It's not so much a claustrophic feeling that bothered me, it was the lack of natural light in an inside stateroom. I didn't know if it was night or day or what the weather was like - you had to turn the TV onto the bridge channel to see outside. For some, that's not a problem but I didn't care for it. It threw my body clock off to not have gradual daylight in the morning. You go from total darkness to bright light's-on wake up. At my age, I need to waken slooowly so I'm not cranky!
Now, we always have at least a port hole so I know if it's morning or night! Actually, I'm further spoiled by only sailing with a verandah but that's a whole other issue!
There are several staterooms that a categorized at an inside price but have an obstructed view port hole so you'll still get daylight.
7-night cruises are definitely worth the splurge for a verandah. I've spent many a morning sitting out there watching the sun rise; afternoons reading a book and nights watching the moon race us across the ocean. Even in port, it gives you a great place to hang out and watch the pier-side activities while you get ready to disembark.
With whatever category you choose, you'll have a great time! And welcome to the boards!
