Perhaps this is standard for Alaskan cruises but the port stops were far too short. 6 hours in Juneau and Ketchikan, 5 hours in Victoria--only full day was in Skagway. That means that if you have a several hour excursion, it takes the entire time and you don't even have a few minutes to explore the port gift shop.

That being said, Alaska was gorgeous and far warmer than we expected. Loved seeing seals on icebergs as we sailed to the Dawes glacier in the Endicott Arm. The White Pass Yukon excursion to Bennett Lake was gorgeous. Be aware of salmon season if you sign up for the hatchery.

The new ship is lovely but too crowded. Not enough elevators, long waits for those (but too many stairs to take for 20 floors!), hard to find places to sit in the buffet dining. Be warned that shows are not at all family friendly (Jersey Boys, Havana, and Happy Hour Prohibition the musical). The Waterfront area with gelato shop and seating is nice, as is the Observation Lounge. The spa Thermal Suite is delightful but pricey. Enjoy!