The Oosterdam is about as large a ship as I'd want to get on. Even with "only" 1800 passengers, there are still crowds for popular activities such as meals, pool, deck, disembarkation at ports, etc.

The cruise itself was very enjoyable despite windy weather and rough seas on the first and last nights of the trip. We discovered (by chance) the 50% off dining cover charge - $10/person at the Pinnacle Grill. HAL had somehow given our kids a different seating and time for dinner than us. Rather inexcusable, but they did make up for it quickly (just not in time for the first meal). At any rate, the Pinnacle was a great restaurant, and it was even better at half price. The Filet Mignon was steak size, and it was cooked to perfection.

On big ships, you go for the amenities, and in this regard, the Oosterdam does not disappoint. Even our relatively small outside cabin had plenty of room. (We'll look into a suite next time, however, just for the extra roominess). In our case, the kids were in one room and we were in an adjoining room. The steward opened the privacy panel on the veranda, and we had plenty of back and forth access. The kids liked the independence of having their own place, and it was nice not to have to deal with 4 people and one bathroom. For the Alaska cruise, it's really not critical whether or not you book an even or odd numbered cabin, as both sides get equal "land treatment". We were in an aft cabin, and there was no engine noise on deck 7. Read more