Is it Worth Getting a Balcony On a River Cruise

Thinking of booking a river cruise in Europe and wondering whether to upgrade to a balcony cabin? After cruising the Danube with Emerald Waterways, my answer might surprise you. Here’s what I learned — and why I think a balcony cabin isn’t always worth the extra cost.

River Cruising on the Danube

Types of Cabins on a River Cruise

While each river cruise line varies slightly, most offer three main cabin types — similar across operators like Emerald Waterways, Viking, and Scenic:

1. Staterooms (Lower Deck)

The most budget-friendly option. These are located on the lowest deck, just above the waterline. Although they don’t have exterior balconies, they do include a high-set window for natural light. You won’t get a view, but the space is functional and comfortable — perfect if you plan to spend most of your time exploring.

2. Panorama Balcony Cabins

A mid-range upgrade, these cabins feature a floor-to-ceiling window that opens halfway to create a “French-style” balcony. Slightly more spacious and located on a higher deck, they also tend to include a few extra amenities depending on the grade — like coffee machines or enhanced storage.

3. Suites

Suites are the most luxurious option. They’re larger, may have separate sleeping and lounge areas, and some even offer windows on two sides of the ship for more light and a wider view. Still, most include the same “panorama” balcony style rather than a full step-out balcony due to the design limitations of river cruise ships.

Enjoying the View from the Danube

Balcony Cabins: Are They Worth the Price?

Upgrading from a standard stateroom to a balcony cabin can cost around 30% more, depending on the cruise line and season. But from my experience on the Danube, it wasn’t worth it — and here’s why:

1. You're Hardly in the Cabin

River cruises are port-intensive. Each day, we were docked at a different beautiful town, and I was out exploring — often on a guided tour (included in the cruise fare), followed by time wandering with my camera. I spent very little time in the cabin beyond sleeping and showering.

2. Docking Side-by-Side Kills the View

One thing I hadn’t expected? River cruise ships often dock side by side in busy ports. This means your balcony could end up just a few feet away from a wall… of another ship. On several occasions, the “view” from balcony cabins was simply another cabin window or a bar across the way. Not exactly the scenic escape you might hope for!

One aspect of river cruising I really enjoyed was passing through the wonderful countryside of Germany and Austria etc. There really are some wonderful vistas and photo opportunities. However a cabin balcony is not the best way to enjoy them.

Emerald Princess Observation Deck

3. The Best Views Aren’t from Your Cabin

One of the joys of river cruising is watching the scenery — rolling hills, medieval castles, vineyards, and charming villages drift by. But cabins (even balcony ones) are relatively low on the ship and only offer a view from one side.

Instead, I joined other passengers on the top observation deck, where the views were panoramic and the photo ops endless. It’s also more sociable — sipping wine, swapping travel stories, and enjoying the open air.

Even the lounge and dining room had excellent views through wide windows, and they were far more enjoyable places to relax than my cabin.

4. River Cruises Are Inherently Social

Unlike large ocean liners, river cruise ships carry fewer guests — ours had just 120. That creates a friendly, sociable environment where people quickly get to know each other. After a day of sightseeing, I found myself in the bar with new friends for the pre-dinner talk and a drink or two. My Kindle barely saw the light of day!

River Cruising is Thirsty Work

Final Verdict: Skip the Balcony, Spend Elsewhere

Unless you must have a private view from your cabin, I’d recommend booking a stateroom and saving your money. Use the savings for a few excursions, a night in a hotel before or after the cruise — or put it toward your next adventure!

You can read more about mt Danube cruise with Emerald Waterways here.