I am seeking a medium-size ship, to get to the places the mega-ships can't go. We don't want ultra luxury, but certainly comfort, good food, and some on-board variety. We're 50ish with no kids, so we want some shore excursions, just not the strenuous kinds. Your thoughts and links are appreciated.

Look at Clipper, Cruise West, Lindblad. There really are not any "medium size" regular cruise line ships sailing Alaska. Smallest is probably HAL, but you are still looking at around 1400+++ passengers. Tours are port based so look over any cruiseline list and narrow down your interests. There are way too many excellent tours to recommend otherwise.

While I somewhat agree with the previous poster's list; I would not discount Radisson. Tho' considered a luxury line, it is "casual elogance". The Mariner is 700 passengers. Additionally, with this market you will probably have less children as sailing companions. Radisson is beginning to add children's programs in some markets; Alaska being one, but in May, you are still ahead of most traditional school calendars summer vacation.

I think Radisson Mariner would be a good choice for your age and few children aboard. No formal nights either. www.rssc.com

Thanks for your responses, but the lines you refer to are a little high in the price range for me, at least at this point. I have come across Amer. West's Queen of the North paddlewheeler. Any experience with it?

Maybe look at Cruise West or Glacier Bay cruise lines.

don't forget to factor in the cost of shore excursions when comparing prices. I'm not sure about Alaska but I looked at Linbald Costa Rica and they had a lot of activities included in the price whereas everthing is extra with the bigger lines. We went to Alaska last summer and the shore excursions really made the trip. Over 90% of our pictures were from these and we were really glad we spent the extra money. People that don't do these for Alaska really miss out.

There are plenty of medium sized ships that offer good value.

Celebrity's Zenith
RCI's Empress
MSC's Opera and Lirica

I have cruised on three of the four and recommend them all.

If a balcony is important, try MSC.

sorry, I missed the Alaska part!