Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Treasure, just set sail. We were thrilled to be hosted by DCL on a 3-day preview cruise to check out all this second Triton Class ship has to offer. For this sailing, we stayed in a Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. See how it compares to other ships in the fleet, and the competition, in our latest cabin review.

Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah Review

Shortly prior to our cruise on Disney Treasure, we were assigned to cabin 9592. Reviewing the deck plans, this starboard side balcony cabin on Disney Treasure is considered a 4B category stateroom on Deck 9. This balcony stateroom is located fairly midship close to a bank of elevators.

According to Disney Cruise Line’s website, a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is approximately 284 square feet and sleeps 4 to 5 guests. These cabins include a queen sized bed, an optional upper-berth single pull-down bed, and a single convertible sofa. Some also have a single wall pull-down bed for a 5th guest.

Being on Deck 9, this cabin is pretty equidistant from the public spaces on the ship. The Grand Hall and main indoor venues start on Deck 5, whereas the pool deck and accompanying outdoor spaces start on Deck 11. 

The rooms on Disney Treasure are themed for adventure, featuring depictions from your favorite Disney films. They include Aladdin (Deck 2, 6, 7), Pocahontas (Deck 2, 6, 7), Encanto (Deck 8, 9), Up (Deck 8, 9), Nemo (Deck 10, 11), and Luca (Deck 10, 11). Our particular stateroom featured an Encanto mural above the bed.

Given we had sailed on sister ship, Disney Wish, in the same cabin category, we had a good idea of what to expect in terms of size, layout, and design. Still, we were eager to check out our stateroom. From the moment we entered the Agrabah-inspired Grand Hall, we were in love with the decor on Disney Treasure.

Layout of a Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom

If you’ve never sailed on Disney Cruise Line, then you’ll immediately notice the increase in square footage when comparing this Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah to balcony cabins from other cruise lines.

The color palette in this cabin is rather subdued, with light wood and shades of tans and blues in the carpet, furniture, and other finishes. The vibrant artwork is the focal point, with the mural over the bed and other accents offering just enough pops of color to give the stateroom some character.

Immediately entering our stateroom, the bathroom was to the left and the closet was to the right. There was also additional corner shelves for storage on the same wall as the closet.

Beyond the bathroom and closet was the queen bed. The queen bed was on the forward wall facing aft.

Continuing past the bed, there was the sitting area and desk. The convertible sofa was to the left and the fairly large desk was to the right. The upper-berth pull-down bed is located above the sofa.

Finally, there was the balcony. The size of the balcony is slightly larger than a typical balcony on modern day cruise ships. There is enough room for 2 upright chairs and a small round table.

Inside the Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah

Bathroom

The bathroom in this Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is a nice upgrade from comparable cabins on other cruise lines. It has the typical Disney Cruise Line split bathroom setup which is great for families. This includes a bathroom with a vanity, sink, and shower/tub combo and a half bathroom with a vanity, sink, and toilet.

The finishes are very neutral with light wood and white tile. There is also adequate counter space and storage, with each vanity consisting of three small shelves off to one side.

The full-sized shower/tub combo features a glass door. There are also a couple additional shelves in the shower for storage, along with shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel dispensers. The half bath with the toilet also has a liquid hand soap dispenser. There’s even a night light.

Closet

The closets in this stateroom offer plenty of storage for a family. The closet nearest the door has two sections. One section has a full length clothes bar with hangers. The other section has a clothes bar along with shelves. This is also where you’ll find the safe and life jackets.

Additionally, there is another closet near the balcony. This closet features ten cube-sized shelves which are perfect for storing packing cubes, shoes, and other items.

Main Cabin Area

The main area of this Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is certainly roomier than competitor cabins. There is also a privacy curtain to separate the sitting area from the bed, which would come in handy if you are traveling with kids.

The queen bed was comfortable and featured signature Disney bedding. We had no issues falling asleep after our long days and nights on the ship.

There was a night stand on each side of the bed with a small drawer. Across from the bed was the television.

We also appreciated the outlets near the bed for charging our phones and watches overnight. Specifically, one side of the bed has one USB, one USB-C, and one European outlet. The other side of the bed has two power outlets and one USB-C outlet.

The sitting area is spacious by cruise ship standards and has additional Encanto-inspired wall art. The loveseat provided plenty of space for two adults, along with a small end table. The sofa converts to a single bed if needed. There is also an upper-berth pull-down bed above the sofa for a 4th guest. If you had a 5th sleeper, it would be located in this area as well.

Across the way is the desk. The desk is somewhat larger than what you typically find in a balcony cabin on cruise ships. There are three long shelves and two shorter shelves above the desk for storage as well as five total drawers. Here, you will also find the hair dryer and the mini-fridge.

In terms of outlets, you will find one European, two U.S., and 1 USB-C at the desk.

Balcony

The balcony in this Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is slightly deeper than a balcony on mega-ships from contemporary cruise lines. It is adequate in size with enough room for two upright chairs and a small table.

It’s always a great spot to enjoy the ocean breezes and watch our sail into and out of ports of call. However, given we were sailing a short media cruise, we didn’t get to relax here very much.

Recap of Our Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom

Similar to our experience on Disney Wish, we were more than happy with our Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom. It provided plenty of space, storage, and comfort during our trip, along with direct access to ocean views and fresh air.

Even though there were just two of us, we feel there would certainly be enough space for a family of four. Not to mention, the split bathroom is a huge bonus when sailing with multiple family members in one cabin.

Overall, this stateroom was an ideal accommodation for our 3-day cruise on the line’s brand new ship; however, we suggest you review the cruise line’s website before booking to find the right fit for your travel party. Disney cruises tend to be more expensive when compared to the competition, but they do offer a variety of cabin types at varying price points. These range from moderately priced interior and oceanview cabins all the way up to elaborate suites like the brand-new Tomorrow Tower Suite in the ship’s funnel.

Comments

Have you sailed in a Disney Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah? What is your preferred cabin category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your reviews of Disney Cruise Line staterooms. 

The post We Stayed in a Disney Treasure Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah – Here’s Our Review appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

MSC World Europa is MSC Cruises’ largest ship sailing in Europe and the first in the cruise line’s innovative World Class ships. In anticipation of MSC World America’s debut in April 2025, we hopped onboard a recent Mediterranean sailing on this 215K+ gross ton vessel to see how it stacks up to the competition.

Now, we’re back and share our MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin review to help those comparing the different stateroom options available on this ship.

Our Review of an MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin

We stayed in an MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin on Deck 16, stateroom 16210. This starboard-side stateroom was located fairly aft on the ship but was only one deck below the pools, buffet, and outdoor spaces. Of course, this cabin was also just a quick elevator ride away (or walk down the stairs) from all the other offerings on the ship, including our favorite spot— the World Promenade on Deck 8.

We had stayed in a similar cabin on MSC Seascape a few years prior, and had recently stayed in the Yacht Club on MSC Seashore, so we were interested to see how the staterooms on this newest ship in the fleet compared.

According to the MSC Cruises’ website, this World Europa balcony room measures 183 square feet with an approximately 32-square-foot balcony.

At first glance, the layout of this stateroom on MSC World Europa was pretty typical. While the square footage is relatively on par with other contemporary cruise lines, the cabin did feel a little tighter. There was barely enough space to scoot by the bed and the aft wall as well as between the bed and closet. There was also a bit less storage, and the balcony seemed small.

Layout of an MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin

Immediately upon entering the room, our bathroom was on the left wall. Following the bathroom, there was the closet tucked around the corner and then the bed facing aft. The seating area (left wall) and desk (right wall) were in front of the balcony.

Much like other MSC ships we’ve sailed in the past, the color palette in this stateroom was muted with light wood tones and various shades of brown. There was not much color or accents to give the cabin any character.

Nonetheless, it was a functional space to call home during our week-long cruise, allowing us to unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Inside Our MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin

Bathroom

The bathroom in our MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin was a standard size and had a relatively typical layout. While cruise ship bathrooms are small, we felt there was adequate counter space and shelves for storing toiletries. The glass-doored shower was also a pretty typical size.

The bathroom did feature hand soap, along with shampoo and shower gel dispensers in the shower.

In terms of storage, it always helps that we bring a hanging shoe organizer where we store many toiletries and other small items.

