HELP!!! Going on first cruise 12/20/09. Ruby Princess! HELP HELP HELP!

[UnknowingCruiser521]

So I'm going on an Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Ruby Princess on Dec. 20th. I've never seen the ocean, so this is a big deal. I've only flown in an airplane once, when I was 2, and I don't remember it. I'm so lost. I have no idea what to do on the ship as to protocol and all that jazz. I'm saving up as much money as possible, because this is pretty much also my honeymoon, for the time being. My husband and I are a young couple, and we love to go a little crazy, but we still want some relaxation time without worrying about the younger kids on the ship. I know I want to eat dinner at both Sabatini's and The Crown Grill, so those aren't a big deal, but I was looking at the regular sample menu and it gives you a bunch of different types of dinners with different entree's under each, how does that work? Also, I'm pretty sure convertible twins means it can become a queen? lol. I know nothing about anything when it comes to things like this. I mean the nicest hotel I've been in for more than one day was definately not the Plaza. lol. So, as you can see, I really could use your help. Any and all advice would be much appreciated. Thanks. :)

 

Megan

The Unknowing Cruiser :confused:

[Toto2Kansas]

One thing to keep in mind with this is that a 7 day cruise over Christmas on those dates will be loaded with families and little children. Not sure if that is what you are looking for?

[paul929207]

First thing to do is relax and take a deep breath. You have five months until your cruise, so you have plenty of time to learn the basics.

 

As Toto said, over Christmas there will be many families, with children of all ages. But there will also be a wide range of other adults.

 

As to dinner in the main dining rooms. You have a choice of Traditional (first or second seating) and Anytime Dining. You were probably asked a preferece when you made your reservation. The menus and the dress code are the same for TD and AD.

 

Each evening when you arrive at your table, you will be given the menu for the evening. Each evenings menu will be different. On the left side will be everything that is always available. On the right side are the things that are different that night. Usually, the right side will have three appetizers, three soups, two salads and about six entrees. You can choose as many of each course as you want. Alot of people do not select something from every course because they can't eat that much. After the entree is finished you are given the desert menu.

[UnknowingCruiser521]

We actually got invited by my husbands aunt, and we're not paying, so I will take whatever. It's more that I'm just looking for advice. I'm not 21 so drinking aboard is not an option for me, but it is for my husband. I really just need any and all advice, if there are a lot of kids, oh well. lol. I'm still happy I even get to go. I know since this is a 10 day cruise, and we only have 3 sea days, that will be the only time we'll be on the ship. We are setting up shore excursions for all of the days that we will be on an island. Thanks for the help.

 

Megan

The Unknowing Cruiser :confused:

[caribill]

I have no idea what to do on the ship as to protocol and all that jazz. I'm saving up as much money as possible, because this is pretty much also my honeymoon, for the time being. My husband and I are a young couple, and we love to go a little crazy, but we still want some relaxation time without worrying about the younger kids on the ship. I know I want to eat dinner at both Sabatini's and The Crown Grill, so those aren't a big deal, but I was looking at the regular sample menu and it gives you a bunch of different types of dinners with different entree's under each, how does that work? Also, I'm pretty sure convertible twins means it can become a queen? lol. I know nothing about anything when it comes to things like this. I mean the nicest hotel I've been in for more than one day was definately not the Plaza. lol.

 

First, stop worrying. You will have a great time. You can do as little or as much as you want on the ship (and in ports).

 

Some of your points:

Children. Because Princess has a good children's program, much of the time you may not even notice them. Also, there are two pool areas which are for adults only. One is Terrace Pool at the rear of the ship and the other is the Spa pool outside the Spa area.

 

If you really want to be away from it all, you can reserve space in the children-free Sanctuary, an area on deck with extra thing padding on lounge chairs. Cost if reserved for the entire cruise is $15/day/person and you need to reserve this ASAP (by going to the Sanctuary) on boarding as there are a limited number of crusie-long spots available.

 

Yes, the twins can be pushed together to become a queen. Have your travel agent (or call Princess if you booked direct) ask Princess to make this request. And if they still are twins when you board, your cabin steward will willingly make the change to queen for you that evening.

 

The dining room menus are basically like the menus in any shore restaurant except the meals are included in your cruise price. Each night's menu will be different, although there are several items which are "always available." Just ask the waitstaff for whatever items on the menu that you wish to eat that night. You can pick multiple salads, soups, etc. if you wish. You can even pick two main entrees if you are really hungry. And if you are still hungry, you can always ask for more (just save room for what is on the desert menu).

