionately known as ‘aquarium class’.

Uniworld river cruise ship

The difference between a French Balcony and a Veranda?

The main difference between a French balcony and a veranda on a river cruise ship is that you can step out onto a veranda but only lean out of a French balcony.

Verandah on a river cruise ship

Verandas often have a small table and two chairs. However, many French balcony cabins have a table and chairs by the balcony, so that it gives a similar feeling to sitting outside and the view is just as good.

Suggested read: What is a Veranda on a Cruise Ship?

Some AmaWaterways ships actually have twin balconies, with a French balcony and a veranda within one cabin!

Ama Stella twin balconies

Different types of French Balconies

Not all French balconies are the same. Some have standard sized patio doors which slide across to open half of the space. Others have panoramic floor to ceiling glass that covers one wall of the cabin. 

Dropdown French balconies don’t have sliding doors. Instead, the top half of the window can be lowered. These are the best kind of French balconies as the open section can be as wide as the cabin for the best views.

Crystal French Balcony Cabin
Photo credit: Crystal

Do you even need a balcony?

Given that most river cruise boat balconies are French balconies, you may be wondering if a balcony is worth it on a river cruise.

Whether to opt for a balcony or save money by booking a cabin with a window is a matter of personal preference. Think about how much time you are going to spend in your cabin when deciding if the upgrade to a French balcony or a veranda is worth it.

Suite with French Balcony on Tui Skyla

If you’re trying to decide between a French balcony and a window, I would say that the most important thing to consider is the size of the window, and whether you can actually see out of it, rather than the details of the French balcony.

To help you decide, here are some pros and cons of having a French balcony:

Advantages of a French Balcony

  • Fresh air – You can open up the balcony to let air into the cabin, unlike a window which probably won’t open
  • Admire the view from bed – Opening your curtains and admiring the view with a cup of tea before you get out of bed is very enjoyable
  • See the scenery from the warmth of your cabin– On winter cruises it can be very cold up on the top deck, so you may prefer to watch it from your room
Drop down French Balcony on Scenic Amber

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French Balconies on Viking River Cruises

French balcony cabins on Viking ships have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Depending on the ship, they may be between 122 and 150 square feet in size and may be smaller or larger than standard staterooms which have half-height picture windows.

The following table shows the sizes of Viking French balcony staterooms compared to standard window staterooms and those with verandas.

River Standard cabin Cabin with French balcony Cabin with veranda
Rhine 135 sq ft 150 sq ft 205 sq ft
Danube 135 sq ft 150 sq ft 205 sq ft
Main 135 sq ft 150 sq ft 205 sq ft
Elbe 135 sq ft 150 sq ft 205 sq ft
Douro 155 sq ft 150 sq ft 185 sq ft
Elbe 140 sq ft 122 sq ft 180 sq ft
Seine 150 sq ft 135 sq ft 205 sq ft
Volga 142-160 sq ft n/a 225-240 sq ft

Many ships also have suites which will be larger and may have both French balconies and verandas.

Viking ships sailing exotic itineraries such as in Asia, Egypt and the Mississippi usually do not have the option of a French balcony.

Viking River Cruise ship

To conclude

Step-out balconies are rare on river cruise ships, with French balconies being much more common. These offer many of the advantages of a true balcony, whilst saving valuable space on board.

Now you know the French balcony meaning, you can decide whether it’s right for you.

Whether to opt for a stateroom with a window, a French balcony or a verandah is a matter of personal preference. Whichever you choose, you’ll only ever see one side of the river. For the best views, you’ll want to head up to the sun deck where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Cruise ship cabin with a large window looking out to sea, illustrating Rhapsody of the Seas cabins to avoid

Rhapsody of the Seas Cabins to Avoid: Deck-by-Deck Guide (2026)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsRoyal Caribbean

The main Rhapsody of the Seas cabins to avoid are the forward cabins on Decks 4 and 7, which sit right next to the two levels of the theater, and the aft cabins on Deck 7 above the Shall We Dance Lounge. Oceanview cabins on Deck 3 under the main galley and Deck 8 cabins directly beneath the Windjammer or the fitness center are also worth avoiding. Rhapsody is a smaller, older ship with fewer balconies, so it pays more than usual to pick your exact cabin: midship on Deck 7 or 8 is the best bet for most people.

Is Rhapsody of the Seas still sailing in 2026?

Yes. Rhapsody of the Seas is still in the Royal Caribbean fleet as of November 2026. She is a Vision-class ship built in 1997, carrying about 2,000 guests at double occupancy (around 2,400 at full capacity) in roughly 1,000 staterooms. She sails year-round from San Juan, Puerto Rico, on 7-night Southern Caribbean cruises. A typical November 2026 sailing visits St. Maarten, Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts and St. Croix. In 2026 some sailings also added La Romana in the Dominican Republic in place of a sea day.

An earlier plan to move her to Tampa for winter 2026-27 was changed. Royal Caribbean now keeps Rhapsody and Vision of the Seas in Puerto Rico and sends the larger Radiance-class ships to Florida. Her most recent drydock was two weeks at Grand Bahama Shipyard in May 2025. That stop replaced carpets, upholstery and furniture but did not change the cabin layout. Deployments can change, so confirm on Royal Caribbean’s website before booking.

If you are weighing up an older ship, our guide to the oldest Royal Caribbean ships and which are still worth booking gives the wider picture.

Rhapsody of the Seas cabin categories and sizes

The figures below are approximate, because sources differ by a few square feet. One thing stands out on Rhapsody: most balcony cabins are on Decks 7 and 8. Decks 2, 3 and 4 have only interior and oceanview cabins.

Category Approx. cabin size Approx. balcony Sleeps Decks
Interior 135-175 sq ft None 2-4 2, 3, 4, 7, 8
Oceanview about 150-155 sq ft None 2-4 2, 3, 4 (plus larger ones on 7 and 8)
Family Oceanview about 240-245 sq ft None Up to 6 Forward, Decks 2-4
Balcony about 190-195 sq ft 35-40 sq ft Up to 4-5 Deck 7
Junior Suite about 240-245 sq ft about 60 sq ft Up to 4 Deck 8
Grand Suite about 350 sq ft about 105-110 sq ft Up to 4 Deck 8
Royal Family Suite about 485-510 sq ft about 60 sq ft Up to 8 Aft-facing, Decks 7 and 8
Owner’s Suite about 515-525 sq ft about 105-110 sq ft Up to 4 Forward, Deck 8
Royal Suite about 1,180-1,325 sq ft about 105-140 sq ft Up to 4 Forward, Deck 8 (only one)

Rhapsody of the Seas deck plan: what is above and below each cabin deck

A cabin’s neighbors decide how quiet it is. This table pulls the key points from the Rhapsody of the Seas deck plan, so you can check a cabin number before you book.

Cabin deck Cabin numbers Above Watch out for
Deck 2 about 2005-2719 Deck 3 cabins Lowest deck. Closest to the anchor, thrusters and engines at the very front and back
Deck 3 about 3000-3817 Deck 4 dining room and galley Galley noise above many oceanviews and the aft interiors
Deck 4 about 4000-4576 Deck 5 theater (forward), Centrum and promenade Forward cabins sit directly under the theater
Deck 7 about 7013-7660 Deck 8 cabins Forward cabins over the theater’s upper level. Aft cabins over the Shall We Dance Lounge
Deck 8 about 8000-8600 Deck 9 Lido (pools, Windjammer, fitness) Forward cabins under the Windjammer, aft cabins under the fitness center
Empty theater seats facing a stage under colorful show lighting
Cabins next to the two-level theater are the most common noise complaint. Photo: Hert Niks on Pexels

Rhapsody of the Seas cabins to avoid, by problem

Noise from shows and lounges

The theater spans Decks 5 and 6 at the front of the ship, so it has cabins both below it (forward on Deck 4) and above it (forward on Deck 7). Both groups can hear rehearsals, sound checks and evening shows. Aft on Deck 7, balconies from about 7142 (port) and 7642 (starboard) toward the stern, plus the aft interiors, sit above the Shall We Dance Lounge. Some Deck 3 cabins have been reported as noisy because of music from the Centrum. If you go to bed early, avoid these areas.

Galley and buffet noise

Many oceanview cabins on Deck 3, plus the aft interiors, are below the main dining room’s galley on Deck 4. Kitchen work starts early and finishes late. At the top of the ship, forward cabins on Deck 8 sit below the Windjammer, where tables and chairs are moved from breakfast onward.

