Ruby Princess

    Princess Cruises

    Ruby Princess

    Regal Princess

    Princess Cruises

    Regal Princess

    vs

    Ship Comparison

    Ruby Princess vs Regal Princess

    For a blend of classic charm with modern comforts and personalized service, choose Ruby Princess; for contemporary elegance and advanced technology with diverse dining, Regal Princess awaits.

    The verdict

    The Ruby Princess, a refreshed Crown-class vessel, offers a genuinely warm and laid-back atmosphere, focusing on engaging activities and highly personalized service. It feels like a beloved classic, updated thoughtfully for today's traveler, making it particularly appealing for multi-generational families and those who cherish a friendly, intimate onboard community. The Regal Princess, a more recently launched Royal-class ship, leans into modern sophistication and innovative technology, providing a vibrant yet relaxing environment. Its contemporary design and integrated Medallion Class experience offer a streamlined vacation, catering to guests who appreciate cutting-edge conveniences alongside varied dining and entertainment. Both ships deliver the renowned Princess experience, but their distinct personalities will guide you to the perfect voyage.

    Choose Ruby Princess if…

    The Ruby Princess is ideal for multi-generational families and social cruisers who appreciate a laid-back, friendly atmosphere with engaging activities and highly personalized service, especially those seeking diverse itineraries from Alaska to the Caribbean.

    Best for

    • Families and multi-generational groups seeking robust kids' clubs and diverse activities
    • Social cruisers who enjoy lively group activities and engaging entertainment
    • Travelers focused on relaxation with options for spa, pools, and quiet lounging
    • Destination-driven explorers interested in varied itineraries like Alaska, Hawaii, and the Caribbean
    • Food enthusiasts looking for diverse dining, including casual and specialty options, with a focus on quality

    Avoid if

    • Those expecting only brand-new, ultra-modern decor throughout the ship
    • Cruisers who prefer constant solitude over lively audience participation
    • Budget-conscious travelers who want all fitness classes and premium spa access included
    • Guests who prefer to avoid additional costs for all shore excursions

    Choose Regal Princess if…

    The Regal Princess appeals to travelers who enjoy modern sophistication and innovative technology, alongside a mix of relaxing and fun activities, with a strong emphasis on diverse culinary experiences and contemporary entertainment.

    Best for

    • Culinary enthusiasts seeking diverse dining, from complimentary buffets to upscale specialty experiences
    • Travelers desiring a relaxing and fun atmosphere with dedicated adults-only retreats
    • Tech-savvy guests who appreciate innovative digital convenience like the OceanMedallion system
    • Families looking for dedicated youth programs and entertainment for all ages
    • Classic cruise enthusiasts who enjoy Broadway-style shows, formal nights, and traditional activities

    Avoid if

    • Guests who prefer all gourmet dining experiences to be included in the base fare
    • Travelers who expect complimentary access to all premium spa facilities like the thermal suite
    • Those who prefer a completely traditional cruise experience without modern technological integration
    • Families needing extensive, late-night complimentary babysitting services
    • Cruisers who value a continuous, wrap-around promenade deck for outdoor strolls

    Overall Vibe

    Ruby Princess

    The Ruby Princess, a Crown-class vessel, offers a welcoming and established charm, having benefited from a multi-million dollar renovation. While it shows its age in some areas, the ship maintains a luminous and romantic feel, designed to foster relaxation and discovery. Its layout is easy to navigate, contributing to its laid-back nature. As a MedallionClass ship, it seamlessly integrates technology with its classic cruise experience, providing a comfortable and familiar setting for guests to enjoy various destinations, from sunny beaches to icy glaciers. The focus here is on a consistent, engaging, and unpretentious holiday.

    Regal Princess

    The Regal Princess, a Royal-class ship launched in 2014, presents a distinctly modern and sophisticated ambiance. Its design prioritizes sweeping views, notably with the SeaWalk, a cantilevered glass walkway extending 28 feet beyond the ship's edge. This vessel embraces the latest offerings at sea, from its dazzling Princess WaterColour Fantasy light and water show to its integrated Medallion Class technology. The overall feel is contemporary, fun, and relaxing, appealing to guests who appreciate innovative features and a sleek environment while still enjoying traditional cruise elements. It’s a ship that marries modern design with the classic Princess touch.

