[carols]

Hello, I'm new to this forum and am planning an Alaskan cruise. I see some posts regarding this, but am still confused about the difference between north-bound, south-bound, round trip, and these 'inside passages'. What is the difference and what are the considerations that should drive my decision on which route to take?

Also, i'll have a wide range of ages on this family tour -- my mom will be 80, my sis and I are in our 40s, and I have a 7-year old niece. What cruise lines would you recommend, that might have activities onboard that could serve all our interests?

Thanks.

Carol