Carnival has announced some big changes to its upcoming Carnival Rewards program, following the significant backlash from cruisers.
The programme, which is set to replace the long-running Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) club in June 2026, sparked anger among many guests who felt their years of loyalty were being overlooked.
Since the announcement in June, Carnival has been inundated with complaints via social media, travel agents, and directly to brand ambassador John Heald.
The cruise line has now confirmed it is making changes to address the concerns of its most dedicated passengers.
“The announcement left some of our most loyal guests with the impression that their loyalty was being overlooked, which certainly was not our intention,” Carnival explained.
One of the most important changes is that any guest who achieves Diamond status by 31st May 2026 will keep that level permanently.
Diamond status requires 200 days at sea, the equivalent of nearly 30 week-long cruises, and can take years or even decades to achieve.
This change means that guests who are close to reaching Diamond now have a strong incentive to book a few more sailings in the next nine months to secure the status for life.
Platinum-level guests will not receive the same lifetime status, but Carnival is offering a compromise.
From June 2026, Platinum cruisers will start every two-year cycle with 10,000 “stars” already in their account.
That gives them an automatic Gold tier status and a head start towards re-qualifying for higher tiers.
The new Carnival Rewards scheme does not legally permit under-18s to have accounts, but the cruise line has confirmed that children will now share the same tier as the responsible adult on their booking.
In addition, if a child would have reached Platinum or Diamond under the old scheme before June 2026, that status will be recorded.
Once the child turns 18, they can join Carnival Rewards at the higher level.
Questions about the popular Milestone Rewards have also been answered. These awards mark the 25th, 50th, 75th, and 100th sailing of a guest, and will now continue to be honoured.
“All existing VIFP Milestone awards earned through May 2026 will be fully honoured through May 2030,” Carnival confirmed.
In future, Milestone Rewards will be based on total days sailed rather than number of cruises, which is designed to better reflect the time guests spend onboard.
The Carnival Rewards scheme will remain available only to US residents for now, despite disappointment from Canadian and Australian cruisers.
Carnival says it is exploring options to extend the programme internationally, but no timeline has been provided.
Christine Duffy, Carnival’s president, said: “The passion and loyalty of our guests is something that motivates our team every day to deliver the best cruise experience at sea.”
While it will be impossible to please everyone, these adjustments represent a step towards smoothing tensions with Carnival’s most dedicated fans before the new programme begins next summer.
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…

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.
There’s nothing better than when a cruise line known for great value launches an offer that takes things up a notch – and Marella Cruises has done exactly that.

Whether you’re dreaming of the Caribbean, planning a Mediterranean escape, or chasing winter sun in the Canaries, this limited-time deal adds even more value to an already All Inclusive experience.
And it’s not just one reason to book that makes this worth your attention – there are seven…
Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…
Who doesn’t love knocking a few hundred pounds off their holiday?
Right now, you can save up to £300* per booking with Marella Cruises – no faff, no minimum spend, just a great deal on your next getaway.

Use code SETSAIL200 for £200* off selected Mediterranean and Canary Islands cruises, or SETSAIL300 to get £300* off selected long-haul sailings in the Caribbean (including transatlantic routes). You’ve got until 6th October 2025 to grab it – just make sure your cruise is at least 7 nights.
Even better, this deal applies on itineraries that are already discounted too, as long as they’re departing between 1st December 2025 and 31st December 2026 – so you’ve 13 months of cruises to aim for and you can get a double deal if you find a cruise that already has big savings before using the code!
With Marella, your cruise starts as it should – smoothly. Flights and overseas transfers are included in the cost of your cruise, taking the stress out of planning how to get from A to B.

Whether you’re jetting off to Barbados, Tenerife, or Corfu, Marella Cruises sorts out the logistics for you.
You’ll even find TUI reps waiting at the airport, ready to guide you to your transfer or check-in. It’s a seamless start to your holiday from the moment you arrive.
Every Marella cruise includes All Inclusive as standard, which means meals, drinks, and tips are all wrapped into the price. There’s no need to budget for extra drinks or feel awkward about gratuities – it’s all taken care of.

Drinks are available from 10am to 2am daily, including selected cocktails, beer, cider, house wine, spirits, and prosecco.
You can also upgrade to Premium All Inclusive for access to premium spirits and barista-style drinks, if you want to. But there is plenty included in the fare already so you absolutely don’t have to.
Onboard dining is a real highlight, with each ship offering unique venues – from Nonna’s DIY pizza bar to Abuela’s Mexican eatery and Squid & Anchor, your local at sea.
And if you want even more variety, each ship has a selection of speciality dining options that have an extra charge, opening up even more dining possibilities for you.
Marella Cruises covers sun-soaked regions year-round, offering incredible variety. In summer, sail the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, visiting destinations like Barcelona, Dubrovnik, Rome, and Santorini.

