My wife and I just completed a 15-year "bucket list" trip to Alaska. We flew into Fairbanks and planned our own 5-day adventure to Denali (stayed in Healy). Then drove to Anchorage and rode the train to Seward (NCL excursion) and boarded the NCL Sun for 7 night inside passage to Vancouver. Loved it all, but the NCL Sun and staff exceeded our expectations. Ship balcony cabin (deck 8) was cozy but efficient. We explored all ports on our own (no pre-booked shore excursions) and had a blast. Ports get a little "touristy" especially if there are several ships in at the same time. We enjoyed Icy Straight as we were the only ship and you could take a nice walk into town and explore on your own. Did regular food (no upgraded dining package) and loved it - especially evening dining in Seven Seas dining room (we requested sec. 2, window). Love NCL free-style dining! Bought the beverage package... not sure if that is a bargain or not - you decide. Ship-board professional entertainment was over the top... All shows were Broadway-high quality with very talented entertainers. Ship and its staff were excellent in our book! Highly recommend.