We recently returned from our cruise in 9176 & 9174...I have a load of pictures too of the balconies which I'll try & post soon.
I would just like to add a few negative observations BUT nothing that would stop me rebooking the cabins again...but so you are aware;
- these balconies (and furniture) were grimey from the soot fall from the stack - it was a daily occurance (every time we sailed) -and with a balcony this big, far too big of a job for the stateroom host. Despite repeated requests, Disney were slow and poor to respond to requests to get it properly cleaned - in fact it never was cleaned properly, until we arrived back in Port Canaveral (when it was pressure washed as we left). It was left to the stateroom host with a mop & bucket but this just resulted in spreading the grime, not removing it ...it really needs Disney to pressure wash it regularly during the cruise. Actually, there is no excuse for them not being washed down more effectively, even without pressure washing, as there is a tap (sorry forcet !) on the wall of the cabin of 9176 that could run a hose or similar.
It is kind of annoying that DCL have 'upgraded' these cabins and not tackled this problem - I think they could have sold it better if perhaps they gave the soot fall issue one of the reasons for NOT upgrading it in the first place. I thought this was why the aft cabins on the Magic remained reasonably priced ?
TIP -Bring some baby wipes with you to clean the furniture, and do not sit out in a white sun dress ! Also flip flops are a must on the balconies if you don't want black feet !!
- second we did find it could be a little noisy on the balcony at night from the staff parties being help on the very top deck (priate staff area). You couldn't hear the noise in the cabin, but some nights party music & singing, loud chatter,etc., could be heard in to the early hours if you were stood outside.
- after 7 cruises I have never noticed so many smokers on their balconies as I did this cruise. I can't say the smokers bother me - they tend to be so intermitent, so as not to affect me ...BUT nonetheless I saw loads more of the aft balconies than ever I have done sailing on the side balconies.
As I said it wouldn't stop me rebooking these cabins though - they are great !
Good to know all this, as we have these rooms next year. Looking forward to your pics!