The Ruby Princess from Princess Cruises has been a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences.
Launched in 2008 and part of the Crown-class series, the Ruby Princess offers diverse itineraries, including voyages to Alaska, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and the Mexican Riviera. Below, we explore key aspects of the ship and what passengers have shared in their reviews.
Ship Overview and Layout
The Ruby Princess is designed to comfortably accommodate around 3,080 passengers and boasts a friendly ratio of 2.57 passengers to crew member, ensuring attentive service. While it’s a large ship, reviewers often praise its layout, which prevents it from feeling overcrowded.
The heart of the ship is the vibrant Piazza, an atrium surrounded by bars and restaurants that hosts various daytime and nighttime activities.
Deck 5 (Plaza) and Deck 15 (Lido) are particularly popular, with bustling entertainment spots and family-friendly pools.
Dining Experience
Passengers have lauded the dining options available on Ruby Princess, with many appreciating the ship’s main dining rooms, buffet, and several specialty restaurants.
The ship offers a mix of included dining options such as the main dining rooms and buffet, along with additional charge venues like specialty restaurants.
However, some passengers noted that the specialty restaurants and certain beverages are not included in the cruise fare.
A standout feature is the personalized service in the dining rooms, with waiters remembering guests’ preferences, such as dietary restrictions, creating a more intimate dining experience. The attention to detail from the crew, such as offering bread only when requested, adds a special touch to the overall dining atmosphere.
Entertainment and Activities
The Ruby Princess shines when it comes to onboard entertainment. Themed trivia nights, scavenger hunts, and even “The Voice of the Ocean” competition are just a few examples of activities that keep passengers engaged.
The ship also offers Movies Under the Stars, with complimentary popcorn, making it a hit with families. Additionally, multiple pools, hot tubs, and a state-of-the-art gym ensure there’s something for everyone.
For families, the kids’ club is a big plus, providing ample entertainment for children, while adults enjoy the casino, live music, or shows at the onboard theater.
Despite the ship’s size, it manages to maintain a laid-back and friendly vibe, where both kids and adults are likely to make new friends during group activities.
Ruby Princess Itineraries
The Ruby Princess offers a variety of itineraries, with destinations including Alaska, Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, and the Caribbean.
The ship’s homeports in the U.S. include San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale, and Galveston, making it easily accessible for North American passengers.
Whether you’re interested in sunny getaways or cooler adventures, Ruby Princess has itineraries that cater to different preferences.
For Alaska cruises, the Ruby Princess appeals to older crowds, given the higher cost of the itinerary, but it’s not uncommon to see families onboard, especially during summer vacations.
Meanwhile, the ship’s warm-weather itineraries draw in a wide range of passengers from couples to multigenerational families.
Passenger Reviews
In recent years, the Ruby Princess has received predominantly positive reviews, with Cruise Critic giving it an editor rating of 4.5/5, highlighting its versatility for families, couples, and seniors alike.
Passengers often mention the friendly and attentive crew, spacious and clean cabins, and the variety of activities offered onboard.
However, some guests have noted that the ship is showing its age in certain areas. Despite being regularly refurbished, a few public areas and cabin interiors could benefit from modernization. This is a minor complaint, though, as most travelers still find the ship comfortable and enjoyable.
Recent Incidents and News
Like many cruise ships, the Ruby Princess has faced its share of challenges. In July 2023, the ship collided with a pier in San Francisco, delaying its next voyage. The incident, though resolved, caused some concern among passengers at the time.
Furthermore, in 2020, Ruby Princess was at the center of a class-action lawsuit due to a COVID-19 outbreak onboard during the early stages of the pandemic.
Despite these setbacks, Princess Cruises has ensured the ship remains in top shape and continues to offer exciting new itineraries, including expanded options for Hawaii, Mexico, and the California coast in 2024.
FAQs
Q: What are the itineraries for the Ruby Princess?
A: The Ruby Princess sails to various destinations around the world, including:
Alaska: Cruise to glaciers, wildlife, and charming towns
Hawaii: Experience the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands
Mexico: Explore ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities
Caribbean: Visit tropical islands with crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches
Europe: Discover the history and culture of Europe
Q: What is the Ruby Princess like for families?
A: The Ruby Princess is a popular choice for families due to its kid-friendly amenities like the Princess Kids Club and Teen Center. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities and shows onboard.
Q: What are the dining options on the Ruby Princess?
A: The Ruby Princess offers a variety of dining options, including:
Main Dining Rooms: Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli
Specialty Restaurants: Crown Grill, Sabatini’s Italian Steakhouse, and Crown Princess Club 101
Casual Dining: Alfredo’s Pizzeria, International Café, and the buffet
Q: What are the entertainment options on the Ruby Princess?
A: The Ruby Princess offers a variety of entertainment options, including:
Shows: Broadway-style productions, magic shows, and comedy acts
Movies: Movies are shown on a large outdoor screen on the pool deck
Casino: The casino offers a variety of slot machines and table games
Q: What is the average price for a cruise on the Ruby Princess?
A: The price of a cruise on the Ruby Princess varies depending on the itinerary, cabin type, and time of year. However, you can generally expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 per person.
Conclusion
The Ruby Princess continues to be a favorite for cruisers, thanks to its wide range of itineraries, friendly service, and diverse onboard activities.
While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall experience, particularly for families and couples, is highly rated.
Whether you’re looking to explore the icy landscapes of Alaska or bask in the sun on a Caribbean beach, the Ruby Princess offers a memorable vacation option for a variety of travelers.
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