We chose Princess due to reviews and size of ship. Also ability to choose wake view room aft with large balcony. The medallion class ship was a great novelty and allowed easy access to cabin, ordering drinks, exciting ship etc. We booked a premium balcony cabin aft facing wake which is always our preferred choice of cabin on cruises as offers views both sides. Our cabin R732 was smaller than we thought it would be however because of larger balcony and the closet space it seemed roomy enough. Note the balcony on R734 cabin is alot bigger. However first impressions were very disappointing, The decor is old and dull. the balcony floor looks continually dirty. The soot problem is definitely a major issue and our cabin attendant did do best to clean every day. We were aware of this problem but decided to take the chance and it was as people had said. So we used pool towels to cover chairs etc. the balcony furniture is also uninviting to enjoy. Aside from this we still enjoyed our cruise. in relation to main restaurant it was average food. Nothing really stood out as super delicious. The buffet had a great choice of food. On previous cruises we normally do order breakfast in bed delivered to cabin to start our day however didn't bother after 1st day as the choice was very limited and poor. I think they offer but don't actually want people to take them up on offer. We were able to take on whatever bottles of wine we wanted which was very good as we saved money. They state a $15 corkage would be charged per bottle however we didn't get charged this at all. One of us purchased the beverage package but this is totally not worth the money and I doubt we would purchase again. We would have liked more music entertainment often which was very tame. We would possibly book Princess again depending on ship and itinerary. Also be aware all the ports in Alaska have tons of jewellery shops, ie every second shop is a jewellery shop. These are owned by cruise companies. its a real shame however locals need the business.