I remember the first time I stepped out onto my cruise ship’s veranda – the salty ocean breeze on my face, the sound of the waves crashing against the ship’s hull, and the feeling of ultimate relaxation. For me, having a veranda stateroom is a non-negotiable when it comes to cruising. It’s my personal preference, my escape from the crowds, and my little piece of freedom on the open sea.
But, whether or not a veranda stateroom is worth the price tag is a hotly debated topic among cruisers. Some argue that it’s a waste of money, while others, like myself, believe that it’s the ultimate luxury and adds an extra level of enjoyment to the cruise experience.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and knowledge about verandas on cruise ships, explore the different types offered by various cruise lines, and ultimately leave it up to you to decide if it’s worth the splurge.
- Verandas on cruise ships can be small or large, and some ships have verandas that are only usable when the ship is in port.
- The terms veranda and balcony are interchangeable on an ocean cruise ship, but different cruise lines may use different terms.
- River cruise ships prefer French balconies to verandas because of the narrowness of the ships.
- Choosing a veranda or balcony is a personal preference, and some people may prefer to spend their money on other parts of a cruise.
What is a Veranda?
I personally learned that a veranda on a cruise ship is a private outdoor area where one can relax and enjoy the view. It’s a little piece of luxury that can make a big difference in the overall cruising experience.
Verandas are usually attached to staterooms, and they can be small or large, depending on the suite. Veranda design is an essential aspect of cruise ship architecture. The design includes exposed woodwork and comfortable built-in seats. Some verandas have wooden railings, while others have a plexiglass barrier.
Verandas are often interchangeable with balconies, and the naming decision is up to the cruise line. Some ships have verandas that are only usable when the ship is in port, while others are available throughout the voyage. In terms of design, verandas are an excellent way to add outdoor space to a cabin without sacrificing privacy.
However, some river cruise ships prefer French balconies to verandas because of the narrowness of the waterways. Ultimately, the decision between a veranda and a balcony comes down to personal preference.
Different Types of Verandas
Different types of balconies offer varying levels of outdoor space and privacy on a cruise ship. While some prefer a traditional balcony, others may opt for a veranda or French balcony. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.
Verandas and balconies are often used interchangeably on cruise ships. However, some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, differentiate between the two. Verandas typically offer more space and may have a solid barrier for added privacy. On the other hand, French balconies are narrower and may not have enough room for chairs or loungers. Ultimately, the decision between a veranda or balcony comes down to the individual’s preference for space and privacy.
Pros and Cons of Verandas
Imagine waking up to your own private view of the ocean every morning, with a cup of coffee in hand and the sound of the waves as your soundtrack. For me, having a veranda on a cruise ship is worth every penny. It’s my personal oasis where I can relax and soak in the beauty of the sea.
The feeling of being able to step outside and have my own outdoor space whenever I want is unbeatable. However, I understand that the cost of a veranda may not be worth it for everyone. Some may prefer to save their money for other aspects of their cruise, such as excursions or specialty dining.
It’s all about cost effectiveness and personal preference. But for me, the added luxury of having my own private outdoor relaxation space on a cruise ship is a must-have.
Veranda Staterooms on Disney Cruise Line
When booking a Disney cruise, I highly recommend considering the spacious veranda staterooms that are perfect for families. These rooms offer a more open and airy feel with a private balcony that is perfect for enjoying the ocean view.
The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is an excellent option, offering ample space for four to five people. Disney veranda amenities are exceptional, including a comfortable seating area and a large porthole window that allows natural light to fill the room.
I also appreciate the sliding doors that lead to the veranda, providing easy access to the outdoors. While veranda room pricing on Disney ships can be higher, I believe it’s worth the extra cost for the added luxury and comfort.
Overall, the veranda staterooms on Disney cruises are a fantastic option for families looking for a more spacious and relaxing experience.
Veranda Staterooms on Celebrity Cruises
Having experienced the spacious veranda staterooms on Disney cruises, I was curious to see how Celebrity Cruises compared in terms of luxury and comfort. After researching and comparing the two cruise lines, I found that Celebrity Cruises offered a variety of veranda staterooms with unique amenities and décor.