Main Cabin Area

The closet featured five shelves and two drawers on one half and a small clothesbar with hangers on the other half. While the shelves and drawers combo was adequate, we did find it difficult to hang a weeks-worth of clothing for the two of us on the other side of the closet.

The bed was very close to the closet with the television located on the opposite wall. The bed had a small nightstand on each side, along with one USB outlet for charging devices at night. Overall, the bed in this MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin provided adequate comfort during our trip. 

The desk was adequately-sized with two overhead shelves and two additional drawers. The third drawer actually housed the safe. The mini-fridge was located here as well, along with two lower corner shelves near the television. In terms of outlets, there were two U.S. outlets, 2 USB outlets, and 2 European outlets.

Across from the desk, the pullout sofa was large enough for two adults to sit comfortably; however, it did feel needlessly bulky. While there was no coffee table, there was a small table strategically stacked between the desk and stool.

Balcony

The balcony in this World Europa stateroom was quite small, with barely enough space for the two upright chairs and small table. With a new historic city essentially every day, our balcony did come in handy during the morning sail-ins and afternoon sail-outs from port. But since it was November in the Med, we didn’t use the space much beyond that.

Recap of Our MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin

This MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin was a good mix of size and value, while offering direct access to ocean views. The accommodations were comfortable, and the cabin layout was familar. With so much to see at each destination and on the ship, our stateroom was a functional space to call home during our Mediterranean cruise.

While we would have appreciated a bit more storage and a larger balcony, MSC cruises are typically cheaper than most competitor cruise lines. So, if you are looking to cruise in a balcony room at an affordable price point, this MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin is a great option.

Of course, the ship also features a variety of other staterooms options from interior and oceanview cabins all the way up to luxurious suites in MSC’s ship-within-a-ship complex.

If you are considering a cruise on MSC World Europa (or sister ship World America), we suggest you review the deck plans and list of accommodations on the cruise line’s website to find your perfect room type and location.

Comments

Have you sailed in an MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin? What is your preferred stateroom category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your MSC Cruises room reviews. 

The post We Stayed in an MSC World Europa Deluxe Balcony Cabin – Here’s How It Compares appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Cruising offers travelers unique options when it comes to accommodations, each suited to different preferences and budgets. For many cruisers, one of the biggest decisions is choosing their cruise cabin as each cabin type provides its own advantages. While inside cabins provide a cozy, budget-friendly option, many travelers wonder if upgrading to an oceanview cabin is worth the extra cost. Here, we’ll break down the pros and cons of inside vs. oceanview cabins to help you decide if upgrading is the right choice for you.

Inside vs. Oceanview Cabins: Is It Worth Upgrading?

What is an Inside Cabin?

Inside cabins, or interior rooms, are located in the interior of the ship and have no windows or natural light. These cabins are often the most budget-friendly option on a cruise and are a popular choice among first-time cruisers and those seeking a great deal.

Pros of Inside Cabins

Cost Savings: The most notable benefit of an inside cabin is its affordability. Inside cabins are typically the least expensive option, which allows travelers to allocate more of their budget toward excursions, specialty dining and drink packages, spa treatments, or other onboard activities.

Ideal for Sleeping: Since inside cabins have no windows, they provide a very dark environment, making them ideal for those who want to sleep in or take midday naps. Light-sensitive travelers often prefer this cabin type for uninterrupted sleep.

Quiet and Cozy Atmosphere: Inside cabins are often tucked away in the interior of the ship, providing a quieter environment away from deck noise, outdoor elements, and public areas. This helps to create a cozy atmosphere.

Cons of Inside Cabins

No Natural Light or Views: For many, one of the biggest drawbacks of an inside cabin is the lack of a window or porthole. Travelers often feel disconnected from the beauty of the ocean or have difficulty knowing what time of day it is.

Feeling Enclosed: If you’re prone to claustrophobia, the enclosed space of an inside cabin might feel a bit too tight. Without a view to look at, some people may find the cabin feels smaller than it actually is.

Less Space: Inside cabins are generally more compact, which can be limiting for travelers who spend a lot of time in their room or those with a lot of luggage.

Motion Sickness: If you are unsure how you will handle being at sea or you are prone to motion sickness, an inside cabin might not be the right fit for you. Without a fixed horizon to focus on, you might feel more disoriented and uncomfortable.

Who Should Book an Inside Cabin

While an inside cabin isn’t for everyone, there are certain travelers who might find it the perfect fit. The types of cruisers who might appreciate an inside cabin include:

• Budget-conscious travelers
• Light sleepers or midday nappers
• Those who don’t spend much time in their cabins
• Families booking an additional room for teens
• Those who prioritize taking multiple cruises a year

What is an Oceanview Cabin?

Oceanview cabins offer all the amenities of an inside cabin, but they also come with a porthole or window that provides a view of the ocean. Although they’re more expensive than inside cabins, oceanview cabins are still typically cheaper than balcony cabins, making them a middle ground between affordability and luxury.

Pros of Oceanview Cabins

Natural Light: One of the top benefits of an oceanview cabin is the natural light it provides, which makes the space feel more open and airy. This allows cruisers to better experience being at sea and feel more oriented to the time of day. It can also help to establish a more consistent daily routine and sleep schedule.

Enjoying the Scenery: Waking up to a view of the ocean is a major draw for many cruisers. An oceanview cabin allows you to enjoy beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and passing landscapes. Moreover, an oceanview cabin can provide stunning views when cruising itineraries like the Norwegian fjords, the Mediterranean, or Alaska. For itineraries with plenty of scenic cruising days, having a window to observe these wonders from the comfort of your room may well be worth the extra investment.

More Space: While inside and oceanview cabins are often similarly sized, the addition of a window can create an illusion of space, making the room feel larger and more open. Natural light contributes to a brighter, airier atmosphere, which can be especially refreshing if you plan on spending time in your cabin relaxing, reading, or working.

Added Comfort for Motion-Sensitive Travelers: Motion sensitivity and seasickness can sometimes be a concern for cruisers, especially on days when the ship hits choppier waters. While motion sickness varies from person to person, many people find that looking out a window helps ease nausea. An oceanview cabin can provide a fixed point to focus on during moments of discomfort, potentially offering relief that an inside cabin cannot provide.

Cons of Oceanview Cabins

Higher Cost: Oceanview cabins tend to be pricier than inside cabins, which can be a drawback for travelers looking for the lowest-cost option.

Partial or Obstructed Views: Given their location, certain oceanview cabins might have partially obstructed views due to lifeboats, metal beams, or other structural elements. Always check with the cruise line, your travel agent, or the deck plans if you want to confirm a clear view.

Still Not a Balcony: Although an oceanview cabin has a window, it doesn’t open. So, you still don’t have outdoor access like you would with a balcony. Some travelers may feel it’s worth spending a bit more to upgrade to a balcony, while others find just the window sufficient.

Who Should Book an Oceanview Cabin

Oceanview cabins provide a bit more luxury without the full cost of a balcony. Here are some types of travelers who might benefit most from booking an oceanview cabin:

• First-time cruisers
• Travelers with motion sensitivity
• Clautrobic guests
• Nature lovers
• Those sailing on longer itineraries

Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Ultimately, the choice between an inside cabin and an oceanview cabin comes down to your travel style, preferences, and budget. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone who spends most of their time exploring the ship and shore excursions, an inside cabin offers a cozy, cost-effective option. For many, the combination of natural light, scenic views, and the added comfort of knowing what’s outside enhances their cruise experience enough to justify the extra cost of upgrading. An oceanview cabin provides slightly more luxury without splurging on a balcony.

Choosing a cabin is a personal decision though, and the perfect choice will vary for every traveler. Whichever option you go with, both inside and oceanview cabins allow you to experience all the same great dining, entertainment, and amenities that are waiting for you right outside your cabin door.

So, What About Oceanview vs. Balcony Cabins?

Once you’ve decided that having a window to the ocean is worth the upgrade, the next question often becomes: is it worth going a step further and opting for a balcony cabin? Balcony cabins offer an even more immersive experience, allowing cruisers to step outside and enjoy the fresh sea air. But with added luxury comes a higher price tag.

