re: Best way to see Alaska

Cruise experience varies greatly. The larger the ship, the less you experience the environment, and the more extra fees you might encounter. Small ships like those used by NatGeo/Lindberg are far more nature oriented and more expensive...but with all costs included. Big ships are hotel like. Small ones can be Spartan and not accessible to mobility-limited people.

Denali Star train ride between Anchorage and Fairbanks is great.