We paid alot upfront for our Alaskan cruise in June, but comparing Apples to Apples I think we were even. We sailed Regent which is an all suite all balcony ship , even in the lowest prices.( compare to Jr suite or above on others) Our cruise included airfaqre and transfers, tips, beverages, meals in speciality restaurants, room service of pretty much anything., 2 liters of alcohol in room, plus free wine or cocktails with dinner, ( 2007 all inclusive alcohol in lounges etc,.) Everything but excursions and casino. And only 700 people and almost as many people working to take care of you. Also since we were on a redeye flight home, provided us with a hotel room til we left. No paying for every bottle of water etc. Alaska is expensive but worth it. You definitely want a balcony. We spent alot of time there watching wildlife, dinner, breakfast, cocktails. You will not regret spending the money on Alaska, regardless of what cruiseline you pick. I checked out the cruise I wanted, then used cruise compete to get best deal. I wasn't crazy about my travel company, but I used them for price and then did research and told them what I needed done. Amex Platinum $300 shipboard credit and extras on certain lines. I would book with a agent I found on luxurycruisetalk.com if I did it again Lots of info on cruisecrtic.com boards also Kind of long winded, but I was was thrilled with my cruise.