I am planning on sending my parents(mid 50's) on an Alaska cruise in 2008.
I searched online and found this as the lowest price on multiple sites for 2008 - (NCL,Priceline, Sidestep etc.,). I need some help in deciding.

Cruise - NCL - Norweign Star
Stateroom - Deck 11- midship-Interior room
Price- $599 pp.
Date - May 10
Itinerary - 7 day Route - SEA - Inside passage - Juneau - Sawyer Glacier - Skagway - Rupert - SEA

Questions:
1) Do you think this is a Good/Okay/Poor deal - comment?
2) Is there any way to find a better delal?
3) Is May 10th too early for an Alaskar cruise?

Thanks!!!

This is a good price, but going to Tracy Arm that early is NOT likely to get them within view of the Sawyer Glaciers. I would suggest you need to budget for the costly jet boat add on tour at about $175pp, so they have a better chance at the glaciers for viewing.

Otherwise, I suggest you look at the Pearl which is superior for the itinerary going to Glacier Bay, but it does have crappy deck viewing with all high windscreens.

Going out of Seattle in that timeframe is excellent for humpback watching, due to the migration.

If this is your choice. Book it with an agent that has no/low cancelation policies. Then KEEP TRACK of pricing trends YOURSELF. Request an adjustment, immediately when you see one. Be prepared to cancel and rebook if necessary- I had to do that this year with the Pearl.

Look at www.cruisecompete.com for comparisms.

There are many ways to get great deals. First, check with NCL. Usually they have special rates for military, union memebrs and regional promotions. Second, get multiple quotes from TA. Good site is cruisecompete as it's been mentioned, and I also discovered cruisenegotiators.com lately, which works pretty much like cruisecompete.com.
It might be a little cold in the begining of May.

Don't put your parents in an inside cabin. There is too much to see, and nothing like waking up and being able to look outside.

1)Good price does not always equate to good deal. However, the intent of your heart is invaluable. Consider a cabin with a balcony, which is privately scenic and romantically secluded. This gives them options to rekindle an old flame OR hang out with the crowd. An inside cabin only tends to snuff out the flame or reveal who has claustrophobia!

2)Find a good travel agent willing to give a discount and on-board credit, with a possible upgrade. Do this AFTER you find a reasonable rate via NCL.

3)You can't go any earlier than this. It is freezing cold in the morning, during cruising speed of 23 knots, and late at nite. Alaska feels as if an airconditioner is always on, during the day...which is comfortable. Plenty of snow abounds with an arresting beauty. Whales are plentiful, but tours are limited. Get them off of the boat on a tour or they may not like you for leaving them at the mercy of NCL's money-grubbing offerings. An older crowd tends this cruise. Early lights out may leave your parents somewhat challenged to find younger company, which is cool because in their mind, they are still young too! Wildlife(in Alaska) will have not awaken from the slumber of winter's chill in May. However, the crowds are fewer and the pace is relaxing, sometimes too relaxing. It's cool that you are so thoughtful, but it'll be cold if you don't invest a little more for their enjoyment off of the ship.