When Oasis of the Seas launched in 2009, it was the first time a cruise ship had ever had interior facing balconies. This increased the total number of balcony cabins available for booking on any given sailing.
In addition to the standard ocean view balconies, Royal Caribbean added cabins that overlook the two open-air neighborhoods: Central Park and the Boardwalk.
Other than the view, they are identical to traditional balcony staterooms. Often, they are cheaper, meaning that you can still experience having your own personal outdoor verandah at a lower price, allowing you to allocate additional money towards other incidentals.
For some, it may make more sense to stay in a cheaper cabin if that means you will be able to purchase experiences to enhance your overall vacation, like specialty dining meals, shore excursions, and more.
Here's a breakdown of Boardwalk and Central Park balconies.
Related: Guide to balcony staterooms on Royal Caribbean
Stateroom features
Until Icon of the Seas launches in 2024, interior balconies can only be found on Oasis Class ships. You will not have the option when looking at other classes, such as Voyager and Freedom.
Every balcony cabin comes with the same interior features: two twin beds that can convert to a queen, vanity area, sofa, television, minibar, and, of course, the balcony furniture.
They are all about the same size, too, measuring roughly 180 square feet with a 50 square food balcony.
The most notable differences are the view and location. If you want to look at the ever-changing scenery, you will want to make sure that you book an ocean view balcony.
Related: Everything about Royal Caribbean's Central Park View Balcony Staterooms
If, however, you are looking to save some money, Boardwalk and Central Park staterooms are great options. Compared to ocean view balconies, they are less windy and each offer a distinct experience.
A cabin overlooking the Boardwalk means that you will be able to view the AquaTheater.
Depending on where your stateroom is located, you might have a prime viewing spot, especially if it is closer to the back of the ship. Plus, due to the neighborhood's open concept, Boardwalk staterooms may include an ocean view, allowing you to soak up some wake views from the comfort of your cabin.
Central Park staterooms offer a more tranquil vibe, as they overlook the lush garden.
This neighborhood is also home to many specialty restaurants, and it boasts a more relaxed environment at night, unlike the Boardwalk, which is more lively at night. You will find people dressed up to enjoy dinner at Chops or listen to live music outdoors.
Related: Are Boardwalk balcony cabins too loud?
Central Park is located midship on Deck 8, meaning that all balconies overlooking the neighborhood are on Deck 10 and higher; Deck 9 is where you will find staterooms with picture windows.
The Boardwalk can be found at the aft of the ship on Deck 6, with balcony cabins starting on Deck 8.
Related: What is the best location on a cruise ship?
If you have a preference in regard to midship or aft, Central Park staterooms are located closer to the middle of the ship, while Boardwalk cabins are located further back.
Is privacy a concern?
When you book a Central Park or Boardwalk stateroom, the balcony is visible by everyone in the neighborhood, as well as those staying across on the opposite side of the ship, meaning that you will not have much (if any) privacy when sitting outside.
When getting ready in the morning, it is best to keep the curtain closed to avoid having someone peek into your room while you are changing.
If you are someone who enjoys people watching, these cabins are great options.
Pricing
The cost of a cruise varies on multiple different factors, such as time of year, length, and ship's age.
A Boardwalk stateroom on a cruise on Wonder of the Seas in July will be more expensive than a Boardwalk cabin onboard a voyage on Allure of the Seas departing in October.
Looking at Royal Caribbean's website, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Wonder of the Seas departing on July 21, 2024 currently starts at $2,173 per person for a Boardwalk balcony, $2,241 for a Central Park balcony, and $2,303 for a traditional ocean view balcony, meaning that you can save over $120 per person if you opt for a Boardwalk stateroom.
The cost for the same cruise in October drops significantly, with an ocean view balcony costing less than the Boardwalk in July.
On the sailing that departs on October 13, 2024, the current rates are $1,718 for a Boardwalk balcony, $1,772 for a Central Park balcony, and $1,848 for a traditional ocean view balcony.
If you do not have a preference, you can always book a guarantee rate. This means that Royal Caribbean will assign your cabin closer to the sail date with whatever staterooms have yet to be booked. Sometimes, this can save you hundreds of dollars per person!
While nothing beats a private oceanfront balcony, if you are looking to save some money and still be able to enjoy the benefits of a balcony, consider booking a Boardwalk or Central Park stateroom for your next cruise. Central Park tends to be quieter; however, select Boardwalk cabins located further in the aft will give you a sliver of ocean to look at.