In winter, you can head to the Canary Islands or escape to the Caribbean, with itineraries including Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and more.
Each itinerary is carefully crafted to balance iconic cities with lesser-known gems, giving you a mix of culture, beaches, and unforgettable scenery – all from the comfort of your floating hotel.
And, of course, there are plenty of exciting shore excursion options you can choose from in every destination you visit.
Unlike cruises departing from the UK, Marella Cruises fly you right into your destination – whether that’s embarkation ports such as Palma, Tenerife or Barbados – so you can get straight into the heart of your itinerary.

That means fewer sea days and more time exploring new destinations. Most cruises are designed with a port stop nearly every day, making it easy to pack more into your trip.
Prefer a slower pace? You can always stay onboard and unwind by the pool or in the spa. You have the freedom to enjoy your cruise at your pace.
When you’re not out exploring, Marella’s onboard entertainment ensures you’re never bored. Evenings bring West End-style shows, live music, UK comedians, and everything from karaoke to game shows. There’s even a casino, if you’re feeling lucky.

By day, you can join in with quizzes, cookery demos, fitness classes, and fun competitions – or just chill with a cocktail in hand.
Marella has even picked up awards for its entertainment, so you know you’re in for a great time, whatever your mood.
One of the things Marella passengers rave about most is the friendly, attentive service. The onboard crew go above and beyond to make your experience feel special, getting to know guests by name and always ready to help with a smile.

From the moment you arrive at the airport, TUI’s support team is on hand, helping you through check-in and transfers.
Onboard, the Marella Cruises crew are professional yet personable, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you feel genuinely cared for – it’s service that makes your holiday unforgettable.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first trip at sea, Marella Cruises’ Cruise Month offer is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
With flights, transfers, All Inclusive perks, and up to £300* off your booking, now’s the perfect time to start planning next year’s adventure.
From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Marella offers something for every traveller – and Cruise Month is the best time to dive in.
Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

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.
Celebrity Concierge Class is worth it if you can get it for a modest premium over a standard Veranda, usually around 10 to 20%, and you value convenience and a better-placed cabin. It is not a suite and the cabin is barely bigger, so if you mainly want space or a drinks package, the extra money is better spent elsewhere.
The perks changed in September 2026, when Celebrity dropped the afternoon canapés and added free room service. Here is what you get now and how it compares with Veranda and AquaClass.
Concierge Class is an upgraded balcony stateroom that adds service and small comforts to the standard Veranda. According to Celebrity’s current Concierge Class page, you get:
Two common assumptions need checking. Travel agents often list priority check-in or boarding, but Celebrity’s Concierge Class page does not mention it, so treat it as something to confirm rather than count on. The mini-fridge and laundry both carry extra charges too.
Afternoon canapés were one of the best-known Concierge Class perks. Trade press reports that Celebrity removed them for sailings from around September 21, 2026, and the current benefits page now lists free room service delivery and two bottles of water instead. Celebrity reportedly made the change without a public announcement.
Celebrity normally charges $9.95 per room service order, so the waiver has real value if you use it. A 20% gratuity may still apply, however. You can read more in our news story on how Celebrity swapped Concierge Class canapés for free room service. Continental breakfast delivered before 11 a.m. is already included for all guests, so the waiver matters most for lunch, dinner and late-night orders.
Older guides still mention daily treats or canapés, so be wary of any article that has not been updated since late 2026.

On most ships the room itself is close to identical, with the same layout, eXhale bedding and sofa. What you are paying for is service and position.
| Feature | Veranda | Concierge Class |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price | Baseline | About 10 to 20% more |
| Location | Varies widely | Often higher decks and midship |
| Concierge team | No | Yes |
| Embarkation lunch | Buffet or open venues | Exclusive main dining room lunch |
| Room service delivery fee | $9.95 per order | Waived |
| Debarkation | Standard | Priority |
Size varies by ship class. Celebrity lists total living space of about 243 square feet on Edge Series ships, including a 42-square-foot veranda. Solstice Series is about 192 square feet with a 54-square-foot veranda, and Millennium Series is about 209 square feet with a 42-square-foot veranda.
The category codes you may see, such as C1, C2 and C3, broadly reflect location, with lower numbers usually better placed and priced higher. Compare the deck plan before paying extra for a code alone, and avoid assuming every Concierge cabin is well positioned. Our list of Celebrity Cruises cabins to avoid flags the locations worth skipping.
Few guides put a figure on the perks, so here is a simple check. Assume a seven-night sailing and a Veranda at $1,500 per person, which is an illustrative price. A 10 to 20% premium is $150 to $300 per person, or $300 to $600 per cabin.
Now compare what you can actually measure. Ordering room service once a day for seven days saves about $70 per cabin in delivery fees, before any gratuity. The sparkling wine adds a little more. Everything else, including the lunch, the concierge and the seminar, is about convenience rather than cash.
That leads to a clear conclusion: on perks alone, Concierge Class rarely pays for itself. It pays off when you value a better location, want help with bookings and like a calmer first day. Those are real benefits, but they are personal ones.
Also check Celebrity’s upgrade offers after booking. A bid or discounted move up to Concierge Class can make the sums much easier than paying full price at the outset.

