Difference between aft balcony & balcony cabins

Table Of Content

• Water sports platform on Windstar Cruises
• Aft Balcony Cruise Ship Cabins Pros & Cons
• Royal Caribbean Blog is your ultimate source for Royal Caribbean coverage.
• Top 5 Cruise Lines by Number of Total Berths: Now and Into the Future
• Aft-Facing Cabins May Be Quieter
• Why Aft-View Balconies on a Cruise Ship Cost More

Eden is an expansive, three-level transformative space aft on Celebrity Cruises' Edge-class ships (Edge, Apex, Beyond and Ascent) that was purposely created to connect guests with the water. With three levels, floor-to-ceiling windows and lots of vantage points to peer at the wake, designers definitely understood the assignment. The water sports platform is open in certain locations depending on weather/surf conditions and port traffic. You can splash around in places like Monemvasia and Gythion in Greece and Sorrento and Ponza in Italy.

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Water sports platform on Windstar Cruises

Depending on the particular cruise ship you are traveling on, you may notice that the aft deck features numerous pools. While some will have more family-friendly features, others are intended to be adults-only, so they have a more relaxing atmosphere. Just imagine how beautiful it would be to wake up to the sight of an endless ocean stretching out behind the ship. Or, imagine enjoying a romantic drink from the privacy of your own aft-facing balcony. As you enjoy the view, you will see the cruise ship’s seemingly endless wake disappear into the distance.

Aft Balcony Cruise Ship Cabins Pros & Cons

As you would expect, the aft deck of each cruise ship will be unique, but the following are just some of the amenities you could encounter if you venture to the aft deck on your next cruise vacation. Today, we will explore the many things the aft deck has to offer so you don’t miss out on this enjoyable area on your next cruise vacation. We will also look at aft-deck accommodations by exploring the benefits and drawbacks of booking an aft-facing cabin. It’s important to note that the availability and specific features of AFT facing cabins may vary among cruise ships within each cruise line. It’s recommended to check with the cruise line or consult with a travel agent to determine the availability and details of AFT facing cabins on specific ships and itineraries. Overall, the purpose of AFT facing cabins is to provide an extraordinary experience that combines breathtaking views, privacy, and relaxation.

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These low ABV drinks are the perfect accompaniment to the menu of open-fire meze, like Spanish octopus with sunchokes and fire-roasted chicken thigh with eggplant puree and sumac yogurt. I have been cruising since 2004 and have sailed on dozens of cruises all over the world. As the creator of this website, I want to help families plan fun cruises free of stress and filled with adventure! It creates a mini low-pressure zone, resulting in the cabins being hot and seemingly windless. An aft-facing cabin has some disadvantages, which may be a critical factor in your choice depending on your circumstances. There is also less chance of any cabins overlooking yours, which will give a greater sense of privacy.

This makes them perfect for relaxation and enjoying some downtime with less noise in the background. Aft cabins tend to be away from the busy sections of the ship, such as bars, nightclubs, pools, and casinos. This serene and uninterrupted vista, unique to the back cabins, is for many a compelling reason to opt for them, even if it might mean paying a bit extra. While some don’t mind this movement, others find it uncomfortable and prefer to choose a stateroom more centrally located or toward the back.

In the front, you may notice more motion and rocking, especially when the ship encounters choppy waters. While both front and back cabins have their own unique attributes, it’s essential to also consider your proximity to the ship’s central amenities, such as restaurants, pools, and lounges. If having an extra large balcony and different views from your balcony is important to you, then an aft balcony can be worth booking.

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That means hands-off dinner and spa reservations, shore excursion bookings, and requests from guest services. Their services are included in the price of many suites, and on some ships you'll find a concierge lounge where suite guests and loyal premium-level passengers can snack, drink and relax in private. Concierge cabins may also come with in-cabin amenities like welcome drinks, fruit baskets or afternoon canapes. Guests may need one with slight motion, a quiet location, or one that can accommodate three or four.

Before booking an AFT facing cabin, it’s important to consider factors such as potential motion and vibrations, distance from amenities, and the limited availability of these cabins. Additionally, price considerations and the layout and amenities of the specific cabin should be taken into account to ensure the best possible experience. The term “AFT” comes from nautical jargon and refers to the rear portion of a vessel. AFT facing cabins are typically found on the higher decks of the ship, providing passengers with an elevated perspective and the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, sunrises, and starry nights. Both aft and forward-facing cabins will experience more movement when the sea is rough. By carefully addressing these structural considerations, cruise ship designers create a robust AFT that enhances the ship’s overall performance, durability, and passenger safety.