    Atmosphere & Crowd

    Ruby Princess

    Onboard Ruby Princess, you'll find a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere that consistently feels engaging without being overcrowded. With a passenger capacity of 3,080 and a dedicated crew of 1,200, the ship maintains a comfortable space-to-guest ratio, allowing for personalized and intimate service. Guests often describe the atmosphere as friendly, with a strong sense of community, particularly evident in activities where audience participation thrives. It’s a ship where quick friendships are easily forged, appealing to a diverse mix of travelers who enjoy social interaction and a relaxed pace.

    Regal Princess

    Regal Princess cultivates a modern and sophisticated atmosphere that is both relaxing and fun, attracting a diverse mix of older and younger couples, as well as families. Carrying 3,560 passengers with a crew of 1,346, the ship offers a vibrant environment without feeling overwhelming due to its thoughtful design. The ambiance is generally lively, particularly in common areas like the Piazza, but there are also ample opportunities for quiet relaxation. This ship successfully balances energetic social spaces with serene retreats, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of cruisers seeking a contemporary and enjoyable holiday.

    Dining

    Ruby Princess

    Ruby Princess offers a diverse culinary journey, balancing complimentary and specialty options. Guests can enjoy traditional and Anytime dining in venues like the Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci Dining Rooms, or opt for casual fare at the 24-hour International Cafe, Horizon Court buffet, The Salty Dog Grill, Slice Pizzeria, and Coffee & Cones. For a special evening, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and the Crown Grill steakhouse are highly regarded, while The Salty Dog Gastropub provides a festive pub-style experience. The 'Wild for Alaska Seafood' menu is a notable highlight, catering to fresh seafood enthusiasts.

    Regal Princess

    Regal Princess prides itself on excellent and varied dining, with many complimentary choices including the Allegro, Symphony, and Concerto Dining Rooms, along with the expansive Horizon Court and Horizon Bistro. The Pastry Shop, Swirls Ice Cream Bar, Prego Pizzeria, and Trident Grill further enhance casual options. Specialty dining is a highlight, featuring the elegant Sabatini's, the acclaimed Crown Grill, and unique experiences like the Chef's Table Lumiere and Winemaker's Dinners. Alfredo's Pizzeria is a popular complimentary sit-down spot, and the Ocean Terrace Seafood Bar offers a la carte sushi and ceviche, ensuring a gourmet touch for many palates.

    Entertainment & Nightlife

    Ruby Princess

    Entertainment on Ruby Princess leans into classic cruise traditions with a vibrant social twist. The Princess Theatre hosts Broadway-style productions, while Movies Under the Stars provides open-air film screenings with complimentary popcorn. Nightlife is lively, with options ranging from the high-energy Club Fusion and Skywalker's Nightclub for dancing, to the more intimate Crooners Bar for piano melodies and the Wheelhouse Bar for a taste of British pub culture. Engaging activities like 'The Voice of the Ocean' and trivia nights foster strong audience participation, creating a festive and communal evening experience.

    Regal Princess

    Regal Princess offers a dynamic entertainment lineup, blending traditional shows with innovative experiences. The Princess Theatre features Broadway-style productions, while Movies Under the Stars remains a popular open-air cinema. A standout is Princess Live!, an interactive television studio hosting culinary shows, concerts, and game shows. The ship also boasts the unique SeaWalk, offering thrilling ocean vistas, and the Princess WaterColor Fantasy, a dazzling light and water show. Nightlife includes dancing at Club 6, gaming at the Princess Casino, and live music in lounges like Crooners Martini Bar and the Vista Lounge, providing diverse options for evening enjoyment.