These two are often priced close together, but they suit different people. AquaClass has been reported at around 30% above a standard Veranda, compared with 10 to 20% for Concierge Class, though prices vary by sailing.
| Feature | Concierge Class | AquaClass |
|---|---|---|
| Main appeal | Service and location | Spa and wellness |
| Thermal suite access | No | Unlimited |
| Specialty restaurant | None included | Blu, for breakfast and dinner |
| Embarkation lunch | Yes | Not listed |
| Room service | Delivery fee waived | Expanded breakfast menu |
| Fitness classes | Standard | Complimentary classes |
| Concierge | General concierge | Spa concierge |
For someone who would use the thermal suite most days or eat regularly at Blu, AquaClass tends to offer more for the money, and our guide to whether AquaClass is worth it goes further. If you would rarely go near the spa, Concierge Class is the more practical upgrade.
If you are tempted by both, it may be worth pricing a suite as well. The Retreat brings a much bigger jump in benefits, including 24-hour room service and premium drinks.
Concierge Class is a comfortable, sensible upgrade when the numbers are close. Now that room service replaces canapés, it is particularly useful for people who like to eat on their balcony, but it should still be judged on price rather than on the list of perks.
If Concierge Class is still out of budget, these ways to get a cruise suite for less may help you get more for your money.
Celebrity lists a dedicated concierge, a Welcome Aboard lunch, free room service delivery, one bottle of sparkling wine on request, a pillow selection, preferred dining times, a destination seminar and priority debarkation.
It is worth it when the premium is small, usually around 10 to 20% over a Veranda, and you value a better location and easier planning. If the gap is wider, a well-chosen standard Veranda is usually better value.
The cabin is largely the same on most ships. Concierge Class adds service, an embarkation lunch, free room service delivery and often a better location.
AquaClass is better for spa users and anyone who wants the Blu restaurant. Concierge Class is better for travelers who value location and planning help and would not use the thermal suite.
No. You get one bottle of sparkling wine on request and two bottles of water on embarkation day, but the drinks package is a separate purchase. The minibar is charged as well.
Ice cream and sunscreen are both staples of a summer holiday, but Carnival Cruise Line and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream have taken things a step further by combining them into one unusual creation: sunscreen-flavoured ice cream.

Yes, it’s real.
The new flavour is described as coconut with a touch of sea salt, designed to capture the essence of a tropical getaway.
Carnival playfully announced the flavour as a way of “eating sunscreen” in protest at summer ending, and the novelty has quickly gone viral on social media.
Despite its eyebrow-raising name, the ingredient list reads more like a decadent dessert than a bottle of SPF: coconut cream, milk, cane sugar, cocoa butter, vanilla extract and sea salt.
The packaging carries Carnival’s iconic red, white and blue colours and its distinctive whale tail logo, alongside Van Leeuwen’s elegant branding.
At present, the sunscreen flavour is not available for public sale. Instead, it has been offered to influencers, many of whom have shared their reactions online.
Fans are already clamouring for their chance to try it, with plenty saying they would happily scoop up a bowlful.
The question many Carnival cruisers are asking is whether the flavour might appear on ships.
While nothing has been confirmed, the cruise line has hinted that if the buzz is strong enough, a limited-time run could be introduced at sea.
Responses from guests suggest the flavour would be a hit, with some saying they have always thought sunscreen smells good enough to eat.

Carnival is informally gauging interest through social media, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Van Leeuwen is well known for creating unique tastes alongside its classics. Past limited editions have included collaborations such as Hidden Valley Ranch, Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, and even Pizza ice cream.
Compared to those, sunscreen might not sound too far-fetched.
The ice cream brand, which launched in 2008, now operates more than 70 scoop shops and is stocked widely in US supermarkets.
Whether sunscreen flavour makes it onto the Lido Deck remains to be seen, but the quirky collaboration has certainly captured attention.
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…