One notable feature on Celebrity Cruises is their Infinite Veranda, a fully-enclosed space with floor-to-ceiling windows that can convert into a veranda. This innovative design allows passengers to have an outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort or privacy. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises offers Sunset Veranda staterooms with traditional outdoor spaces and sliding doors, as well as Family Veranda staterooms with large verandas suitable for groups. In terms of décor, Celebrity Cruises’ verandas feature elegant furnishings and modern design elements. While both Disney and Celebrity offer veranda staterooms, Celebrity’s unique amenities and stylish décor make it a top choice for those seeking luxury and comfort on their cruise vacation.
| Cruise Line | Veranda Decor | Veranda vs Balcony Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Cruises | Elegant furnishings, modern design elements | Infinite Veranda, Sunset Veranda, Family Veranda, fully-enclosed space, floor-to-ceiling windows that convert to veranda |
| Disney Cruise Line | Comfortable built-in seats, exposed woodwork | Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, solid white wall option |
| Navigator’s Verandah, connecting verandahs with removable partition |
Veranda Staterooms on River Cruise Ships
I’m intrigued to learn about the French balconies that river cruise ships prefer over verandas due to their narrowness. As someone who enjoys spending time on a veranda during a cruise, I’m curious to know more about this design choice.
From my experience, verandas provide a spacious and open-air area to relax and enjoy the view, but I can see why river cruise ships have opted for French balconies instead. The narrow design of river cruise ships makes it difficult to accommodate traditional verandas, which can take up valuable space on the ship.
French balconies offer a more space-efficient option, allowing guests to open the doors and enjoy fresh air while still being protected by a railing. While I appreciate the functionality of French balconies, I personally prefer the expansive view and comfort of a veranda. Nonetheless, I can see why river cruise ships have made this design choice and understand that it may be necessary for their specific needs.
Cruise Tips Website Overview
While French balconies are preferred on river cruise ships due to their narrowness, ocean cruise ships offer a variety of veranda options for passengers. As someone who enjoys having a private outdoor space to relax and take in the views, I always make sure to consider the different veranda options when booking a cruise.
One website that’s been incredibly helpful in my cruise planning process is Cruise Tips. With a mission to help over 1 million people per month plan their perfect cruise holidays, Cruise Tips offers a wealth of knowledge and experience from founder Mike Schimdt, who’s taken over 20 cruises and worked in the industry since 2006.
The website not only provides information on veranda options, but also on inside cabins and different balcony options on various cruise lines. I appreciate that Cruise Tips offers new cruise deals and allows users to see today’s best cruise offers, which has helped me save money on my bookings.
Additionally, the website’s active social media presence and email newsletter make it easy for me to stay up-to-date on the latest cruise news and deals. Overall, Cruise Tips’s audience is anyone looking to plan a cruise, and I highly recommend checking out the website for helpful information.
Connecting with Cruise Tips
To connect with Cruise Tips, simply follow their social media accounts or sign up for their email newsletter. I highly recommend taking advantage of the wealth of cruise planning tips and insider knowledge that Cruise Tips offers, especially if you love cruising.
Their social media accounts are a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest cruise deals and industry news. Plus, their email newsletter is the perfect way to receive exclusive offers and insider tips directly to your inbox.
One thing I love about Cruise Tips’s social media engagement is their dedication to creating a community of like-minded cruisers. Their accounts are filled with photos and stories from real cruisers, making it feel like you’re part of a tight-knit community of ocean-lovers.
Their posts are always informative and engaging, providing valuable information and tips to help you plan your perfect cruise. So, whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, following Cruise Tips on social media is a must-do for anyone looking to make the most of their next cruise vacation.
What is the average cost difference between a veranda and non-veranda stateroom on a cruise ship?
As an experienced cruiser, I’ve found that the average cost difference between a veranda and non-veranda stateroom varies by cruise line and itinerary. While there are pros and cons to both, I believe the value for money is worth it for the added privacy and stunning views.
Are verandas on a cruise ship suitable for families with young children?
Veranda safety is a concern for families with young children, but amenities like outdoor space and floor-to-ceiling windows make it worth it. My experience with Celebrity Cruises’ Family Veranda was positive, and the extra space was great for group relaxation.
Can you request a specific type of veranda stateroom on a cruise ship when booking?
Yes, you can request a specific type of veranda stateroom on a cruise ship when booking. However, availability may vary based on the ship and itinerary. Consider the veranda stateroom amenities and your personal preferences before making a choice.
Are veranda staterooms on river cruise ships more expensive than those on ocean cruise ships?
Comparing verandas: river vs ocean, river cruise ship veranda staterooms are typically more expensive than ocean cruise ship verandas due to their limited availability and popularity. Veranda perks: worth the cost? It’s subjective, but for me, the private outdoor space and stunning views make it worth it.
How do verandas on a cruise ship differ from regular balconies or outdoor spaces?
Verandas on a cruise ship offer more space and a private outdoor area compared to regular balconies. As a solo traveler, I appreciate the solitude and quiet time to enjoy the view. Verandas are worth the extra cost for those who value peaceful relaxation.