Shattering Expectations: Our First Luxurious Cruise Aboard the Ruby Princess

Just a few months ago, my husband and I embarked on our very first cruise – a delightful 4-day journey on the magnificent Ruby Princess, sailing along the picturesque coast of California. We approached this new adventure with a mix of apprehension and curiosity, honestly not expecting to fall in love with the cruising lifestyle. Like many first-timers, we held certain preconceived notions: endless buffets, potential seasickness, and perhaps a lack of flexibility. However, from the moment we stepped aboard, every single one of our assumptions was gloriously proven wrong!

Cruising, as we quickly discovered, is an absolutely awesome way to vacation. The notion of constant seasickness quickly vanished with the smooth sailing. Far from mediocre, the culinary offerings were diverse and exquisite, catering to every palate. What surprised us most was the incredible flexibility in planning our days; whether we craved relaxation or adventure, the Ruby Princess offered endless possibilities. We found ourselves engaging in so many more activities and experiencing far more joy and spontaneous fun than on typical land-based vacations, where decision-making often leads to inertia. This cruise redefined our idea of a perfect getaway, making us true believers in the magic of a Princess Cruise.

Join us as we recount the highlights of our unforgettable Princess Cruise experience and share what we most cherished about our time on the Ruby Princess.

The Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Journey at Sea

The food on the Ruby Princess was not merely better than expected; it was an extraordinary culinary adventure. Princess Cruises offers an impressive array of dining options, ensuring that no matter your mood or preference, there’s a perfect spot to satisfy your cravings. From casual eateries to sophisticated, formal dining rooms, the choices are abundant and diverse. Guests can opt for the flexible “Anytime Dining” plan, allowing you to eat wherever and with whomever you wish, whenever you desire. Alternatively, the “Traditional Dining Plan” offers a consistent experience, with a set dining time each evening at the same table with the same delightful tablemates – a truly wonderful way to forge new friendships and share stories.

Each morning, our go-to spot for breakfast was the Horizon Court. This buffet-style restaurant presented an incredible spread of every breakfast food imaginable, from fresh pastries and fruits to made-to-order omelets and savory hot dishes. An added bonus was the charming deck located just off the dining room, providing a serene setting for al fresco breakfasts with stunning ocean views.

One of the many highlights was our first evening at the Crown Grill, a specialty restaurant that treated us to a fabulous steak and lobster dinner. The aged steaks, cooked precisely to order, were absolutely amazing – tender, flavorful, and perfectly seared. It was an exquisite experience that set a high bar for the rest of our cruise.

However, the absolute pinnacle of our culinary journey was undoubtedly our exclusive tour of the ship’s galley, followed by an unforgettable dinner at the Chef’s Table. This experience was beyond unbelievable, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes into the meticulous preparation of the ship’s gourmet meals.

The galley itself was an enormous, impeccably clean, and remarkably organized space, a testament to the dedication of the culinary team. Our tour began with champagne and delicious appetizers served right within the bustling yet pristine kitchen. This was followed by an exquisite multi-course dinner at the Chef’s Table. Each dish was a masterpiece, starting with a mushroom risotto that was absolutely “to die for,” and culminating in a visually stunning and incredibly delicious chocolate hazelnut dessert. The texture of the mousse inside the praline timbale was truly unreal, creating one of the most fabulous desserts I have ever tasted. The entire evening was a testament to the passion and artistry of the Princess Cruises chefs.

Our delightful Chef’s Table meal included Roast Veal Shank and Beef Tenderloin with oven-roasted potatoes (artfully carved to resemble mushrooms!), caramelized shallots, a refreshing Raspberry Sorbet presented with delicate “ballerina legs,” and a magnificent Chocolate Praline Timbale with Hazelnut Mousse.

Never a Dull Moment: Endless Entertainment and Onboard Activities

Boredom is simply not an option on a Princess Cruise. The Ruby Princess is a floating resort, offering an unbelievable number of activities and attractions designed to cater to every interest. You’ll need at least half a day just to explore the ship’s numerous decks and discover all it has to offer. From the thrilling casino and the serene Lotus Spa to the sparkling pools perfect for a refreshing dip, there’s always something to do. Imagine watching blockbuster films under a canopy of stars with “Movies Under the Stars,” or laughing along with talented comedienne performances. The ship hosts a vibrant array of live entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, musical acts, and intimate lounge performances. For those with a passion for learning, engaging cooking demonstrations and sophisticated wine tastings provide enriching experiences. And for the shoppers, a variety of boutiques offer duty-free luxury items and souvenirs.

What truly elevates the experience is the exceptional 5-star service. The staff on the Ruby Princess were consistently friendly, helpful, and attentive. Hailing from all corners of the globe, they brought diverse perspectives and fascinating stories, making every interaction a genuine delight. Their dedication ensures that every guest feels pampered and well-cared for, contributing significantly to the relaxed and luxurious atmosphere.

