Ruby Princess Alaska Cruise Guide 2026

Quick Reference

Cruise Line	Princess Cruises
Ship Class	Grand
Gross Tonnage	113,561 GT
Passenger Capacity	3,082 (double occupancy)
Crew Size	1,200
Year Built / Last Refurbished	2008 / 2018 (MedallionClass upgrades)
Number of Decks	19
Homeport (Alaska)	San Francisco / Seattle
Typical Itinerary Length	7-10 nights
2026 Alaska Port Calls	58

Why Choose Ruby Princess for Alaska

The Ruby Princess holds a special place in the Princess fleet for Alaska sailings, offering a fantastic blend of classic cruising charm and modern amenities perfectly suited for the Last Frontier. As a Grand-class ship, she strikes a great balance – large enough to offer a wealth of dining and entertainment options, yet intimate enough to feel like you're truly experiencing the destination, especially from her many outdoor viewing areas. Compared to the larger Royal-class ships like Discovery Princess or Majestic Princess, Ruby Princess offers a slightly more traditional Princess experience, often at a more accessible price point, making it an excellent value without compromising on quality or the signature "Princess experience."

What truly sets Ruby Princess apart for Alaska is her fantastic array of features that enhance the cold-weather cruising experience. The iconic Movies Under the Stars (MUTS) poolside cinema is surprisingly popular, even in cooler temperatures, thanks to provided blankets and hot popcorn – imagine watching a nature documentary while sailing through a fjord! The adults-only Sanctuary provides a serene, heated escape, perfect for relaxing after a chilly day of sightseeing. Plus, as a MedallionClass ship, Ruby Princess offers seamless service, from expedited embarkation to food and drink delivery anywhere on board, making your Alaska adventure effortlessly enjoyable.

Built in 2008 and having received significant MedallionClass technology upgrades in 2018, Ruby Princess is well-maintained and feels contemporary where it counts. She's not the newest ship, but she's far from dated, offering a comfortable and reliable platform for exploring Alaska. This ship is ideal for a wide range of cruisers: families will appreciate the diverse activities and kids' clubs, couples will love the romantic dining and quiet retreats, and multi-generational groups will find something for everyone. If you're looking for a classic, comfortable, and feature-rich Alaska cruise experience that offers great value, Ruby Princess is an outstanding choice.

2026 Alaska Itineraries

For the 2026 Alaska season, the Ruby Princess will primarily sail 7-10 night itineraries, offering guests the choice of roundtrip voyages from both San Francisco and Seattle. These itineraries are meticulously crafted to showcase the best of Alaska's Inside Passage, combining vibrant port calls with breathtaking scenic cruising. In total, Ruby Princess will make 58 individual port calls in Alaska throughout the 2026 season, demonstrating her significant presence in the region.

A typical 7-night roundtrip itinerary from Seattle might look like this:

• Day 1: Embark in Seattle, Washington (depart late afternoon)
• Day 2: At Sea (cruising the Pacific Ocean)
• Day 3: Juneau, Alaska (arrive morning, depart evening)
• Day 4: Skagway, Alaska (arrive morning, depart afternoon)
• Day 5: Glacier Bay National Park (scenic cruising all day)
• Day 6: Ketchikan, Alaska (arrive morning, depart early afternoon)
• Day 7: Victoria, British Columbia (arrive evening, depart late night)
• Day 8: Disembark in Seattle, Washington (arrive morning)

For those sailing from San Francisco, the itineraries are often 10 nights, allowing for more sea days to enjoy the ship and the longer transit up the coast. These itineraries typically include the same core Alaskan ports like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and often Sitka, with the added bonus of more time at sea and the dramatic scenic cruising of Glacier Bay. Some itineraries may also feature Tracy Arm Fjord, offering another stunning glacier viewing opportunity.

Regardless of your chosen homeport, every Ruby Princess Alaska itinerary features at least one dedicated scenic cruising day. Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight for many, where a National Park Ranger often boards the ship to provide live commentary on the ecology and history of the glaciers. These days are truly special, offering unparalleled views of towering ice formations and potential wildlife sightings right from the comfort of your ship. Ruby Princess makes numerous sailings throughout the 2026 season, offering ample opportunities to experience this incredible journey.

