Ruby Princess Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Chose this cruise because the port was close by (only 11 hours' drive) and the fare was the right price. Mexican Riviera would not have been my first choice but the price was right and so was the location and dates.
I have a high opinion of Princess right off the top: they are well-priced through Costco Travel and offer on board credit for Veterans. I was told that they were the only one to offer this credit but I am not certain of this claim. I'll be putting that to the test with RCL next year.
The buffet area was very crowded most of the time and we did not eat there very often. Choices seemed good and food seemed fresh but there were a LOT of people running through that line.
Cabin Review
Interior
Being first time cruisers, we went with the budget choice which was an interior cabin. As imagined, space was tight but we found a place for everything and there was "just enough" space. The bed was MUCH better than we imagined with plenty of space for both of us.
The shower was a bit on the cramped side as was the lavatory in general but I was able to tune that all out - all I needed was a shower, shave, and place to change clothes between activities. In my mind, "who cares about the bed as long as I have a quiet place to sleep?"
My only complaint about the cabin and that entire floor:
THIN, very non-soundproof walls which gave you audibles from all sides: both rooms side to side, as well as above and below. This makes "amorous activities" fun and exciting for our fellow passengers (sorry all, but that's part of the cruise experience in my book!). We also got to hear the passenger next door have a very ugly time with motion sickness through the duration of the cruise.
Cabin steward was EXCELLENT and I was sure to tip accordingly. They work extra hard and it's a thankless position on the ship.
Port Reviews
Los Angeles
Got checked in but the luggage tagging and check in process is all outdoors, VERY unsecure, and a nuthouse!
Mazatlan
An okay tour bus "run around" experience...but we were hit early and often by street vendors and others constantly trying to hawk their wares. Just walking on the beach felt like fighting off seagulls in the form of hats, swim attire, and other tourist junk for sale.
Cabo San Lucas
I probably enjoyed Cabo more than Mazatlan since we didn't really pay for an excursion but walked around on our own. More built up with less "in your face" sales going on the beach - a better experience than the other ports IMO.