Forging Connections: Meet Intriguing People and Make New Friends

Cruising offers a unique social environment, providing countless opportunities to meet fascinating individuals and forge new friendships. Whether it’s over dinner, during an engaging activity, or on a shore excursion, the shared experiences naturally bring people together. My husband and I chatted with several couples and quickly learned that for many, cruising isn’t just a vacation – it’s a cherished hobby and a way of life. We met one couple who had booked three consecutive Princess Cruises on the Ruby Princess! They raved about the sheer convenience of keeping their luggage in their room for the entire duration, simply disembarking and re-embarking for each new itinerary. Imagine the incredible number of places they saw without the hassle of packing and unpacking multiple times!

The sense of community that develops onboard is truly special. Sharing a meal, a laugh, or a breathtaking sunset with fellow travelers creates bonds that often extend beyond the cruise itself. It’s a wonderful opportunity to broaden your horizons and connect with people from diverse backgrounds who share a common love for travel and adventure.

Tailoring Your Perfect Voyage: Choose a Cruise to Suit Your Personality and Hobbies

One of the most appealing aspects of a Princess Cruise is the incredible flexibility to customize your journey to match your specific interests and passions. Our particular cruise, for instance, had a delightful food and wine theme – a perfect fit for us! This meant a curated selection of wine tastings, special wine-themed shore excursions, and an abundance of wonderful gourmet food experiences. We were even treated to cooking demonstrations by two celebrity chefs, Iron Chef Cat Cora and Suzanne Tract, adding an extra layer of culinary excitement to our voyage.

Princess Cruises offers a wide spectrum of durations, from short 3-day weekend getaways to much longer, immersive voyages. Weekend cruises tend to be a little livelier and attract a slightly younger crowd, while longer or weekday cruises often appeal to those seeking a more relaxed pace. The options are truly staggering, allowing you to explore just about anywhere in the world: the sun-drenched Caribbean, the majestic landscapes of Alaska, the enchanting Hawaiian Islands, the vibrant cultures of South America, the historical richness of Europe, or the exotic beauty of Australia. With Princess, your dream destination is always within reach, and you can find a cruise that perfectly aligns with your travel aspirations.

Discovering New Horizons: See New Things and Explore Diverse Destinations

There is arguably no better way to experience a wide array of diverse places and cultures than on a cruise. The ability to visit multiple destinations while only having to unpack once is a game-changer for stress-free travel. I personally adored the rhythm of our cruise, which included days at sea. These “sea days” were perfect for enjoying the onboard amenities, relaxing, and building anticipation for the exciting ports we were about to visit. Moreover, there’s an almost magical feeling to waking up each morning in an entirely new place, sometimes even a new country, with a fresh landscape unfolding outside your window. The Ruby Princess seamlessly transported us between stunning locations, offering a blend of relaxation and exhilarating discovery.

Exploring the charming coastal city of Santa Barbara.

A delightful excursion through the scenic Wine Country in Mexico.

The Serenity of the Open Sea: Water, Water Everywhere

One of the most profound and unexpected joys of our cruise was the omnipresence of water. There is something profoundly serene and calming about being surrounded by nothing but the vast, shimmering expanse of the ocean in every direction. I truly believe there’s nothing more relaxing than savoring a freshly brewed cup of coffee as you gaze out over the endless blue, watching the horizon stretch into infinity. The beauty of the sunrise over the ocean, the glittering midday sun on the waves, and the breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant hues are experiences that deeply resonate and soothe the soul.

And let’s not forget the gentle, rhythmic swaying of the boat. At night, it felt incredibly comforting, almost like being a baby gently rocked to sleep. This subtle motion, combined with the fresh sea air and the quiet hum of the ship, contributed to some of the most restful sleep we’ve ever experienced on vacation. The constant presence of the ocean provides a unique backdrop to your entire journey, fostering a deep sense of tranquility and escape.

Embark on Your Own Princess Cruise Adventure

Our inaugural cruise on the Ruby Princess completely transformed our perception of ocean travel. It was a journey filled with gourmet dining, exciting entertainment, fascinating new acquaintances, and breathtaking new sights, all enveloped in an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and impeccable service. We returned home not just refreshed, but genuinely feeling “new,” as the Princess Cruises tagline #ComeBackNew perfectly encapsulates. If you’ve ever considered a cruise, or even if you haven’t, we wholeheartedly recommend exploring the world with Princess Cruises.

To learn more about planning your dream cruise and discover a sea of experiences awaiting you, visit Princess.com. Prepare to #ComeBackNew!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Princess Cruises. We are grateful for the opportunity to share our favorite places, products, and experiences with you, ensuring an honest and enjoyable review.