Are you considering a cruise and looking for the ideal cabin? Our recent review of an Ocean View Balcony cabin in the aft of Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas might help you decide. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, this article will offer valuable insights and reasons to consider an aft cabin for your next adventure.
Watch our detailed video review below:
Why Choose an Aft Cabin?
When it comes to choosing a cabin, the aft cabins on Odyssey of the Seas offer unique benefits. Many travelers overlook these cabins due to perceived negatives like the longer walk and early morning maneuver noises. However, these can quickly become positives. If you enjoy a bit of exercise and are an early riser who loves watching the ship dock, an aft cabin is perfect for you.
The most significant factor for me was the view. When I step onto the balcony each morning, I want to see something interesting. For example, in Santorini, the balconies on the starboard side have no view, and in Mykonos, the balconies on the port side don’t overlook the town or the windmills. In the Meltemi wind zones, the aft part of the ship is the most sheltered spot. While others had their belongings blown off their balconies, I didn’t feel a breeze at all.
Exploring the Cabin
One of the first things you’ll notice about this cabin is its narrow entrance, typical of Royal Caribbean ships. This hallway can get crowded, especially when everyone is getting ready for the evening. Traveling with three companions, the full-length mirror is heavily used, and the entrance to the restroom is in the same spot, adding to the congestion.
Due to the modern cabin shape introduced by Royal Caribbean—longer and narrower—the space in front of the bed can feel cramped and inadequate. Storage is divided between two main areas on either side of the bed. Previously, additional drawers were available at the vanity desk, but these are now missing. While this setup works for two people, four would definitely need more storage. I often had to use suitcases under the bed for extra space. And yes, the Electronic Room Safe is still here, taking up an entire shelf. Traveling light is definitely a must, though it’s challenging on a cruise.
Lounge Area and Amenities
Moving to the Lounge Area, we have a vanity desk and a sofa that transforms into a bed for the 3rd and 4th guests. The desk is of decent size, with an extra shelf for cosmetics. The illuminated mirror is flat and wide enough, though positioned a bit high. This area also houses the only power outlets in the cabin, which were insufficient for our needs, especially since the USB ports are some of the slowest available. Considering the ship’s European market, I would have appreciated at least two of these.
There’s also a small hair dryer and a cooler. The sitting area features a good-sized sofa that converts into a Queen-size double sofa bed. The quality is decent, the height is comfortable, and I found it very practical. When converted into a bed, it doesn’t occupy the entire space to the desk, leaving a passageway to the balcony.
The TV in the Lounge Area is a Samsung smart TV with good quality and basic programs in several languages. We mainly use it to check the account or the daily program. The only downside is that it’s fixed and doesn’t tilt towards the sofa.
En-suite Bathroom
The en-suite bathroom is equipped with a toilet, a single-sink vanity, and a shower. The size is minimalist and compact, ideal for one user at a time. For two, it would be cramped. The shower cabin has a pleasant shape and offers a bit of space. I would have preferred the glass to be partially frosted for obvious reasons.
The rain shower head is absent, replaced by a hand-held shower head, and the 2-in-1 hair & shower gel is mediocre at best. I’ve never liked this type of sink, which is increasingly common on modern ships. It’s the smallest I’ve seen, with a small faucet positioned awkwardly. You can only wash your fingers. The full-length mirror above the sink is a nice touch, making the bathroom feel larger and more open. And that’s about it in here, nothing else to say. There are a few spots for toiletries, enough for two guests but not for four.
The Balcony Experience
The main reason for choosing this cabin was the veranda. The view from this perspective is unmatched, whether in Santorini, where starboard balconies have no view, or in Mykonos, where port side balconies don’t overlook the town or windmills. In Meltemi wind zones, the aft part of the ship is the most sheltered. While others had their belongings blown off their balconies, I didn’t feel a breeze. I enjoy waking up early to watch the docking procedures. All these reasons make an aft balcony cabin my top choice, especially if the price is right. The balcony is more spacious, allowing you to stretch out for a well-deserved siesta. Finding a cabin in the aft part of the ship is always a good choice.
Cabin Comparison
When choosing a cruise, it’s essential to compare the offerings of various leading cruise lines to ensure you’re getting the best experience. Alongside Royal Caribbean, notable companies such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises are renowned for their exceptional services and innovative amenities.
Cabin Comparison: Royal Caribbean’s cabins, especially the aft balcony cabins on Odyssey of the Seas, offer unparalleled views and spaciousness compared to those on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, Norwegian’s Viva or Sun Princess. While Carnival focuses on vibrant, fun-filled cruises with family-friendly accommodations, Royal Caribbean emphasizes luxurious details and state-of-the-art amenities. Norwegian’s cabins often feature sleek, modern designs with innovative features like virtual balconies in interior rooms, yet Royal Caribbean’s aft cabins stand out for their expansive vistas and tranquil atmosphere.
Quality and Service: In terms of service quality, Royal Caribbean is frequently lauded for its attentive staff and comprehensive guest services, rivaling the hospitality of MSC Cruises, known for their Mediterranean flair and elegant touches. While Carnival Cruise Line is celebrated for its lively entertainment and casual, relaxed vibe, Royal Caribbean maintains a balance of energetic activities and sophisticated leisure, appealing to a broader range of travelers.
Innovation: When it comes to innovation, Royal Caribbean leads the pack with groundbreaking ships like the Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, which feature cutting-edge technology, diverse dining options, and unique entertainment experiences. MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line also showcase innovative designs and experiences, such as MSC’s futuristic MSC World Europa and Norwegian’s adventurous Viva, yet Royal Caribbean’s continuous push for new heights in cruising remains unmatched.
Conclusion
Our review of the Ocean View Balcony cabin on the Odyssey of the Seas highlights the unique benefits of an aft cabin, despite potential drawbacks. The unparalleled views, extra space on the balcony, and quieter environment during windy conditions make it a top choice for any cruiser. Whether exploring new destinations or enjoying the journey itself, an aft cabin offers a distinctive experience that stands out.
Royal Caribbean: A Leader in Luxury Cruising
Royal Caribbean continues to set the standard for luxury cruising with its innovative ship designs and exceptional service. With the recent additions of the Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean remains at the forefront of the industry, offering unparalleled experiences for travelers around the world. From state-of-the-art amenities to breathtaking destinations, Royal Caribbean ensures every voyage is an adventure of a lifetime.
If you’re considering a cruise, don’t miss our detailed video review of the aft cabin on Odyssey of the Seas. Watch it now on our YouTube channel, CruiseTravelVideos. Happy cruising!
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