If you are considering a cruise one of the best ways to sail the seas is in a balcony cabin. The best of both worlds, these rooms allow you to sail comfortably with the added bonus of being able to watch the world or ocean go by from your balcony.
No more than 200 square feet(including the outdoor balcony) these cabins are comfortable for a couple but can be a little tight when you add 2 kids. For this reason, I’m thankful designers have been getting creative with the elements in the room in an attempt to use the limited space more efficiently.
One of the largest cruise ships in the ocean, Harmony of the Seas boasts some of the most modern rooms we have stayed in.
During our recent trip we called cabin 6674 home for the 7 days we were on board. Located on the ship’s boardwalk deck this cabin was conveniently situated close to the promenade and the ship’s 3 dining room. It was also at the back of the ship so the Windjammer was just an elevator ride away, as was the kid’s pool.
This location was absolutely perfect for us. In the morning my sons could run down to the cafe(1 floor down) for hot chocolate and pastries or down to the pizza parlor at night for a before bed snack. Because most of the night activities are held in the Promenade we only had to walk outside our room and down a flight of stairs to enjoy music and dancing.
182 sq. ft. + 50 sq. ft for the Balcony, the cabin is equipped with two twin beds that convert to a Royal King, private bathroom with shower vanity area, an interactive flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, mini-safe, radio, telephone, and a hairdryer.
The closet, which is normally one long unit, was split into two units on either side of the bed. This left more room at the top of the room, a layout we liked.
Often with quad
The mattress on the bed was a miss for us. I had read in a couple online groups that the beds were as ‘hard as a rock’ but thought the reviewers were doing what reviewers do and being too picky. They were, as it turns out, completely correct. The bed was incredibly hard which was exasperated by the flat pillows. The was disheartening to us because we absolutely LOVED this ship.
The public areas are beautiful, the pools are warm and there are lots of activities for kids. The food was great and we enjoyed the entertainment.
Having the balcony was nice for early morning coffees and late night quiet time. If you are cruising with kids its an absolute must and perfect for parent time after bedtime.
In theory you’re right – having a balcony is great if you’re with2 kids on a cruise for parent post-dinner downtime – but my wife and I always have found it very windy out on the balcony in the evenings.