Category levels

[JMW51]

Can someone explain what the different category levels are all about. Which is best? How would you describe each category?

 

 

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[Host Jazzbeau]

Do you mean cabin categories on river cruise ships? There are basically four, with some variations on certain cruise lines.

• Fixed Window -- located on lowest deck [window is just above water line, so often called 'Aquarium Class'] -- sometimes smaller but usually normal size -- least expensive -- elevator usually doesn't go all the way down so there is 1/2 flight of stairs

• French Balcony -- located on middle and top cabin decks -- entire outside wall is glass for great views, and can open up to provide fresh air -- middle deck is great location for quiet and access -- middle price -- IMHO best value

• Real Balcony [or Twin Balcony] -- located on top cabin deck -- full views like French but in most cases the balcony space is 'stolen' from the cabin -- top deck is under walking track so can be noisy -- highest price for regular cabin, and often little ability to use the outside balcony so IMHO not a good value [but others disagree]

• Suite -- located on top cabin deck -- larger amount of space, usually more amenities (sometimes Butler) -- very expensive but the food, excursions and entertainment are the same so IMHO not a good value

 

Or do you mean categories of River Cruise lines? Cruise Critic used to have a great comparison pdf called The Ultimate Guide to River Cruising, but the link is broken again. I'm sure others will chime in with opinions if that is the question you want to ask.

 

It appears you are new to River Cruising. Welcome to the Forum! I suggest you look at the Stickies at the top of this forum for lots of information to help your planning.

[Got2Cruise]

We had a twin balcony on second level on AmaSonata, so the above with stating they are only available on third is incorrect. On Sonata the Square footage of the various cabin choices differ. The larger the cabin the higher the price.

 

 

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[caviargal]

We had a twin balcony on second level on AmaSonata, so the above with stating they are only available on third is incorrect. On Sonata the Square footage of the various cabin choices differ. The larger the cabin the higher the price.

 

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We prefer the twin balconies on middle deck and have booked them several times on our AMA cruises.

[Mark_T]

... so the above with stating they are only available on third is incorrect...

 

Jazz didn't say 'only available' he actually did say:

 

...with some variations on certain cruise lines...

 

It is still a good simple summary for someone new, but yes there are variations so check the specific lines for more details...

[CPT Trips]

Just be aware that you may not find all four of the categories described above on every river cruise ship. Check deck plans.