We are looking into several cruises to Alaska originating from Vancouver.

We are interested in the most economical cabin with the following features:

1) facing the outside
2) window (not portal)
3) it can sleep a minimum of 2 people, and a maximum of 4 people.

So far, I have received some information on Carnival (cabin type 6A), and Princess cruise lines (cabin on deck D (dolphin)?

The Princess option is about 10% cheaper. Are there major differences in the cabins of the 2 cruise lines, or differences in the services of the ship - between the 2 lines.

We have kids, so we are interested in a cruise line catering to families - young adults, with children. What other major cruise lines would fit the bill, in terms of the specifications that I have stated, and with a competitive price.

I have only been on carnival so I can't compare cabins sizes. The 6A cabins on carnvial are nice. You should be able to find a picture online somewhere...they have a king bed and a couch...carnival cabins are supposed to be bigger than most other lines. My adivice would be to worry about the ship more than the cabin, you don't spend much time in the cabin...on carnival you may get upgraded to a balcony which would be nice...

are you looking at the carnival Spirit in Alaska? It is a nice ship...been on her once...

as for kids, there is camp carnival that runs a 'day camp like' activity on the ship that the kids seem to enjoy, I guess it would depend on their ages...I have no kids so I don't have any first hand information...

as far as other cruise lines my parents have been on princess in alaska, they said it was nice, but said you could tell the ship was a little older...

overall I like carnival, but have only been to the carib. on them...5 times in 4 years if thats an indication...a cruise is what you make of it, so have fun and find a big ship with lots to do for the days you don't stop at ports...

one more thing, not sure where you're getting pricing for cruises, but don't go direct from the company...there are much cheaper options...look on the web and don't be afraid to quote them against one another...