The Obstructed View Deluxe Balcony cabin provides approximately 233 square feet of comfort, and includes all the same features of the Balcony stateroom, but have a partially or fully obstructed view from the approximately 41 square foot balcony.

An excellent question! An obstructed balcony on a Princess Cruise (and most other cruise lines) is a stateroom with a private balcony that has its view partially or significantly blocked by a ship’s structure.

The key point is that you still get the open-air balcony space with chairs and a table, but the “view” component is compromised.

What Causes the Obstruction?

On Princess ships, the obstruction is almost always caused by the lifeboats (and their davits/launching equipment), which are typically positioned on Deck 8 (Emerald Deck) on Grand-class and similar ships. The obstruction can vary greatly from cabin to cabin.

Levels of Obstruction:

Princess categorizes these cabins, usually from “Obstructed” to “Fully Obstructed,” and prices them accordingly. The view can range from:

1. Minimally Obstructed: You look between two lifeboats or over the top of one. The view is only slightly blocked at the railing level, with a clear horizon.
2. Partially Obstructed: A lifeboat or davit blocks a significant portion of your view, but you can still see the ocean and sky by looking around it.
3. Mostly Obstructed: The lifeboat is directly in front of your balcony, blocking the downward view entirely, but you still have an open sky view.
4. Fully Obstructed (Rare): A solid metal lifeboat davit or ship’s structure is directly against your railing, severely limiting any outward view. You still get fresh air and light.

How to Know What You’re Booking