Best Balcony Room Princes Alaska Cruise

Choosing the best balcony room on a Princess Alaska cruise can transform your voyage from good to unforgettable. With stunning glaciers, wildlife, and coastal scenery, a private balcony lets you experience Alaska’s raw beauty in comfort and style. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to pick the perfect stateroom.

Key Takeaways

• Balcony rooms offer front-row seats to Alaska’s natural wonders: From calving glaciers to breaching whales, your private outdoor space ensures you never miss a moment.
• Mid-ship and higher decks provide the best views and stability: These locations minimize motion and offer panoramic sightlines, especially in scenic cruising areas like Glacier Bay.
• Mini-suite balconies are larger and more luxurious: If your budget allows, upgrading to a mini-suite gives you extra space, premium amenities, and often better balcony positioning.
• Forward and aft cabins have unique advantages: Forward rooms offer sunrise views and quieter nights, while aft cabins provide sunset vistas and proximity to lounges.
• Book early for the best balcony room selections: Prime locations fill up fast, especially during peak summer months (June–August).
• Consider onboard perks and cabin categories: Princess offers different balcony tiers—from standard to premium—each with varying sizes, furnishings, and locations.
• Pack smart for balcony use: Bring layers, binoculars, and a waterproof jacket to fully enjoy your outdoor space in Alaska’s variable weather.

Why a Balcony Room on a Princess Alaska Cruise is a Game-Changer

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves gently lapping against the ship, stepping out onto your private balcony, and sipping coffee as a towering glacier calves ice into the sea. This isn’t a dream—it’s what you can experience every day on a Princess Alaska cruise with a balcony room. Alaska is one of the most visually stunning cruise destinations on Earth, and having your own outdoor space means you’re not fighting for a spot at the rail or waiting for others to finish their photos. You’re in control of your view, your comfort, and your moment.

Princess Cruises has long been a favorite among Alaska travelers, and for good reason. Their ships are designed with the destination in mind, featuring large observation decks, glass-enclosed lounges, and—most importantly—plenty of balcony staterooms. Whether you’re cruising through the Inside Passage, navigating Tracy Arm Fjord, or docking in ports like Juneau, Skagway, or Ketchikan, a balcony room lets you soak in the scenery at your own pace. No crowds, no noise, just you and the wild beauty of Alaska.

But not all balcony rooms are created equal. The location, size, and category of your stateroom can dramatically affect your experience. That’s why choosing the best balcony room on a Princess Alaska cruise isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about making a smart decision that enhances every moment of your journey. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the perfect balcony room, from deck placement and cabin categories to insider tips and real-world examples.

Understanding Princess Cruise Balcony Room Categories

Princess Cruines offers several types of balcony staterooms, each with its own set of features, sizes, and price points. Knowing the differences can help you choose the one that best fits your travel style, budget, and expectations.

Standard Balcony Staterooms (Category BB, BC, BD, etc.)

These are the most common balcony rooms on Princess ships and offer excellent value for travelers who want a private outdoor space without breaking the bank. Standard balconies typically range from 35 to 50 square feet, which is enough room for two chairs and a small table. The staterooms themselves are usually around 180–200 square feet, with a queen or twin beds, a sitting area, and a well-designed bathroom.

One of the biggest advantages of standard balcony rooms is their availability. Because there are more of them, you’re more likely to find one that fits your travel dates and budget. They’re also spread across multiple decks, giving you flexibility in choosing a location that suits your preferences—whether that’s closer to the dining room, near the elevators, or higher up for better views.

However, keep in mind that standard balconies can sometimes feel a bit snug, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outside. Also, some lower-category balconies may be partially obstructed by lifeboats or other ship structures, so it’s worth checking deck plans before booking.

Mini-Suite Balcony Staterooms (Category MB, MC, MD, etc.)

If you’re looking for a step up in comfort and space, mini-suite balcony rooms are a fantastic option. These staterooms are significantly larger—typically 250–300 square feet—and come with upgraded furnishings, a separate sitting area, and a more spacious bathroom with a bathtub (a rare luxury on cruise ships).

The balconies on mini-suites are also larger, often measuring 60–80 square feet, with room for a small dining set or lounging chairs. This makes them ideal for couples or small families who want to enjoy meals or quiet time outdoors. Some mini-suites even feature wraparound balconies or extended outdoor space, especially on newer ships like the Discovery Princess or Enchanted Princess.

Another perk of mini-suites is the enhanced service. Guests in these rooms often receive priority boarding, complimentary room service breakfast, and access to exclusive lounges. While they cost more than standard balconies, many travelers find the extra space and amenities well worth the upgrade—especially on a longer Alaska cruise.

