I haven't done an inside cruise to Alaska but did one to the Mediterranean. My advice is, if that is what your budget allows, then by all means, do it! The thing that bothered me most was not knowing what time of day it was, so I never slept soundly thinking I was missing something. My first balcony cruise was to Alaska, because the friend that went with me would only travel if she could get a balcony. That was 10 years ago, and now I always want a balcony, too! I also loved being able to sleep with the balcony door open and hear the ocean and feel the cool air. But, again, it's always better to stay within your means and go and enjoy it. You will love it either way!