Thumps from the gym

Aft cabins on Deck 8 are below the Vitality fitness center. Dropped weights and early-morning classes can carry through the ceiling. This also affects the Junior Suites in that area.

Motion and docking noise

At roughly 78,000 gross tons, Rhapsody is noticeably smaller than Royal Caribbean’s newer ships, and you feel the sea more. Forward cabins pitch the most in a swell. Low forward cabins also hear the anchor and bow thrusters when the ship docks. A Cruise Critic reviewer who stayed in forward Deck 3 cabin 3504 described it as their worst cabin experience for that reason. Aft cabins on the lowest decks can pick up engine vibration.

Views that are not quite what you expect

Unlike the Radiance class, Rhapsody’s balconies are not hidden behind lifeboat covers, because the lifeboats sit lower down by the Deck 5 promenade. Still, check a few things:

  • Porthole oceanviews. Oceanviews on Decks 2 and 3 have rectangular portholes, and the most forward ones (for example 2010-2014, 2510-2514, 3000-3014 and 3500-3514) have two small round portholes instead. You get light, but not much of a view.
  • Aft balcony privacy. Guests on Deck 8 can see down onto some aft Deck 7 balconies, so these feel less private.
  • Columns. A few Deck 8 cabins have a structural column inside the room, which takes some space from the layout.

The same patterns show up on her Vision-class sisters. If you are comparing ships, see our guide to Enchantment of the Seas rooms to avoid.

Rhapsody of the Seas best cabins

Here are the best Rhapsody of the Seas cabins, from most to least expensive:

  1. Royal Suite (Deck 8 forward). The only one onboard, with over 1,000 sq ft, a private balcony, a whirlpool tub and a baby grand piano. It comes with full suite perks.
  2. Owner’s and Grand Suites (Deck 8). Large balconies of about 105-110 sq ft, bathtubs and more space for longer cruises.
  3. Midship Junior Suites (Deck 8). The best value upgrade. You get a sitting area, a bathtub and a bigger balcony than a standard balcony cabin. Pick one midship, away from the Windjammer above the forward end and the gym above the aft end.
  4. Aft-facing Royal Family Suites (Decks 7 and 8). Two bedrooms, two bathrooms and wake views, good for families of up to eight. Expect a little more vibration at the stern.
  5. Midship balconies on Deck 7. They have cabins above and are far from both the theater and the aft lounge. For most couples these are the best rooms on the ship.
  6. Panoramic oceanviews on Deck 8. Cabins 8041-8047 and 8541-8547 have floor-to-ceiling windows. They are a good choice if you want a big view without paying for a balcony.
  7. Midship interiors on Decks 7 and 8. The quietest budget choice, with cabins all around you and short walks to the elevators.
Cruise ship sailing through turquoise Caribbean water on a sunny day
Midship cabins on Deck 7 or 8 ride most smoothly on Southern Caribbean sailings. Photo: Holger Wulschlaeger on Pexels

Rhapsody of the Seas best deck

For most guests the best deck is Deck 7, midship. It has the most balconies, cabins on Deck 8 above, and it is far from the theater and the aft lounge. For a suite, Deck 8 is the place: all the suites are here and it is close to the Lido. Just check whether the Windjammer or the gym is above your cabin. If you are on a budget, midship on Deck 4 is handy for dining and the Centrum. Avoid the forward end below the theater and the aft end of Deck 3 under the galley.

Family and connecting cabins

Families have more choice on Rhapsody than its size suggests. Family Oceanview cabins forward on Decks 2-4 sleep up to six. The aft Royal Family Suites sleep up to eight. Connecting cabins are available in the interior, oceanview and balcony categories. Two connecting balconies on Deck 7 often cost less than a suite and give you two bathrooms. If you are not traveling as a group, avoid connecting cabins, because sound carries through the shared door. Rhapsody has 14 accessible cabins across the interior, oceanview, balcony and Junior Suite categories. Book these early by cabin number.

Should you book a guarantee cabin on Rhapsody?

With a guarantee fare you pick the category, and Royal Caribbean chooses the cabin, usually close to sailing. It saves money, but on Rhapsody it is a bigger gamble than on most ships. The problem areas (under the theater, under the galley, under the gym and over the lounge) make up a large share of a small ship. A guarantee works if you sleep well anywhere and the price gap is big. If you want quiet, a midship cabin or a particular balcony, pay a little more and choose your cabin. For broader rules that apply on any ship, see our 13 Royal Caribbean cabins to avoid.

If you are also looking at Rhapsody’s near-identical sister ship, our deck-by-deck guide to Vision of the Seas cabins to avoid shows what sits above and below every cabin deck.

If you are weighing up Rhapsody against a slightly larger Royal Caribbean ship, our guide to Serenade of the Seas cabins to avoid covers the obstructed balconies and noisy decks on the Radiance-class Serenade.

FAQs

What deck is best on Rhapsody of the Seas?

Deck 7 midship for balconies, and Deck 8 for suites. Both are above the busiest public rooms, but check whether your cabin is under the Windjammer, the gym or over the aft lounge.

Does Rhapsody of the Seas have obstructed-view balconies?

Rhapsody’s balconies are not blocked by lifeboats the way some Radiance-class balconies are. The bigger issues are reduced privacy on some aft Deck 7 balconies and small porthole windows in the lower-deck oceanviews.

Where is Rhapsody of the Seas sailing in 2026?

She sails year-round from San Juan, Puerto Rico, on 7-night Southern Caribbean cruises. Ports include St. Maarten, Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts and St. Croix, and some sailings in 2026 added La Romana.

Are Deck 2 cabins on Rhapsody of the Seas bad?

Not always. Midship Deck 2 interiors are stable and good value. Avoid the very front and back, where docking and engine noise are strongest, and remember that oceanviews here have portholes.

Which Rhapsody of the Seas cabins are under the theater?

The most forward cabins on Deck 4 sit below the theater, and the most forward cabins on Deck 7 sit above its upper level. Both can hear shows and rehearsals.

AIDAnova-1.jpg

The First 19 LNG-Powered Cruise Ships

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsFirst time cruisers

Cruise ships are a popular way for people to explore the world while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a floating hotel.

However, with the growing concern over the environmental impact of cruising, the cruise industry is undergoing a significant shift towards cleaner and greener alternatives.

LNG powered cruise ship

One such alternative is the use of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) as fuel, which is much more environmentally friendly compared to traditional heavy fuel oil. In recent years, many cruise lines have begun to invest in LNG-powered ships to reduce their carbon footprint.

More and more cruise lines are adopting LNG and so to list every ship using the fuel would mean to list almost every ship being built over the next few years.

So instead, here’s a look at the pioneers – the first 19 cruise ships to use the technology.

1. AIDAnova

AIDAnova
  • Maiden Voyage: 2 December 2018
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,200 guests

AIDAnova launched a new class of ship for AIDA Cruises, being the first Excellence-class ship for the fleet. She was also the first ocean cruise ship in the world that can completely sail using LNG, which is quite the record.

She suffered a number of delays due to her new design, which also impacted two other ships on this list. However the hull design has been used for other Carnival Corporation cruise ships since, meaning it’s now much easier for AIDA, Costa, Carnival, Princess, P&O and others to build LNG-powered cruise ships.

2. Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda
  • Maiden Voyage: 21 December 2019
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,200 guests

Costa Smeralda is another Excellence-class ship, this time sailing under the Costa Cruises brand, and when she launched she was not only the first LNG-powered ship for Costa, but also the biggest ship ever built for the cruise line, and the sixth-largest in the world (although she has now fallen further down the rankings).

She remains one of the largest ships in the world to offer exclusively Mediterranean cruise itineraries, including through the winter.

3. Ponant Le Commandant Charcot

Ponant Le Commandant Charcot
  • Maiden Voyage: 29 July 2021
  • Cost: $324 million
  • Tonnage: 30,000 GT
  • Capacity: 270 guests

Le Commandant Charcot featured a hybrid power plant that’s powered by LNG and has electric batteries that can drive the ship with the engines switched off. She was the first icebreaking vessel to be powered by LNG – meaning a ship that is capable of sailing through the polar regions and withstanding ice impacts in the water.