 

And remember, if your schedule allows, you can also eat breakfast and lunch in a dining room if you do not want to use the buffet.

 

Become familiar with the cruise personalizer at www.princess.com. You need to use it to provide pre-cruise information such as passport information, etc. Also to print out your boarding passes withn 75 days of sailing. It is also used to pre-book shore excursions if you wish (highly advised to do it in advance as popular excursions may be sold out when you board the ship.) You do not pay for the excursions until you leave the ship and can cancel reservations by the deading posted for each port when on board.

 

Anyway, as you relax (except for the anticipation of a great cruise), feel free to ask any more questions that you may have.

[pokey's mom]

What kind of advise are you looking for? Dress? Excusions?

[nanfromatlanta]

Hi Megan, welcome to Cruise critic. We have an active roll call going with others who are on the same cruise, including myself. Here is the link:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=816544

 

Cruising is really a lot of fun and a great way to vacation. I suggest that you try to keep reading these boards. There is a ton of information here. Most of us are more than willing to answer whatever questions you may have.

[skellis]

Welcome to the world of cruising. Yes, the beds will be put together to make a double. If they are not already in the configuration you should immediately ask your steward to put them together from the first night. There are threads on this forum with all sorts of tips, descriptions, etc for the fleet in general, and you can search using the search function (upper right hand of the screen) to search for your ship. Also you should join the roll call for your cruise to meet fellow cruisers and exchange information on your particular cruise. Most people are very helpful. Just go to the roll call forum, click on princess, click on your ship and then click on the date of your cruise.

 

There are activities for young adults, just look for them in the Princess Patter, the daily news letter of activities. (bring a highlighter to mark what you want to do for the next day). Bring your swim suit in your carry-on and after you have lunch (many options for that) you can hit the swimming pool/jacuzzi/lounges while waiting for your luggage to arrive.

 

There will be a small map of the ship in the cabin, usually in the black book with room service menus etc take it with you until know the ship's layout. You can bring sodas and wine aboard, or you can buy a soda sticker for unlimited fountain sodas, or get a ultimate kids card which allows you to get virgin coladas, and other virgin bar drinks. I don't know what the cost is, but that way you could enjoy a virgin strawberry margarita while your spouse gets the regular one.

 

Do not stress out. You will have a wonderful time, enjoy movies under the stars, production shows, dancing in the disco, the great food (try the formal tea on one of your sea days), go to the roll call meeting, the newlywed activities, and have a fantastic time.

[Sox Fan Cruiser]

First thing to do is relax and take a deep breath...

 

That was my thought exactly. I started to get stressed out reading your post and I've been on 10 Princess cruises!!! And you're 5 months away! :)

 

You have come to the right place. I suggest that check out cruise critic whenever you can and start reading the posts. This will give you a idea of what goes on around the ship. You can't be expected to know everything or even what questions to ask. If a post intrigues you, go inside and read the responses. And if they discuss something you don't understand, ask.

 

You've taken all the right steps so far. 1) You booked a cruise!! 2) You came to cruise critic.

 

Use the search function but if you can't find an answer to your question then start a new post. Just be specific in the title of your post to get more responses. Just stating "Cruise Question" won't be as helpful as "How do I make reservations for Sabatinis?".

 

I fell in love with the Ruby Princess the first time I stepped aboard. Have a wondeful cruise!

[TracieABD]

Keep in mind that there is plenty to do on the ship that is included in your passage fare (no extra charge). You can watch movies on the big screen called Movies Under The Stars (MUTS). You can see shows. You can play trivia and other games for prizes. You can attend the art auction and watch other people spend money:). You can stare out at the beautiful ocean. You can eat yourself silly. You can walk (or jog) on the Prominade Deck. You can ues the gym and all of the equiptment. Some cruises have a book club. You can listen to the musicians on the Piazza and eat really good sandwiches.

 

I think that you will have a wonderful cruise. Relax and prepare for a terrific holiday!

