I was on Crown 6/11-18. LIke you, I've been to Alaska many times and was happy just to be going up there. My friend had never been, and it was disappointing for her to miss Ketchikan. And my favorite part of the cruise is actually the inside passage, which we didn't have, either.
I wasn't expecting much from this cruise. When we got done, I can honestly say it was one of the best cruises I have been on. The best room steward I have ever had, the food was good (usually just plentiful), and every one of the staff was great, including casino personnel. I did have issues with the front desk regarding Port Valet which took 3 days to fix, but it all ended up well.
I say, take the cruise. You will enjoy it, if that's what you want to do.
