Ruby Princess Completes Sea Trials

Princess Cruises' Ruby Princess has passed another major milestone in preparation for her November 8 debut, with the completion of her sea trials. The new ship set out to sea from her construction dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, and was put through her paces with a series of maneuvers to test her propulsion, steering, and navigational equipment. After a successful four days of trials, the ship is now back in the shipyard for further exterior and interior finishing. Ruby Princess will be ready for her maiden voyage from Ft. Lauderdale, a 7-day Western Caribbean sailing taking passengers to Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Princess Cays.

Ruby Princess is a sister-ship to Emerald Princess and Crown Princess, and will feature the same dramatic piazza-style atrium that have become so popular on those ships. Other ship highlights include an Italian trattoria, a seafood and steak house, a "Movies Under the Stars" giant outdoor movie screen, 900 cabins with private balconies, and The Sanctuary—Princess' signature adults-only retreat.

For a "first look" at those features and more, CruiseDiva.com shares a review of sister-ship Crown Princess.