She was also key in proving that LNG was the future for all size of cruise ships – not just as an investment for larger mega ship designs.

4. Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras
  • Maiden Voyage: 31 July 2021
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,200 guests

Billed as ‘the first LNG-powered ship in North America’, Mardi Gras is the third Excellence-class ship to be built for the Carnival Corporation and the first for the primary Carnival cruise brand.

Carnival took the opportunity to overhaul the layout of the ship too, introducing ‘Zones’ for the first time, with each one hosting different entertainment facilities and features to make navigating the ship much easier.

5. P&O Iona

Iona
  • Maiden Voyage: 7 August 2021
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,200 guests

Iona follows the same Excellence-class design as other Carnival Corp. ships, and was at the time the largest ship ever to be built for P&O Cruises and therefore the largest ship designed with the British cruise market in mind.

Since her launch in 2020 she has been exceptionally popular, primarily offering cruises around Northern Europe and the Med but with the occasional Caribbean itinerary too.

6. AIDAcosma

AIDAcosma
  • Maiden Voyage: 26 February 2022
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,400 guests

AIDAcosma is a direct twin of AIDAnova, which also means she helped AIDA Cruises become the first cruise line to feature two LNG-powered ships.

A family-friendly ship, she is packed with fun features for all ages to enjoy including rock-climbing walls, splash pools, a water park and dining options aimed at children too.

7. Costa Toscana

Costa Toscana
  • Maiden Voyage: 5 March 2022
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,224 guests

Costa Toscana is the sister ship of the Costa Smeralda, and she is considered to be the new flagship of the Costa Cruises fleet.

Delivery of Costa Toscana was delayed from her original launch date due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but since she has launched she has wowed guests with her wide range of family-oriented facilities, helping establish a new and more environmentally-friendly future for Costa Cruises.

8. Disney Wish

Disney Wish
  • Maiden Voyage: 14 July 2022
  • Cost: $900 million
  • Tonnage: 140,000 GT
  • Capacity: 2,500 guests

Disney Wish was the fifth ship to launch for Disney Cruise Line, marking it as a notable event since launches are so rare.

Not only was she the first Disney ship to be powered by LNG, but she was the first to feature a full Disney attraction at sea, in the form of the AquaMouse water coaster. Other popular areas of the ship are themed around Star Wars, Marvel, and the Disney concept of ‘imagineering’.

9. Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration
  • Maiden Voyage: 6 November 2022
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,200 guests

Carnival Celebration is a sister ship of Mardi Gras, and became the seventh Excellence-class ship to launch for the Carnival Corporation.

She is very similar to Mardi Gras, being split into six distinct zones and including a wealth of dining options and family-friendly activities, including the returning Bolt roller coaster at sea and the debut of Space Cruisers, part of the kids’ club developed with the Kennedy Space Center.

10. P&O Arvia

Arvia
  • Maiden Voyage: 6 November 2022
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900
  • Capacity: 5,200

Arvia is the second ship to launch for P&O Cruises to be powered by LNG, and she is the current flagship of the fleet.

Similar to Iona, she has some great features onboard to please the whole family, including fantastic dining options and a varied kids’ club. Unlike her sister, she offers more variety in her itineraries including more frequent Caribbean cruises.

11. MSC World Europa

MSC World Europa
  • Maiden Voyage: 26 January 2023
  • Cost: $1.2 billion
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,200 guests

MSC World Europa is the first ship for MSC Cruises to be powered by LNG, and her futuristic design doesn’t stop there. Other environmentally-friendly features include enhanced water recycling, and improved propellers that cut down on noise affecting marine wildlife.

Her modern style also extends to her entertainment, including virtual-reality themed activities and lots of digital screens.

12. MSC Euribia

MSC Euribia
  • Maiden Voyage: 10 June 2023
  • Cost: $1 billion
  • Tonnage: 177,000 GT
  • Capacity: 4,888 guests

MSC Euribia is the second LNG-powered ship to launch for MSC, but notably she’s also the first ship in the world to launch as part of an existing class of ship, but with the new fuel type. She joins the Meraviglia-Plus class, alongside sisters MSC Grandiosa and MSC Virtuosa that are powered by traditional diesel.

She also incorporates MSC’s new wastewater treatment systems, and other energy-efficient technology solutions to help reduce fuel needed.

13. Silversea Silver Nova

Silver Nova
  • Maiden Voyage: 14 August 2023
  • Cost: $600 million
  • Tonnage: 54,700 GT
  • Capacity: 728 guests

Arguably, Silver Nova has the distinction of being the first ultra-luxury cruise ship to be powered by LNG (Le Ponant is sometimes considered an ultra-luxury cruise line too).

Along with a number of contemporary features aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of the ship, the ship also looks to the future by adding more choices for dining and suite accommodation, and ensuring public spaces are as sumptuous as possible with hand-picked furnishings.

14. Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee
  • Maiden voyage: 23 December 2023
  • Cost: $950 million
  • Tonnage: 183,900 GT
  • Capacity: 5,400 guests

Carnival Jubilee is the third LNG-powered ship in the Carnival Cruises fleet, offering sailings out of Galveston in Texas.

Carnival will continue to use LNG for future ships in the fleet.

15. Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas
  • Maiden Voyage: 27 January 2024
  • Cost: $1.1 billion
  • Tonnage: 250,800 GT
  • Capacity: 5,610 guests

When Icon of the Seas launched for Royal Caribbean, she wasn’t just the first LNG-powered ship for arguably the biggest cruise line in the world; she also took on the mantle of the single biggest cruise ship ever built.

She features some incredible new features, such as a dedicated neighbourhood for young families in Surfside, the largest waterpark at sea, and a massive range of dining options, including old favourites and debuting venues.

16. Sun Princess

Sun Princess
  • Maiden Voyage: 18 February 2024
  • Cost: $1 billion
  • Tonnage: 175,000 GT
  • Capacity: 4,300 guests

Sun Princess was the first LNG-powered ship for Princess Cruises, and also the first LNG-powered ship built for the Carnival Corporation that isn’t an Excellence-class ship. She’s actually be a little smaller than the Excellence-class ships, but she’s still the largest ship sailing for Princess Cruises.

The third ship to ever sail for the fleet with the name ‘Sun Princess’, she offers some stunning new features including the Wake View Terrance and Sun View Terrace, both perfect spots to relax and enjoy the incredible views from the ship.

17. Silver Ray

  • Maiden Voyage: 3 June 2024
  • Cost: $600 million
  • Tonnage: 54,700 GT
  • Capacity: 728 guests

Silver Ray is the second Nova-class ship sailing for Silversea, including some of the debuting features from Silver Nova such as the asymmetrical design and the increased use of glass throughout the public areas to open up the ship more and make the most of the view.

As well as being powered by LNG, she retains other contemporary tech from Silver Nova that helps to make her more environmentally-friendly than earlier ships in the Silversea fleet.

18. Utopia of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas
  • Maiden Voyage: 19 July 2024
  • Cost: $1.3 billion
  • Tonnage: 231,000 GT
  • Capacity: 5,714 guests

Utopia of the Seas is the sixth Oasis-class ship to launch for Royal Caribbean, and the first of which to be powered by LNG.

She retained many of the most popular features from sister ships like Wonder of the Seas, along with some new features alongside the new fuel tech – no Royal Caribbean ship ever launches without something innovative.

19. Disney Treasure

Disney Treasure
  • Maiden voyage: December 2024
  • Cost: $900 million
  • Tonnage: 140,000 GT
  • Capacity: 2,500 guests

Disney Treasure is the sister ship of Disney Wish. As well as maintaining the environmentally-friendly features of her sister, she’ll also build on her new entertainment options and themed areas too.

She has the theme of adventure, with public areas based on the Aladdin movies, along with some other cool new spaces such as one themed around the Haunted Mansion.

And that’s it – the first 19 cruise ships to use LNG as a fuel, up to the end of 2024. Many ships launching in 2025 & beyond are also using the fuel, but cruise lines are still looking at new alternatives that may be even more environmentally-friendly too.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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The Worst Time To Cruise To The Bahamas

by CaribbeanCruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsDestinationsFirst time cruisers

The Bahamas is one of the most popular cruise destinations due to the island’s beautiful beaches, clear water, and proximity to Florida, another top holiday destination.

Bahamas Cruise

If you’re considering booking a cruise to the Bahamas, it’s worth looking into the best times to go and when it might be best to avoid. 

