VodkaCran

...Don't forget to budget extra time in Vancouver.... it's a bonus port!

Definitely! We have friends who live there, so we're hoping to spend some time visiting with them.

After checking out ship amenities across the lines that cruise to Alaska, it looks like Celebrity is the strongest competitor. Thanks again, everyone, for your feedback!

Thanks, everybody! You've given me some great starting points. I've been reading some awesome trip reports - as a result, I'm leaning towards a one-way cruise with some extra time in Alaska tacked on either before or after depending on the itinerary.

Aside from Sitka (which seems to have universal glowing reviews), we aren't hugely attached to itinerary - DH primarily wants to spend some quality time around mountains and glaciers since we don't have those down here in Florida. ;) I think he'd be happy sitting on the balcony most of the time! LOL!

So, sounds like I have a lot more research/reading to do. Thanks for your patience with a total Alaska newbie! :D

Hi folks!

I'm in the (very) early stages of planning an Alaskan cruise for my DH and I. We're both cruising veterans (I've only sailed on Carnival, he's sailed Carnival and Royal Caribbean), but Alaska is uncharted territory for us as we've only gone on Mexican/Caribbean sailings. Carnival has become a bit stale for us, but I understand Alaskan sailings might be completely different.

So, based on your experience, which cruise line would you recommend? Here's what's important to us:

- We're in our late 30s/early 40s with no kids, and while we enjoy cocktails and entertainment, we aren't night owls. Much more the nature-loving, reading, learning new activities types

- Since this is going to be a special cruise, we aren't as budget conscious, but we're not going to charter a private yacht, either. ;)

- The ship itself is very important, so a cruise line that values public spaces and a well-filled roster of activities is crucial. Specialty restaurants, libraries, things like that are awesome.

I'd love to hear your thoughts! Thanks in advance!