Note: First time cruiser ( except scuba live aboards)

Wife and I will be in Europe (AMS) from 5/23 - 6/13. Our anniversary (33rd) is June 1, so I thought we might try cruising for the 7-12 day period spanning that date. I've looked at river cruises but the ones I like ( Uniworld, AMA, Tauck) have already filled or are too long for our other plans. These river cruises aren't cheap, they've established my budget at app. $1000/nt for the two of us. I'd certainly like to get value for money at these price points.

So, I'm now choosing between an all suite ship like Seabourn or Silver Seas vs upgrading to a suite on Celebrity, Princess or similar. I do prefer the smaller ship approach, except for the formality of dress. Living in Hawaii I'm a resort casual guy and don't even own a suit. And I really don't care for the cattle car disgorgements that I imagine the port of calls to be with the larger ships.

However, I think we could be very comfortable with the big ship options of dining, facilities, and entertainment. A suite and the Ala carte charges seem to still be under the price points of the luxury lines.

I'm looking at the Med and the Baltic.

Any suggestions or opinions are welcome. Mahalo.