ray98

You never know. Could be a private table or assigned with another group at a very large table.

As above, even the older ships offer a great experience. Just go in not expecting to be on the newest mega liner an have a good time. They are budget friendly so you have more money to highlight other areas of the trip.

I always base my decision on budget. If the balcony is affordable without constricting other areas of the cruise we get it. If it is an occasion where it is super expensive I will usually look to an OV or even an inside with portholes.

I love the balcony but I will choose a better overall trip every time over spending the majority of the budget on the cabin.

I have never been turned away when both cards are in hand.

Yes....BC is fine.

I have been in an obstructed twice, once booked directly and once from a GTY. I had no problem with either, it is a little different but it is still a balcony with all the relaxing qualities.

Stay alert and stay in the tourist areas and it is very unlikely you will have a problem. That goes for pretty much any port though.

Unfortunately you have created quite a situation for yourself.

I wouldn't think to decorate a door in a hotel and wouldn't on a cruise.

Yup....it isn't popular at all with 'normal' people.

You can't go wrong with either. However, I thoroughly enjoy the flavor of a good steak and don't need marinades/sauce/spices to cover anything up so I would go with the Cowboy.

We have tried both several times and always had an enjoyable trip. They both have their positives.

You will be fine.

Life happens so cancellations do happen. The percentage of occurrence would be no more than speculation and vary. You may also have people upgrading cabins so cabins will shuffle.

First 2.

Maybe everyone doesn't go by your schedule. NCL should've told you that and hung up.

It looks like balcony and above is still open.

You go eat when you are hungry. Pretty easy.

I do not understand how adults cannot comprehend this process of how cruises are priced.

Read the promotion...it tells you everything.

I guess I have been spoiled as I am a New England girl and have always enjoyed lobster whenever I wanted it. To me, it isn't a big deal. but I do see your point.

Yup....for those of us who live away from your region and it moves to something that you pretty much find at the nicer restaurants you may only visit for special occasions.

Forgive me for saying this, but what is with the lobster? People are acting like it's the end of the world not having it served on a cruise ship. I am grateful for all of the food served on a cruise. Nicely presented, prepared properly, and no dishes to do! If I can't have lobster for dinner, no big deal.

Well it is considered a delicacy that many people enjoy. For those who have cruised for any length of time it was a staple on the cruise ship menu until recently that corresponded with the formal evenings. So...obviously many enjoyed that and were less than pleased when it disappeared.

Hmm.... why in the world do they make it so difficult! It's OBC....we should be able to use it for anything "on board". ugh!

....because they want you to use that $$$ on the cruise in some form of additional spending instead of withdrawing it to offset the amount you have already spent.

As above....dining perk is only for the two of you. Unless you two plan on some alone time at dinner I probably wouldn't choose it.

Start researching 'walking tours' and other information about the ports. It will give you an idea of what is close and what you may be interested in. Some ports you can walk off the ship and find things to do, others you will have limited options without a scheduled excursion.

People really overthink things sometimes.