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.
The MSC Virtuosa cabins to avoid are mainly those in noisy or awkward spots: aft cabins on Deck 14 below the Marketplace Buffet and Lido area, aft cabins just above the late-night Carousel Lounge, forward Deck 5 cabins near the theatre, and the cheaper obstructed or partial-view grades on the lower decks. The best cabins for most people are midship balconies on Decks 10 to 12, away from lifts and public rooms, booked under Fantastica or Aurea so you can actually choose where you sleep.
This guide covers every cabin grade on the ship, how MSC’s Bella, Fantastica and Aurea experiences change which cabin you get, what works for families and accessible travel, and which cabins are best overall. Deck plans change, so check the current deck plan on MSC’s website before booking any specific cabin number.
MSC Virtuosa is a Meraviglia-Plus class ship that entered service in 2021. She measures about 181,500 gross tonnes and has 2,421 cabins and suites, with room for up to around 6,300 guests when every berth is full. That is a lot of people, so where your cabin sits matters more than it would on a smaller ship.
She has been a familiar sight in Southampton for UK cruisers, but her deployment is changing:
Sister ship MSC Meraviglia takes over the Southampton programme in summer 2027. Meraviglia is from the same family of ships but is not identical, so do not assume a cabin number on one ship has the same neighbours on the other. If you are a UK cruiser weighing up a fly-cruise on Virtuosa from Barcelona against a no-fly option, our guide to MSC cruise ships ranked by real customer reviews shows how she compares with the rest of the fleet.
This is the part most cabin guides skip. On MSC, the cabin grade (inside, ocean view, balcony) is only half of the booking. The other half is the “experience” you book it under, and that decides whether you can choose your cabin at all.
| Experience | Can you choose your cabin? | Other key points |
|---|---|---|
| Bella | No. You pick a grade, MSC assigns the cabin number | Cheapest fare; cabin may have an obstructed or partly obstructed view; changes cost a fee |
| Fantastica | Yes, you choose the cabin and its location | 24-hour room service with free delivery (food charged), dinner sitting request, one free cruise change |
| Aurea | Yes, in the better locations | Balconies and suites only; priority boarding, solarium access, thermal area access, flexible dining |
| MSC Yacht Club | Yes, within the Yacht Club | Ship-within-a-ship with butler, private lounge, pool and restaurant, drinks and Wi-Fi included |
The practical point: if you book Bella, you cannot steer clear of the cabins in this guide, because MSC decides where you go. Bella is fine if you are relaxed about location and want the lowest price. If you are a light sleeper, prone to seasickness or travelling with small children, paying the Fantastica supplement so you can choose a quiet midship cabin is often the most useful upgrade you can buy.
MSC publishes these approximate sizes and deck ranges for the ship. Size, layout and furniture can vary within a category.
| Grade | Approx. size | Decks | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Interior | 12 sq m | 5 to 14 | Single bed, for solo travellers |
| Deluxe Interior | 17 sq m | 11 to 14 | Standard inside cabin |
| Junior Ocean View (incl. obstructed) | 12 sq m | 8 | Small, and some views are blocked |
| Deluxe Ocean View | 16 sq m | 5 | Low deck, close to the theatre at the front |
| Premium Ocean View | 25 sq m | 9 to 11 | Large, sleeps up to six |
| Studio Balcony | 12 sq m + 4 sq m balcony | 13 to 14 | Solo balcony with sofa bed |
| Deluxe Balcony / Partial View | 17 sq m + about 6 sq m | 8 to 14 | The bulk of the ship’s cabins |
| Deluxe Balcony Aurea | 17 sq m + about 6 sq m | 11 to 13 | Aurea perks, better locations |
| Premium Suite Aurea | 25 sq m | 9 to 14 | Sleeps up to six |
| Suites with Terrace and Whirlpool | 27 to 39 sq m | 9 to 13 | Big terraces with a private hot tub |
| Yacht Club Interior to Royal Suite | 17 to 58 sq m | 9 to 18 | Separate exclusive area |
Interior cabins make up roughly 30% of the ship and balconies more than half, so balcony fares are often competitive, especially in shoulder seasons.