Pros of Balcony Cabins

Private and Personal Outdoor Space: The key difference between an oceanview and a balcony cabin is, of course, the access to private outdoor space. With a balcony cabin, you can enjoy the outdoors from the privacy of your own room without needing to go to a common deck. This can be particularly appealing if you value quiet mornings or evenings outside without other passengers around.

Enhanced Views and Fresh Air: For many cruisers, a balcony cabin is the ultimate way to enjoy being on a cruise. With a balcony, you can experience the ocean breeze, listen to the waves, and have a more panoramic view of the scenery. It’s a huge perk on scenic routes like Alaska as well where you can enjoy the vistas and scout wildlife without leaving your stateroom to head to an open-air deck.

Space and Comfort: Balcony cabins tend to be larger than oceanview cabins, with additional square footage to accommodate outdoor seating. This added space can make a balcony cabin feel more luxurious and comfortable, especially if you plan to spend a good amount of time in your room.

Cons of Balcony Cabins

The Price: The cost difference between an oceanview cabin and a balcony cabin varies by cruise line, season, and itinerary. Typically though, balcony cabins are priced higher due to their private outdoor space, additional square footage, and premium amenities. If you prefer to spend most of your time enjoying public areas of the ship, the additional cost of a balcony might not be as worthwhile.

Safety for Families: Balcony cabins, while offering beautiful views, may pose safety concerns for families with young children. The presence of a balcony requires constant supervision, as kids might be tempted to explore the open space, putting them in danger.

Limited Use on Certain Itineraries: On colder or less scenic routes, balcony space might not get much use. Travelers on these routes may find that they’re paying for a feature they don’t end up enjoying due to the weather outside.

Who Might Prefer Each Option?

• Oceanview Cabins: Great for cruisers who want a scenic view without paying for a balcony, especially if they’re on a budget or plan to spend minimal time in their cabin. It’s a good choice for first-time cruisers or those content with an ocean view without needing outdoor space.
• Balcony Cabins: Ideal for cruisers who prioritize a private outdoor experience and want to enjoy their time at sea without needing to venture to the public decks. Balcony cabins are particularly attractive for travelers on scenic cruises who want to enjoy the passing landscapes or who simply value a touch of luxury and more space.

So, once again, the decision between booking an oceanview or a balcony cabin comes down to a personal choice. Guests should consider the pros and cons of each cabin category carefully and decide what’s most important to them during their cruise vacation.

Of course, there’s always the option to upgrade even further to a suite!

If you need more help, we have a list of the best rooms on a cruise, some of the cruise cabins you should avoid, and even how to score cruise cabin upgrades.

You should also review your cruise line’s website or speak with your travel agent, as it’s usually not as cut and dry as booking either an inside, oceanview, or balcony cabin. On many cruise lines, these cabin categories often have many sub-categories, like interior rooms with virtual balconies, infinite balconies, and family accommodations, among others, complicating things a bit more.

Comments

When it comes to inside vs. oceanview cabins, which do you prefer? Or, do you usually opt to upgrade to a balcony or a suite? Drop us an anchor below to share your cabin preferences when cruising.

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The Sanctuary Collection is Princess Cruises’ new ship-within-a-ship concept that is home to upscale amenities, private areas, and a dedicated staff. During a recent sailing on Sun Princess, we tested out this exclusive area. Find out what our accommodations were really like in our Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite review.

Our Review of a Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite

Since this is Princess Cruises‘ first attempt at offering a ship-within-a-ship experience, we weren’t sure what to expect. While we typically book balcony rooms on a cruise, we were interested to see how this Sun Princess Santuary Mini Suite compared.

When comparing the Sanctuary Mini Suite with a typical mini suite found on Sun Princess, there are a few differences, namely when it comes to location and inclusions. The actual size of these two cabin categories are about the same at just over 300 square feet. However, the 123 Sanctuary Mini Suites are in more prime locations on decks 10-17.

Now, when comparing to balcony cabins on Sun Princess, a Deluxe Balcony is 235 square feet, and a Premium Deluxe Balcony and Sanctuary Balcony are around 279 square feet. We stayed in a Deluxe Balcony during our first sailing on the ship and can attest the size difference is noticeable.

While this extra space in the mini suite is nice, the real value comes in the additional perks and inclusions for those staying in the Sanctuary Collection. These mini suites, along with the 80 suites and 12 Premium Deluxe Balconies, have access to an exclusive sundeck and restaurant just for guests staying in the Sanctuary Collection. Further, guests staying in the Sanctuary Collection get the Princess Premier package for an even more all-inclusive experience. This is a $90 per person, per day upgrade for all other guests.

Layout of a Sanctuary Mini Suite on Sun Princess

For our recent sailing on Sun Princess, we stayed in a Sanctuary Collection Mini Suite on Deck 14, cabin 14456. This stateroom is located portside very nearby the midship elevators. Unlike other ship-within-a-ship experiences like the MSC Yacht Club, not all Sanctuary Collection staterooms are located within a keycard-access complex. Still, it was only a few decks up to the Sanctuary Club sundeck (Deck 18) and down to the Sanctuary Restaurant (Deck 8). And with Princess’ smart elevator design, we never had to wait long for a ride.

These rooms feature a separate seating area, spacious closet, two televisions, a desk, an upgraded bathroom, and signature bathrobes and slippers.

Upon entering our cabin, we were pleasantly surprised. We could see the size difference immediately. The color palette was muted with light wood tones, subtle green accents, and marble finishes in the bathroom. While it did feel refined, there was less color than our previous balcony cabin on the ship.

The bathroom was situated to the left near the entrance of the cabin. Continuing in to the room, the bed was on the aft wall facing forward. Just beyond, there was the desk/vanity area and the large closet on the opposite wall separating the bed from the sitting area. The sitting area was adjacent to the balcony with a second television and a curtain to close off the area if desired. The balcony was a pretty typical size with two upright chairs and a table.

Inside Our Sanctuary Mini Suite

Bathroom

The bathroom in this Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite was pretty on par with the bathroom in our previous balcony cabin. Still, it is a vast upgrade from other ships in the Princess fleet. It features a new and improved layout. It also features marble finishes and premium bath products including hand soap.

Opening the bathroom door, the stand-up shower was to our right and the toilet to the left, with the sink directly in front. There are a few shelves for storage off to one side and adequate counter space. 

The rectangular shower set-up offers more space, and the best part is you’ll no longer have to deal with the dreaded shower curtain found on most other Princess ships. Further, the shower contains a shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel dispenser, along with a small shave bar.

Main Cabin Area

The bed in this Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite was positioned closer to the cabin entrance and flanked by two nightstands. Here, you’ll also find 1 USB, 1 USB-C, and 1 power outlet on each side! And the signature Princess luxury bedding provided all the comforts of home. On the wall opposite the bed is the first of two televisions in the cabin.

The desk was of adequate size and featured small drawers for additional storage, along with the mini-fridge to one side and two shelves above it. Further, you will find several power outlets at the desk. There are a total of 2 USB outlets, 2 USB-C outlets, 3 power outlets, and 1 European outlet.

This vanity area also features a mirror, comfy chair, and a coveted Dry Bar hairdryer. Unfortunately though, these mini suites do not come with an in-room coffee maker.

Across from the desk are the closets. While we did really like the former walk-in closet on Princess ships, we’ll take the trade for the other new and improved room features.

These newly redesigned closets offer plenty of storage space with a combination of drawers, shelves, and clothes bar with hangers. To be precise, there are three lower drawers, two exposed shelves, and two shelves within an upper cabinet that also contains the safe off to one side. Behind the three closet doors, there are a combination of shelves and clothes bars including one full length for dresses. Of course, you’ll find the cozy bathrobes and slippers here too.

Further, the seating area is an upgrade from typical cruise cabins. It features a sofa, small table, and the second television. The sofa was large enough for two adults to sit comfortably. This space is where you’ll mostly recognize that additional square footage from a balcony cabin on the ship.

Balcony

Finally, there was the balcony which always provides a great spot for watching the ocean views.

Perhaps slightly deeper than some cruise ship balconies, this one on Sun Princess is pretty typical and not significantly bigger than other cabins outside the Sanctuary Collection. It features two upright chairs, a small table, and accompanying ottomans.

