I agree, loved the verandah on the 7 day. Just got off the 3 day and we had a SPH room deck 5. We could quickly run down to deck 4, right out the doors and see/feel the sun and fresh air. Alot of lounge chairs, and never really felt busy. I beleive Its all about location from your stateroom to the nearst deck or intrest if you don't have a verandah. I Like a verandah however DH who is a smoker likes a verandah but finds just as easy to go to an open deck as long as the location is good.
So verandah or not, look for location on the ship that meets your needs.
Have fun
Linda