A few years ago, I booked a cruise to the Bahamas to depart at the end of August. Well, a day before we were due to fly the cruise was cancelled. I didn’t think that perhaps the risk of hurricanes was the reason why the cruise was so cheap!

Since then, I’ve done a ton of research about the best and worst times to visit the Bahamas, so here’s everything you need to know. 

The worst months for the Bahamas

The worst months to take a cruise to the Bahamas are during the hurricane season. This starts at the beginning of June and finishes at the end of November, and it peaks from August to October. During this time, hurricanes mean the weather can be unpredictable.

The Caribbean is the destination which mainly suffers from hurricanes. However, the Bahamas is north of the Caribbean Sea, which means the weather is less humid and less likely to be hit by a hurricane.

Strong winds blowing on the trees

However, if you do decide to take a cruise to the Bahamas during hurricane season, there is a chance that your travels may not go completely to plan.

If you don’t want to take the risk, the Bahamas is at its driest in December through to early spring. You’ll more likely be able to enjoy sunny skies and less chance of your cruise being interrupted.

If you’re starting your cruise from a destination such as Florida, but a hurricane is on its way, the cruise will either be cancelled, may be delayed by a few days, or a port or two may be missed out. The cruise line’s top priority is the passenger’s safety. 

You can learn more about how hurricanes can affect your cruise here.

Whilst the captain and crew carefully navigate for calmer waters, the onboard entertainment will replace your expected beach day in the Bahamas. Unfortunately, sometimes the outdoor pools close due to the swell of the sea, which in turn floods the surrounding pool areas.

Choppy seas as viewed from a cruise ship

However, there’s so much to do on a cruise ship that you shouldn’t be too disheartened if the Captain has announced that stormy weather is predicted. 

There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied onboard the ship. Particularly on a large, modern ship, there’s usually lots to do. For example, if you’re on a Royal Caribbean cruise, your ship might have activities such as large theatre productions, ice skating, pub quizzes or, if you prefer something quiet, a library to relax in.

Family ice skating together

The advantages of cruising in the off-peak season

Sometimes because of life commitments, we can’t always choose the best time to travel. Our travel arrangements are governed by school holidays. If you have children, vacation time doesn’t always coincide with the best of your favoured location’s weather. 

Happy couple on cruise

However, you could be lucky, bad weather at that time of year is not a foregone conclusion. You could benefit from lower cruise prices, cheaper flights and not so many crowds. 

Many times when your cruise planner is live, and you are looking to book tours, you see the words ‘sold out’. This is less likely to happen in this quieter season – there may be more availability.

Tips for cruising in the Bahamas during hurricane season

If you decide to make the most of the reduced prices and quieter times, I have some suggestions.

First of all, when booking your cruise, check their cancellation policy. Check how they deal with refunds, as cruise lines have different terms and conditions. Some might offer an alternative, but others will issue credits to use another time.

Hurricane Season sign

Once you’ve booked your cruise, choose the appropriate travel insurance. Make sure the policy covers cruise ships and the destinations you’re visiting, such as the Bahamas. Check the small print and terms and conditions, and check whether it includes weather-related disruptions.

Next, when it comes to packing, it is essential to include suitable clothing for the varying weather conditions. Ensure to include appropriate wet weather gear to shield you from chilling winds.

Cruise lines and travel companies are very good at keeping in touch. You will hear from them if there are going to be any disruptions. So, make sure you check your emails and messages if you hear about potential hurricanes. 

You can also stay updated with hurricane forecasts on websites and apps such as the National Hurricane Center.

The bottom line

As the weather can be unpredictable during the hurricane season, it might not be an ideal time to take a cruise to the Bahamas. 

However, if you’re willing to give it a go, you might be able to get a cruise for a good price. Also, if you’re lucky, you may have fantastic weather, and you can enjoy your holiday without fighting your way through the crowds.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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White wake trailing behind a ship on open blue water, illustrating Enchantment of the Seas rooms to avoid

Enchantment of the Seas Rooms to Avoid (and the Best Cabins to Book)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsRoyal Caribbean

The Enchantment of the Seas rooms to avoid are mostly a question of what sits above, below or beside you: forward cabins on deck 4 under the theater, deck 8 cabins under the pool deck and buffet, aft deck 7 rooms over the late-night lounges, and the lowest cabins right at the bow or stern. Pick a mid-ship cabin on deck 3 or a deck 7 balcony between the elevator banks and you avoid almost every common complaint. Below, we walk through each cabin type, the trouble spots and the smartest picks on this stretched Vision-class ship.

Why Enchantment of the Seas Is Different From Its Sisters

Enchantment of the Seas entered service in 1997 as one of Royal Caribbean’s six Vision-class ships. What sets her apart is surgery: in May 2005 she went into dry dock in Rotterdam, was cut in two, and had a 73-foot midsection (built in advance in Finland) floated in. The insert added 151 passenger cabins, pushed her tonnage from about 74,000 to roughly 82,900, and stretched her to just under 990 feet. The same project nearly doubled the main pool area and added a splash deck for kids, bungee trampolines and two suspension bridges over the sides of the pool deck.

That matters for cabin choice. Enchantment has more cabins in the middle of the ship than her unstretched sister Grandeur of the Seas, which has its own list of cabins to avoid, and more of the stable, mid-ship rooms that most cruisers want. It also means the pool deck above deck 8 is larger and busier than on the other Vision ships.

A later dry dock in Freeport, Bahamas, at the end of 2012 brought her up to Royal Caribbean’s newer standards, including the R Bar in the Centrum, a poolside movie screen and the Chef’s Table. Today she sails from Tampa on short Western Caribbean getaways, with 5- and 7-night Mexico itineraries scheduled from April 2027 and 4- and 5-night cruises from November 2027, according to Royal Caribbean’s December 2025 announcement.

Enchantment of the Seas Cabin Types and Sizes

Like most 1990s ships, Enchantment has smaller standard rooms than you will find on Oasis- or Icon-class ships. Approximate sizes from published deck plans:

Cabin type Approx. size Sleeps Worth knowing
Standard interior 136 sq ft 2-4 No mini-fridge; tight with upper bunks in use
Spacious interior About 234-243 sq ft Up to 6 Rare and a strong value for families
Standard ocean view 126 sq ft 2-4 Smaller than an interior; some low-deck rooms have portholes
Spacious ocean view 193 sq ft Up to 4 Some face onto the Centrum atrium rather than the sea
Ultra spacious ocean view About 608 sq ft Up to 8 Sleeps a big family without booking a suite
Balcony 191 sq ft + 39 sq ft balcony Up to 4 Only on decks 7 and 8
Junior suite 243 sq ft + 74 sq ft balcony Up to 4 Bathtub, more storage, priority check-in
Grand suite (1 or 2 bedroom) 349-532 sq ft 4-8 Suite perks; two-bedroom version sleeps eight
Owner’s and Royal Suite 517 sq ft to well over 1,000 sq ft Up to 4 The Royal Suite is a single forward cabin on deck 8

Balconies are relatively scarce here, about a fifth of all cabins, and all of them are on decks 7 and 8. If a balcony matters, book early. If you are unsure whether it is worth the extra money on a short Caribbean run, our guide to balcony versus inside cabins sets out the trade-offs.

Long carpeted hallway lined with room doors
Standard cabins on 1990s ships are compact, so location matters even more. Photo: Strange Happenings on Pexels

Enchantment of the Seas Rooms to Avoid

Soundproofing on a ship of this age is not as good as on newer builds, so noise from public rooms is the biggest risk. These are the areas to think twice about.

1. Deck 4 forward, under the theater

The most forward cabins on deck 4 sit beneath the Orpheum Theater. Rehearsals, set changes and evening shows can be audible. Farther back on deck 4, cabins sit below deck 5’s casino and the Boleros Latin lounge, which stay lively late into the night. Rooms closest to the Centrum and R Bar pick up atrium music too.

2. Deck 8 under the pool deck and buffet

Deck 8 is directly under the Lido deck. Forward rooms sit below the Windjammer buffet, mid-ship rooms below the pools and hot tubs, and aft rooms below the fitness center. Expect early-morning chair scraping, deck cleaning and the occasional dropped weight. Because the 2005 stretch enlarged the pool area, more deck 8 cabins sit under it than on her sisters. Many junior suites are on this deck, so if you book one, look at what is directly overhead.

