Flew into Seattle the day before to explore the city prior to sailing the next day. Space Needle and other area attractions were great. Getting to the dock and through check in could not have gone smoother. We were aboard and enjoying our first meal before we knew it. It helped to have already filled out and printed E docs and luggage tags. The balcony room is the only way to go. Learn the room placard dial early on for steward service. Remember everything is smaller on a ship. We had the door open 95% of the time. Keep in mind there is a mechanical platform that comes around later in the cruise. Don't get caught. The water at dinner is perfectly fine, don't feel pressured to buy the bottled water. However, we did buy a couple bottles for the room. Purchase one of the wiFi packages you will thank me later. Also purchase some of the "specialty dining" incredible food. You will want a change after several days of buffet. Check your room card key for clues to what comes with the package you purchased. You get a daily letter giving you everything you need to know for that day. check it closely. The service was top notch. Pay the service charge ahead of time and then tip as earned. Make sure to look into the excursions and or things to do in each port. The train in Skagway is a bucket list item. Great restaurants in every port, take advantage as once again the buffet will grow old. Don't worry about getting on and off the ship, it is really easy. Passports are only needed to embark and disembark the initial and last time. In between its just your room keycard. The onboard shopping is pretty good, if you are into jewelry you will be in heaven. Note - the cruise lines own the stores in port. Also, its pretty much the same merchandise in every port.The casino reeks of smoke, avoid at all costs. If the buffet seems crowded and there is nowhere to sit? go to the back of the ship or to the little restaurant across from the buffet there was always seating. Learn the elevators, not all go to every floor. Throw the VIP disembarkation letter, it is worthless. Just give the timing a few minutes and it will clear out. oh and no we did not purchase the egregious "drink package" not necessary unless you need to be sauced the entire time. My wife did buy the soda package, it comes with a tumbler and yes it was worth it. IF YOU GET MOTION SICKNESS - SEE YOUR DOCTOR FOR A PATCH!