Stateroom Guide for Alaska

Best Stateroom Categories for Alaska

When sailing to Alaska on the Ruby Princess, your stateroom choice can significantly impact your experience. For optimal viewing and comfort, here's how the categories generally rank:

1. Balcony Staterooms: Without a doubt, a balcony stateroom is the king for an Alaska cruise. Having your own private outdoor space to step out onto, breathe the crisp air, and watch glaciers calve or wildlife pass by is priceless. You can enjoy the scenery in your pajamas with a hot cup of coffee, or wrap up in a blanket on your private verandah. This is where you'll get some of your most memorable Alaska moments.
2. Mini-Suites & Suites: These offer all the benefits of a balcony, plus significantly more space, enhanced amenities, and often priority embarkation/disembarkation. If your budget allows, a Mini-Suite or full Suite provides an elevated experience, perfect for multi-generational groups or those seeking extra comfort.
3. Ocean View Staterooms: While you won't have fresh air, a large picture window still provides natural light and a view of the passing scenery. These are a great compromise if a balcony is out of your budget but you still want to feel connected to the outside world.
4. Interior Staterooms: These are the most budget-friendly option. While they lack a view, you can always head to the numerous public decks and lounges for glacier and wildlife viewing. They're a comfortable place to sleep and store your belongings, allowing you to spend more on excursions or specialty dining.

For glacier viewing, particularly in places like Glacier Bay, the captain will rotate the ship 360 degrees, ensuring everyone on both the port (left) and starboard (right) sides gets a fantastic view. For Tracy Arm Fjord, which is narrower, the views can be spectacular from both sides. Generally, I recommend checking your specific itinerary map closer to sailing to see which side of the ship might be facing the coastline more frequently on sea days, but for major scenic cruising, both sides will get their turn. Specific cabin numbers for "best views" are subjective, but higher decks and mid-ship locations are often preferred for stability and unobstructed sightlines over the lifeboats. Aft-facing balconies in Mini-Suites or Suites can also offer expansive, dramatic views.

Stateroom Types & Pricing

Prices listed below are approximate per person, double occupancy, for a 7-night Alaska cruise, and can vary significantly based on sailing date, demand, and promotions. Always check with Princess Cruises for current pricing.

• Interior Staterooms:

  Approximate Price Range: $800 - $1,500

  Pros for Alaska: Most affordable option, allowing you to allocate more budget to shore excursions or onboard amenities. Great for sleeping in without natural light.

  Cons for Alaska: No natural light or fresh air. You'll need to head to public decks for all scenic viewing.

• Ocean View Staterooms:

  Approximate Price Range: $1,000 - $1,800

  Pros for Alaska: Offers natural light and a window to the outside world, allowing you to see if it's raining or sunny without leaving your cabin. Better than interior for feeling connected to the destination.

  Cons for Alaska: Window may be partially obstructed by lifeboats on lower decks. No private outdoor space or fresh air.

• Balcony Stateroom:

  Approximate Price Range: $1,500 - $3,000

  Why this is the top pick for Alaska: This is arguably the best investment for an Alaska cruise. Your private balcony becomes your personal observation deck for glaciers, wildlife (whales, eagles, seals), and stunning coastal scenery. You can enjoy the crisp Alaska air, have breakfast with a view, or simply relax in privacy. It truly elevates the entire Alaska experience.

• Mini-Suite / Suite:

  Approximate Price Range: $2,500 - $5,000+

  What you get extra: Mini-Suites offer significantly more space than a standard balcony cabin, often with a separate sitting area, a larger balcony, and an enhanced bathroom. Full Suites provide the most luxurious experience with expansive living areas, priority services (embarkation, disembarkation, tender access), complimentary specialty dining on some suites, and often a dedicated concierge. For Alaska, the extra space and perks, especially a larger balcony, make for an incredibly comfortable and memorable journey, particularly for longer itineraries or special occasions.

Dining on Ruby Princess

Dining on the Ruby Princess is a delightful journey, offering everything from elegant multi-course meals to casual grab-and-go options. Princess Cruises is known for its quality cuisine, and Ruby Princess upholds this standard with a variety of venues to suit every palate and occasion.

The ship features three main dining rooms: Michelangelo Dining Room, Da Vinci Dining Room, and Botticelli Dining Room. Here, you can enjoy a rotating menu of appetizers, entrees, and desserts in a classic cruise dining setting. Princess offers both Traditional Dining (fixed table, fixed time, same tablemates and wait staff each evening) and Anytime Dining (flexible dining whenever you choose). The dress code is typically smart casual for most evenings, with "optional" formal nights where guests can choose to dress up in cocktail attire or suits.

For those seeking an elevated culinary experience, Ruby Princess boasts several excellent specialty restaurants, each with an additional cover charge:

• Sabatini's Italian Trattoria: My personal favorite on Princess, offering authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and handmade pasta. It's a fantastic, intimate setting for a special evening. Expect a cover charge of around $35-$40 per person.
• Crown Grill: A premium steakhouse and seafood restaurant, renowned for its perfectly cooked steaks, chops, and fresh seafood options. The atmosphere is sophisticated, and the service is impeccable. The cover charge is typically around $49 per person.
• The Salty Dog Gastropub: Located within the Wheelhouse Bar, this casual specialty eatery offers gourmet pub fare, including the famous "Ernesto" burger, a creation by Chef Ernesto Uchimura. It's a great choice for a relaxed yet delicious meal with an approximate cover charge of $18 per person.

Casual dining options are abundant and included in your cruise fare. The Horizon Court is the ship's main buffet, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide array of international dishes. You'll also find the International Cafe in the Piazza, serving specialty coffees, pastries, sandwiches, and salads 24 hours a day – a perfect spot for an early morning bite before an excursion or a late-night snack. Other casual spots include Slice Pizzeria for delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas, and the Trident Grill for burgers and hot dogs by the pool.

For a unique Alaska-specific dining experience, keep an eye out for the seasonal Crab Shack pop-up, often available in the Horizon Court on select evenings. This offers an extra-charge, no-frills feast of fresh crab and other seafood, which is a fantastic treat after a day in port. Princess also often incorporates local Alaskan ingredients and themed menus into the main dining rooms and buffet, especially fresh salmon and other seafood.

Room service is available 24 hours a day, offering a selection of complimentary breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, and entrees. Some premium items or full meals may incur an additional charge. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, Princess Cruises is very accommodating. It's best to notify them in advance of your cruise, and also speak to the maître d' in the main dining room or the restaurant manager at specialty venues upon embarkation.

Entertainment & Activities

The Ruby Princess is a hub of activity, offering a diverse array of entertainment and experiences that cater to every taste, from thrilling production shows to serene adults-only retreats.

Signature Experiences

Princess Cruises has integrated several standout features into the Ruby Princess that truly enhance the onboard experience, especially for an Alaska sailing.

• Movies Under the Stars (MUTS): This iconic Princess feature is a massive LED screen located poolside on the Lido Deck (Deck 15). Showing feature films, concerts, and sporting events throughout the day and evening, it's a unique experience. For Alaska, they provide cozy fleece blankets and fresh popcorn, making it surprisingly enjoyable even in cooler weather. Imagine watching a nature documentary about whales as you sail through a scenic fjord – it's truly memorable. Grab a spot early, especially for popular evening showings.
• The Sanctuary: Located on Deck 17 forward, The Sanctuary is an exclusive, adults-only (18+) retreat designed for relaxation and tranquility. For a nominal fee (half-day or full-day passes available), you gain access to plush loungers, attentive service, light snacks, and a quiet atmosphere away from the main pool decks. Covered areas and heated pools/hot tubs make it perfect for Alaska's cooler climate, offering a warm, serene escape with ocean views. Pre-booking is often recommended, especially on sea days.
• Princess MedallionClass Technology: Ruby Princess is fully MedallionClass enabled. This innovative wearable device (the OceanMedallion) streamlines your cruise experience. It allows for expedited embarkation and disembarkation (OceanReady), unlocks your stateroom door automatically, enables "OceanNow" delivery of food, drinks, and retail items anywhere on the ship, and provides intuitive wayfinding. For Alaska, this means less time waiting in lines and more time enjoying the scenery or activities. Make sure to download the MedallionClass app before you board.
• Lotus Spa with Thermal Suite: The Lotus Spa on Deck 16 aft offers a range of treatments from massages to facials. For Alaska, the highlight is often the Enclave, part of the Thermal Suite. This adults-only area (for an additional fee or included with some spa packages) features a Hammam (Turkish bath), a Caldarium (aroma steam chamber), a Laconium (dry heat sauna), and heated stone loungers. It's the perfect way to warm up and unwind after a chilly day exploring glaciers or ports.

Onboard Activities

Beyond the signature experiences, Ruby Princess offers a wealth of activities to keep you engaged throughout your cruise.

• Pools & Hot Tubs: The ship features several pools, including the main Calypso Reef & Pool (Lido Deck 15 mid-ship) and Neptune's Reef & Pool (Lido Deck 15 aft). Numerous hot tubs are located around these pools and in The Sanctuary, perfect for soaking while enjoying the views.
• Fitness & Sports: The state-of-the-art Fitness Center (Deck 16 aft) offers cardio machines, free weights, and fitness classes (some for a fee). Up on Deck 19, you'll find a Sports Court for basketball and volleyball, as well as Princess Links, a nine-hole mini-golf course.
• Casino: Gatsby's Casino (Deck 6 mid-ship) offers a variety of slot machines, table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker for those feeling lucky.
• Games & Trivia: Daily programs include trivia contests (often themed to Alaska), board games, card games, and interactive activities held in various lounges.
• Kids & Teens Programs (Camp Discovery): Princess Cruises offers dedicated, supervised programs for different age groups:
  • The Treehouse (Ages 3-7): Arts & crafts, games, themed parties.
  • The Lodge (Ages 8-12): Sports tournaments, scavenger hunts, video games.
  • The Beach House (Ages 13-17): Teen lounge with movies, dance parties, and social events.

  These programs are excellent for families traveling to Alaska, giving kids a chance to make friends and enjoy age-appropriate fun.

• Alaska Enrichment: Princess excels at destination-focused programming. Expect engaging naturalist talks about Alaska's wildlife and geology, presentations on local culture, and invaluable wildlife spotting advice. When sailing through Glacier Bay, a National Park Ranger often boards to provide live commentary, adding incredible depth to the experience.

Evening Entertainment

As the sun sets over the Alaskan wilderness, Ruby Princess comes alive with a vibrant nightlife.

• Shows & Theater Productions: The magnificent Princess Theater (Decks 6 & 7 forward) hosts dazzling Broadway-style production shows, illusionists, comedians, and musical acts. Check your MedallionClass app or daily Princess Patter for showtimes.
• Live Music Venues: You'll find live music throughout the ship. The Explorers Lounge (Deck 7 mid-ship) features live bands and cabaret acts. The elegant Wheelhouse Bar (Deck 7 aft) offers jazz and piano music in a relaxed setting. Crooners Bar (Deck 7 mid-ship) is a lively spot for piano bar singalongs, and Adagio Bar (Deck 16 forward) provides a sophisticated ambiance for pre-dinner drinks with gentle melodies.
• Bars & Lounges: Beyond the music venues, there are numerous places to grab a drink. Club Fusion (Deck 7 aft) transforms into a lively disco later in the evening. For panoramic views, head to Skywalkers Nightclub (Deck 17 aft), perched high above the stern of the ship, offering dancing and cocktails with stunning vistas.

Best Spots for Alaska Viewing

Getting the most out of Alaska means finding the best vantage points on the Ruby Princess. Here are my top recommendations for glacier and wildlife viewing:

1. Your Balcony Stateroom: If you have one, this is your private viewing sanctuary. You can step out any time, in any attire, with your own hot drink. It's unparalleled for intimate wildlife sightings and enjoying the peace and quiet of the fjords.
2. Skywalkers Nightclub (Deck 17 Aft): Perched high above the ship's stern, Skywalkers offers incredible panoramic views, often less crowded during the day than the Lido Deck. Its floor-to-ceiling windows provide a warm, comfortable spot to watch the scenery drift by. It's an ideal indoor alternative on a rainy or chilly day.
3. Lido Deck (Decks 15 Mid-ship & Aft): The main pool decks transform into prime viewing areas during scenic cruising. Head to the railings near the Calypso Reef & Pool or Neptune's Reef & Pool. There's plenty of space, and you're close to the buffet and MUTS screen. The forward-most part of Deck 15 (near the Bridge) also offers great, unobstructed views.
4. Horizon Court Buffet (Deck 15 Aft): On colder days, grab a plate of food and find a table by the large windows in the Horizon Court. You can enjoy a warm meal or snack while watching the glaciers and coastline, staying toasty indoors.
5. Promenade Deck (Deck 7): This wrap-around deck is fantastic for a leisurely stroll and offers excellent, low-level views of the water, making it perfect for spotting marine wildlife like whales and seals. It's also less windy than the upper decks.

Early Morning Strategy: To beat the crowds to the best outdoor spots, especially on Glacier Bay day, I highly recommend getting up early. Grab a coffee and a pastry from the International Cafe (Deck 5) and head to your preferred viewing spot before the announcements start. You'll enjoy a peaceful, unobstructed start to your scenic cruising. Captain's Announcements: Rest assured, the captain will make frequent announcements during scenic cruising, alerting passengers to upcoming glaciers, wildlife sightings, and rotating the ship to ensure everyone gets a good view. Listen for these announcements, as they're your cue to grab your binoculars and camera!

What to Pack for Ruby Princess Alaska Cruise

Packing for an Alaska cruise on the Ruby Princess requires a layered approach, as the weather can change dramatically from hour to hour, let alone day to day. Here's a comprehensive guide:

• Layers, Layers, Layers: This is the golden rule for Alaska. You'll want a base layer (moisture-wicking), a mid-layer (fleece or wool sweater), and an outer layer (waterproof and windproof). Even if it's sunny, the wind can be brisk on deck. A long-sleeve shirt works perfectly as a base or mid-layer on deck.
• Formal Nights: Princess Cruises describes its formal nights as "optional." Typically, there are one or two formal nights on a 7-night cruise. For men, a suit or sport coat with slacks is appropriate, while women often wear cocktail dresses, elegant pantsuits, or dressy separates. Most evenings are "smart casual," meaning collared shirts for men, blouses/sweaters for women, and no shorts or t-shirts in the main dining rooms.
• Shore Excursion Gear:
  • Comfortable Walking/Hiking Shoes: Essential for exploring ports, trails, and uneven terrain. Waterproof options are a bonus.
  • Rain Jacket: A good quality, waterproof and windproof Alaska cruise jacket is non-negotiable. You'll likely encounter rain at some point, and staying dry is key to staying warm.
  • Small Backpack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, binoculars, a camera, and any layers you shed during shore excursions.
• Glacier Viewing Essentials:
  • Binoculars: Absolutely crucial for spotting wildlife on distant shores or getting a closer look at glacier details.
  • Warm Hat, Gloves, Scarf: Even in summer, it can be chilly on deck during scenic cruising or early mornings. An Alaska cruise hoodie or Alaska cruise sweatshirt is a must-have for early morning glacier viewing.
  • Camera with Extra Batteries: You'll be taking a lot of photos! Cold weather drains batteries faster, so spares are a smart move.
  • Sunglasses: Even on cloudy days, the glare off the water or snow can be intense.
• Casual Wear: For sea days and relaxing onboard, pack comfortable jeans, khakis, sweaters, and casual tops. Many passengers pack Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts as casual port day wear and easy souvenir alternatives.
• What NOT to Bring: Leave irons, steamers, candles, and any illegal substances at home. The ship provides hair dryers, basic toiletries, and often a laundry service (self-service laundromats are also available on Ruby Princess).

