[hulahips]

Perhaps someone can help me? We just returned from a cruise. I noticed the last couple of cruises we took I had a difficult time finding a quiet place to read a book. Yes ago they had the promenade deck for walkers and the lounge chairs outside to read. Of course that was perfect as I enjoy sitting outdoors. They did have a sanctuary but there was a charge to sit there. Has anyone encountered this or can anyone recommend a ship that still has quiet outdoor areas to read on a lounge chair?

[KayakerNC]

Originally Posted by hulahips

Perhaps someone can help me? We just returned from a cruise. I noticed the last couple of cruises we took I had a difficult time finding a quiet place to read a book. Yes ago they had the promenade deck for walkers and the lounge chairs outside to read. Of course that was perfect as I enjoy sitting outdoors. They did have a sanctuary but there was a charge to sit there. Has anyone encountered this or can anyone recommend a ship that still has quiet outdoor areas to read on a lounge chair?

One of the many nice things about a balcony room.

[Hjkeys]

If on a Princess cruise, try Skywalkers during the day.

[Bonny]

The Solarium or your balcony.

[hulahips]

The solarium was charging $15.00 a day. Is this the average now? The balcony didn't work as they didn't have lounge chairs but more of a lawn type chair. Are the decks with the lounge chairs now gone?

[Bonny]

Originally Posted by hulahips

The solarium was charging $15.00 a day. Is this the average now? The balcony didn't work as they didn't have lounge chairs but more of a lawn type chair. Are the decks with the lounge chairs now gone?

You were charged on Royal Caribbean ?

[hulahips]

Yes

[Bonny]

Originally Posted by hulahips

Yes

I always go in to the solarium on Royal. Was just in there in March and January on the Allure. No one is at the door to collect money.
How did they charge you ?

[hulahips]

Really? My husband and I started to walk in and a gentlemen came up to us and told us there was a charge of $15.00 per day so we left. It was perfect with the lounge chairs, a private pool, very quiet, just what I wanted so was Wondering if this is standard on all ships now?

[Erika]

Perhaps OP was referring to the indoor facility with heated tile beds, saunas, etc. There is a charge to use it unless your stateroom is categorized as a suite or you have a loyalty perk. It is a lovely area in which to read or relax.

[hulahips]

It was an outdoor area, very nice and quiet. The spa was close by however indoors. I wish I could remember name of ship but I can't. When we went to sit down he came right over to inform us of charge. Was I embarassed

[maddie101]

Princess has a quiet area that charges, but RCCL does not charge.

[JoMar]

We are rookie cruisers (only 16 cruises) but haven't cruised in over 10 years.....sounds like things have changed and we are in for some surprises. Will have to spend more time back on Cruise Critic.

[dotti105]

WE usually sail on Carnival and most have a "serenity deck" which is very nice, noone under 18 allowed. comfy clamshell loungers, hammocks, chaise lounge chairs, hot tubs and bar. Nice quiet adult area.

Inside we have found the Promenade deck to be quiet for reading or playing cards, also usually some quiet shady areas on the Lido deck outside.

The newer ships are so large you may not find the quiet retreat you are looking for until near the end of your cruise. A balcony room solves that problem. We have had our room steward locate chaise lounges for our balcony and remove the "lawn chairs". For a nice tip, they will graciously accommodate any reasonable request.

[Bonny]

I have been on 28 Royal Caribbean cruises and I always go into the Solarium. Never a charge and no RC workers are ever there except gathering towels, dirty plates, etc.
I know Celebrity has the Persian Garden and there is a charge for that.