None of these cabins are “bad” for everyone. Each has a trade-off, and some are great value if the drawback does not bother you.
The Lido and main pools are on Deck 15, and cabins towards the back of Deck 14 sit beneath the buffet area. Guests regularly report scraping chairs, cleaning and loungers being moved early in the morning and late at night. If you want a high-deck cabin, look further forward or check the deck plan so that there is another cabin deck, not a public area, directly above you.
The Carousel Lounge is an aft show and party venue on the Promenade level (Deck 7). Cabins directly above it, at the back of Deck 8, are the most exposed, and at least one Cruise Critic reviewer in an aft cabin on Deck 9 reported late-night music vibrating through their cabin. If you book aft on the lower cabin decks, check exactly what sits beneath you.
Deck 5 is the lowest passenger cabin deck and includes Deluxe Ocean View cabins. The forward end is close to the theatre, so expect some noise and foot traffic around showtimes. People who are out in the evenings often do not notice; families with young children going to bed early may.
Interior cabins can be sold for up to four people, with the third and fourth guests on pull-down Pullman beds or a sofa bed. In a cabin of around 12 to 17 sq m, that leaves very little floor space and storage for a family of four on a week-long cruise. Two connecting cabins, or a Premium Ocean View, usually works out far more comfortable for not much more money per person.
The Junior Ocean View with Obstructed View (Deck 8) and the Deluxe Balcony with Partial View (Decks 8 to 14) are cheaper because something gets in the way: lifeboats, tenders or external machinery. Some views are only slightly clipped; others are mostly blocked. If the view matters, avoid these grades, or look up guest photos for the exact cabin number before you book.
Some balconies, particularly on the lower balcony decks, are reported to have solid metal panels rather than glass, which means you see less of the sea while sitting down. It is a small thing for some people and a real disappointment for others. Ask your agent or check photos for your cabin number.
Studio Balconies are small (about 12 sq m with a 4 sq m balcony) and designed for one. They suit solo cruisers well but are not a cheap way for two people to get a balcony. Separately, a handful of cabins are reported to have bunk beds for the third and fourth guests, which Simply Cruises lists as 13265, 13376, 14235 and 14278. Great for kids, less so for adults sharing.
The ship has around 190 cabins that can be booked as connecting pairs. Ideal for families, but if a stranger’s family is next door, the connecting door lets more sound through than a solid wall. Couples and light sleepers should avoid them where possible.
The front and back of the ship move most in a swell, and higher decks feel it more. On Bay of Biscay crossings or Atlantic repositioning voyages, a midship cabin on Decks 8 to 10 is the steadiest choice.
The Premium and Grand Suites Aurea with Terrace and Whirlpool have big outdoor spaces with a hot tub. Because these terraces are open to the sky, some can be seen from balconies or decks above. They are fantastic for sun and space; if privacy is your priority, look at the plan and photos carefully first.
Cabins right beside the lift lobbies are handy for getting around, but you will hear passing guests, chatter and doors at all hours. One or two cabins along the corridor is usually enough to cut the noise.