Premium and Owner’s Suites (Category OS, PS, etc.)

At the top of the balcony room hierarchy are the premium and owner’s suites. These are the ultimate in luxury and space, often exceeding 400 square feet with expansive balconies, full dining areas, and premium amenities like espresso machines, walk-in closets, and upgraded toiletries.

While these suites are stunning, they come with a premium price tag—often double or triple the cost of a standard balcony room. They’re best suited for travelers celebrating a special occasion or those who want the full VIP experience. For most cruisers, a mini-suite or well-placed standard balcony room offers the best balance of comfort, value, and views.

Best Deck Locations for Balcony Rooms on Princess Alaska Cruises

Where your balcony room is located on the ship can make a big difference in your experience. Deck placement affects everything from view quality and noise levels to ease of access and motion sensitivity. Here’s what to consider when choosing the best balcony room location.

Higher Decks (Decks 10–14 on most ships)

Balcony rooms on higher decks offer the most unobstructed views, especially when the ship is cruising through narrow fjords or near glaciers. You’ll have a bird’s-eye perspective of the coastline, wildlife, and other ships, which can be especially dramatic during scenic sailaways.

Higher decks also tend to be quieter at night, as they’re farther from engine noise and public areas like the pool deck. However, they can be more affected by wind and weather, so if you’re sensitive to motion, you might feel more movement up top.

One thing to watch for: some higher-deck balconies may be partially shaded by overhangs from decks above. This isn’t usually a problem during the day, but it can limit sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon.

Mid-Ship Decks (Decks 7–9)

Mid-ship locations are often considered the sweet spot for balcony rooms. They offer great views without being too high, and they’re typically more stable in rough seas—ideal for travelers prone to motion sickness. These decks are also conveniently located near elevators, dining rooms, and lounges, making it easy to get around the ship.

Many of the best standard and mini-suite balcony rooms are found on mid-ship decks. You’ll still get excellent sightlines, especially when the ship slows down for glacier viewing or wildlife spotting. Plus, mid-ship cabins tend to be quieter than those near the front or back of the ship.

Forward (Front) and Aft (Back) Cabins

Forward and aft balcony rooms each have their own unique advantages—and a few trade-offs.

Forward cabins (at the front of the ship) offer stunning sunrise views and are often quieter at night since they’re farther from the engine and public areas. They’re also great for watching the ship cut through the water, especially in calm seas. However, forward rooms can experience more motion in rough weather, and some travelers find the view less interesting when the ship is docked.

Aft cabins (at the back) provide breathtaking sunset views and are often closer to popular lounges and observation areas. They’re also ideal for watching the ship’s wake and seeing where you’ve been. The downside? Aft rooms can be noisier due to proximity to the engine and tend to have more vibration. Also, some aft balconies may have partially obstructed views due to lifeboats or other structures.

Top Princess Ships for the Best Balcony Rooms in Alaska

Not all Princess ships are created equal when it comes to balcony rooms. Some vessels are newer, larger, and better designed for Alaska cruising. Here are the top ships to consider if you’re looking for the best balcony experience.

Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess

These are the newest ships in the Princess fleet, launched in 2021 and 2020 respectively. Both feature modern designs, spacious staterooms, and an abundance of balcony rooms—over 80% of cabins have private balconies.

The Discovery Princess, in particular, was built specifically for Alaska and Caribbean itineraries, with enhanced outdoor spaces and panoramic views. Its balcony rooms are among the most comfortable in the fleet, with high-end finishes, smart TVs, and premium bedding. The ship also features the Sky Suite, a two-level suite with a massive wraparound balcony—perfect for special occasions.

Royal Princess and Regal Princess

These sister ships, launched in 2013 and 2014, are known for their elegant design and excellent balcony room options. They feature the SeaWalk—a glass-bottomed walkway extending over the side of the ship—offering breathtaking views from the upper decks.

Their balcony rooms are well-appointed, with comfortable furnishings and good-sized outdoor spaces. The mini-suites on these ships are especially popular, offering a great balance of luxury and value.

Caribbean Princess and Crown Princess

These slightly older ships (launched in 2004 and 2006) still offer a fantastic Alaska experience, with a high percentage of balcony rooms and classic Princess service. While not as modern as the newer vessels, they’re well-maintained and offer excellent itineraries through the Inside Passage.

One advantage of these ships is their size—they’re large enough to have plenty of amenities but not so big that you feel lost. Their balcony rooms are reliable and comfortable, making them a solid choice for first-time Alaska cruisers.

