West Coast/Vancouver repositioning cruise

[mosternaz]

Hubby isn't big on the idea of a cruise, so I thought we do a 3-4 day out of San Diego to Vancouver repositioning cruise to try it out.
I have never been on a cruise and would appreciate any help - it's really confusing.
1. Is there a downside to a repositioning cruise?
2. What is the best way to get airfare to get to CA and then return from Canada?
3. Is a cruise like this likely to be more "wavey" than another form of cruise? Do they stick close to shore or are you out to sea?
4. Any recommendations for lines or ships? I don't want a party boat or breakfast with Goofy - kids OK but not a kids boat - like activity - hate smoking - don't mind dress-up - love great food.
I really want this to be a sucess for us. Any help or advice will be most appreciated.
Thanks
Monica

[Karen Knowlton]

The downside is that you have to fly into one city and out from another, which can be more expensive than roundtrip air tickets. Or if you live at the point of origin, you need to buy a one-way ticket back home, which is usually quite a bit more than half of the roundtrip fare. Another downside would be the length of the cruise - if you are enjoying it, it will end WAY too soon!

My husband and I are doing a similar one (L.A. to Vancouver) this May, our first time on this type of cruise itinerary. It's an experiment for us, but one we're looking forward to!

[susanmaz]

Southwest, America West, and maybe Alaska Air do one-way pricing on their flights. You may need to look at flying back from Seattle rather than Vancouver, the price should much less expensive.

[Oggy Boy]

Depending on when you want to take the cruise, the northbound run up California, Oregon and Washington can get bumpy once you cruise past Pt. Conception (about 200 miles north of L.A.) It all depends on the ocean conditions, but many repositioning cruises take place in early May...it can be bumpy.

Depending on where you are located, I would suggest looking at cruises from your closest home port first.

Just my opinion.

Tom