3. Deck 7 aft, above the lounges

Aft cabins on deck 7, including some of the popular aft-facing junior suites, sit above the Schooner Bar and the Spotlight Lounge on deck 6, where entertainment often runs late. Forward deck 7 cabins sit above the theater, which is usually quieter by bedtime.

4. Atrium-facing rooms on decks 7 and 8

A handful of spacious ocean view rooms look into the Centrum instead of out to sea. They are roomy, but music and parties carry up the open atrium, and you trade natural light for a view of the lobby.

5. The lowest decks at the very bow or stern

Cabins on decks 2 and 3 right at the bow can hear the anchor and bow thrusters on early port mornings and feel more pitching in rough seas. Those at the far stern can feel engine vibration. Some low forward rooms also have portholes rather than picture windows.

6. Connecting cabins, if you are not traveling together

Enchantment has many connecting rooms. The adjoining door is thinner than a wall, so conversations and TV noise travel. Great for families booking two rooms, less great if strangers are next door.

7. Standard rooms for three or four adults

At 126-136 sq ft, standard ocean view and interior cabins feel crowded once the pull-down bunks come out. Three or four adults will be much happier in a spacious interior, a spacious ocean view or two connecting rooms.

Best Cabins on Enchantment of the Seas

Best Enchantment of the Seas balcony room: deck 7 mid-ship

Mid-ship balconies on deck 7 have cabins above and shops, photo gallery and a coffee bar below, all of which close at night. This is the sweet spot for quiet and stability.

Best interior and ocean view: deck 3 mid-ship

Deck 3 is sandwiched between cabin decks, so there are rooms above, below and on both sides. Interior and ocean view rooms between the forward and aft elevator banks are among the quietest on board and feel the least motion.

Best for families: ultra spacious ocean view or two-bedroom grand suite

The ultra spacious ocean view room is huge for a non-suite cabin and sleeps up to eight. If you have suite budget, the two-bedroom grand suite gives you two bathrooms and a living area. Both sit forward on deck 8, so accept some buffet noise in the morning.

Best value upgrade: aft junior suites

The aft-facing junior suites on decks 7 and 8 have wake views and larger balconies. They are popular and sell out early. Choose deck 8 if you would rather hear the gym than the Spotlight Lounge, or deck 7 if the reverse.

Best overall: the Royal Suite

The Royal Suite has a baby grand piano, a separate bedroom and a large marble bathroom with whirlpool tub, plus suite-level perks. It is a single cabin, so it books up far ahead.

Private cruise balcony with two chairs looking out over a calm sea at sunset
Mid-ship balconies give the best mix of views, quiet and stability. Photo: Chris F on Pexels

What Is the Best Deck on Enchantment of the Seas?

For most cruisers, deck 7 is the best all-round cabin deck: balconies, public rooms only at the ends, and quiet retail space below the middle. Deck 3 is the best budget deck. Deck 8 offers the best suites but the most overhead noise, and deck 2 suits budget travelers who prioritize price over convenience, since it is the farthest walk to the pool.

Enchantment vs Grandeur: Quick Comparison

Feature Enchantment of the Seas Grandeur of the Seas
Entered service 1997 1996
Lengthened Yes, 73-ft midsection in 2005 No
Approx. tonnage 82,900 GT About 74,000 GT
Extra features from stretch Bungee trampolines, suspension bridges, larger pool area None
Homeport (2026-27) Tampa Colon, Panama and Cartagena, Colombia

Both are classic, smaller ships with lots of glass and sea views. If you want to know how they compare with newer tonnage, read our take on whether ship age really matters.

Guarantee Cabin or Choose Your Own?

A guarantee fare locks in a category (say, balcony or better) while Royal Caribbean picks the actual room, usually for a lower price. On a ship with as many noisy spots as Enchantment, that is a gamble: you could land under the pool deck or above a lounge. If you sleep lightly, pay a little more and pick your cabin. If price is everything and you sleep through anything, a guarantee can be a good deal, and you may even be upgraded.

Booking Several Cabins Together

Groups and multi-generation families should book at the same time and ask for connecting or adjacent rooms. Connecting pairs exist in interior, ocean view and balcony categories. Royal Caribbean can link reservations so dining tables and travel documents line up. Watch our 2027 cruise deals roundup for fare sales before you commit.

Sailing Enchantment’s Vision-class sister instead? Our deck-by-deck guide to Rhapsody of the Seas cabins to avoid covers the noisy spots on that ship.

FAQs

Which cabins should I avoid on Enchantment of the Seas?

Avoid deck 4 forward under the theater, deck 8 rooms under the pool deck or buffet, aft deck 7 cabins above the late-night lounges, atrium-facing rooms and the very lowest bow and stern cabins if you are sensitive to noise or motion.

Was Enchantment of the Seas lengthened?

Yes. In 2005 she was cut in half in Rotterdam and a 73-foot midsection was added, bringing 151 extra cabins, a larger pool area, bungee trampolines and suspension bridges.

Do Enchantment of the Seas cabins have a fridge?

Balcony cabins and suites have a mini-fridge. Standard interior and ocean view cabins generally do not, so ask your stateroom attendant if you need one for medication.

What is the best deck on Enchantment of the Seas?

Deck 7 mid-ship is the best overall for balconies and quiet. Deck 3 mid-ship is the best choice for interior and ocean view rooms.

Where does Enchantment of the Seas sail from?

She is based in Tampa, Florida, sailing Western Caribbean cruises to Mexico, with short 4- to 7-night itineraries scheduled through 2027.

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Disney Treasure’s Haunted Mansion Parlor Limits Guests to Just 45-Minute Visits

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Guests aboard Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure will have just 45 minutes to enjoy the highly-anticipated Haunted Mansion Parlor, a bar themed around the iconic Disneyland and Disney World attraction.

Disney Treasure Haunted Mansion Parlor

The limit, confirmed during early media previews of the ship, is designed to allow as many guests as possible to experience the space during each voyage.

A sign outside the venue explains the restriction:

“Attention Mortals! The Ghost Captain requests all seatings are limited to a maximum of 45 minutes. Thank you.”

Sign displayed outside the Haunted Mansion Parlor

The time limit coincides with the lounge’s looped theatrical experience, which includes haunting music, character appearances, and hidden surprises throughout the space.

It’s also quite a small space – I really enjoyed it, but 45 minutes is a reasonable length of time to enjoy it, I think.

Haunted Mansion Parlor decorations on Disney Treasure

With over 4,000 passengers per sailing and high demand anticipated for the venue, Disney Cruise Line is expected to maintain the limit as Disney Treasure begins its inaugural season on 21 December 2024.

Guests can enjoy the lounge’s signature cocktails, such as Happily Never After and Final Vow, served in collectible ceramic mugs or branded bottles, as well as its intricate décor that pays tribute to the Haunted Mansion ride.

Features include ghostly apparitions in the bar’s mirror, animated “marble” busts, and hidden details in the wallpaper.

A themed experience at sea

The Haunted Mansion Parlor is part of a wider offering of themed lounges aboard Disney Treasure, including the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea-inspired Periscope Pub and the Jungle Cruise-inspired Skipper Society.

However, it has already become a standout feature, with visitors praising its immersive atmosphere and attention to detail.

The 140,000-gross-ton ship will begin its 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises this winter, offering guests the chance to experience this and other unique venues during their voyage.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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HAL MS Zuiderdam

Passengers aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam have been struck by a norovirus outbreak during a 10-night Caribbean sailing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed. The outbreak…

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Norovirus Outbreak Confirmed Aboard Holland America Cruise Ship With Over 70 Passengers Impacted

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsNews

Passengers aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam have been struck by a norovirus outbreak during a 10-night Caribbean sailing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed.

HAL MS Zuiderdam

The outbreak was first reported to the CDC on 11th December 2024, while the ship was docked in Aruba.

As of the latest reports, the CDC has recorded 74 passengers of the 1,923 onboard as being ill, as well as four of the ship’s 757 crew members, experiencing symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, headache, and fever.

This accounts for less than 4% of the vessel’s guests.

The 82,305-gross-ton ship departed from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale on 4th December and returned to Florida on 14th December after completing its itinerary, which included stops at Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Bonaire, Curaçao, and Aruba.