Insider Tips for Choosing the Best Balcony Room

Now that you know the basics, here are some insider tips to help you pick the perfect balcony room for your Alaska cruise.

Book Early for Prime Locations

The best balcony rooms—especially mid-ship, higher-deck cabins—sell out fast, particularly during peak season (June through August). If you have your heart set on a specific location or category, book as early as possible. Princess often opens bookings 18–24 months in advance, so don’t wait.

Use Deck Plans to Your Advantage

Before booking, study the ship’s deck plans (available on the Princess website or through your travel agent). Look for balconies that aren’t directly below a public deck (like the pool or sun deck), as foot traffic and noise can be an issue. Also, check for lifeboat obstructions—some lower-deck balconies may have limited views.

Consider Your Travel Style

Are you someone who loves to sleep in and enjoy a quiet morning on the balcony? A forward cabin with sunrise views might be perfect. Do you prefer evening relaxation with a glass of wine as the sun sets? An aft room could be ideal. Think about how you’ll use your balcony and choose accordingly.

Ask About Guarantee vs. Specific Cabin

Princess offers two booking options: selecting a specific cabin or choosing a “guarantee” category. With a guarantee, you’re assigned a room within a certain category, but you don’t know the exact location until closer to departure. While this can save money, it also means you might end up with a less desirable location. If view and placement matter to you, opt for a specific cabin.

Pack for the Balcony Experience

Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable—sunny one minute, rainy the next. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and non-slip shoes for your balcony. Binoculars are also a must for spotting wildlife like whales, sea lions, and bears along the shore. And don’t forget a cozy blanket for those chilly glacier-viewing mornings.

Real-Life Example: A Day in the Life of a Balcony Room Guest

Let’s walk through a typical day on a Princess Alaska cruise from the perspective of someone staying in a mid-ship mini-suite balcony room on the Discovery Princess.

You wake up to soft light filtering through the curtains. Instead of rushing to the main deck, you step onto your private balcony with a cup of coffee. Below, the ship glides silently through Tracy Arm Fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. A black bear lumbers along the shoreline, and you grab your binoculars for a closer look—no need to compete for space at the rail.

After breakfast in your room (complimentary for mini-suite guests), you head to the port of Juneau. Back on board, you relax on your balcony with a book, watching the city shrink in the distance. Later, as the ship approaches Glacier Bay, you’re already in position—no scrambling for a spot. You snap photos of the massive Margerie Glacier as it calves ice into the water, the sound echoing across the fjord.

That evening, you enjoy dinner on your balcony, wrapped in a blanket as the sun sets behind the mountains. It’s quiet, peaceful, and completely yours. This is the magic of a well-chosen balcony room.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Alaska Adventure

Choosing the best balcony room on a Princess Alaska cruise isn’t just about luxury—it’s about enhancing your connection to one of the most beautiful places on Earth. With the right stateroom, you’ll have a front-row seat to glaciers, wildlife, and coastal wonders, all from the comfort of your own private retreat.

Whether you opt for a standard balcony, a spacious mini-suite, or a premium forward cabin, the key is to think about how you’ll use the space and where you’ll get the best views. Book early, use deck plans wisely, and pack for the weather. And when you’re standing on your balcony, watching a humpback whale breach in the distance, you’ll know you made the right choice.

An Alaska cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make it unforgettable with the perfect balcony room.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best deck for a balcony room on a Princess Alaska cruise?

The best decks are typically mid-ship on decks 7–9, offering stable motion, great views, and easy access to amenities. Higher decks (10–14) provide panoramic views but may feel more movement in rough seas.

Are balcony rooms worth the extra cost on an Alaska cruise?

Absolutely. Alaska’s scenery is the main attraction, and a balcony lets you enjoy glaciers, wildlife, and sunrises in private comfort—without fighting for space on crowded decks.

Do all Princess ships have the same balcony room options?

No. Newer ships like Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess have more and larger balcony rooms, while older ships may have smaller or partially obstructed balconies.

Can I see wildlife from my balcony room?

Yes! Many guests spot whales, sea lions, bears, and eagles from their balconies, especially in scenic areas like Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm.

Are balcony rooms noisy at night?

Generally no, especially if you choose a mid-ship or forward cabin. Avoid rooms directly below pool decks or near elevators for the quietest experience.

Should I book a specific cabin or a guarantee category?

If location and view matter, book a specific cabin. Guarantee categories are cheaper but don’t let you choose your exact room or deck placement.