Forward and aft, although similar to bow and stern, are directional terms, rather than words for physical parts of the ship. In that vein, the bow is located forward (to the front) on a ship, and the stern is located aft (to the back). Not to be confused with the bow, the bulbous bow is the bulb-like protrusion found on the front of most modern ships, just below the waterline. Its function is to assist in parting the water, thereby making vessels more efficient as they sail. Embarking on a cruise can have you feeling as though you are entering a strange foreign land with a whole new language to learn and decode. English is the onboard language used most often but the cruise ship terminology and lingo used can leave you unable to decipher what is being spoken about.

It serves as the powerhouse, housing the propulsion systems, rudders, and engine room, which enable the ship to navigate through the water and reach its destinations efficiently. The AFT also accommodates passenger amenities, crew quarters, and storage facilities, enhancing the comfort and functionality of the ship. Overall, the AFT design and architecture are crucial elements that contribute to the overall success and functionality of a cruise ship.

If you’re a light sleeper, a location at either end of a vessel may provide you with a peaceful night’s sleep. The largest suites on certain lines may even have hot tubs, but come at a significant higher price. If you’re cruising to Alaska or other scenic destinations, nothing beats having a balcony to enjoy the scenery. Standard balcony rooms are very narrow and usually just wide enough to accommodate two deck chairs and a table. If you’re undecided, here are some reasons to cruise at the rear of the ship.

Foot balcony, and the Aquatheater two-bedroom suite has almost 800 square feet of outdoor space. Cruise lines tend to put their spas and main dining rooms at the vessel aft. While the dining rooms usually cover two lower decks, guests can find the spa on a higher floor.

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Table Of Content

• Aft-Facing Cabins Involve More Walking
• Benefits of AFT Facing Cabins
• Surfside and Hideaway Pool on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas
• View and Scenery
• What is a bulbous bow?

These areas provide passengers with views of the ocean or sea behind the ship and a comfortable and calm place to relax, rest, and socialize with others. The views along a cruise ship’s aft deck provide the perfect setting for dining areas. Most larger cruise ships will feature numerous outdoor, open-air dining areas, bars, and cafes.

Aft-Facing Cabins Involve More Walking

In summary, the choice between the front or back of the cruise ship ultimately comes down to personal preference and what factors are most important to you. Some passengers may also appreciate the quieter atmosphere of this area of the ship, as it tends to be further away from high-traffic zones such as the pool deck or dining areas. If you do want to book an aft balcony, be sure to act quickly and reserve it as soon as you can. Having a view of the ship's wake is something you may find relaxing and/or enjoyable to watch, especially while sailing out of a port.

Benefits of AFT Facing Cabins

The maritime industry has its own vernacular, which is used on naval vessels, commercial ships and cruises alike. Because there simply aren’t as many aft-facing verandas on a cruise ship, they can be sold at a higher price. They are already highly sought after by regular cruisers who want more space and the other perks to go with it. If more square footage on your balcony is important to you, you will love aft balconies with the extended space. It’s not uncommon to find full loungers on the balcony, as you have more space to completely sprawl out and enjoy the outside part of your cabin. No matter what cruise ship you plan on booking, an aft balcony carries a premium cost.

Surfside and Hideaway Pool on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

As we said from the beginning, choosing a stateroom cabin is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your cruise. It didn’t seem like much of an obstruction on the ones we’ve seen where this was true. On other ships – particularly some ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet – the aft-facing balconies are set back further than you might expect and surrounded in part by structures. These views can be delightful when the ship is pulling out of port, as you see the land shrink into the distance the further the ship gets away from it.

Dining Venues and Restaurants

Within the AFT section, numerous components and systems work together to ensure the smooth operation of the cruise ship. This includes the propellers, rudders, engines, and various mechanical and electrical systems. The AFT also houses important areas like the engine room, crew quarters, and storage facilities. Before we delve into the intricacies of the AFT of a cruise ship, let’s first establish a clear definition.