Unfortunately, there were no sun loungers or anything of that sort. You’ll have to head to the Sanctuary Club sundeck for lounging. And, it is a really nice space for doing just that! The sundeck features a pool, whirlpool, upgraded loungers, a bar, light bites throughout the day, and even cabanas available to rent. Of note, while all guests can book a Sanctuary Collection stateroom, they must be 16+ to access the exclusive Sanctuary Club sundeck.

Recap of Our Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite Review

We didn’t know what to expect from Princess Cruises’ first attempt at a ship-within-a-ship, but we were pleasantly surprised. As a middle entry-point to the Sanctuary Collection, our Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite was the ideal accommodation.

It offered plenty of comfort, storage, and all of the amenities you’d expect to find in a stateroom on a megaship. Plus, some upgrades like the Dry Bar hair dryer, premium Beekman 1802 bath products, and an abundance of outlets. The extra space that comes with upgrading from a balcony to a mini suite was nice too.

The room finishes perfectly complement the upscale décor found around the rest of the ship, and the bathroom redesign is leaps and bounds above other ships in the fleet. Overall, we think the cabins on this ship finally elevate Princess Cruises to the same level as the competitors.

Of course, the big bonus when opting to upgrade to a room within the Sanctuary Collection are the added inclusions. The experience provided the perfect mix of luxury often found on small cruise ships with all the amenities of large ship cruising.

From the posh exclusive pool deck, to upgraded menus in the Sanctuary Restaurant, to all the added inclusions of the Princess Premier package— like premium drinks and specialty dining— we wouldn’t hestitate to book a Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite again. With a reasonable price tag, it offers guests a private retreat alongside all the other amenities that mega-ships offer. We think it’s the perfect pick for couples seeking a more upscale cruise vaction.

Comments

Have you sailed in a Mini Suite on Princess Cruises? Do you have plans to test out the new Sun Princess Sanctuary Collection? Drop us an anchor below to share your preferred cabin categories when cruising. 

The post We Stayed in a Sun Princess Sanctuary Mini Suite and Here’s Our Review appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

MSC Yacht Club is MSC Cruises’ ship-within-a-ship concept that is home to upscale amenities, private areas, and a dedicated staff. During a recent sailing on MSC Seashore, we stayed in this exclusive complex for the first time. Find out what our luxury accommodations were really like in our MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite review.

Our Review of an MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite on MSC Seashore

Since this was our first time staying in the MSC Yacht Club, we weren’t sure what to expect. While we typically book balcony rooms on a cruise, we were interested to see how this Deluxe Suite compared to traditional balcony cabins found on mainstream cruise lines.

When comparing the Deluxe Yacht Club Suite with a typical Deluxe Balcony room found on MSC Seashore, there are a few big differences, namely when it comes to size and inclusions. A Deluxe Suite is over 40% larger than a Deluxe Balcony room with 269 square feet vs. 183 square feet. The actual balcony is larger as well with 86 square feet of space vs. 54 square feet.

While this extra space is nice, the real value comes in the additional perks and inclusions for those staying in the MSC Yacht Club. These include:

• A private restaurant, lounge, bars, and sundeck
• Premium extra drink package
• Browse internet for two devices
• Access to the Aurea Spa’s thermal suite
• Butler services
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation
• Reserved theater seating
• Complimentary room service
• Exclusive area at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
• Discounts on specialty dining and spa packages
• More MSC Voyagers Club Points
• Included MSC for Me wristbands

Layout of a MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite

For our recent sailing on MSC Seashore, we stayed in cabin 18001, a MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite all the way forward on Deck 18 portside. All Yacht Club suites are located within the Yacht Club complex, so it’s never a far walk to any of the amenities. For those with mobility issues, there is an exclusive elevator within the complex that will take you to Deck 16-20.

Further, the Yacht Club is also located nearby the ship’s forward main elevators. As a tip, Yacht Club guests can scan their cards or wristbands at these elevators for priority access.

Upon entering our cabin, we were pleasantly surprised. We could see the size difference immediately. The color palette was muted with light wood tones, various shades of tan and gray, and black marble in the bathroom. While it did feel refined, there were no pops of color anywhere.

The bathroom was situated to the right with one closet across the way. Continuing in to the room, the bed was on the forward wall facing aft and the large desk/vanity area was on the opposite wall. Beyond the bed, there was a large sitting area. Across from the sitting area was the television and a second closet. Lastly, there was the balcony with two upright chairs and a table.

Inside the MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite on MSC Seashore

Bathroom

The bathroom in this MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite on MSC Seashore was much larger than your typical cruise ship bathroom. It was certainly more on par with a bathroom that you’d find in a hotel on land. There were marble and stainless steel finishes along with Yacht Club embroided towels and bathrobes.

While there was only one sink, it had a spacious countertop and two shelves for storing products, along with liquid hand soap. The shower itself was spacious too with a built-in bench and premium bath products.

Main Cabin Area

The king bed was positioned facing aft with a nightstand on each side. These nightstands had two small drawers for additional storage. Unfortunately though, there was only one USB outlet on one side of the bed. This is always a miss for us as we both need to charge phones, watches, etc. at night. We do always pack portable power packs to leave bedside for these instances.

Overall, the bed provided adequate comfort and we never had any issues falling asleep. On a side note, if you do have any particular preferences with bedding and/or pillows, let your butler know and he/she will try to accommodate your request.

With plenty of space in between to walk, the fairly long desk/vanity area is across from the bed. While there are no shelves for storing items, there is plenty of counterspace. This is also where you’ll find the hairdryer. Immediately adjacent, there’s a Nespresso maker as well which was certainly a nice perk for us.

The seating area is also an upgrade from typical cruise cabins. It featured a sofa, coffee table, and upright chair. The sofa was large enough for two adults to sit comfortably to enjoy some room service or for the two of us to get some work done in the afternoons.

Across from the sitting area was a large television along with a dry bar-type setup. Here, there were some shelves for additional storage; a cabinet housing the coffee pods, teas, and other glassware; and the mini-fridge. This mini-fridge is complimentary and stocked daily by your butler. He/she will work to accommodate any requests as well.

This is where you’ll also find most of the outlets in the suite. There are two 110-V power outlets, two USB outlets, and a Hamlet wireless charging station. Unfortunately, the wireless charging station was extremely slow so we never ended up using it.

When it comes to the closets, there are two– one near the entrance of the room and the other at the far end near the balcony. The one near the entrance of the suite features two clothes bars with hangers and a small shelf on the top and bottom. The one near the balcony features one clothes bar with hangers, a series of five drawers, and the safe. These drawers were just big enough to store our packing cubes. Overall, this was more than enough storage space for a 7-night cruise…even for overpackers like ourselves.

Balcony

Finally, there was the balcony. This balcony did feel noticeably larger than balconies we have come to expect on modern mega-ships. But, it did still only feature two upright chairs and a small multi-purpose table/ottoman. There were no sun loungers or anything of that sort.

Still, it was a comfortable space to enjoy some quiet time and the ocean breeze, either in the morning with a cup of coffee, in the afternoon with a drink, or while sailing into or out of our ports of call.

Of course, MSC Yacht Club guests also have their own private sundeck with plenty of loungers, a pool, and whirlpools to soak up the sun.

Recap of Our MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite on MSC Seashore

We didn’t know what to expect from our first stay in an MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite, but we were pleasantly surprised. It provided the perfect mix of luxury often found on small cruise ships with all the amenities of large ship cruising. The extra space in the actual cabin was great too.

The only real flaw of this cabin (and all cabins on the ship) is the need to insert your keycard to use the lights and electricity. While you can bypass this on other cruise line’s by inserting another card like a membership card, you can’t on MSC. This means you can’t leave devices charging while you are away.

Of course, while the more spacious cabins and added benefits are nice, an MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite does come at an increased price. So ultimately, only you can decide if it’s worth it for you.

We think the MSC Yacht Club is an excellent option for couples or families looking for a more refined and tailored cruise experience that mimics those found on luxury cruise lines at a fraction of the cost. MSC’s ship-within-a-ship definitely delivers an unforgettable, mostly all-inclusive cruise experience. It’s also considerably cheaper than other cruise lines’ ship-within-a-ship complexes.

