Ruby Princess Review
Rating by category
Additional details
I had never been to Alaska (or Canada) before, and I already had experience with Princess, so we booked this cruise. First off, the ship was really nice, way better than the Star Princess (which desperately needs an upgrade). The beds are very, very comfortable.
I booked a mini-suite, which I prefer over the suite due to the combination tub/shower. (I disliked the separate shower in the suite because it's tiny and there is nothing to hold onto). There was plenty of sitting room in the living area, plus there are two tv's in the stateroom. I enjoyed the overall look of the ship, which seems to have undergone an upgrade.
The dining was good news/bad news: The Michaelangelo and Da Vinci dining rooms served very good food (included in the fare). The Crown Grill was just as outstanding on the Ruby as it had been on the Star (try their filet mignon!) and well worth the $29 charge. However, the Share by Curtis Stone and Salty Dog restaurants (which are not included in the fare) were major disappointments.
Cabin Review
Mini-Suite with Balcony
This is the perfect size cabin for two adults, especially if there will be a need to spend considerable time in the cabin. The combination shower-tub has multiple handrails and has plenty of room. There is substantial closet and storage space. The beds were very comfortable, too. There are two flat-screen tv's in this cabin.
Port Reviews
Glacier Bay
This was a beautiful, memorable cruise around the various glaciers. The Princess staff serves hot soup and warm blankets for those who view it from the top deck. The scenery is priceless. I was also impressed by how careful Princess was to ensure that their ship would not damage anything within the area, including the environment. Princess provides pasengers with a terrific video and other materials to educate about the bay. My only recommendation was that the event took too long. It really could have been accomplished in 3 hours instead of 6.