My husband, graduating senior daugher, and myself are planning a cruise summer, 2001. I am looking for input as to whether to choose a large cruise ship or a smaller upscale boat. Any information with reference to selected sightseeing would be appreciated. I am leaning toward the Holland America line, but I have heard that I need to consider the smaller vessels cruising the inner passage. Thank you for your experiences.

I booked with Princess on the Ocean liner for 6/18/01. I believe HAL has older clientele. We are doing the Voyage of the Glaciers (not the inside passage) Check with travel agent to see differences. We begin in Vancouver & end in Seward. Staying a day ahead in Vancouver and a day later in Anchorage. We felt this was the best rounded itinerary. Good luck on the cruies! This is OUR first cruise ever...Jo

I have cruised the Alaskan Inside Passage twice,now, and both times on Holland America ( different ships). The line is getting away from being exclusively for the oldies ( although I am one of those), and the ships cater to all age groups. The ships are clean, the food is delicious, and the service can't be beat. Holland America knows Alaska and you really can't go wrong with HAL. Let us know what you decide: small ship vs. a large one. You'll love Alaska no matter how you travel.

Whoever told you that you need to consider the smaller vessels when cruising the Inside Passage was correct. On a smaller ship, you will get much closer to the wildlife and the scenery. However, if you are traveling with a graduating high school senior, there will be a lot more for her to do, and lots more people her own age on one of the larger ships. I recommend Celebrity Cruises. They seem to attract a younger clientele and the ships are gorgeous.

We have booked a cruise on Celebrity Mercury to Alaska for June taking our 13 year old daughter. I thought I wanted to cruise on Princess for Alaska becuase that line seemed to be the "Alaska experts." However, the Princess ships did not offer a three person cabin in a desirable location. I wanted a balcony and a mid-ship cabin. Celebrity was even over $1,000.00 less for the three of us. We cruised the Mercury to the Western Caribbean in February of this year and loved the ship so we are happy to be sailing her again. I agree that your daughter may appreciate the larger ship for the possibility of meeting others in her age group and just having more activities to offer in general.