Talking with cruise staff who have worked on ships
with few or no balconies and ships with many, they do report a greater number of people spending more time in the cabins with balconies. More people order room service meals, especially breakfasts and often drinks in the evening. I had a room with a balcony on the Crystal Harmony and really enjoyed it. We did leave our room for meals and activities. Balconies do change the social situation on cruise ships.