Which Deck?

[dhornick]

OK, this should be an easy one. Never having been on a cruise ship let alone a cruise (our first is booked for July 2007 on the Glory), which deck is the best for hanging out on whilst departing and arriving different ports? Wishing we could have booked a cabin with balcony the funds just simply wouldn't allow it so we want to be on deck and at the railing when we leave and arrive different ports. And which side of the ship port side or starboard side? A similar question would be we are definitely sun people and love to hang out all day long on portions of the desk with the most sun and water for the best people watching.

[Dave]

Most people wander up to the lido deck (pool deck) and the other higher decks when the ship enters or leaves a port. On the Glory you can also go out on the deck under the life boats (Lobby deck, I think) where you have the traditional wood decks and rails. Which side of the ship to go to is really going to depend on whether it is coming or going. That is why the upper decks are better since you can wander from port to starboard easily, or just go forward or aft and have a panoramic view. And obviously, the lido deck and above are where the lounge chairs are for sunning and watching.

[tncruiseman]

There is another great spot on the ship to hang out during departure and arrivals and that is all the way forward on deck 9, right over the ships bridge. You can walk out on the cantilevered deck (above the bridge) and view the entire side of the ship. Not many people seem to know about this spot because I have never seen it crowded.

[Marty Clowers]

That's a great spot for a picture while the ship is underway also, "up-sun" gleaming white ship, with the wake churning off in the distance. Pretty cool.

[dbug]

Dhornick,
Not sure, but I have heard people say that sometimes you can call and ask about upgrades and Carnival may upgrade your room to one with a balcony. I know after I book my cruise I am certainly going to try. Maybe these experienced cruisers know if this really works.
dbug64