I wouldn't want to go to Alaska without the balcony. My two greatest memories in Alaska were standing on our balcony watching the whales -- long before they were announced over the PA, and Glacier Bay, watching the sea lions and glaciers calving from the balcony. We had room service bring a pot of coffee and hot chocolate to the room. We added our own "flavorings" and if we got cold it was a quick step back inside. We were sooooo comfortable and never missed any of the sights. You also won't have as many background "narrations" in your video tape when you get home as you get from the open decks. We will be dong our third Alaska cruise in June--with a balcony.