My boyfriend and I have been talking about taking a cruise to see Alaska as we're both into the outdoors and Alaska just seems to be ideal. We have never been on a cruise before so we want this to be memorable. So far I've come across cruises departing from Seattle and from Vancouver. Besides the difference of one city being in America and the other in Canada, what are the benefits from the port of departure?

Both cities are wonderful. You'll kick yourself for not spending more time exploring them, regardless of how long you visit.<BR><BR>The main difference in cruise terms is that (I believe) all the sailings from Seattle are Inside Passage round trips, whereas some from Vancouver go to (or return from) Seward, permitting land tours of southcentral or interior Alaska. So your choice of southern terminus may depend on your plans for the rest of the trip.

You can get better deals from Vancouver since there are many more ships leaving from that port and therefore the competition is much more robust.

Re: Vancouver vs Seattle:<BR><BR>I live on the eastcoast. We prefer non-stop flights. Seattle ship departures are very appealing. We will sail Amsterdam (Holland America) in August out of Seattle.<BR>Airfare price and easy airport access from where you live, could help determine your decision. Princess will be sailing both Star and Diamond Princess out of Seattle in '03. You may also want to consider the various ports. I think the Vancouver itineraries are more interesting. <BR>You might want to read posts on cruisecruitic.com or cruiseaddicts.com<BR>Posters on both websites are extremely helpful. Seattle is just more convenient for us; we are thrilled to have a non-stop flight. Should you decide to take a cruise, even in summer, you may want to arrive at your departure city the day prior to sailing. This makes the first day of your cruise more enjoyable.<BR>

<BR>For the better Alaska experience do not sail the inside passage round trip unless it is a small ship cruise line. Spend he extra money unless you are planning to go back and visit again.<BR><BR>Paul