Alaska, summer, 05. HAL vs. Princess

[dtyble@aol.com]

Three couples (youthful and physically active 60's) planning a cruise-tour to Alaska. Trying to decide HAL Ryndam vs. Princess Island. Two couples want to add the land tour before or after the cruise; one couple does not. Would like both options on the same cruise so we can be together for the cruise.

Would appreciate any comparative info. Also would appreciate thoughts about the land tour. Is it worth it? The 2 trips we are comparing are 7 days on the ship and 6-7 days on land (going to Denali).

Thanks

Dtyble

[localady]

Hello! I wish I could honestly answer your question, but since I've not cruised with Princess, I could not give you a fair assessment. I can tell you that we did absolutely love the Ryndam this last summer in Alaska. The crew was excellent and we love the traditional decor on the Ryndam. I do not believe you will be disappointed if you choose the Ryndam, as it is smaller than the Island Princess which could be a plus.

I would recommend that you friends do the land tour prior to their cruise. We did it "backwards" and came away from our trip exhausted, as the land portion of the trip is much more strenuous than the cruise!!:eek: :cool: