We had sailed on the Ruby the year she was launched, so we have a good point of reference. The interior appointments on this 2014 cruise were like new. Public rooms, cabins, pools, dining venues were all in excellent condition. The exterior shows a little wear and tear, normal for a marine environment.

We were very happy with all the crew, including wait staff. Polite, efficient and well mannered.

We selected anytime dining, except for the first night, never had to wait for a table. Dinner at 7:30 is the ticket. Nowhere does Princess mention 5 star, or even 4 star dining, and you will not find it unless you go for one of the premium dinners (We did not try any). If you can accept hotel quality food you will probably not be disappointed. My recommendation? Do not order your favorite meal an any large cruise ship, use your cruise to try new dishes. For example, if your local steak house knows you by name, and has a standing reservation for Saturday night, do not order steak on a cruise. Cruise ships are not specialists, and cannot compete. Never the less, at a table of six, four would rate dinner "good',or "very good", one would rate excellent, and one would wish they had ordered something else. You can, and should, ask for a different entre' if your's disappoints. Main dishes looked a little small, but by the time we had an app, salad, soup, main course and dessert, few remained hungry, and there is always the buffet. Read more