Published on September 19, 2025
Royal Caribbean is shaking things up in the cruise world by adding virtual balconies on the Anthem of the Seas. These high-tech screens show real-time ocean views from inside cabins that don’t have real balconies, making the South Pacific cruises feel even more connected to the sea. The move is more than a cool gimmick; it’s starting conversations about what cruise vacations will look like in the years to come.
Cruisers opting for an interior cabin on this eight-night South Pacific journey, which costs 739 Euro per person, might find themselves in a room without a natural ocean view. Typically, interior rooms are associated with a lack of windows or balconies, but Royal Caribbean offers a solution: a virtual balcony. For an additional 119 Euro, guests can enjoy a high-definition screen, providing a live feed of the ocean and landscapes outside the ship. The image even includes virtual curtains and a faux railing to create the illusion of an actual balcony.

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The concept first debuted in 2014 and was heralded as a groundbreaking use of technology in the cruise industry. Working with experts from MIT and Harvard, Royal Caribbean designed the virtual balcony system, which uses cameras stationed around the ship to capture real-time footage of the ocean, then relays this video feed to passengers’ rooms. This technology has since become a standard feature across many of the cruise line’s ships, particularly on the Anthem of the Seas.

A Divided Opinion: Is It a Genius Idea or a Step Too Far?

The virtual balcony has caught the attention of social media users, with divided opinions emerging. On one hand, many seasoned cruisers consider it a brilliant innovation. Some guests, like influencer Tamara Wheeler, have praised the virtual balcony as a clever solution for those who want an affordable interior room but still wish to feel connected to the outside world. One user commented on social media, expressing enthusiasm about the feature, mentioning that they had previously left their TV on at night to simulate the presence of daylight.

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However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Critics on platforms like TikTok have labelled the virtual balcony artificial and dystopian, expressing concerns that such technologies could become suffocating in an increasingly digital world. For some, the virtual balcony feels like a poor substitute for the real thing, as the notion of experiencing a live view through a screen doesn’t quite match the authenticity of being physically close to the ocean.

How Virtual Technology Can Boost Tourism

Despite the mixed reviews, there’s no denying that Royal Caribbean’s virtual balcony could play a significant role in attracting a broader range of tourists. As technology continues to advance, the cruise industry is recognising the potential to make travel experiences more immersive and accessible.

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Virtual balconies could attract travellers who might have previously avoided interior cabins due to the lack of natural light or views. This feature could open up affordable travel options for people who seek the cruise experience but aren’t willing to pay a premium for a balcony. The ability to offer a window to the outside world, virtually without the cost could expand the appeal of cruise holidays, especially to those looking for cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing experience.
Moreover, integrating virtual and augmented reality into travel experiences is a growing trend, with experts predicting a blend of real and virtual reality in the future of tourism. This shift could reshape how potential tourists interact with destinations before committing to travel. By providing digital previews of locations and experiences through virtual tools, Royal Caribbean could enhance the decision-making process for travellers, offering them a clearer idea of what to expect and thereby boosting their confidence in booking the trip.
According to Professor Dimitrios Buhalis, an expert in tourism and technology at Bournemouth University, virtual reality experiences like these could make travel decisions easier for tourists. Virtual tours of popular destinations, such as the Acropolis in Greece, could inspire more travellers to visit in person, motivated by a deeper understanding of the places they will explore.

The Future of Cruise Tourism: Virtual and Physical Realities Converge

Virtual balconies are just one example of how technology is reshaping the tourism landscape. Already, other industries are blending real and virtual elements to enhance customer experiences. Dubai Airport, for example, has introduced the Red Carpet Corridor, which allows passengers to bypass traditional passport controls using AI and biometric data.
Looking forward, the integration of virtual experiences in cruise tourism could become more common, enhancing the value of travel while reducing physical barriers. These advancements may also attract tourists who otherwise may not have been able to travel due to financial constraints, physical disabilities, or other challenges.
As AI continues to influence the way we move through the world, tourists can expect even more personalized and immersive experiences. From AI-assisted itinerary planning to real-time, virtual travel previews, these technologies will make it easier for tourists to make informed decisions and access experiences tailored to their preferences.
The virtual balcony is just a small piece of a much larger shift in the tourism industry. As Royal Caribbean continues to innovate, the cruise line may inspire a future where the lines between the real and the virtual are blurred, offering tourists more flexibility, variety, and excitement when booking their travel adventures.

Bottom Line

Royal Caribbean is shaking things up in the cruise world by adding virtual balconies on the Anthem of the Seas. These high-tech screens show real-time ocean views from inside cabins that don’t have real balconies, making the South Pacific cruises feel even more connected to the sea. The move is more than a cool gimmick; it’s starting conversations about what cruise vacations will look like in the years to come.

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Tags: Anthem of the seas, royal caribbean, South Pacific, virtual balcony

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