Another bonus is that the Yacht Club offers a variety of accommodations from interior suites all the way up to the expansive Owner’s Suite, and regardless of category, all guests get the same perks.

Comments

Have you sailed in an MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite? What is your preferred cabin category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your MSC Seashore room reviews. 

The post We Stayed in an MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite on MSC Seashore and Here’s Our Review appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, just set sail. Of course, we had to test out this World’s Biggest Weekend for ourselves, so we hopped onboard the ship’s inaugural 3-day cruise. For this sailing, we booked a guaranteed ocean view balcony cabin. See how it compared to the competition in our Utopia of the Seas balcony room review.

We Stayed in a Utopia of the Seas Balcony Room, and Here’s How It Compares

To lock in a lower rate, we decided to book the guaranteed ocean view balcony room category for this trip. With this option, we did not know the exact location of our room up until a few weeks before our sail date. This can be a great option for those looking to save some money. However, it might not be a good choice if you need a specific room or location, or if you are prone to motion sickness.

It is important to note that even if you choose a traditional balcony layout on Utopia of the Seas, not all balcony rooms have an ocean view. This ship also features Central Park view balcony cabins as well as Boardwalk view balcony cabins. These cabins still have a balcony but face interior towards these neighborhoods rather than outward towards the ocean.

A couple weeks prior to our cruise, we were assigned to cabin 11680. Reviewing the deck plans, this starboard side balcony cabin is a 3D category balcony stateroom. It is located just aft of the midship elevators. According to Royal Caribbean’s website, this room measures 191 square feet with a 50 square foot balcony.

We have sailed on all five previous Oasis class vessels, so we had a good idea what to expect from this Utopia of the Seas balcony room in terms of layout and decor.

Layout of a Utopia of the Seas Balcony Room

Immediately entering our cabin, the bathroom was to the right. Continuing into the room, there was the desk with the sofa across the way. The sofa was flanked by two small closets. The bed was closer to the balcony which is our preferred configuration. It was located on the aft wall facing forward.

This room was almost identical, except a mirror image, of our Wonder of the Seas balcony cabin. The color palette is mostly muted featuring light wood tones with pops of blue and subtle patterns. There are also additional charging outlets around the cabin which is always an added convenience on a cruise ship. 

Inside the Utopia of the Seas Balcony Room

Bathroom

The bathroom in this Utopia of the Seas balcony room was pretty typical for a newer Royal Caribbean ship. Unfortunately though, it did not have the newly configured setup or shower like Icon of the Seas. It still has a contemporary feel with neutral colors and pops of blue, but it maintains the cylindrical-shaped shower with glass door.

Aside from the shower, the bathroom features a strategically designed sink and toilet area with a few small shelves off to one side and some counter space. In terms of storage, it always helps that we bring a hanging shoe organizer where we store many toiletries and other small items.

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas still only provides one dispenser of hair/body wash in the shower unlike more premium lines that include shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Main Cabin Area

The desk, positioned on the left, has a small elevated shelf as well as several power outlets. There are three 110 V outlets, 2 European outlets, 1 USB outlet, and 1 USB-C outlet. There’s also a series of five adjacent dresser drawers, one of which contained the hair dryer. This is also where you will find the mini-fridge and additional counter space.

The seating area on the right included a somewhat larger sofa but no coffee table. It provided plenty of space for two adults to sit and even stretch out a bit.

The sofa was flanked by a closet on each side. One closet was a full length clothes bar with hangers while the other was half clothes bar and half shelving. This closet also housed the safe and had two underneath drawers for additional storage. Given that Utopia of the Seas is sailing short 3- and 4-day cruises, the closets and dresser drawers provided more than enough storage.

The Royal king bed was on the right (aft) wall. There was a small night stand on each side of the bed. Both sides of the bed had a lamp with a power outlet and USB outlet for easy charging access. Unfortunately though, the USB outlets in our lamps did not work for charging our phones at night.

Overall, the bed in this Utopia of the Seas balcony room provided adequate comfort during our trip. We had no issues falling asleep after our long days and nights on this World’s Biggest Weekend.

Across from the bed was the television as well as some pegs for hanging items like bags or hats.

Balcony

Finally, there was the balcony. At 50 sq. ft., the size of the balcony is what we have come to expect from mega-ships–somewhat cramped. There was just enough room for 2 adjustable upright chairs, 2 small ottomans, and a small round table.

Honestly, given the short duration of this cruise and the number of activities and events occurring, we barely used our balcony all trip. We stepped outside on a few occasions to grab some photos or watch a sail away, but we didn’t spend any time relaxing in this private outdoor space.

Recap of Our Utopia of the Seas Ocean View Balcony Room Review

Similar to our experiences on other Royal Caribbean cruise ships, our Utopia of the Seas balcony room was the perfect mix of size and value, while still providing direct access to ocean views. The accommodations were comfortable and had plenty of storage. Further, the square footage was on par with most contemporary cruise lines. 

Our stateroom had easy access to the stairs and elevators, with the public areas only a few decks below or above us. Plus, with the new smart elevator design on Utopia of the Seas, grabbing an elevator is more convenient than ever.

The décor was simplistic yet inviting, and we welcomed the number of outlets in the cabin. Although, we did miss the upgraded bathroom on Icon of the Seas which had a larger and more rectangular shower setup.

Overall, this stateroom was the right fit for us; however, we suggest you review the cruise line’s website before booking to find the right fit for your travel party. Maybe you are a group of friends looking to party on this weekend sailing and don’t need a balcony room. Or, maybe you are a family looking for a little more space and want to upgrade to a suite. Luckily, Utopia of the Seas features a variety of stateroom options.

Comments

Have you sailed in an Ocean View Balcony room on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship? What is your preferred cabin category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your review of this stateroom category. 

The post We Stayed in a Utopia of the Seas Balcony Room, and Here’s How It Compares appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

We recently decided to give the budget-friendly Margaritaville at Sea cruise line another chance. After having a not-so-great experience on the line’s first ship, Paradise, we were hesitant to test out the newly launched Islander. But, we gave it a go and booked a completely renovated Margaritaville at Sea Islander balcony room. Now, we’re back to share what we thought and how it stacks up to the competion in our latest cabin tour and review.

We Stayed in a Newly Renovated Margaritaville at Sea Balcony Room, and Here’s What We Thought

For our 5-day sailing over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, we secured a Margaritaville at Sea balcony room, stateroom 7175. This cabin is actually an extended balcony room on Deck 7. It is located on the starboard side of the ship between the forward and midship elevators (but somewhat closer to the forward bank). This balcony room measures in at approximately 185 square feet with a 55 square foot balcony.

Layout of a Margaritaville at Sea Islander Balcony Room

Immediately entering our cabin, we were pleasantly surprised! Unlike our Paradise room a couple years prior, this cabin was fresh, bright, and looked almost brand-new. In fact, we think the cabins are one of Islander’s biggest selling points. 

The bathroom was to the right and the closet was on the opposite wall. Continuing into the room, there was the desk/vanity area with the sofa across the way. The bed was closer to the balcony which is our preferred configuration. It was located on the aft wall facing forward.

The room was on point with what you would expect from a Margaritaville resort. It exuded “Islander” vibes with its bright colors and beachside decor. The color palette features neutral tones with nautical blues and Margaritaville-inspired accents.

Inside the Margaritaville at Sea Islander Balcony Room

Bathroom

Honestly, the bathroom was the one area of this Margaritaville at Sea Islander balcony room that didn’t appear to be fully refreshed. While there were new elements, other areas of the bathroom showed signs of the ship’s age.

The shower in particular is reminiscent of older cruise ships as it still features a shower curtain, albeit one with palm trees. Unlike some other cruise lines, it does have containers with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner though.

Aside from the shower, the bathroom features a strategically designed sink and toilet area with a few small shelves for storage on either side along with some counter space. For additional storage, we always bring a hanging shoe organizer where we place many toiletries and other small items.

The size of the actual bathroom and vanity area are small by hotel standards but what we’ve come to expect from cruise ships. The one nice addition in this bathroom that is often absent in cruise cabin bathrooms is a liquid hand soap dispenser.