Norovirus, described by the CDC as “the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhoea, and foodborne illness in the United States,” is highly contagious.

In response to the outbreak, the cruise line implemented its outbreak prevention and response plan, which includes isolating affected individuals and increasing cleaning and disinfection measures.

“We initiated enhanced sanitation protocols in conjunction with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to minimize further transmission.”

Holland America spokesperson

The outbreak also delayed the Zuiderdam’s next sailing, a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise scheduled to depart on 14th December.

Passengers were informed of the delay, as additional sanitisation measures were performed between voyages to prevent further spread of the virus.

How norovirus spreads and prevention tips

Although highly contagious, the CDC reports only 12 norovirus outbreaks on US-based cruise ships in 2024, indicating that most voyages remain unaffected by the illness.

This, however, is not the first such incident for Holland America Line in 2024. Earlier in the year, Koningsdam experienced a similar outbreak affecting 98 passengers and 12 crew members on a Hawaiian and French Polynesian sailing.

Cruise ships are particularly susceptible to norovirus due to close living quarters and shared dining spaces.

The CDC advises passengers to wash their hands thoroughly and frequently, clean and disinfect surfaces, ensure proper food preparation, and wash laundry with hot water to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Norovirus can continue to be contagious for up to two weeks after symptoms subside, which is why thorough cleaning measures between cruises are critical.

Other cruise lines have also dealt with recurring outbreaks this year, including P&O Cruises’ Ventura, which saw several instances of illness affecting hundreds of passengers across multiple voyages.

Passengers embarking on future sailings are encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves and others while onboard.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Medical Emergency Causes Significant Delays for Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas in Galveston

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas experienced an eight-hour delay returning to her homeport in Galveston, Texas, on Sunday, 15th December 2024, due to a medical emergency requiring an unscheduled evacuation.

Aerial shot of the world's largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas.

The delay impacted both the debarkation of the prior sailing and the embarkation of the ship’s next voyage.

The delay stemmed from a medical emergency involving an elderly passenger on Friday, 13th December, two days before the scheduled return to Galveston.

The passenger, an elderly woman on her first cruise, showed symptoms of what might have been a stroke or aneurysm, prompting the ship’s medical team to order an emergency evacuation.

At the time, Harmony of the Seas had already left Cozumel, the final port of call on its itinerary, and was sailing back to Texas. Due to high winds, a helicopter evacuation was deemed unsafe, forcing the ship to reverse course back to Cozumel.

Harmony of the Seas could not divert to Cancun, which was closer, because the massive Oasis-class ship could not be accommodated at Cancun’s facilities.

The woman was successfully evacuated in Cozumel for medical care, but the time needed to complete the process caused a significant delay in the ship’s return to Galveston.

There are no further updates on her condition as of now, though her family has set up a GoFundMe account to assist with the expected costs of stabilizing her condition and transporting her back to the U.S.

Guests scheduled to board Harmony of the Seas for her next 7-night Western Caribbean sailing were notified of the delay and updated check-in times.

Originally, embarkation was planned to begin at 11 am, but the new schedule asked guests to arrive nine hours later than their originally selected check-in time.

  • Earliest check-in: Guests who originally had an 11 am check-in time were asked to arrive at 8 pm
  • Latest check-in: Guests with a 2 pm check-in time were asked to arrive at 11 pm

The cruise terminal remained closed until 8 pm to allow time for debarking passengers to leave the ship and avoid congestion at the terminal and parking facilities.

Compensation for guests

Royal Caribbean is compensating passengers affected by the delay with the following:

  • Onboard credits (amount varies by stateroom category)
  • Prorated refunds for pre-cruise purchases of Wi-Fi packages and drink packages impacted by the late embarkation

To accommodate late arrivals, dining venues onboard Harmony of the Seas, including the main dining rooms and Windjammer buffet, remained open longer than usual to ensure all guests could enjoy a meal after boarding.

Despite the delay, no changes are being made to the ship’s itinerary, which will visit Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel as originally planned.

While shorter delays are not uncommon in cruise operations, extended delays like this are rare.

Recently, Carnival Liberty experienced a similarly long delay in New Orleans due to a combination of events, including a medical emergency, an equipment issue, and a weather delay.

The delay of Harmony of the Seas highlights the complexities of managing medical emergencies at sea, especially for large ships like those in the Oasis class.

While the inconvenience is significant for incoming passengers, Royal Caribbean’s proactive communication, onboard credits, and the decision to keep the ship’s itinerary unchanged have been well-received by most travellers.

And of course, the most important thing is the welfare of the passenger who required emergency evacuation – hopefully they are able to make a full recovery.

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Gifts for Cruise Lovers (UK)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsPacking

Are you looking for the perfect gift for someone going on a cruise? Well, this list of the best gifts for cruise lovers should certainly give you some ideas.

gifts for cruise lovers

If you’re looking for cruise gifts for friends, mum and dad or the kids, I’ve done all the research for you to put together a list of interesting cruise-themed gifts.

Whether you want practical birthday gifts for someone going on a cruise or a funny cruise ship-themed gift for a cruise addict, you’ll find some great cruise gift ideas here…

Cruise gifts for her

Looking for a gift for your mother, sister, daughter, wife, girlfriend, friend or female colleague? Be inspired by this list of the best nautical-themed gifts for ladies.

Anchor Tote Bag

This anchor shopping bag is of great quality and will last for years to come. It’s perfect to take on a cruise to use as a beach bag or a shopping bag to carry your haul of souvenirs back to the ship.

Silver Anchor Bracelet

Anchor jewellery has become a really popular trend. More than just symbolising a love of the ocean, it’s also a sign of strength and stability. This sterling silver bracelet is beautiful and would make a welcome addition to any Christmas stocking.

Nautical Passport Holder

This stylish passport holder is a really practical gift to take on a cruise. It has a slim, lightweight design and slots for all of your cards as well as your passport.

Nautical Cushion Covers

These gorgeous cushion covers will transform any room into a nautical haven and remind you of the place you most like to be – at sea.

Cruise gifts for him

If you’re looking for a present for your husband, brother, dad, son, boyfriend, friend or colleague, be inspired by this cool selection of the best nautical-themed gifts for gentlemen.

Anchor Tie

He’s sure to be the star of the show on formal nights with this anchor stitched tie which adds a classy look yet is sure to be a talking point with fellow cruisers.

Eat, Sleep, Cruise, Repeat T-Shirt

The perfect t-shirt for people who like to cruise, this shirt is available in men’s, women’s and kids’ sizes and a choice of different colours. You could have matching ones for the whole family!

Port and Starboard Socks

Can you remember which is port and which is starboard? These socks should help. These men’s nautical socks are a fun stocking filler for any dads or grandads who like to cruise.

Cruise Fund Money Box

This handcrafted, ceramic coin bank will make it easy to save for your next cruise. A fun gift for cruise lovers, it’s so pretty, they’ll be excited to pop their pounds in there.

Men’s Nautical Bracelet

Made of the highest quality materials, this handmade bracelet is comfortable enough that he never needs to take it off. It comes in many different colours and sizes.

These shirt cufflinks are the perfect gift to take on a cruise. They come packaged in a lovely gift box.

Cruise gifts for kids

Boys and girls of all ages will love these thoughtful nautical gifts, whether for Christmas, a birthday or to give before going on a cruise.

Top Trumps – World Famous Ships

I received this card game from Secret Santa for Christmas last year and I absolutely love it – we played it for hours! This entertaining Top Trumps card game is great for kids and ship geek adults alike. It features all kinds of ships as well as cruise ships, but Allure of the Seas is the overall best card, beating the others in almost every category.

P&O Cruises Colouring Book

This is another gift that I’ve put in the list of cruise gifts for kids, but actually, many adults would love too. This beautiful colouring book celebrates the history of P&O Cruises with interiors and exteriors of ships past and present to colour in. There’s also a Cunard version.

Cruise Ship Jigsaw Puzzle

As a kid, I used to love doing jigsaws in the Christmas holidays. I’d always get one for Christmas and it would keep me busy until January. This 1000-piece puzzle is fun for kids and adults alike. I wouldn’t fancy being on that ship much though!

Polly Pocket Cruise Ship

My daughter has this Polly Pocket and she loves it! Polly Pocket compacts are so much fun for kids aged four and up and this cruise ship version comes with two Polly dolls and a jet ski. Polly Pockets are even better now than they were the first time around in the 90s as Polly now sticks to the surfaces.