MSC Virtuosa has around 59 accessible cabins across several grades, plus an accessible Yacht Club suite. They are designed for wheelchair users, with wider doors and adapted bathrooms, but some guests with limited mobility report raised thresholds onto balconies and tight bathroom turning space. Book early, as accessible cabins sell out fast, and choose one near a lift that is not right in the lobby. Contact MSC directly with your exact needs before paying a deposit, as features differ between cabins.
If you are still deciding between lines for a UK departure, our comparison of P&O Cruises vs Princess Cruises covers two popular Southampton alternatives.
Once you have picked a cabin, see what the MSC drink package costs and includes to decide whether to add drinks before you sail.
For advice that applies to every MSC ship, see our guide to MSC Cruises cabins to avoid across the fleet.
If you follow a plant-based diet, read our guide to eating vegan on MSC Cruises before your Virtuosa sailing.
For most guests, full-view Deluxe Balcony cabins midship on Decks 10 to 12, chosen under Fantastica or Aurea so you control the location. Families do well in Premium Ocean View cabins or connecting cabins, and the Yacht Club is the top choice for a splurge.
No whole deck is bad, but avoid the aft end of Deck 14 (below the buffet and pool area), cabins directly above the Carousel Lounge at the back of the lower cabin decks, and the forward end of Deck 5 near the theatre if you are a light sleeper.
Choose a midship cabin on a lower cabin deck, around Decks 8 to 10. The middle of the ship moves least, and lower decks feel less sway than the higher ones.
No. With Bella you pick a cabin type and MSC assigns the cabin number, which could be in a less desirable spot. Fantastica and Aurea let you choose your cabin and its location.
After a winter season in Brazil, MSC Virtuosa sails the Western Mediterranean from Barcelona from April to October 2027. MSC Meraviglia replaces her in Southampton for summer 2027.
The best balcony cabins on cruise ships in 2026 are the ones that match how you travel. For modern design, look at Celebrity’s Edge-class Infinite Verandas; for families, Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class family balconies and Disney’s Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah; for views and privacy, aft-facing and cove balconies on Princess, Holland America and Carnival. Below, we compare nine standout balcony types by size, cruise line and who they suit best, plus the balconies that divide opinion.
A balcony is the most popular upgrade at sea for good reason: fresh air, a private place for morning coffee and a view that changes every day. But two balconies at the same price can feel completely different depending on the ship, deck and position. If you are still weighing the upgrade, our guide to the pros and cons of a balcony vs an inside cabin sets out the trade-offs.
Sizes are approximate and vary by ship and individual cabin, so always check the deck plan for the specific room you are booking.
| Cabin type | Cruise line and ships | Approx. size | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infinite Veranda | Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent, Xcel | About 243 sq ft including the veranda | Couples who want more indoor space |
| Surfside Family View Balcony / Family Ocean View Balcony | Royal Caribbean Icon, Star and Legend of the Seas | About 285 sq ft plus a 50 sq ft balcony (Legend’s Family Ocean View Balcony) | Families with young children |
| Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah | Disney Cruise Line (Dream example) | About 256 sq ft plus a 43 sq ft verandah | Families of up to five |
| Standard balcony (Prima class) | Norwegian Prima, Viva, Aqua, Luna | About 200-225 sq ft on Aqua and Luna | Value hunters on new ships |
| Cove balcony | Carnival Vista-class and Excel-class ships, plus selected others | About 185 sq ft plus a 45 sq ft balcony (Carnival Horizon) | Privacy and close-to-the-water views |
| Aft-view verandah | Holland America Pinnacle class (Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam) | About 228 sq ft | Wake views on a calmer ship |
| Sea Terrace | Virgin Voyages Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient and Brilliant Lady | About 185 sq ft plus a 40 sq ft terrace | Adults-only relaxation (with a hammock) |
| Aft-facing Deluxe Balcony | Princess Sphere class (Sun Princess, Star Princess) | About 220-230 sq ft | Panoramic wake views |
| Single Infinite Veranda / solo balcony | Celebrity Edge class; MSC solo studios on selected ships | Smaller than a standard balcony | Solo travelers |
Celebrity’s Infinite Veranda is the most talked-about balcony design of recent years. Instead of a separate outdoor deck behind a sliding door, the “balcony” is built into the cabin itself. Press a button and the upper half of a floor-to-ceiling window lowers, turning the sitting area by the glass into an open-air veranda. Close it and that space becomes part of your room, so you get roughly 243 sq ft to use in any weather.
You will find Infinite Verandas on all five Edge-class ships: Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent and Xcel. They are excellent for cooler itineraries such as Alaska or Northern Europe, where a traditional balcony can sit unused. The trade-off is that it feels more like a sunroom than a classic balcony, and there is less space for lounging outside. Before you book, read our rundown of Celebrity Edge cabins to avoid so you do not end up under a noisy venue.
Holland America’s newest ships, Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam, offer verandah staterooms of about 228 sq ft, with aft-view verandahs looking straight out over the wake. Aft balconies are often deeper than side balconies, which makes them good for long sea days, and Holland America’s mid-size ships and older-skewing crowd tend to mean a quieter atmosphere around the cabins. Expect a little more vibration at the very back of the ship and a longer walk to forward venues.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class ships were designed around families, and their balcony options reflect that. The Surfside Family View Balcony, on Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, sleeps up to four, has a split bathroom and includes a living area that converts into a kids’ nook. Its balcony overlooks Surfside, the ship’s family neighborhood with splash areas and a carousel, rather than the ocean, so it suits parents who want to keep an eye on the action more than those after sea views.
For more space, the Family Infinite Balcony sleeps up to six with a separate bunk alcove. Legend of the Seas, which joined the fleet in 2026, also introduced a Family Ocean View Balcony with a traditional open balcony: about 285 sq ft inside plus a 50 sq ft balcony, a split bathroom with two sinks, a bunk nook and room for up to six guests.
Disney has long been known for cabins that work for families, and the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is the classic choice. On Disney Dream, for example, it offers about 256 sq ft inside plus a 43 sq ft verandah, sleeps up to five using a queen bed, a sofa bed and a pull-down berth, and has Disney’s split bathroom: a tub and shower on one side and a toilet and sink on the other. That layout alone saves a lot of time on busy mornings. Details vary between the Disney Dream, Fantasy, Wish, Treasure and Destiny, so compare floor plans for your ship.
Carnival’s cove balconies are tucked into the hull on lower decks, just above the water. They are found on Carnival Dream, Magic, Breeze, Vista, Horizon, Panorama, Venezia and Firenze (usually on Deck 2), and on Excel-class ships Mardi Gras, Celebration and Jubilee (on Deck 5). On Carnival Horizon, a cove balcony cabin is about 185 sq ft with a 45 sq ft balcony, a little larger than a standard balcony.
The appeal is privacy, since cabins above cannot easily look down on you, and a close-up view of the waves. The downsides: balconies can be closed in rough weather, sea spray happens, and views are lower on port days.
Princess Cruises’ newest ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess, have several balcony categories, but the aft-facing Deluxe Balconies on the upper accommodation decks are among the most sought-after cabins short of a suite. Expect around 220-230 sq ft with a full sofa and a broad view of the wake. Princess also offers lower cove balconies on these ships if you prefer to be closer to the water. Aft cabins book up early, so this is one to reserve as soon as your dates are set.
On Virgin Voyages’ adults-only ships, the standard balcony cabin is the Sea Terrace: about 185 sq ft plus a 40 sq ft terrace, with the line’s signature red hammock on most balconies. It is a simple feature, but it turns a small balcony into a proper place to relax. Watch out for the “Slightly Smaller Balcony” Sea Terraces, which sit above lifeboats and have shallower balconies and more limited views. Our list of Virgin Voyages cabins to avoid covers this and other trouble spots.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima-class ships, Norwegian Prima, Viva, Aqua and Luna, have bright, modern balcony cabins of roughly 200-225 sq ft on the newer Prima Plus ships. If budget is the priority, look at partial-view or obstructed balconies, which are priced below standard balconies. Some are only lightly blocked by a structural element, while others look straight onto lifeboats, so check the exact cabin on the deck plan before you accept the saving.
Solo travelers usually pay a steep single supplement for a standard balcony. Celebrity’s Edge-class ships offer dedicated Single Staterooms with an Infinite Veranda, priced for one person; Celebrity Xcel has 32 of them, with fewer on Edge and Apex. MSC Cruises also builds solo studios on its newer ships, and some include a balcony, but availability varies by ship. MSC World America’s solo cabins, for example, are interior and ocean-view rather than balcony, so confirm the category before booking.

