Welcome to rrguess from Texas. Any way you decide to see Alaska is going to be a wonderful trip. In my opinion, for what it is worth, driving gives you a more leisure time plus you see what you want when you want and for as long as you want. In other words no time schedule. Big plus is you can take your fur-baby. My fur-baby passed but when we went in 2005 she loved it, but she always loved being in the MH. Real sorry to hear of the death in your family. May you all heal your hearts quickly.
The cruise does give you a different perspective but you get the whole picure driving all the way. Getting there is just as much enjoyable as when you arrive. Canada and the Yukon really have a lot to offer. Our favorite being Icefields parkway with Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper
Icefields ParkwayStill no matter what you decide....WELCOME...:B
lapinebob, a "roll call channel" sounds great, but I have to admit I know nothing of FRS radios. Our cousin has some walki-talki's that he is bringing. Is that the same thing?