Playmobil Cruise Ship

Playmobil is a classic favourite toy and the figurines from this cruise ship set can be used with other Playmobil sets. Children can have hours of fun using their imagination with this brilliant cruise ship toy.

Cruise accessories

If you’re wondering ‘What is a good gift to give someone going on a cruise?’, then you should think about the practical things that will make their cruise less stressful and more fun.

Here are some ideas…

There are lots of cruise gadgets and gizmos which are really practical to have. Even the most regular cruisers might not have seen some of these, but they’re all really useful gifts. Take a look at these cruise essential gifts.

SailPak Cruise Hamper

The ultimate cruise gift, I was thrilled to receive this bumper hamper of cruise accessories from SailPak. It has everything you need to enjoy your cruise including a tote bag, magnetic hooks, towel bands, seasickness patches and so much more!

Cruise Lanyards

These lanyards have a waterproof cruise card holder as well as a retractable reel for making it easy to swipe or scan your card as needed. They come with a nice gift box too, so they make an excellent gift.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Space can be limited in a cruise ship cabin, so this wash bag is perfect to take on a cruise thanks to the hook and space-saving design. It has loads of compartments which are all easy to access with the bag hanging from the towel rail or coat hook in your cabin bathroom.

The Cruise Planner

This planner is jam-packed full of info to help you plan your cruise to a tee. It has space for you to add all your own details so that you can take it with you when you travel. I have a copy of this and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone going on a cruise.

Sunrise Alarm Clock

This sunrise alarm clock is a fantastic gift for anyone who likes to cruise in an interior stateroom. It’ll gradually fill the room with a gentle sunrise glow at the time you set, so you don’t end up waking up in the morning wondering if it’s 3 am or 8 am. A fantastic option if you want cruise ship gifts for someone going on their first cruise, too.

Gorilla Hooks

These magnetic hooks are super strong. They stick to your cabin walls (which are always metal) and hold your handbags, hats, coats, swimming goggles and everything else! Since I started parking these, I wouldn’t cruise without them.

Full-Face Snorkel Mask

If you’re buying a present for someone going on a Caribbean cruise then this is ideal. For the price of hiring a mask and snorkel, you can get them this full face snorkel mask which is not only more comfortable than a traditional snorkel set, it also gives 180-degree views. There’s even a mount to attach an underwater camera, should you desire.

Cruise Holiday Countdown Chalkboard

If you know someone who has a cruise booked, buy them this lovely hanger so that they can mark the days remaining. They’ll get more and more excited as the number gets smaller, and think fondly of you for reminding them of the exciting times ahead – one of the more simple gifts for cruisers and yet oh so effective.

Towel Clips

Sometimes, it can be really windy at sea so towel clips are a must for any cruiser. There are some really cool novelty ones available, which also makes finding your sunbed much easier when everyone has the same cruise ship towel.

But, before you go ahead and buy the pineapple ones, you might want to read this article: What do pineapples mean on a cruise?

And if you already know what they mean and you’re pranking a friend…this is definitely a good option for funny cruise gifts.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

This is a brilliant invention. Not only does this waterproof case protect your phone from water and sand, but you can also use your phone while it’s in the case. Safe for depths of up to 30 metres, you can turn your phone into an underwater camera. It comes with a handy lanyard so you can’t lose it in deep water.

Mini Binoculars

A pair of binoculars are great to take on a cruise so that you can admire the distant scenery from your balcony. Or, when you spot another ship in the distance and want to know which it is. These binoculars are small enough that you can take them everywhere easily and cheap enough that you won’t mind letting the kids have a go.

GoPro HERO9 Action Camera

I love my GoPro and take it on every cruise. It’s pocket-sized, tough and waterproof. The photo and video quality are both amazing. I use mine for filming cruise ship tours, as even if you have a shaky hand, the image looks smooth thanks to revolutionary self-stabilising technology. There are newer models available if you prefer, but the HERO9 is great value and does everything you need for a cruise.

Cruise Luggage Tag Holders

If you’ve ever faffed around trying to fold a cruise luggage tag into the right shape and staple it to your luggage with only two hands, you’ll know what a challenge it can be. These cruise luggage tags are a game-changer. Not only do they make affixing the labels so much easier; they’re also more secure and weatherproof.

Tip: Different cruise lines have different sized luggage labels, so be sure to get the right one for your cruise.

Travel Alarm Clock

Cruise cabins have no clocks in them, and the time zone can often change overnight as you sail into different time zones. Relying on your phone can be problematic as sometimes they update the time themselves and sometimes they don’t, so you can never be sure. That’s why I recommend taking a travel alarm clock.

This small travel alarm clock also tells you the temperature and what day it is, as that’s another thing that’s easy to forget on a cruise!

Packing Cubes

Anyone who’s tried packing cubes swears by them and would never go back to packing everything together. These cubes are thicker than most packing cubes that you’ll find and are waterproof. Say hello to being organised when you pack for your cruise.

Cruise gift cards

If you want to get a really special gift, you could gift someone a cruise. Cruise gift cards are available to buy, so that they can choose their own dates and itinerary for their trip.

Carnival Cruise Gift Cards

Carnival gift cards are available to buy. US residents can purchase physical gift cards, and international customers can purchase online gift cards with a value of $100 to $1000.

See Carnival gift cards

Princess Cruises Gift Cards

Princess Cruises gift cards come as traditional plastic gift cards or e-gift cards which are sent by email. You can choose any value between $25 and $2000.

See Princess Cruises gift cards

Celebrity Cruises Gift Cards

Celebrity cruises gift certificates are available only for on-board credit in multiples of $25, or a speciality restaurant credit which costs $45.

See Celebrity Cruises shipboard credit certificates

Whilst giving the gift of a cruise can seem like a nice idea, cruise gift cards and vouchers can have pitfalls that come with being tied to a particular cruise line and its terms and conditions.

If you want to gift a cruise, you could instead opt for a handmade card or gift certificate detailing your promise. Or instead of on-board credit, you could gift dollars or Euros in cash which could be used to pay a balance on board or be used to spend in ports of call.

To wrap up…

Once you’ve chosen your perfect cruise gift, continue with the theme with some nautical gift wrap or a cute cruise ship greetings card.

Nautical Gift Wrap

This cute ocean-themed gift wrapping paper has various designs including anchors, whales, ships, ships wheels, stars and waves. It’s of premium quality so it’s not easy to rip.

Pop-Up Cruise Ship Greeting Card

If you’re looking for a greeting card with the wow factor, then this one is guaranteed to cause a splash. Perfect for birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries or any other special occasion, this handmade card has an intricate pop-up cruise ship.

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me


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River cruise cabin with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, like a French balcony on a cruise ship, overlooking a river

What Is a French Balcony on a Cruise Ship? Pros, Cons and Which Lines Have Them

by Cruise Lines

A French balcony on a cruise ship is a cabin with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a railing, with no outdoor floor space to step onto. You get fresh air, river or sea sounds and a big view from inside the room, but you can’t put a chair outside. The French balcony is most common on European river ships, where narrow hulls leave little room for full verandas.

If you’re comparing cabins for a Rhine, Danube or Seine sailing, it helps to know what each line means when it says “balcony”. The term covers several different designs, and the price gap between them can be large. This guide explains how a French balcony works, how it compares with a full veranda and a Juliet balcony, which cruise lines use which design, and when it’s worth paying extra.

What is a French balcony on a cruise ship?

The name comes from the classic French townhouse window: tall double doors that open inward or slide aside, with a decorative rail across the opening. On a ship, the idea is the same. Behind the glass there’s a safety railing, usually a few inches from the doors, so the doorway is fully open to the outside but there’s nowhere to stand.

In practice, a French balcony cabin gives you:

  • A full-height window rather than the half-height or high-set windows of a standard river cabin.
  • Doors that open, so you can let in the breeze, hear the river and take photos without a pane of glass in the way.
  • No outdoor seating. The “balcony” is the doorway itself, and your seating stays inside the cabin.

Because the French balcony doesn’t take up any space outside the hull, the cabin inside is often about the same size as one with a full veranda. On some ships it is actually smaller, because the veranda cabins are built wider.

French balcony vs veranda vs Juliet balcony

These three terms are often mixed up, and cruise lines don’t always use them the same way. Here is the general difference.

