We are very glad we did.
I did my research online. The cruise critic recommendations were very helpful. We decided we want a one-way 7-day cruise that includes Glacier Bay, beginning or ending with a Denali tour. Those parameters pointed us to Princess, and thanks to a local agent, we were able to get a last-minute deal on Sapphire.
Vancouver was a welcoming beginning; a vibrant, friendly, cosmopolitan vibe! And the sun shone the day we visited. We stayed at CenturyPlaza Hotel and Spa, located at the heart of downtown Vancouver and close to the docks. I asked and got a higher floor and a room with a view. The room is spacious, clean, comfortable and equipped with a kitchen, which sadly we were not able to use. Friends showed us around their city and we enjoyed Stanley Park and Granville Island.
E 703 - Emerald. Better than I expected for a guaranteed, inside cabin. Has obstructed view - can see waters above the life boat. Training activities about crew's use of life boats provided us entertainment and educational time.
Room is clean, spacious, function and has sufficient storage space.