Inside Cabin vs. Balcony: Which Cruise Cabin Should You Book?

The Cabin Decision That Divides Cruisers Few cruise planning debates generate more passion than this one: inside cabin or balcony? Spend any time in a cruise forum and you'll find passionate advocates on both sides. "You don't need a balcony — you're never in your cabin!" is answered by "But waking up to that view is the whole point of cruising." Both camps are right, depending on who's talking. The Case for an Inside Cabin Inside cabins — those with no window or view — are the most economical cruise option and they're much better than the budget choice implies. Modern cruise ship inside cabins are well-designed sleeping spaces with adequate storage, good bedding, and a private bathroom. The air conditioning is excellent and (crucially) there's no light to wake you up at 6am. Inside cabin cruisers tend to spend their time on deck, in the pools, at the bars, and in the restaurants — which is where the cruise experience actually happens. The financial argument is compelling. The differe…