Full veranda (step-out balcony)

A veranda is a real outdoor space beyond the sliding door, with a floor, a railing and usually two chairs and a small table. On river ships these are fairly narrow, often only big enough for two chairs side by side. On Viking longships, for example, the veranda in a 205 sq ft Veranda Stateroom is only about 27 sq ft, or roughly the size of a small bistro table and two chairs.

French balcony

Sliding doors and a rail, with nothing to step out onto. Some lines also call this a “French-style balcony”, and Avalon markets its version as an “Open-Air Balcony”.

Juliet balcony

In everyday building terms, a Juliet balcony is very close to a French balcony: a railing across a door or window with a tiny ledge or none at all. On cruise ships the two names are used almost interchangeably. If a line lists a “Juliet balcony”, read the cabin description or deck plan to check whether there’s any floor space at all. Most of the time there isn’t.

River cruise ship with rows of large cabin windows moored on a European river
On river ships, French balconies usually sit on the upper decks, above the waterline windows of standard cabins. Photo: Rafael Rodrigues on Pexels

Cabin types compared: which balcony gets you what

The table below compares the common cabin types on a typical European river ship. Sizes vary by line and ship, so use these as a guide and check the deck plan for your sailing.

Cabin type Window or door Outdoor seating Typical river-ship size Best for
Standard / river view Fixed window, often high on the wall near the waterline No About 150-160 sq ft Travelers on a budget who spend most of their time ashore or in the lounge
French balcony Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a rail No About 135-170 sq ft Fresh air and big views without paying for a veranda
Drop-down window or sun lounge (Emerald, Scenic, Avalon style) Large glass wall, part of which lowers or slides open Seating inside, by the open window Varies by ship People who want an open-air feel that also works in cool weather
Twin balcony (AmaWaterways) French balcony plus a separate step-out balcony Yes, two chairs and a small table About 210-235 sq ft Couples who want both options in one room
Full veranda Sliding door onto an outdoor deck Yes About 205 sq ft including the veranda (Viking) People who love sitting outside to watch the scenery
Suite with veranda Sliding doors, often a separate living area Yes, sometimes wraparound About 275-445 sq ft (Viking) Longer trips, special occasions and anyone who wants space

Which cruise lines have French balconies?

Almost every European river line uses French balconies somewhere, but each one has its own design and naming. Here’s how the main lines handle it.

Viking River Cruises

Viking’s longships use an off-center corridor design: one side of the ship has cabins with full verandas and the other side has French balcony cabins. On the standard longship layout, French Balcony Staterooms (categories C and D) are about 135 sq ft, while Veranda Staterooms are about 205 sq ft. Interestingly, Viking’s Standard Staterooms on the lowest deck are about 150 sq ft, so the French balcony cabin is slightly smaller than the entry-level room. You pay for the view and the opening doors, not for extra floor space.

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways is known for its “twin balcony” design. On many of its ships, most upper-deck cabins have a French balcony and a separate outside balcony side by side. On AmaKristina, for example, the twin balcony cabins are around 210-235 sq ft, with two padded chairs and a small table outside. AmaWaterways also sells some French balcony-only cabins, at about 155-170 sq ft, which are a cheaper way to get opening doors.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon’s Suite Ships replace small step-out balconies with what the line calls an Open-Air Balcony. In the Panorama Suites, which Avalon puts at about 200 sq ft, the wall-to-wall window slides open, and the bed faces the river rather than a wall. In effect, the whole room becomes the balcony.

Emerald Cruises and Scenic

Both lines use variations of an indoor balcony. Emerald’s Panorama Balcony Suites have a floor-to-ceiling window whose upper section lowers at the touch of a button. Scenic’s Sun Lounge works in a similar way, with a glass-enclosed seating area that opens at the push of a button. These designs give you more usable space in cool weather than a French balcony, and you can sit right by the open window. If you’re thinking about Emerald, our honest Emerald river cruise review covers what the ships are like overall.

Uniworld and Tauck

Uniworld’s layouts vary by ship. Many have French balconies on one deck and opening or outside balconies higher up. Tauck has mostly used French balconies, sliding glass doors with no outdoor deck, across its river fleet.

What about ocean ships?

True French balconies are much less common on big ocean ships, where cabins usually come as inside, ocean view, or step-out balcony. The nearest well-known equivalent is Celebrity’s Infinite Veranda, found on Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent and Xcel. The top half of a floor-to-ceiling window lowers at the press of a button, and the “veranda” is a seating area inside the cabin that bifold doors can close off. One thing to know is that opening the window switches off the cabin’s air conditioning. If you see “French balcony” on an ocean ship’s cabin list, look at the deck plan and photos for that exact cabin, since the description can vary.

Open sliding glass doors with a railing looking out over calm water
Sliding doors with a rail give you fresh air and views from inside the cabin. Photo: Lisa Anna on Pexels

Pros and cons of a French balcony cruise cabin

Pros

  • Fresh air and sound. Opening the doors as you pass vineyards, castles or riverside villages is the main appeal.
  • Bigger view than a standard cabin. On river ships, standard cabins often sit near the waterline with high windows. French balcony cabins are higher up, with full-height glass.
  • Lower price than a veranda. You get much of the experience for a smaller premium.
  • Useful in shoulder seasons. On spring and fall sailings it’s often too cool to sit outside anyway, so a veranda you can’t use may not be worth extra money.

Cons

  • No outdoor seating. If you picture morning coffee outside, a French balcony won’t give you that.
  • Sometimes less floor space. As on Viking, the French balcony cabin can be smaller than the standard cabin below it.
  • Docking can block the view. In busy river ports, ships often tie up side by side (“rafting”). If yours is the inside ship, you may open your doors to a view of another ship’s cabin. This affects verandas too, but it matters more when the view is the main thing you paid for.
  • Privacy and noise. With the doors open you’ll hear the deck, passing boats or the quay. You may also need to close the curtains in port.

Is a French balcony worth it?

Whether a French balcony is worth paying for depends on how you travel. Most river cruise days are spent ashore on tours, and evenings are often spent in the lounge or on the sun deck, which on most river ships has plenty of seating. If that sounds like you, a French balcony is often the best value: you get full-height views and fresh air without paying veranda prices.

A full veranda or twin balcony makes more sense if you’re on a summer sailing, love quiet time outside or are booking a route with long scenic cruising stretches, such as the Rhine Gorge or the Wachau Valley on the Danube. An indoor-balcony design such as Emerald’s or Scenic’s is a good middle ground if you want space by the window that you can still use on a chilly day.

A few practical tips before you book:

  1. Compare square footage, not just names. “Balcony” means different things on different lines, and some French balcony cabins are smaller than standard ones.
  2. Look at the price per night difference. On an eight-day river cruise, a small per-night premium can add up to a lot. Decide what the view is worth to you.
  3. Check the deck. Higher decks usually cost more but sit further from the waterline, and they may be closer to sun-deck noise.
  4. Watch for promotions. Upgrades and reduced fares on balcony categories come up regularly. Our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 is a good place to start.

If you’re still deciding between cabin types more generally, our guide to booking a balcony vs an inside cabin goes through the trade-offs in more detail.

If you would rather have a step-out verandah, see our guide to the best full-size balcony cabins at sea.

FAQs

Can you sit on a French balcony?

No. A French balcony has no outdoor floor, just sliding doors and a railing. You can put a chair just inside the open doors, but you can’t sit outside.

What is the difference between a French balcony and a veranda?

A veranda is an outdoor space you can step onto, usually with two chairs and a small table. A French balcony is a full-height door that opens to a railing, with no space outside the cabin.

Is a French balcony the same as a Juliet balcony?

Mostly, yes. Both describe a door or window that opens to a railing with little or no floor space. On cruise ships the names are used almost interchangeably, so check the cabin description for your specific ship.

Do ocean cruise ships have French balconies?

Not many. Most ocean ships offer inside, ocean view and step-out balcony cabins. Celebrity’s Infinite Veranda, on its Edge-class ships, is a similar idea: a window that lowers to open up a seating area inside the cabin.

Is a French balcony worth it on a river cruise?

For many passengers, yes. It gives you full-height views and fresh air for less than a veranda, and you spend much of the trip ashore or in public areas anyway. If sitting outside in your own space matters to you, choose a veranda or a twin balcony.