My DW and I, with our best friends and neighbors of 36 years, booked this cruise thru Sams Club/Expedia. After much research; spoke to their rep who recommended Princess and confirmed Alaska as a great destination.

We went to Seattle the day before the Aug 3rd departure, since we also had never seen the city. Stayed at the Sixth Ave Inn-Downtown. Found it was 6 blocks from the Space Needle; walked there 1st night. The hotel was priced well, but it's older; good for a 1 night stay. It was clean enough and the bed was comfortable, but they did somewhat mess up at the reception desk. Not too disastrous, but 2 calls to the manager were left unanswered. We used 1st Class Limo (Victor) from SeaTac to hotel,to ship & back; needed a larger vehicle due to the wheelchair.

Sun morning, we took a cab ride to the Pike Street Market-definately worth the effort to see! The fish were flying, and their prices were good on most everything; ESPECIALLY THE FLOWERS! They were plentiful and beautiful. Both couples bought bouquets for $8 and vases (plastic) for $7,that we took on the ship. Everyone who saw them were envious, and the ones you can buy from Princess were $50! We enjoyed them in our suite throughout the cruise. NOW, to discuss the ship, I agree wholeheartedly that the only way to go is in a Mini-Suite. Couldn't have been more comfortable-spacious, attractive, and the bed was extremely comfortable. The bed had to be an oversized queen-with the gentle rocking of the ship, it we slept like rocks. Nice to be pampered with a sitting room and extra TV, where you still could enjoy the views from your patio doors. The balcony was big and a great place to see Alaska from! Our steward opened the doorway between ours and our friends next door, so we could walk between and visit at our leisure. Our steward, Tavorn (or Tav) was exceptional; enough to leave extra when we departed. Read more