It's hard to beat a direct sea view (or port view in some cases), and equally wonderful to leave a ship's public areas and soak up the sun, views, or breezes from the comfort of your own cabin. As mentioned, the aft deck of a cruise ship refers to the stern or rear portion of the vessel. For most cruise ships, the majority of the aft deck is an outdoor space where passengers can relax and enjoy the view. Choosing an AFT facing cabin on a cruise ship offers a range of benefits and a unique experience for passengers. From the breathtaking views of the open ocean to the privacy and tranquility they provide, these cabins are highly sought after by cruise enthusiasts.

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For instance, the front of a cruise ship is known as the forward, while the rear of a ship is called the aft. The terms left and right are arbitrary because they can change according to where a person on a vessel is located or which way he or she is facing. It’s quieter not only because of the sound of the ocean and wake, but it’s also further away from some of the busier areas of the ship.

So if you don't want to listen to early morning revelers, daytime DJs or pool parties from day into night, it's wise to pick a room a few decks lower. With an extended balcony overlooking the ship’s wake, you’ll enjoy more sun. While that might not be a benefit in warm destinations, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the sunny balcony in colder climates. Since the ship’s spa isn’t open late, guests shouldn’t expect any noise from the spa area.

Similarities Between Aft and Regular Balcony Cabins

It is important to note that AFT facing cabins can vary in size and layout depending on the cruise ship. Some cabins may have balconies, allowing passengers to enjoy the view from the privacy of their own outdoor space. Others may have large windows or portholes that offer a similar view from the comfort of the cabin’s interior. The AFT of a cruise ship, as the rear section of the vessel, holds significant importance in the design, operation, and safety of the ship.

Safety features and emergency preparedness within the AFT ensure the well-being of passengers and crew members in case of emergencies. Maintenance and safety measures, including inspections, training, fire prevention, and compliance with regulations, are implemented to mitigate risks and maintain a secure environment. By implementing robust maintenance and safety measures, cruise ship operators can ensure the integrity, reliability, and safety of the AFT. These measures help mitigate potential risks and ensure the overall well-being of everyone on board.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to seek the advice of travel agents or cruise experts to get personalized recommendations based on your preferences and budget. They may provide valuable insights to help you find the perfect cabin for your journey. Choosing between the front or back of a cruise ship ultimately depends on your personal preferences.

Because they can make you feel as though you are at the end of the world, offering 180-degree views over the ship's wake. Balconies in aft cabins are often much larger than balconies along the ship's sides. However, staterooms at the back can have deeper balconies, which are two to three times larger.

In short, if you’re not adverse to motion and are after a unique front-perch view, the forward of a ship might be the best bet for you. If you are keen on a view out over the ship’s wake and the potential for scoring a larger veranda (and don’t mind the potential for some extra vibration), then the aft of a ship is probably the right move. Maybe you love being steps away from the spa (often found toward the forward of a ship) or Oceanview Café (casual dining venues are typically located at the aft of a ship), for instance. Or, being close to the stairwell or elevator bank might be essential for you. Forward-facing staterooms are subject to more movement than other parts of a ship.

There is no better place to focus on your mental wellness than a location that provides stunning views and the freshest air. While it is not always the case, some larger cruise ships will also feature outdoor gyms and exercise equipment along the aft deck. Others will simply have an aft-facing indoor gym, which provides fitness enthusiasts with incredible views as they complete their workout.

Keep in mind, too, that there is a case to be made for forgoing both sides and simply booking a midship stateroom. You’ll be in the center of the action, within fairly equidistant striking distance of most ship amenities, which is a saving grace for those with mobility issues. You’ll find stateroom options to choose from on both sides of the ship (as well as in between), with each section offering its own distinct benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about the forward and aft of a ship to help you choose the best stateroom for your needs. Port and starboard, like forward and aft, are directional terms used to indicate a vessel's left and right sides, relative to its bow. When you are facing forward, toward the bow, the port side is to your left, and the starboard side is to your right.

This may not be ideal for those prone to motion sickness or for first-time cruisers who are unsure about their tolerance for movement. However, one downside to the front cabins is that they tend to feel more motion compared to middle or back cabins. The bow of the ship bounces and cuts through waves, which can lead to increased motion. Choosing between the front or back of the ship can depend on your preferences and individual needs, such as concerns about motion sickness or a desire for specific views.