We were going to go this June, our first time on an Alaska cruise, but of course it got cancelled. Down payments are not refundable, but they applied it to a future cruise credit. So we are booked for next year with a huge savings! We were going to spend close to $10,000 on two balcony staterooms for our family of six. Trip was booked a year in advance and was still very pricey... Now, for the same cruise next year, we are spending under $8800 on THREE balcony staterooms for our family of 6!!!!!! so one extra state room, plus an over $1000 savings! If you are commited to going on an Alaska cruise, I'd say book now, take advantage of savings. If you are not, then wait, because down payments are NOT REFUNDABLE, even if you cancel one day after you book.