While we have heard of issues with bathroom plumbing on the ship, we only had a minor issue with delayed flushing of the toilet at times.

Main Cabin Area

Near the entrance of this Margaritaville at Sea balcony room, there were three separate closet doors. Two featured full length clothes bars with hangers to serve as his and hers closets. The third had a series of shelves where the life jackets and safe were also housed. Unfortunately, they were sparse on hangers though.

The desk/vanity area positioned on the left wall of the cabin was fairly standard in size. There were four drawers for some additional storage, one of which contained the hair dryer, as well as the mini-fridge. Though, the ship is 25 years old, so the desk only had one 220-volt and one 110-volt outlet.

Beyond the desk was an additional dry bar-type setup. Here, there was a cabinet for additional storage below, a shelf for storing items like water bottles and the ice bucket, and the television above.

The flip-flop decals on the mirror, artwork, and Jimmy Buffett quote above the television were all nice touches adding to the theming.

The seating area on the right included a somewhat larger sofa and a very on-brand coffee table. It provided plenty of space for two adults to sit and even stretch out a bit, along with coordinating decorative pillows and artwork.

The Margaritaville bed was on the right (aft) wall. Additionally, there was a small night stand on each side of the bed with two small shelves. Both sides of the bed had a lamp with a USB and USB-C connection. Thus, we were still able to charge multiple devices overnight without issue despite the lack of additional outlets in the cabin.

Once again, with the deluxe Margaritaville bedding and “island time” touches, the bed provided adequate comfort during our trip. We had no issues falling asleep after our long days and nights eating and drinking our way around Islander.

Balcony

Finally, there was the balcony, which on Spirit-class vessels is approximately 55 square feet. However, it did seem larger than that to us. There was more than enough space for the two upright chairs and table.

This was our place to enjoy the views away from the crowds of the pool deck. Although, it would have been nice to have the adirondack chairs pictured on the cruise line’s website.

Recap of Our Margaritaville at Sea Islander Balcony Room Review

While still no comparison to the likes of modern mega-ships, this Margaritaville at Sea Islander balcony room shines when compared to ships of its age and to the competition sailing from Tampa, Florida.

Not only is the cabin a vast upgrade, but pricing is significantly cheaper! When comparing the cost of a balcony room on a 5-day sailing on Margaritaville at Sea Islander to a 5-day sailing on Carnival Paradise, both from Tampa (and both of comparable age) in January 2025, MVAS Islander is less than HALF THE PRICE!

This makes Margaritaville at Sea Islander a great value.

The balcony cabin was a pretty typical size AND provided us with direct access to ocean views. The accommodations were comfortable and had plenty of storage. Our stateroom had easy access to the stairs and elevators, with the public areas only a few decks below or above us. Not to mention, the decor certainly put us on island time.

Of course, Margaritaville at Sea Islander does offer a variety of other accommodations, ranging from the cozy interior staterooms up to luxurious suites. So, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets on this newly relaunched cruise ship.

Comments

Have you sailed with Margaritaville at Sea yet? What is your preferred cabin category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share your Margaritaville at Sea room reviews.

The post We Stayed in a Newly Renovated Margaritaville at Sea Balcony Room, and Here’s What We Thought appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

We’ve sailed with Atlas Ocean Voyages twice now. Our first expedition was to Antarctica and our most recent epicurean expedition was in the Mediterranean. On these cruises, we tested out the two different balcony cabin options: the Horizon Stateroom and the Veranda Stateroom. How did they compare? Which is the better option? We share all the details in our Atlas Ocean Voyages stateroom review.

Our Atlas Ocean Voyages Stateroom Review- Is a Horizon Stateroom or Veranda Stateroom the Better Option?

When reviewing the cabin options on Atlas Ocean Voyages, guests will have the choice of ocean view, balcony, or suite accommodations.

The Adventure Ocean View Staterooms are the most economically priced. These rooms are on Deck 3, are approximately 183 square feet, and offer only window views to the outside world.

The suites will come with the highest price tag. The Navigator Suite is a 1-bedroom suite with an oversized balcony, measuring in at 465 square feet. The Discovery Suite is only slightly smaller at 445 square feet, and the Journey Suite is 382 square feet. All suites come with added perks like butler service and expanded room service menus.

However, the majority of the cabins on Atlas Ocean Voyages are balcony accommodations, either deluxe at 300 square feet or standard at 270 square feet. Where these rooms differ are the balconies themselves. Guests can either choose a traditional walk-out balcony (Veranda Stateroom) or an infinite balcony (Horizon Stateroom). This setup is more like a floor-to-ceiling window that opens on the top.

Now, there are pros and cons to each setup. And which one you should choose will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and likely even the region in which you are sailing. The biggest advantage to the Horizon Stateroom is the added square footage in your living space. The biggest advantage to the Veranda Stateroom is having a personal, dedicated outdoor space.

Layout of an Atlas Ocean Voyages Stateroom

For our Atlas Ocean Voyages Antarctica cruise, we stayed in cabin 545. This Horizon Stateroom (category A2) is located aft on the starboard side of Deck 5. For our recent Epicurean Expedition in the Med, we stayed in cabin 514. This Veranda Stateroom (category B2) is located foward on the portside of the ship.

When comparing the two stateroom options, both have a very similar layout and inclusions. The main differences are visible in the size of the seating area. So, let’s take a look at the basic layout of Atlas Ocean Voyages balcony staterooms.

In both cabins, immediately upon entering, the bathroom was to the left with the closets across the way. Continuing into the room, the bed was beyond the bathroom with the television on the opposite wall. Then, there was the seating area to the left and the desk to the right immediately preceding the “balcony”.

The color palette does vary by ship. On World Voyager, our room featured lighter wood tones with green accents. On World Traveller, our room featured darker wood tones with blue acccents. Our personal preference is always the lighter wood finishes as it makes the room seem more open, but both still offered nautical vibes.

Inside the Atlas Ocean Voyages Stateroom

Bathroom

The bathroom in our Atlas Ocean Voyages stateroom was certainly an upgrade compared to those on mainstream cruise lines in terms of both the size and the amenities. Roughly speaking, it’s probably close to double in size when compared to a traditional balcony cabin bathroom; the size is certainly more on par with a bathroom found in a suite on contemporary cruise lines.

It features three storage shelves above the toilet, a large vanity, an oversized shower, and marble finishes. With a rainfall showerhead and jet options, the walk-in shower is like a mini-spa in your stateroom. Not to mention, it’s also stocked with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, including the always-welcomed liquid hand soap dispenser.

Main Cabin Area

The closets in both stateroom types are identical. While you will notice three sets of doors in the entrance hallway, only two are closets. The first door houses the lifejackets only.

The second set of doors is the larger of the two closets. Here, you’ll find a small 3/4 length clothes bar with a small shelf underneath, a 1/2 length clothes bar with the safe and two drawers underneath, and a series of five shelves in the middle. Finally, the third corner closet has a clothes bar, with one overhead shelf and two lower shelves.

While this may sound like a lot of storage space, it just wasn’t very practical. None of the clothes bars were long enough to hang dresses without having them bunch at the bottom. The shelves were also pretty narrow so didn’t fit our packing cubes well. Further, there was limited space for shoe storage once we unpacked and organized all of our clothing for the respective 9-day and 12-day voyages. Particulary when it comes to polar voyages, the rooms also lack storage areas to dry wet gear.

The queen bed was across from the flatscreen television, and there was a small nightstand on each side of the bed. Though, only one side features a USB outlet for charging devices in the evening. The luxurious Portuguese cotton linens ensured we got a restful night sleep after long days of exploring lesser-visited Mediterranean ports or the 7th Continent.

When it comes to the desk, you will notice some differences in size between the Horizon and Veranda stateroom options. The desk in the Horizon stateroom is longer, offering more space. There’s also a chair located beside the desk in this category. Both still feature a stocked mini-fridge as well as a Nespresso Coffee machine and Kusmi Teas, which is definitely a nice touch. In terms of outlets, you’ll find a 110V, 220V, and two USBs at the desk. (There are also a few additional outlets located near the television.)

The sitting areas also differ. Given that there is more interior space in the Horizon Stateroom, these cabins feature a loveseat and coffee table. Whereas, the Veranda Stateroom features just two chairs and a small round table. Even still, the area feels tight and one chair is in front of the balcony.

