Island Princess vs Ruby Princess

Island Princess

The Island Princess, launched in 2003 and last refurbished in 2015, offers a comfortable, mid-sized Coral-class experience that feels like a floating retreat. Carrying up to 2,214 guests across 16 decks, it's designed for those who appreciate a traditional cruise setting. While some public areas may feel a touch dated, the ship maintains a serene environment, particularly in spaces like the Lotus Spa and The Sanctuary. It’s a dependable choice for a classic voyage, prioritizing comfort and familiar programming over cutting-edge modernity.

Ruby Princess

The Ruby Princess, a Crown-class vessel launched in 2008, presents a more expansive and lively atmosphere. Recently renovated, this ship carries up to 3,080 guests across its 19 decks, offering a modern touch with its MedallionClass technology. It strikes a balance between relaxation and exhilaration, providing numerous balconies and a diverse array of entertainment options. The Ruby Princess feels like a stylish retreat, radiating a friendly and engaging energy that caters to a broad spectrum of cruisers looking for varied experiences.

Island Princess

Island Princess cultivates a comfortable, traditional, and family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting. With a capacity of 2,214 guests and a dedicated crew of 900, the ship maintains a good guest-to-crew ratio. However, some public areas, particularly on sea days, can feel a bit crowded due to its mid-sized design and the addition of extra cabins during its 2015 refit. It attracts a diverse crowd, but generally appeals to those seeking a relaxed pace without excessive late-night revelry.

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess boasts a laid-back, yet engaging and family-friendly vibe, celebrated for its friendly passengers and intimate, personalized service, even with 3,080 guests and 1,200 crew members. Despite its larger size, the ship rarely feels overly crowded, a testament to its thoughtful design and efficient guest flow. It fosters a social environment where new friendships form easily, particularly around popular activities. This vessel is well-suited for multi-generational families and social cruisers who enjoy a balance of relaxation and lively participation.

Island Princess

Island Princess offers a solid selection of dining, with complimentary options like the Bordeaux and Provence Dining Rooms for traditional or Anytime dining, Horizon Court buffet, and casual bites at Princess Pizzeria and The Bar & Grill. La Patisserie provides complimentary pastries. For an extra charge, guests can savor Italian cuisine at Sabatini's or New Orleans-inspired Cajun and Creole dishes with live jazz at Bayou Café & Steakhouse, though quality there can be inconsistent. The Chocolate Journeys program adds a delightful sweet touch.

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess provides a diverse culinary journey, from the complimentary Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci Dining Rooms to the 24/7 International Cafe. Casual options include The Salty Dog Grill for gourmet burgers and tacos, Slice Pizzeria, and Coffee & Cones for ice cream. Specialty dining, available for an additional fee, features the elegant Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and the popular Crown Grill steakhouse. The Salty Dog Gastropub within the Wheelhouse lounge offers a lively pub experience, and the unique 'Wild for Alaska Seafood' menu is a highlight on specific itineraries.

Island Princess

Entertainment on Island Princess centers around traditional cruise offerings. The Princess Theatre hosts production shows and guest performers, while Movies Under The Stars provides poolside screenings with popcorn. Guests can try their luck at the Vegas Style Casino or enjoy live music and cabaret acts in Explorers Lounge. Crooners Bar offers a classic martini bar experience with a pianist, and the Wheelhouse Bar provides a British pub feel. However, late-night options are quite limited, with most venues winding down after midnight.

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess offers a vibrant and varied entertainment scene. The Princess Theatre showcases Broadway-style productions, complemented by Movies Under The Stars featuring enhanced 7.1 surround sound. Nightlife is more robust with Skywalker's Nightclub offering panoramic views and a DJ, and Club Fusion providing a lively dance floor and themed parties. Guests can enjoy live music in the Wheelhouse Bar, jazz at Adagio Bar, or dueling pianos at Crooners Bar. The Vegas Style Casino and various lounges ensure there's always a spot for socializing and engaging activities into the late hours.

Island Princess

Island Princess provides a range of accommodations, from Interior and Oceanview staterooms to Balcony, Mini-Suite, Reserve Collection Mini-Suite, and full Suites. Standard cabins, while comfortable, feature a somewhat bland decor and small bathrooms with fixed-head showers. Balconies can also be on the smaller side. Suites, including Vista, Premium, and Penthouse, offer significantly more space, enhanced amenities, and priority services. Guests should note that some corridors can feel uneven, and the Promenade Deck is not a full circuit.

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess offers comfortable accommodations, including Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, Mini-Suite, Reserve Collection Mini-Suite, Two Bedroom Family Suite, and various Suite categories. Cabins feature Princess' 'Luxury Beds' and ample storage. The Two Bedroom Family Suite is a standout, accommodating up to eight guests with two bathrooms and a large balcony. While most Oceanview staterooms on Deck 8 and all on Deck 15 have obstructed views, the MedallionClass technology enhances the cabin experience with seamless access. It is advisable to review deck plans carefully when selecting a stateroom.

Island Princess

Onboard Island Princess, the service aligns with a traditional cruise experience, characterized by attentive staff in dining rooms and well-managed kids' programs. While the ship's decor in some areas, despite a 2015 refurbishment, can feel dated, the overall style is classic and unpretentious. The crew of 900 for 2,214 guests works to maintain a comfortable and familiar environment. The emphasis is on consistent, reliable service that supports a relaxed and enjoyable holiday, rather than cutting-edge innovation or overt luxury.

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess is noted for its personalized and intimate service, a standout feature that contributes to its friendly and engaging atmosphere. With a crew of 1,200 serving 3,080 guests, the staff-to-guest interaction is often praised for its warmth and efficiency. The ship's onboard style benefits from its MedallionClass technology, which streamlines room access and purchases, offering a modern layer of convenience. This blend of attentive, personalized service and technological integration enhances the overall guest experience, making the ship feel welcoming and responsive to individual needs.

Island Princess

Island Princess is uniquely suited for specific voyages, particularly Panama Canal transits, for which it was custom-built. Its mid-sized design allows it to navigate these specialized routes with ease. Beyond the Panama Canal, it typically embarks on itineraries to exciting destinations, appealing to travelers who prioritize the journey through diverse landscapes. The ship offers a comfortable base for exploration, with its onboard amenities supporting a relaxed travel style that complements destination-focused cruising.

Ruby Princess

Ruby Princess is a versatile vessel, well-suited for a wide array of itineraries, from the warm waters of Hawaii and the Caribbean to the cooler climes of Alaska. Its ample outdoor deck space and varied indoor activities cater to different weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for destination-driven travelers. On Alaska cruises, guests particularly enjoy unique offerings like National Park ranger lectures and 'Puppies in the Piazza.' The ship's homeports provide convenient access to these diverse and scenic regions.