I stayed in SS1221 on Mercury. It had a slight cut-out that allowed rear views. I absolutely loved that cutout and highly recommend them. These Sky Deck balconies are so huge, you don't miss the small square footage you lose to the cutout. In fact, it is my opinion that a fully-boxed size balcony such as 1208 can actually have a somewhat closed-in feeling, as both walls of the balcony extend right up to the railing, whereas the cut-outs have one balcony wall shorter than the other balcony wall, and this opens up the viewing space considerably.
There's just something about standing right at that angle on the railing that really extends your view - be it forward or back toward the ship's wake.
I would not, however, give up 1208 if there are no cut-out balconies available on Deck 12.
And you were right on the money to upgrade from CC to SS. Get your butler to serve you at least one balcony dinner - course-by-course..... you will find yourselves going to that T-pool almost every day - it's to die for! Also, having a tub (with jets) in the bathroom is great...... afternoon tea served by the butler off a rolling cart is great..... ditto with evening hors d'oeurves and the unlimited expresso and capuccino.
Last but not least, I just came from a sailing on the Century where my husband accompanied me for his first cruise (yes we had a sky suite) - he thought he'd be bored silly ..... well, he was bowled over! Acted like a little kid - loved being in a tux (rented) .... wound up tipping our waiter and the butler double the recommended amounts..... they both had spoiled him rotten. I bet your husband will have the time of his life, too!