Tips for First-Time Ruby Princess Cruisers

Having sailed to Alaska multiple times, here are some specific, actionable tips to make your Ruby Princess Alaska cruise unforgettable, especially if it's your first time:

1. Book Early, Especially for Balconies: Alaska cruises, particularly in peak season (July/August), sell out quickly, and balcony staterooms are the first to go. Booking 9-12 months in advance secures the best cabin selection and often better pricing.
2. Master the MedallionClass App: Download the "MedallionClass" app (and "OceanReady" app for pre-cruise tasks) before you even leave home. Complete your "OceanReady" steps to ensure swift embarkation. Once onboard, use the app for wayfinding, checking activity schedules, ordering food/drinks, and making reservations. It's a game-changer.
3. Reserve Specialty Dining in Advance: If you plan to dine at Sabatini's or Crown Grill, make reservations online before your cruise or immediately upon boarding. These popular venues fill up quickly, especially for prime dining times.
4. Do the Drink Package Math: Princess offers various drink packages. Calculate if a package makes sense for your consumption habits. Factor in specialty coffees, bottled water, and sodas, not just alcoholic beverages. Sometimes, buying drinks individually is more cost-effective.
5. Strategize Shore Excursions: While Princess offers excellent excursions, consider booking some independent tours in ports like Juneau or Skagway. Research local operators for potentially smaller groups, unique experiences, or better value. For Glacier Bay, you don't need an excursion; the ship itself is the experience.
6. Embarkation Day Hacks: Pack a small carry-on with essentials like medications, a change of clothes, swimsuit (for hot tubs), binoculars, and important documents. Your luggage might not arrive at your stateroom until late afternoon. Use this time to explore the ship, grab lunch at the Horizon Court, and even book spa treatments or specialty dining.
7. Manage WiFi Expectations (MedallionNet): MedallionNet is generally reliable for a ship at sea, allowing for streaming and video calls. However, it's not always as fast or consistent as land-based internet. Buy a package if staying connected is crucial, but be prepared for occasional slowdowns, especially in remote areas of Alaska.
8. Understand Gratuities: Princess automatically adds a daily gratuity to your onboard account. This covers your stateroom steward, dining staff, and other service personnel. You can adjust this amount at Guest Services if you wish, but it's standard practice to leave it as is.
9. Join the Captain's Circle: If you've cruised with Princess before, ensure your Captain's Circle number is linked to your booking. Loyalty members receive perks like onboard discounts, priority services, and exclusive events.
10. Money-Saving Hacks: The International Cafe is a fantastic free option for snacks and light meals. You can also bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard (a corkage fee usually applies in dining rooms). Many passengers find that packing Alaska cruise t-shirts or funny Alaska cruise shirts for casual port wear saves money on souvenir clothes. For families or groups, matching cruise shirts or Alaska cruise family shirts are popular for embarkation day and group port photos, creating memorable photos without needing to buy expensive port apparel.

Who Is Ruby Princess Best For?

The Ruby Princess offers a versatile and enjoyable Alaska cruise experience, but she truly shines for certain types of travelers.

• Families with Young Kids: With the robust Camp Discovery kids' clubs (The Treehouse, The Lodge, The Beach House), multiple pools, Movies Under the Stars, and diverse dining options, Ruby Princess is an excellent choice for families seeking a fun and engaging vacation for all ages.
• Couples/Honeymooners: The adults-only Sanctuary, romantic specialty dining venues like Sabatini's and Crown Grill, and intimate bars provide ample opportunities for couples to enjoy quiet moments and create special memories amidst the stunning Alaskan backdrop.
• Multi-generational Groups: The ship's wide array of activities, from enrichment lectures to production shows and kids' programs, ensures there's something for everyone, making it ideal for families traveling with grandparents, parents, and children together.
• Budget-Conscious Cruisers: While not a budget-line cruise, Ruby Princess often offers very competitive pricing, especially for interior and ocean view staterooms. Her value-packed experience makes her a great option for those wanting a quality Alaska cruise without breaking the bank.
• First-Time Alaska Cruisers: The classic Princess experience, coupled with excellent onboard enrichment and a focus on scenic cruising, provides a fantastic introduction to Alaska for those experiencing it for the first time.

However, if you're seeking an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive experience with butler service and Michelin-star dining, Ruby Princess might not be your top choice (you'd be looking at lines like Regent Seven Seas or Seabourn). Similarly, if you prefer mega-ships with thrilling waterslides and bumper cars, a different class of ship or cruise line might be a better fit. For a classic, comfortable, and destination-focused Alaska adventure with modern amenities and a friendly atmosphere, Ruby Princess is a truly outstanding option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ruby Princess good for an Alaska cruise?

