alaska too cold in May for balcony?
Jul 21st, 2009, 01:54 PM
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alaska too cold in May for balcony?
We are planning an Alaskan cruise for next May ..mid to late month. We really want a balcony room this time, but are wondering if it will be too cold to get our money's worth at that time of the season? Would like to hear from people who have actually had a balcony in May. Thanks.
Jul 22nd, 2009, 04:29 AM
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We had a balcony mid-June last year. Weather was such that long pants and a light jacket were a must on balcony all the time - but we are glad we got it, but if money is an issue I would use the money you save by not getting a balcony on excursions - which are very expensive since they almost always require additional transportation (air, rail, bus) some distance from the port.
DH and I forced ourselves to sit outside in shorts and t-shirts on balcony 2 afternoons so we would feel we got our moneys worth.
DH and I forced ourselves to sit outside in shorts and t-shirts on balcony 2 afternoons so we would feel we got our moneys worth.
Jul 24th, 2009, 12:15 PM
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We were there last May. I would do whatever it takes to have a balcony. When we go back I have already decided that I will have a balcony and if I have to, I will do no paid excursions. It's that great! We had room service bring 2 pots of coffee, pastries to the room every morning and enjoyed it on our balcony in our robes before we got dressed to go down for breakfast. It was very cool at times, but we easily managed. It never really got dark so I was up by 4:30 every morning with my camera and blanket on the balcony. We were on Diamond Princess and were on Baja Deck and our balcony was completely covered by the balcony above us. No problems if it rained!
Jul 24th, 2009, 01:13 PM
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We were one of 1st ships to Alaska on RCCL in May. Had balcony and a real must. Best way to see glaciers and enjoy Alaska's beauty. Also rent your own boat to whale watch. You see more that way. Have Fun.
Jul 28th, 2009, 05:12 AM
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If you are not convinced already, I'll add my "go for it" to the others. It was a bit chilly in the evenings, but the sun was always there in that season, and the sounds and sights from our veranda were well worth the extra $$$. Dress in layers as the temps did change throughout the day, and it was good to be able to flex the wardrobe as it did.
Jul 28th, 2009, 01:00 PM
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To everybody who has contributed to this inquiry, you have convinced me, and I thank you all. Today I booked a balcony cabin on the Caribe deck of Princess Diamond. Sailing next May 22. This will be our 2nd cruise to Alaska, but the first with a balcony (we had an oceanview before). We're really looking forward to it, but right now it's so far away that it seems like an eternity, but I know time goes by fast. Thanks,again, everybody!
Jul 29th, 2009, 08:42 PM
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Princess Diamond (see my last comment above your question). Balconies on the Caribe deck are 5'Wx9'D, as opposed to 5'x4' on the other decks. So I guess our's will be the extended balcony, like you said. Actually, the regular balconies may be 5x5 instead of 5x4..can't remember which. Anyway,I'm sure we'll all have a blast!
Aug 24th, 2009, 06:04 PM
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You may not be reading this anymore....but we had a balcony, and when going through Glacier Bay.....Turn your tv on and the naturalist who is speaking on front deck will be on tv. So you can use your private deck...and hear what she is explaining. We loved it. But wear a warm jacket in the bay.
Aug 26th, 2009, 02:51 PM
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I had a balcony room on my Alaskan cruise last year. We needed it because my mom, grandma, and myself were bunking together and we needed the sofa bed. We sometimes went out and saw the view as we enter ports but we had to wear our winter coats. I don't know how cold it will be in May but it feels like winter in September when I went(it was also the last cruise of the year to Alaska). Whatever you decide, you will love the cruise.
For Wallace&Gromit, I was on the Carnival Spirit. You will love the ship. My favorite spots were the Theater, and all the different theme lounges.
For Wallace&Gromit, I was on the Carnival Spirit. You will love the ship. My favorite spots were the Theater, and all the different theme lounges.
Aug 27th, 2009, 11:21 AM
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We took a winter cap and gloves and used them only when going to the glaciers. Small enough to squeeze in your suitcase and just those 2 items can really make staying outside so much more enjoyable!
