Personally, I have to agree with Susan. Last year, my husband & I had a wonderful balcony cabin. My father, however, decided to upgrade when the only balcony cabins available were "partially obstructed view" on the same deck as mine. He didn't mind, because he decided that he at least had a place to smoke his cigars. However, to have ANY view of the water, he had to stand. Seated, his view was a lifeboat. Something to consider.