We were in Vancouver for a three-day meeting, and we booked this particular cruise because its departure date worked well with the end of that obligation. We were accompanied by another couple, and none of us had ever been to Alaska. All were experienced cruisers.
For three of the travellers, this was their first visit to Vancouver, and they absolutely loved it. If you have the time, try to spend a few days before or after your cruise, visiting this remarkable city and some of the beautiful surrounding area.
Vancouver has two separate cruise ship facilities, and they are several miles apart. The preferred one is at Canada Place, right in the heart of downtown, and literally across the street from several large hotels. With the harbor and the Rockies in the background, the view from your hotel room window can be stunning. The second facility is the Ballantyne Pier, which is a short cab ride from the major hotels. It's an excellent facility, but not nearly as impressive visually. We boarded our ship at the Ballantyne pier.