We returned October 31st from a wonderful sailing on the Ruby. I am 48, my husband is 62. This was our 7th cruise, 5th on Princess. We had been to all the ports of call previously.

Pre cruise-Flew out of St Louis on Southwest. Stayed all night at the Hyatt Place North. Bought some precruise items at Total Wine and Publix. Had dinner at Kelly's Landing. Hyatt Place is fine for a one night stay. We waited an awfully long time for the shuttle at the airport. We take a taxi on our own to the pier. I am not a patient person and don't like to wait for the shuttle. Kelly's Landing was good as always. It's sort of become a tradition to eat there the night before we cruise.

Embarkation- We arrived at the port after 10 and waited inside the terminal with #1 boarding cards. They said they were running late but we were called around noon. They have free wifi in the terminal so while waiting I was able to pass time on the internet with my netbook. Check in was swift and easy as usual. Room was ready. Ended up eating lunch in the buffet, didn't feel like trying to argue our way into the dining room if need be. It was not in the Patters that the dining room was open. I sure wish Princess would get their act together on the dining room being open for embarkation. We did not get our luggage till after muster. I was getting a bit worried but it did show. I hate when it arrives late as I can't relax at sailaway knowing I still need to unpack. We hurried and unpacked and then went to sailaway. It rained! Only time we had rain interfere with anything so that was OK. Read more