MrsM and I are thinking about a Small Ship cruise next year. Either Alaska or Columbia and Snake rivers.

We've done the Super Ship thing in Alaska (as well as South America, North East Fall foliage, Greek Islands and Caribbean) and are looking to try something different.

We are in our early 60s and MrsM just had two knee replacements this year.

Any suggestions, help or misgivings?

I did Alaska last year on CruiseWest, and it was very good, I was on the largest ship, about 120 passengers. Spirit of Oceanus as I remember. It's all inclusive except for excursions and alcoholic drinks. All casual dress. The food was good and plentiful. One could buy wine for dinner. Staff were friendly and accommodating. I have some mobility issues and opted out of some of the longer walks. One port had a very high stairway, so I went down backwards. CruiseWest has some interesting itineraries.

The focus is on adventures and nature, so the 'CD's' were actually very versed in nature lore, both flora and fauna. There were many opportunities to go out in Zodiac boats to explore shorelines. Because of the small size, the itinerary can go where the larger ships cannot. One night during dinner it was announced that we were stopping to view a large pod of whales and cruising would resume when we 'had taken all the photos we wanted." There were two guest lecturers from the U of Alaska who were cartographers and were supberb. There were lots of lectures, no entertainment, and terrific scenery. There are binoculars in every stateroom.

I sail a lot on Seabourn; and this was very good without having to dress for dinner. I would avoid a stateroom on Deck 5 (the one with the lounge) because it's the one that circumnavigates the ship and there are lots of walkers who peeked in my window <G>.

You can email me if you would like, also check out CruiseCritis.com on their 'other cruise line' threads.
janepondatprodigydotnet

Alaska State Ferry out of Bellingham, WA. I would consider a charter before giving money to Cruise West. Jane's review is impressive, but few seem to walk away happy for the price paid. Dig deeper and you will find many options.

Yes, I agree that it was pricey and should have included all alcohol beverages, but it was still a good buy for the itinerary and the Zodiac options and the lectures.

Perhaps I am just too used to Seabourn. One problem was that it was $200% for a single traveler, but thankfully (g) my partner had his gallbladder out so I got it for 100% after claiming the insurance. Some cruisers do find the Japan itineraries interesting.

Check out A&K for Alaskan cruises on the Clipper Odyssey (look for "Small Ship Cruising"). I have been on the ship quite a few times - I'm leaving Tuesday for a Vietnam cruise. It is a gorgeous ship with great food and a wonderful staff with quite a few lecturers. No entertainment but I have never missed it as there are so many activities bedtime early looks good. Prices are fairly high but everything except liquor is included.

Did a short cruise of Prince William Sound with Cruise West a few years ago... booked early for a discount, so did not think it was overpriced at all... The crew were great, food OK and the scenery was not to be missed (waking up each morning at a new glacier)

^