kajunkruzer
NCL Pearl is a very nice ship.
We just got off her on 10/10/2008 after a 19 day cruise Seattle to Miami thru the Panama Canal. We had a BB balcony cabin on deck 10 port side, a great location close to the rear elevators and easy access to buffet and pool area on deck 12. As for what side of the ship is up to you (morning sunrise vs afternoon sun and the sunset). Deck 8 gives you a ocean view not a balcony. I don't think there is motion difference between deck 9 & 10 either. Take some motion pills with you on the trip just in case. Have a great cruise. Alaska is a beautiful place, been there twice.
Drew