Balcony prices move a lot, and upgrades are sometimes bundled into promotions. Booking early generally gives you the widest choice of specific cabins, which matters more for balconies than for any other category.
Before you pay extra for a balcony, read our take on common cruise booking tips and when to ignore them.
Already booked a cheaper cabin? Our guide to how to upgrade your cruise cabin after booking explains how to move up to a balcony without rebooking from scratch.
A cheaper balcony guarantee cabin fare can work out, but it means giving up any say over which of these balcony locations you get.
It depends on your priority. Aft-facing balconies at the back of the ship offer wake views and are often deeper, midship balconies feel the least motion, and cove balconies on lower decks offer the most privacy.
There is no single winner. Celebrity’s Infinite Verandas are excellent for space and cooler climates, Royal Caribbean and Disney lead for families, and Princess and Holland America are strong for aft wake views.
Avoid balconies directly under pool decks, buffets or nightclubs, those blocked by lifeboats unless the fare is much lower, and inward-facing balconies if you want ocean views. Booking a guarantee fare can land you in any of these.
For many passengers, yes. Aft balconies usually have more outdoor space and a wide view of the wake. The trade-offs are more vibration, possible soot on some ships and a long walk to forward venues.
An Infinite Veranda is built into the cabin, with a window that lowers at the touch of a button, so the space can be used indoors or out. A regular balcony is a separate outdoor deck behind a sliding door.
Cruises can be cancelled for a variety of reasons – from rough weather and safety concerns, to regional instability, to simple business decisions like chartering a ship.

This week, three major cruise lines have announced cancellations that highlight just how unpredictable cruise planning can sometimes be.
Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition has once again been forced to alter its course due to poor weather.
The 9-night sailing, which departed Newcastle upon Tyne on 7th September 2025, was due to call at several ports in Scotland.
Strong winds and swells made it unsafe to dock or tender, leading to the cancellation of visits to Runavik, Scrabster, and Portree.
Instead, the ship turned south to avoid the worst of the conditions and will call at Ringaskiddy in Ireland on 13 September.
This marks the second consecutive cruise for Ambition impacted by severe weather, after her Norwegian fjords itinerary earlier this month also lost ports.
Despite the changes, the ship will still call at Belfast on 15th September before finishing in Liverpool the following day.
MSC Cruises has cancelled a 25-day Grand Voyage aboard MSC Euribia, scheduled to depart Dubai on 4th April 2026 and end in Southampton.

The reason given is ongoing instability in the Red Sea region, making it impossible to guarantee guest safety during the transit.
The voyage was to include stops in Qatar, the UAE, Oman, and Jordan before sailing through the Suez Canal, visiting Egypt, and continuing into the Mediterranean.
Instead, guests are being offered three options: transfer to another Grand Voyage, move their booking to any other cruise on the line’s website, or receive a full refund.
This is not the first itinerary to be cancelled due to Red Sea tensions.
MSC Euribia had a similar Grand Voyage cut in 2024, and other ships in the fleet, including MSC Magnifica on her 2026 World Cruise, have also been rerouted to avoid the volatile region.
Celebrity Cruises has pulled an 8-night Caribbean sailing on Celebrity Silhouette scheduled to depart Fort Lauderdale on 13th February 2027.

The cruise, which was to visit Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire, has been cancelled to make way for a charter sailing.
Guests are being offered alternative departures on 2nd January or 30th January 2027, both with similar itineraries and price protection.
They will also receive onboard credit of $200 per stateroom for Aqua Class and below, or $400 for suites.
Those unwilling to rebook can instead move their reservation to any other Celebrity sailing, with fees waived and credits still offered. If no alternative is chosen, a full refund will be processed.
While the reasons behind these cancellations range from bad weather, to global unrest, to business priorities, the outcome for guests is the same: disrupted holiday plans.
My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.
These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.
Having comprehensive cruise-specific travel insurance can make all the difference, ensuring that flights, hotels, and other arrangements linked to a cancelled sailing are protected.
It’s a reminder that while cruise lines can control many factors, there are always risks at sea and beyond.
Don’t miss these offers…

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.
Oceania Cruises is introducing more flexibility for future guests by adding a new choice of benefits to its “Your World Included” programme.