[CaribbeanLVR]

So I'm going on an Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Ruby Princess on Dec. 20th. I've never seen the ocean, so this is a big deal. I've only flown in an airplane once, when I was 2, and I don't remember it. I'm so lost. I have no idea what to do on the ship as to protocol and all that jazz. I'm saving up as much money as possible, because this is pretty much also my honeymoon, for the time being. My husband and I are a young couple, and we love to go a little crazy, but we still want some relaxation time without worrying about the younger kids on the ship. I know I want to eat dinner at both Sabatini's and The Crown Grill, so those aren't a big deal, but I was looking at the regular sample menu and it gives you a bunch of different types of dinners with different entree's under each, how does that work? Also, I'm pretty sure convertible twins means it can become a queen? lol. I know nothing about anything when it comes to things like this. I mean the nicest hotel I've been in for more than one day was definately not the Plaza. lol. So, as you can see, I really could use your help. Any and all advice would be much appreciated. Thanks. :)

 

Megan

The Unknowing Cruiser :confused:

 

 

Megan,

 

FIRST OFF take a deep breath and relax. Think of it as a small city on water. You can do it ALL or NOTHING! You can sleep all morning or up at the crack of dawn watching the sun come up over some beautiful island.

 

You will have what they call a "muster" drill, for safety reasons only. PLEASE listen. Some here think it is boring, YET I always look at my surrondings. Try to look on line regarding the "RUBY" the newest ship, and try to get a feel as to what is where on board. MY first time it took me all week to figure out where things were at or which floors actually went from one end to the other.

 

Though you re on your honeymoon, and want to relax, TRY to get involved and do things, ie......trivia, bingo, piano bar singing. This can make you friends for life from not only in the US but from around the world.

 

Make your reservations for Sabatini's as soon as you get on board, they can fill up quickly. Get to the purcers desk, and ask for a layout of the ship. You will have two formal nights, but son't think you HAVE to attend. However for a first timer, it usually is pretty fun to see everyone all dressed up.

 

Take lots of pictures. And pictures will be taken of you. YOU can decide what pictures to purchase. TRY to wait til the last day or so and go through the photos Some may be discounted. Also do your "Ruby" T-shirt/coffee mug shopping the last tow days, when again they will be discounted.

 

 

MOST IMPORTANTLY!

 

HAVE FUN!

 

 

Tim

[mississauga]

Relax and do not overplan. When I took my first cruise many many years ago, there were no websites like Cruise Critic, I never knew or spoke to anyone who had been on a cruise. I just knew I wanted to go on one and I had a fabulous time. When I got married I talked my DH into going on a cruise and he too loved it right from the get go. I did not discover Cruise Critic until I had been on over 10 cruises so basically learnt the ins and outs of cruising on my own.

 

It's great to read about others' experiences but we are all different so what someone else likes, you may not or visa versa. The minute you board the ship, your own instincts will take over. The best advice I can give you is to read your Patters every day so you know what the ship has to offer and plan your day accordingly. Bring a highliter with you to mark what interests you. LOL:D

 

Congratulations on your up coming marriage and enjoy your cruise! You will love it!:D:D

[traveling1969]

You said you'll only have 3 sea days but remember, you'll have every evening on board. Also, if you get off the ship and you're not too impressed with the port of call, you can reboard and have the whole ship to yourself.

 

There are several shows a night at different venues but some of those repeat. There is always the CASINO (bye bye bucks:)). There is usually karaoke in the lounges or singalongs in the piano bar. Live groups will be playing here and there. There are usually free recent run movies on the stateroom tv. Most ships have an adequately stocked library. There is an internet cafe (yucko! this is a good time to stay UNconnected IMHO). One of our favorite things to do is to find a seat on the promenade deck and people watch (if only those folks knew what we were saying about them...probably the same things they are saying about us).

 

Most importantly, don't be afraid to change plans. Rigid schedules are for work. Cruise time is play time. Enjoy! Bon Voyage!

[lel5344]

We've only been married 35 years, so we're still working out some of the details. And we've only been on 8 cruises, so we certainly defer to those with so many more cruises under (or above) their belts (lol)).

 

We have a simple guideline that worked on our honeymoon and on every vacation we've ever taken:

 

Be aware that you can't possibly do and see everything, no matter how long the vacation. Bu be sure to enjoy all that you actually see and do. Case in point: on our trip to Paris, we went to Versailles, and we never set foot in the palace. Instead, we spent all day walking those magnificent grounds. No regrets - just an excuse to have to go back...

[Woodmnky]

You mentioned that you are not 21, but your husband is. The good news is that on a cruise ship, you can go into the bars and clubs with him, even if you can't drink.