Balcony

Finally, there was the balcony.

Where the Veranda Stateroom lacks interior space, it makes up for it with dedicated outdoor space. The balcony features two cushioned chairs and a round table. In warmer climates, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some ocean views between the exciting ports of call. We used this space to watch the ship sail into and out of ports; however, we didn’t spend as much time on the balcony as we would have expected. This is mostly because the temperatures were just sooo hot.

With the Horizon Stateroom, the “balcony” is what the cruise industry often refers to as an infinite balcony. This floor-to-ceiling window opens from the top via the push of a button. It opens to approximately mid-torso level so guests can still enjoy access to fresh air. It also allows for taking photos of the scenery. However, there is no true division of indoor and outdoor space.

Further, the air conditioning shuts off when the window is opened. This means that one guest can’t enjoy the outdoors while the other enjoys the air conditioned cabin. Putting down the window is also a bit noisy, so it’s not likely that one guest can enjoy the ocean breeze with a morning coffee while the other guest is still sleeping.

Inclusions

When it comes to inclusions, the Horizon Stateroom and Veranda Stateroom are identical, as are the deluxe counterparts. These rooms include:

• Free stocked minibar
• Free 24-hour room service including alcoholic beverages
• Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas
• Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles
• L’OCCITANE bath amenities
• Plush bathrobes and slippers
• Complimentary use of binoculars
• Twice daily service
• Reusable water bottle

Further, all Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expeditions include:

• A free cultural immersion tour
• Gourmet dining at all restaurants with ever-changing menus
• Unlimited beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits in all restaurants and lounges
• Specialty coffees, teas, and fresh-pressed juices
• Pre-paid gratuities
• Additional region-specific inclusions

Recap of Our Atlas Ocean Voyages Stateroom Review

Overall, both Atlas Ocean Voyages stateroom options were comfortable with adequate space. We love the upgraded bathrooms, but we do wish the closets and storage space had a better layout.

With a ship of this size, room location isn’t much of an issue as none of the public areas are ever too far away. But if you are prone to motion sickness, securing a midship cabin would be ideal as you’ll feel more motion the more forward (or aft) you go.

When it comes down to deciding which is better, a Horizon Stateroom or a Verdanda Stateroom, we think each has its place.

Of course, we loved the added interior space in the Horizon cabin allowing for a larger desk and seating area. We think the infinite balcony was perfect in Antarctica. We could put down the window to get a sense of the conditions and a little fresh air without fully gearing up to go outside. Also, we could quickly grab photos of passing scenery and icebergs. But we think we would have missed the true balcony in a warmer climate.

For our recent Mediterranean cruise in a Verdanda stateroom, we definitely felt the desk and seating area were cramped given our previous comparison. However, we appreciated that we could step outside onto the balcony and still keep the rest of the cabin cool. If we had a Horizon cabin this trip, I don’t think we would have used the window much as I wouldn’t have wanted the air conditioning to shut off even for a couple minutes.

Thus, the decision really comes down to your preferences and what’s most important to you. These two stateroom categories are comparably priced for most itineraries, but both are a bargain when compared to the fares on other luxury lines!

Comments

Have you sailed with Atlas Ocean Voyages yet? What is your preferred cabin category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your thoughts on traditional vs. infinite balconies on cruise ships. 

The post Our Atlas Ocean Voyages Stateroom Review- Is a Horizon Stateroom or Veranda Stateroom the Better Option? appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Like many mega-ships, Disney Fantasy offers cruisers several stateroom options. While most Disney Cruise Line cabins offer a unique design, there are several factors to consider when choosing a stateroom with cost ranking at the top of the list. Unfortunately, one drawback of Disney Cruise Line is the price tag as cruises can be up to twice as expensive for comparable staterooms and itineraries. Still, after spending seven nights onboard Disney Fantasy, we are glad we opted for a Deluxe Family Oceanview stateroom with verandah for this trip. Find out why you should consider upgrading in our latest cabin tour and review.

Our Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Review

Our weeklong Disney Fantasy cruise included two stops at DCL’s new private destination of Lookout Cay. When booking this cruise over a year in advance, we went ahead and selected the cheapest balcony stateroom available. And even that was considerably more expensive given it was the ship’s inaugural visit to Lookout Cay.

During our booking process, the Disney website was experiencing some issues. So, it took a few minutes to confirm we were Bibbidi, Bobbidi, booked in a Deluxe Family Oceanview stateroom with a verandah.

We ended up in cabin 5036. This category 04E stateroom was all the way forward on Deck 5, portside.  

Disney Fantasy has three banks of elevators, and this room was forward from the forward elevators. Though, it was never a far walk to the atrium or the entertainment venues nestled on Decks 3 through 5.

Likewise, to get to the outdoor decks was a short elevator ride up. Regardless of the time of day, there was never an issue getting a lift up or down. This was surprising, given the ship was sailing at double occupancy.

Inside a Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Layout

According to the Disney Cruise Line website, our Disney Fantasy stateroom was 299 square feet, including the balcony. However, what we didn’t realize at the time of booking was that our cabin had an extended balcony that was twice the size of the ship’s standard balcony.

Immediately upon entering the room, the split bathrooms were to the left, with the closet and small dry bar type setup to our right. Passing the bathroom and closet, our queen bed was on the midship wall facing forward. Beyond the bed was the seating area containing a sleeper sofa and an oversized desk with additional storage.

Beyond the sitting area was our extra-large balcony, which included two loungers, two upright chairs, and a table. When compared to other balcony staterooms on contemporary cruise lines, this deluxe stateroom was certainly more spacious.

It offered more than enough storage space even for over-packers like ourselves. Further, there was more room between the bed and the accompanying sitting area, as well as more room to walk between the bed and the opposite wall.

Honestly, this room felt more like a hotel room than a cruise ship cabin.

Bathroom

Perhaps the most unique aspect of Disney Cruise cabins is the split bathroom setup.

Like most of the accommodations on the ship, our stateroom had two separate bathrooms. Immediately near the entrance of the cabin was a washroom with a sink and toilet. This bathroom was also equipped with liquid hand soap, which is often missing in cruise cabins.

The second bathroom had the tub/shower combo and an additional sink. Both had two shelves for storing toiletries and a decent sized vanity.

Another added benefit is the inclusion of Disney’s premium bath products, the same that guests can find in the Disney World resorts.

While we appreciated the extra space, we were surprised at the size of the shower. Cruise ship shower stalls are often tight quarters. This one was a full bathtub, so it was plenty wide and long. However, the height was questionable. At just under 6 feet tall, I almost hit the ceiling. So, I have no idea how anyone a few inches taller would have been able to comfortably shower.

Nonetheless, the split bathroom is a huge bonus, especially for families.

Closet

This cabin had two identical closets. So, we essentially had his and her storage space, which meant all of our clothes could be unpacked and hung up with no issues. These closets included three lower shelves which we used mainly for shoes as well as a clothes bar and full-length shelf above. One of these closets also housed the safe and life jackets.

Next to the closet was a separate storage space, which included additional drawers and shelves. The shelves became storage for things like our popcorn bucket and Yeti water bottles. The drawers here were just the right size for our packing cubes filled with bathing suits and under garments.

Main Cabin

The queen-sized bed was located right next to the bathroom. With long days ashore, we had no issues falling asleep on the Frette® 300-thread-count, 100% cotton linens each night.  

Unlike other cruise lines, Disney Fantasy boasts true queen beds, not two twin beds. So, cruisers cannot set these beds up as two singles. Luckily though, Disney does have plenty of accommodations with sleeper sofas and pull-down beds for larger families.

There were two nightstands, one on each side of the bed, with one small drawer. Above each nightstand was one 220 and one 110 outlet, but no USB outlets for easy charging of phones or watches at night.

Recently, many cruise lines have transitioned to more simplistic desk setups. However, Disney Fantasy still had a large desk and shelving combination unit with plenty of storage. On the desk, there were two 220-volt outlets, two 110 outlets, and two USB outlets. While we would have liked some USB-C connections, we were able to charge all our devices using our cruise-approved power adapter.

To the right side of the desk was the mini-fridge, and to the left were three oversized drawers and an additonal storage cabinet above.

