We’ve been enjoying insights from readers about river cruising in our Facebook Group, River Cruise Advisor Crew. We’re a small group so far – just 170+ members – but an informed one.

We recently asked the group: Is a river cruise balcony stateroom your preference, or do you prefer the savings of standard staterooms? Though far from scientific, the group’s responses suggest that most folks are fine with French balconies as opposed to the pricier step-out balconies. It’s a topic we’ve covered before in our story, Five Tips For Choosing Your Stateroom, Do You Need A Balcony?

While river cruising offers a unique and intimate experience that river cruisers like us cherish – especially when enjoying the views from a balcony – not everyone wants to pay a premium for that luxury.

“There is always a deck, and often the upper deck, to step out on if you want to be outside in the breeze,” says Caren Crane, who participated in our Facebook survey. “Even on cruises where we have had a balcony, I have not found myself using it very much.”

Why Choose a River Cruise Balcony?

When deciding between a river cruise balcony stateroom and more cost-effective options, consider what aspects of the cruise matter most to you. For some, having the ability to step outside for fresh air or to enjoy scenic views is paramount. Others may prioritize spending their budget on dining ashore, pre- or post-stays in cities where cruises begin or end, or onboard experiences such as massages or spa treatments.

For those who want it all, the twin-balcony stateroom is popular among couples who want to enjoy both fresh air and scenic views. This option, offered by AmaWaterways, caters to varying preferences by combining both balcony styles. Whether relaxing with a book on a chilly evening or enjoying a glass of wine while watching the sunset, having both options readily available can enhance the onboard experience. Choosing a stateroom like this can elevate the cruise, making it not just about the destinations but also about the journey itself.

Traveling with a partner who has contrasting preferences can lead to interesting negotiations. One may prioritize comfort and space, while the other might lean toward saving money for experiences ashore. Finding a balance where both travelers feel satisfied can make for a more harmonious cruise. Karen Ostrosky whimsically writes:

“Wife: didn’t like being ‘under water’. Husband: Love $ savings You guess who wins … “

Step-out balconies do eat up some of the indoor space. “I really like concepts like Avalon Waterways Panorama Balcony Suites because you get the fresh air if you want to with the windows, but you also don’t lose space in the stateroom,” Britton Frost says.

In many cases, couples find that their cruising habits vary depending on the destination and season. For example, a beautifully warm summer cruise along the Danube may encourage more balcony use than a colder winter voyage along the Rhine. This flexibility means travelers can adapt their preferences to match the experience.

Ultimately, the choice between a river cruise balcony and savings boils down to personal preference and priorities. Each traveler will have different needs and desires, and the beauty of river cruising is that there are options available for everyone. Whether you opt for a stunning balcony suite or a cozy standard stateroom, the memories made on your journey will be what you cherish most.

“We prefer the twin balconies on AmaWaterways,” writes Colleen Gentry. “We love the opportunity to sit outside even in the winter with a cappuccino or a nice glass of wine and just enjoy the river passing by.”

“While many people don’t spend a lot of time in their staterooms, we found that we do,” she adds, “mainly due to both of us being introverts and really need space to recharge from the energetic extroverted experiences on and off the ship. Our eighth Ama cruise is coming up soon and I think that demonstrates how the balance works for us.”

At the other end of the spectrum are social butterflies Dave and Sue Day from Vancouver. Dave writes: “For cabin choice we find the French balconies on river boats to be our choice, especially during seasons which make outdoor balconies less attractive.”

“On sea cruises,” he adds, “we really enjoy an outdoor balcony and the added height gives an excellent view. Our overall philosophy though is to use our cabin as little as we can. We like to get out and meet people and enjoy the lounges and the services that we’ve already paid for.”

The Days’ perspective reflects a common mindset among those who enjoy socializing and engaging with new people while traveling. Shared spaces on river cruise ships often foster a community atmosphere, allowing travelers to meet others with similar interests. This social aspect can enhance the overall experience, offering opportunities for camaraderie and new friendships.

Sharing insights and experiences within our community helps us all make better-informed decisions about our river cruise adventures. We encourage everyone to join the discussion in our Facebook group and share your own thoughts and experiences regarding stateroom preferences and cruise highlights.

Pros & Cons: River Cruise Balcony Staterooms vs. Standard Staterooms

River Cruise Balcony Staterooms

Pros:

1. Fresh air access: Open the door/window for a breeze or step outside.
2. Scenic views: Enjoy landscapes from the comfort of your room.
3. Private space: A more secluded way to enjoy the outdoors.
4. More luxurious: Often larger and better-appointed.

Cons:

1. Higher cost: Often adding more than $1,000 per person.
2. Space trade-off: Step-out balconies can reduce interior square footage.
3. Underutilization: Many travelers don’t use their balconies.
4. Weather-dependent: Less usable in colder or rainy seasons.

Standard (Non-Balcony) Staterooms

Pros:

1. Cost savings: More budget-friendly – freeing funds for excursions, dining or pre/post stays.
2. Efficient layout: More usable interior space without balcony recess.
3. Encourages exploration: More time spent in public lounges, on deck or ashore.
4. Great for cold-weather cruising: No need for outdoor space in chilly conditions.

Cons:

1. No private views: Must go to public decks for scenery or fresh air.
2. No private outdoor access: Can feel more enclosed.
3. Less light/air: Depending on the ship and location of stateroom.

What about you? Is it worth paying for a balcony on a river cruise? Comment below.