Let me start by saying we are loyal Crystal cruisers but Princess' itinerary attracted us, so we thought we'd give it a try. To compare Princess to Crystal would in no way be fair, so I'll try to be objective as possible.
EMBARKATION: As easy as it gets. We got there early and once we checked in,we sat in a waiting area. Ruby Princess is a gigantic ship and with 3,080 passengers, we sailed full. Most of the nationalities were U.K., Spanish, Australian, Canadian and American along with a small contingent from the Phillipines. There were only 16 children on board and we hardly saw them.
At 1:00 pm, we were allowed to board.
Plaza Deck cabins are extremly small with bed pushed against one wall and nightstand at other side. Small desk at end of bed had an outlet for blowdryer and housed a mini fridge. Small flat screen TV on shelf above. Long closet divides bath from sleeping area. Shower was very small but water pressure was good. Single sink in the middle of counter and 3 small shelves holds stuff.