Absolutely! Ruby Princess is an excellent choice for an Alaska cruise. As a MedallionClass ship, it offers streamlined service and amenities like Movies Under the Stars and The Sanctuary, which greatly enhance the Alaska experience. Its Grand-class size provides a comfortable balance of extensive facilities and a classic cruising atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the breathtaking scenery and diverse ports.

What deck is best for Alaska views on Ruby Princess?

For Alaska views, Decks 15 (Lido Deck) and 17 (Skywalkers Nightclub) offer some of the best panoramic vantage points. Deck 15 provides extensive open deck space near pools and the buffet, while Skywalkers Nightclub on Deck 17 aft boasts floor-to-ceiling windows for warm, indoor viewing. Deck 7 (Promenade Deck) is also great for spotting marine wildlife at water level.

Do I need a balcony on Ruby Princess for Alaska?

While not strictly "needed," a balcony stateroom is highly recommended for an Alaska cruise on Ruby Princess. It provides a private, personal space to enjoy the crisp air and watch glaciers, fjords, and wildlife at your leisure. It significantly enhances the immersive experience, allowing for intimate moments with Alaska's natural beauty right from your cabin.

How many sea days are on a Ruby Princess Alaska cruise?

The number of sea days on a Ruby Princess Alaska cruise varies by itinerary. A typical 7-night roundtrip Seattle sailing usually includes two full sea days, plus a dedicated scenic cruising day in Glacier Bay. Longer 10-night sailings from San Francisco will naturally have more sea days for the extended transit, often including a second scenic cruising experience like Tracy Arm Fjord.

What is the dress code on Ruby Princess?

The dress code on Ruby Princess is generally "smart casual" for most evenings in the main dining rooms, meaning collared shirts for men and blouses or sweaters for women; no shorts or t-shirts. There are typically one or two "optional formal" nights on a 7-night cruise, where guests can choose to dress up in cocktail attire, suits, or sport coats, but it's not mandatory.

Does Ruby Princess have a kids club?

Yes, Ruby Princess features Princess Cruises' Camp Discovery program, offering supervised clubs for various age groups: The Treehouse (ages 3-7), The Lodge (ages 8-12), and The Beach House (ages 13-17). These programs provide age-appropriate activities, games, and social events, making Ruby Princess a great option for families cruising to Alaska.

Is Wi-Fi included on Ruby Princess?

No, Wi-Fi is not included on Ruby Princess. Princess Cruises offers MedallionNet, a premium Wi-Fi service, for an additional fee. You can purchase packages for the entire cruise or for specific durations. While generally reliable for a ship at sea, manage expectations regarding speed and consistency, especially in remote Alaskan waters.

What time does Ruby Princess arrive in port?

Ruby Princess's arrival times in port vary significantly depending on the specific itinerary and port. Typically, the ship arrives in Alaskan ports like Juneau, Skagway, or Ketchikan in the morning, often between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and departs in the late afternoon or early evening. Always check your specific itinerary and the daily Princess Patter for exact times.

Can I book shore excursions through Princess Cruises?

Yes, you can absolutely book shore excursions through Princess Cruises. They offer a wide variety of excursions in each port, ranging from glacier helicopter tours to wildlife viewing, fishing, and cultural experiences. You can book these online before your cruise through the Princess website or onboard at the Shore Excursions Desk via the MedallionClass app.

How old is Ruby Princess and has it been refurbished?

Ruby Princess was built in 2008, making it a seasoned but well-maintained vessel. While not brand new, it underwent significant upgrades in 2018 to integrate Princess MedallionClass technology across the ship, enhancing the guest experience with features like faster embarkation, simplified navigation, and on-demand services. The ship remains in excellent condition.

Gear Up for Your Ruby Princess Cruise

Sailing on the Ruby Princess? Browse our collection of Alaska cruise shirts, hoodies, and outerwear — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port of call.

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• Alaska Cruises 2026: All Ports & Ships

Gear Up for Your Ruby Princess Cruise

Sailing on the Ruby Princess? Browse our collection of Alaska cruise shirts, hoodies, and outerwear — designed for cruise travelers who want comfort and style at every port of call.