The 22-inch LCD television was mounted to the corner of the desk above the mini-fridge. With the swivel stand, the television could be positioned toward the bed or the sofa, depending on who wanted to watch the programming. The sofa was large enough to accommodate a few people at one time as well.

Additionally, above the television were two open shelves. Here, I routinely left our Key to the World cards and our small electronic devices for quick access.

Balcony

Given the location of our stateroom, we were treated to an extended balcony. This meant we had almost twice as much outdoor space as a traditional balcony. Thus, we had both chairs and loungers, along with a table.

Given the itinerary, and gloomy weather towards the end of the trip, we didn’t use the balcony as much as we had hoped. Though, we did enjoy views of the ports of call and some scenic sailing a few mornings.

But, if there is the chance to get an extended balcony without much additional cost, we suggest you make the investment. This is especially useful if there are a lot of sea days during your voyage.

Recap of Our Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom Review

If the name of the stateroom category hasn’t already given it away, this balcony cabin is designed for families. While there were only two of us, we can easily see how a family of four would have no issues comfortably spending a week in this stateroom.

There were more than enough drawers and closet space to easily pack away clothes. And the split bathroom setup makes it easy for multiple family members to get ready at once.

With more space, it also means navigating around the bed and the nearby sitting area is easier.

We didn’t necessarily need the additional living space and storage areas. But, we were glad to have it as we were extending our trip at Walt Disney World so had more than we would normally pack for a 7-day cruise.  

While Disney Cruise Line charges considerably more, the staterooms do offer more amenities and space than similar cabins on competitor cruise lines. This Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom was more like a junior suite or mini-suite on other cruise lines.

Admittedly, we did pay a premium for this sailing given it was the first revenue cruise to Lookout Cay. However, for our upcoming weeklong Western Caribbean cruise on Disney Treasure, we were able to secure a guaranteed balcony cabin for almost half the price of this Disney Fantasy cruise.

Of course, Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of other cabin options from inside rooms all the way up to luxurious suites. So, you can pick your accommodations based on your budget. For us, a balcony cabin is always our preference as it offers the perfect combination of size, amenities, and value.

Comments

Have you stayed in a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney Fantasy? Which Disney Cruise Line stateroom category is your favorite? Drop us an anchor below with your DCL cruise cabin reviews.

The post Inside a Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

We recently sailed on Viking Radgrid, one of Viking’s many river cruise ships. This Viking Seine River cruise was our first river cruise, so we weren’t quite sure what to expect. We stayed in a balcony room, which is our usual cabin preference on ocean ships. But, how did these river cruise accommodations compare? Well, we break down all the details with our Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom review.

Our Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom Review

When comparing ocean ships to river ships, there are much fewer cabin options. In fact, there are only 84 staterooms in total on Viking Radgrid. The options include 22 Standard Staterooms, 18 French Balcony Staterooms, 35 Veranda Staterooms, 7 Veranda Suites, and 2 Explorer Suites.

The Veranda Staterooms are broken down into Veranda A and Veranda B cabins based on location. For our sailing, we were assigned to cabin 219. This Veranda B stateroom is located on the starboard side of the Middle Deck, or deck 2 of this four-deck vessel.

Give the size of river ships, it was never a far walk anywhere. The Restaurant was on our deck and The Lounge and Aquavit Terrace were one deck above. Thus, there’s really not much difference among any of the veranda cabins.

Inside a Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom

Layout

This Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom is 205 square feet and includes a personal balcony.

Immediately upon entering the room, the bathroom was to the right and the closet was to the left. Continuing past the bathroom and closet, the long dresser/vanity area was to the left and the bed was to the right. The bed in our Viking veranda stateroom was on the aft wall facing forward.

Between the bed and the balcony, there was a small shelf-like desk which doubled as a nightstand along with an upright chair. The television was on the wall opposite from the bed above the dresser, and there was a small nightstand on the other side of the bed as well.

Finally, there is the balcony, which felt small when compared to balconies on ocean ships. The balcony was fairly long and narrow and had just enough room for two upright chairs and a small table.

Overall, the cabin was a bit cozier than we expected, but we were glad to have a full balcony.

The finishes and décor of the cabin were very on brand for Viking. They looked very similar to the cabins we stayed in during our Viking Ocean and Viking Expedition cruises in the past, except smaller.

Bathroom

The bathroom in this Viking Veranda Stateroom was a little small even by cruise ship bathroom standards. Yet, it still featured all the necessities and even some upgrades like heated floors.

Opening the bathroom door, the stand-up shower was to our left, the toilet immediately in front, and the sink/vanity area to the right. There are a few shelves for storage and adequate counterspace.

The shower was a rectangular set-up with a glass door. This innovative glass door is hinged in both directions, making it easier to get in and out. Further, all Viking ships provide premium Freyja bath products.

Closet

Across from the bathroom are the closets. The closet size seemed on par with other cruise lines. One side featured a full length clothes bar with hangers. The other side featured shelves along with the safe.

Given the weather was cooler during our sailing and we had packed several layers, we were thankful for the addtional dresser drawers. It would have been very difficult to fit all our clothes along with jackets otherwise.

Main Cabin

While the dresser/vanity area was very generously-sized, we did miss the traditional seating area with sofa found on most ocean ships in this Viking Veranda Stateroom.

The dresser portion housed the mini-fridge and six additional drawers for storage. The vanity area had a small stool and plenty of counterspace. Even though there was no shelving here, the area was plenty big for getting ready and storing many of our toiletries.

This area is where you will find the glass bottles of provided water, the ice bucket, and the QuietVox device charging station as well.

You will also find 1 US and 1 European power outlet near the vanity and 2 USB outlets and 1 additonal power outlet above the dresser portion.

In terms of the seating area, it was basically just one upright chair and a larger nightstand/desk. This became our charging station for laptops and cameras during the cruise. There is 1 US, 1 European, and 2 USB outlets near each nightstand.

The queen-sized Viking Explorer bed provided adequate comfort during our trip. We had no issues falling asleep after our long days ashore exploring new and exciting ports of call.

Balcony

Lastly, there is the balcony which always provides a great spot for taking in the scenery. Given that the weather during our trip was rather cool and rainy, we unfortunately did not get to use this balcony much. Though, it was nice to watch some of the scenic sailing.

It’s important to note that river cruises are known for tieing up next to each other while in port. So, you might not always have a view while docked even if you have a balcony. On our sailing, we were lucky that whenever this double docking occurred it was always on the other side of the vessel.

Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom Inclusions

Across the fleet, all Viking River Cruise Veranda Staterooms come standard with certain amenities. These include:

• Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to veranda with river views
• 12 PM Embarkation
• Queen-sized Viking Explorer Bed
• Free Wi-Fi
• Television with live TV channels, complimentary movies, and in-house programming
• 110/220 volt outlets and USB ports
• Bathroom with glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror, and hair dryer
• Premium Freyja toiletries
• Plush robes and slippers (upon request)
• Telephone, safe, refrigerator
• Individual climate control
• Bottled water replenished daily
• Twice-daily housekeeping
• Under-bed suitcase storage space
• Wardrobe with wooden hangers

Recap of Our Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom Review

Our Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom offered all of the amenities you would expect to find in a standard cruise ship cabin. However, when compared to Viking Ocean and Expedition ships, the staterooms are smaller. To be fair, we’ve never sailed on any other river ships for comparative purposes.

We did make the accommodations work for our week-long cruise, but it would have been nice to have a bit more space in the closet and bathroom. It was also a tight squeeze to walk between the foot of the bed and the dresser. We missed having a sofa as well.

But, we did enjoy having a traditional balcony and some of the other upgrades like heated bathroom floors and twice daily stateroom service which is a thing of the past on most mainstream cruise lines.

Overall, river cruises are more about the destinations than the ship anyway. So, it’s always a benefit to have our accommodations, dining, and transportation taken care of for us. The ability to pack and unpack once while exploring multiple destinations is why we love cruising in all its forms–ocean, expedition, and river!

Comments

Have you stayed in a Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom? What is your preferred cabin category when you cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your Viking stateroom reviews.

The post We Stayed in a Viking River Cruise Veranda Stateroom – Here’s What It Was Like appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.