    Cabins & Suites

    Ruby Princess

    Ruby Princess provides a comfortable array of accommodations, featuring nearly 900 balconies, alongside Interior, Oceanview, Mini-Suite, Reserve Collection, Suite, and Two Bedroom Family Suite options. Standard cabins, while not overly spacious, are well-appointed with 'Luxury Beds' and ample storage. Mini-Suites, at approximately 323 sq ft, include a separate sitting area and sofa bed, while Suites offer generous living spaces from 460 to 932 sq ft, complete with enhanced amenities. It's advisable to check deck plans, as some Oceanview staterooms have obstructed views, and certain locations may experience motion or noise.

    Regal Princess

    Regal Princess offers a high percentage of balcony cabins, with 81% of its staterooms featuring private outdoor space, though there are no dedicated oceanview cabins. Interior cabins are between 166 and 175 sq ft. Standard Balcony cabins, at 222 sq ft including the balcony, and Deluxe Balcony cabins (249-333 sq ft) are noted for their generally smaller balcony sizes. Mini-Suites, around 323 sq ft, include a sofa bed and separate sitting area. Suites, ranging from 440 to 1,500 sq ft, provide the most luxury, with perks like Concierge Lounge access. All cabins feature neutral decor, 'Luxury Beds,' and modern amenities like large flat-screen TVs.

    Service & Onboard Style

    Ruby Princess

    The service on Ruby Princess is consistently highlighted as personalized and intimate, with a friendly and engaging crew of 1,200 tending to 3,080 guests. The ship’s MedallionClass technology, while modern, enhances this personal touch by streamlining interactions and making onboard life more convenient. Serenity Stewards in The Sanctuary exemplify the attentive care available, ensuring guests feel well-cared for. The overall style is one of comfortable elegance, fostering a relaxed environment where staff go the extra mile to create a memorable and welcoming experience for every passenger.

    Regal Princess

    Regal Princess leverages its innovative Medallion Class technology to deliver a streamlined and efficient onboard experience, where guests can easily navigate, make purchases, and order services via the OceanMedallion and robust smartphone app. While the technology is a standout, the service remains attentive, with a crew of 1,346 serving 3,560 passengers. The onboard style is modern and sophisticated, with a focus on contemporary comforts and conveniences. Staff are adept at blending traditional cruise hospitality with the enhanced digital features, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey for a diverse passenger mix.

    Best Itineraries

    Ruby Princess

    Ruby Princess is a versatile vessel, well-suited for a wide range of itineraries, from the sun-drenched shores of Hawaii and the Mexican Riviera to the cooler, scenic routes of Alaska and the Caribbean. Its design, with ample outdoor spaces and engaging indoor activities, makes it comfortable for both warm and cold-weather sailings. The ship is particularly popular for Alaska cruises, offering unique experiences like National Park ranger lectures and 'Puppies in the Piazza,' connecting guests deeply with the destination. Its varied homeports allow for easy access to these diverse regions.

    Regal Princess

    While specific itineraries are not detailed in our records, Regal Princess, as a modern Royal-class ship, is well-suited for a variety of global routes. Its contemporary amenities, diverse dining, and engaging entertainment offerings make it a strong contender for popular destinations worldwide. The ship's robust Medallion Class technology enhances the exploration experience, providing convenient access to information and services wherever it sails. Regal Princess is designed to provide a comfortable and sophisticated base for passengers embarking on journeys to a mix of popular and scenic locales.

    What reviewers say

    Ruby Princess

    4.5/5

    Ruby Princess offers a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere with diverse activities and excellent, personalized service. It's a great choice for multi-generational travelers seeking a variety of experiences, despite showing its age in some areas.

    Regal Princess

    4/5

    Regal Princess offers a modern and sophisticated cruise experience with a relaxing and fun vibe, featuring excellent dining and innovative Medallion Class technology. While some cabins and balconies are noted as being on the smaller side, the ship provides a solid vacation for a diverse passenger mix.

    Itineraries to compare

    Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.

    Ruby Princess

    No upcoming itineraries listed. Ask our concierge to source private inventory →

    Regal Princess

    No upcoming itineraries listed. Ask our concierge to source private inventory →

    Compare different ships

    Swap either side to generate a new side-by-side comparison.

    Ship A

    Ship B

    More comparisons