I think you are looking at your options correctly, for what it's worth. My daughter, who worked at WDW and still loves the Disney parks, really loves Universal Orlando. It is an excellent experience and unique. Picking a hotel to stay on points is an excellent choice as well.
We really liked our Western Caribbean but we thought Eastern was better. However, if Western makes the budget work, don't shy away from it.
The thing about other cruise lines is very real. Thousands cheaper.
Royal Caribbean offers a very unique experience with Oasis and Allure in particular.