A French balcony on a river cruise is a cabin feature with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to a railing.
Unlike traditional balconies, it doesn’t have a step-out space, so you stay inside your cabin while enjoying fresh air and scenic views.
This design maximizes cabin space and lets in plenty of natural light.
It’s a practical choice if you want a spacious room with great views, but if you prefer a traditional outdoor deck, you might want to consider other options.
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Characteristics
Let’s dive into what makes this type of balcony special:
- Design: French balconies have large glass doors that let in a lot of natural light. The railing is right behind the glass, so you can see outside but can’t step out.
- Space Efficiency: River cruise ships are narrower than ocean liners. They need to fit through locks and under bridges. A French balcony helps make the most of your cabin space, giving you a bigger room without losing the view.
- Variations: Some river cruise lines offer variations like “Open-Air Balconies” or “Panorama Balconies.” These might have different designs to give you an even better experience.
French Balcony vs. Veranda
A veranda is a traditional balcony with a small deck area. You can step outside and sit in chairs. It gives you a more classic outdoor experience but uses more space in your cabin.
A French balcony doesn’t have this outdoor space. It’s all about the view and fresh air from inside your cabin. This means you get more room inside, but you can’t step outside.
French Balcony vs. Suite Balconies
Some suites have both types of balconies.
This gives you the option to enjoy the best of both worlds: the spaciousness of a French balcony and the outdoor space of a veranda.
What Are French Balconies Also Known As?
French balconies are sometimes referred to by other names. They can also be called Juliet balconies or false balconies.
These terms reflect the same design: large glass doors with a railing behind them, allowing you to enjoy the view without stepping outside.
The key feature of all these names is the emphasis on bringing the outdoors in while keeping your cabin’s interior space maximized.
What to Consider
Choosing a French balcony has its pros and cons.
Pros: It’s perfect if you love the view and fresh air but don’t need outdoor furniture. It also saves space in your cabin.
Cons: If you prefer a traditional balcony where you can sit outside, a French balcony might not be right for you. Also, in colder or rainy weather, you might not want to open the glass doors.
Why Choose a French Balcony?
If you want to make the most of your cabin space and enjoy beautiful views, this type of balcony is a great option.
It lets in plenty of light and keeps your cabin feeling open and airy.
So, when you book your river cruise, consider a French balcony for a stylish and practical touch to your trip.
Explore River Cruises with French Balconies
Thinking about a river cruise with a French balcony? It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the best of both worlds: indoor comfort and outdoor views.
To experience a river cruise with a French balcony, contact us today to find out more about our river cruise options and get started on your adventure!