From 17th September 2025, new bookings will come with the option of either a shore excursion credit or a limited beer and wine package included in the fare.
The line’s base price already covers a wide range of extras such as speciality dining, WiFi, gratuities, non-alcoholic drinks, fitness classes and laundry services.
The new offer now adds even more value.
Guests choosing the shore excursion credit will receive up to $600 per person, depending on the length of their sailing, valid towards tours at ports across the globe.
Those who prefer drinks will be able to select the beer and wine package, which covers by-the-glass service during lunch and dinner.
Oceania has confirmed this is a long-term change and not a short-lived promotion. The line says the update reflects a commitment to giving travellers more choice and ensuring its cruises continue to stand out for value.
The “Your World Included” scheme replaced the former “Simply More” promotion in October 2024.
Under that plan, guests received a larger excursion credit of up to $1,600 per stateroom and a wider beverage package.

It had also included roundtrip flights and transfers, though those were dropped in mid-2024.
The new approach streamlines the perks but keeps meaningful extras in place.
Guests also benefit from the line’s Best Value Guarantee, which ensures that if Oceania releases a stronger promotion after they book, the better deal will automatically be applied to their reservation.
The refresh to “Your World Included” comes as Oceania continues to expand its fleet.
The line currently operates eight ships and has two Sonata-class vessels on order at Fincantieri. The first, Oceania Sonata, is due in 2027, with sister ship Oceania Arietta expected in 2029.
At 86,000 gross tons and with capacity for 1,450 guests, they will be the largest ships in Oceania’s history.

The most recent addition, Oceania Allura, joined the fleet in July 2025, following her sister ship Vista.
Oceania remains focused on delivering its hallmark blend of fine dining and immersive itineraries, now enhanced with more choice included in the fare.
Want expert help to plan your perfect cruise?

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.
Disney Cruise Line has announced that its highly anticipated new ship, Disney Adventure, will not debut until March 2026, several months later than originally planned.

The 208,000-ton vessel, under construction at the MV Werften shipyard, was due to launch in December 2025.
Instead, all sailings between 1th5 December 2025 and 9th March 2026 have now been cancelled.
In a letter to booked passengers, Disney explained that the additional time is needed to complete the ship to its signature standard, noting “unexpected delays in the shipbuilding process.” The inaugural sailing is now scheduled for 10th March 2026.
Guests booked on the cancelled voyages will receive a full refund, along with a 50% discount on a future sailing.
Those originally due to sail on the first voyage will automatically be rebooked on the rescheduled inaugural cruise, with their fare adjusted to reflect the reduced cost.
The future cruise credit must be applied by 31st March 2026, for departures no later than 31st March 2027.
Passengers who cannot join the new inaugural sailing can instead apply the discount to another itinerary.
Disney apologised for the disruption, acknowledging the disappointment caused by the delays.
Originally planned as Global Dream, the unfinished vessel was purchased by Disney and is being redesigned into a fully themed Disney experience at sea.
Once complete, Disney Adventure will become the line’s largest ship, with capacity for more than 6,000 passengers.
The ship will be homeported in Singapore, offering short “cruises to nowhere” for the Asian market.
The vessel is packed with unique attractions and themed areas that promise to deliver the brand’s signature storytelling at sea.
A standout feature will be the Marvel-themed adventure zone on the upper decks, which includes the Ironcycle Test Run – set to be the longest rollercoaster at sea – along with Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin.
Families can also look forward to a Toy Story water park and a Moana-inspired pool area, complete with live performances.
Elsewhere onboard, Disney Imagination Garden will host lively stage shows such as “Avengers Assemble!” and the “Let’s Set Sail” dance party.
At the ship’s aft, Disney Discovery Reef will bring together favourite characters from The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Lilo & Stitch, and Luca, alongside new venues like a sports bar, Cosmic Kebabs eatery, and Bewitching Boba and Brews bubble tea bar.
Guests will also be able to explore San Fransokyo Street, inspired by Big Hero 6, which will feature teen hangouts, Baymax cinemas, shops, and even hidden entrances to kids’ clubs.
The Town Square neighbourhood will round out the experience with themed dining venues, Broadway-style productions at the Walt Disney Theatre, and Spellbound, a dramatic lounge inspired by the Evil Queen from Snow White.
Disney Adventure recently departed Germany for early sea trials, signalling progress towards her completion.
Don’t miss the latest Disney Cruise Line offers…

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.