Princess to Offer New 3-Day Sampler Mini-Cruises Aboard Ruby Princess

Princess has added two new December sampler sailings aboard the new Ruby Princess, offering passengers an opportunity to escape from the pre-holiday hustle and bustle with 3-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale. Departing on Monday, Dec 14 and Thursday, Dec 17, 2009, the new getaways each offer a call at the line’s private island, Princess Cays—an exclusive beach resort offering a day of relaxation and water sports. The sailings replace a previously scheduled wetdock.

“We were able to cancel an unnecessary maintenance period scheduled for Ruby Princess and turn it into a great opportunity for passengers to try our newest ship,” said Jan Swartz, Princess executive vice president. “These sampler sailings are a rare opportunity to experience the Princess product on a quick getaway. We think our passengers will appreciate the great value of these mini cruises, plus the chance to escape just before the busy holiday period.”

Launched in November 2008, the 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess features the line’s most popular new features including a dramatic piazza-style atrium with small-bite eateries and an ever-changing line-up of street performers. Passengers will also enjoy an array of dining venues including the signature Sabatini's Italian restaurant and the Crown Grill steak house, plus the new Wheelhouse Bar pub lunch. The ship offers many other Princess innovations including the relaxing adults-only oasis called The Sanctuary, the poolside Movies Under the Stars experience, and a unique behind-the-scenes option called the Ultimate Ship Tour.

Escape fares for the new sailings begin at $249 for the December 14 departure, and $299 for the December 17 cruise. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company's website at Princess.com.

Find out more about Ruby Princess in Cruise Diva's ship review.