After being on the sister ship, Emerald Princess, during our Mediterranean voyage, we were excited to board the Ruby Princess for the islands. Everything from check-in to departure went very smoothly. THat is what your vacation should be, a no brainer!

We loved the cruise island of Princess Cay and could have stayed there hours more. THe food they served for lunch on the island was a wonderful barbeque and you can use your cruise card to purchase drinks on the beach area. You will take a tender from the ship and the water was a little rough, but we made it. Weeks before our cruise,on another voyage, they couldn't tender the passengers to shore because of rough waves, so we were lucky.

Once we arrived in St. Maarten, my husband and I wanted to just relax, as we know the island well from our timeshare being there. Once you get off the ship, take a $4.00 water taxi to town. You catch it at the end of the pier. Once you get to town, you could choose to shop til you drop or sit on the beach right there. Rent an umbrella and 2 chairs and then they throw in a bucket of 5 beers. all for $20. WE just watched the activity and relaxed! It was wonderful. Of course, the native people try to sell you everything, but it was entertaining. THe beer on ice was great too. Read more