As others have said, most of the activities onboard are included with the price of sail.

Enjoy your first cruise/seeing the ocean/honeymoon.

[Brill]

I am almost jealous; going on your first cruise is amazing. When you see your ship as you are driving up, you will be surprised how large it is. When you step aboard, you will have trouble believing it moves. We are going on the Ruby in January and know it will be a beautiful cruise. Going for 10 days the first time is wonderful. Instead of excursions, you might want to catch a cab when you dock and go to a beautiful beach. We enjoy traditional dining since we establish a relationship with the people we eat with each evening. It's fun to share your day with them. If you don't enjoy their company, you can always change to anytime dining where you go to dinner whenever you want to. You will receive outstanding service from your wait staff and cabin stewart. Automatic tips will be added to your account, and you can give additional moneys for special service. You can do as little or as much as you would like to do. Just lying on the deck is relaxing. Enjoy your wonderful trip...

[Colo Cruiser]

Enjoy your cruise and welcome to cc.

[FLACRUISER99]

Looks like a great trip whatever you do you will have a ball. And if you like it be sure to buy a FCC.

[Billy and Charlie's Mum]

So I'm going on an Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Ruby Princess on Dec. 20th. I've never seen the ocean, so this is a big deal. I've only flown in an airplane once, when I was 2, and I don't remember it. I'm so lost. I have no idea what to do on the ship as to protocol and all that jazz. I'm saving up as much money as possible, because this is pretty much also my honeymoon, for the time being. My husband and I are a young couple, and we love to go a little crazy, but we still want some relaxation time without worrying about the younger kids on the ship. I know I want to eat dinner at both Sabatini's and The Crown Grill, so those aren't a big deal, but I was looking at the regular sample menu and it gives you a bunch of different types of dinners with different entree's under each, how does that work? Also, I'm pretty sure convertible twins means it can become a queen? lol. I know nothing about anything when it comes to things like this. I mean the nicest hotel I've been in for more than one day was definately not the Plaza. lol. So, as you can see, I really could use your help. Any and all advice would be much appreciated. Thanks. :)

 

Megan

The Unknowing Cruiser :confused:

 

Megan, I see from the Ruby schedule that you will be sailing out of Fort Lauderdale. We also are sailing out of Fort Lauderdale in Feb on the Coral and let me tell you - I can't wait. I have watched You-tube videos of the ships leaving FLL and it sends goose bumps up my spine. I am truely looking forward to that experience as much as the cruise itself and going through the Panama Canal.

 

Just be aware that you may (more like probably) get hooked on cruising. Not a bad thing IMHO. We have always done land holidays and it is only in the last few years (now that the 5 kids are gone) that we can afford to go overseas and have big holidays. My husband went on a cruise in the early 80's with his first wife. He has always wanted to go on more, we finally went on one last Feb - now I am hooked, as you can see.

 

Enjoy your experiences, take lots and lots of photos, invest in a movie camera if the budget will allow and remember to have fun!

[katisdale]

Since you are cruising in December and I don't know where you are flying from I would make a suggestion - that you consider flying in a day prior to the cruise. I can't imagine anything worse than arriving after the ship has sailed because of bad flying weather from the northern US or Canada. I'm in NC but would seriously consider going in early for a Dec., Jan., or Feb. cruise. I didn't have an upbringing that included fancy dinners or formal clothes and was so nervous before my first cruise. I found my room steward to be a great resource. I was worried my clothes were wrong. I asked him what other cruisers wore and he said I was dressed just right, and I was. I'm much more relaxed now. I hope you have a great cruise and wonderful honeymoon.

[LoriPhil]

You still have time to get a passport if you don't have one yet (my mom advised us to always have a current passport because you never know when a fabulous opportunity might present itself :D).

[KruiserKat]

:DYou said you set up excursions at all ports. You may, at some ports, want to just get a cab at the dock (they'll be there) and go to a beach & hang. You'll probably find someone to share that cab with. Excursions are expensive!

[cdngrl]

i can't imagine having never seen the ocean or a cruise ship. you will be in awe, i know both will be very special for you. welcome to cruise critic.

[Fishndawg]

One of the best things you can do is read the daily publication that will be provided in a mailbox outside your cabin. It's called the "Princess Patter". This is packed with useful information regarding dinning, entertainment, show times, port information, available services, etc. Also if you arrangement for room service you should give the person delivering the food a small tip (couple dollars).