Here is a slightly different point of view:

There are many places in the world where a cruise on a large ship is great. Alaska is not one of them. If you can't live without the vegas acts and casinos than stop reading here.

If you are going to Alaska to see the natural splendors that abound there thatn your only real option is a small ship. While these ships don't offer the nightlife of the larger ships they do offer get upclose a personal with glaciers. Spending an hour following a pod of Orcas. Experts that will stand with you and explain the beauty of old growth forests, and best of all it is all included in your cruise price.

These special encounters with Alaska are not cheap, but all activities are included and 100 guest aboard, not 1200!!

The cabins are not grand, but then given all the activities, how much time are you spend there anyway?

I have travelled and loved Lindblad Expeditions, but also would recommend Cruise West as an option.

Whatever you decide I know that you will enjoy Alaska!