bon voyage
Massive Ruby Princess cruise liner casts off from Galveston in first voyage in 6 years
The massive Ruby Princess finally cast off to Mexico.
By the numbers, Princess Cruises' massive liner the Ruby Princess boasts some impressive stats: 113,561 tons, 3,080 passengers1,100 crew members, 900 balcony cabins, and 19 passenger decks.
Now, the ship can add another number: 11, the number of days she'll be sailing to Mexico and the Caribbean on her first cruise from Galveston in six years.
Ruby Princess cast off from Galveston on Sunday, December 18 for its 11-day tour, the first of 16 sailings from Galveston on Ruby Princess’ winter schedule. As CultureMap previously reported, these tours include five- to 11-day voyages along with two 16-day, ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal transits between Galveston and San Francisco.
By current estimations, some 50,000 passengers will depart from Galveston during the winter/spring 2022-23 schedule. That means a potential boon to the local economy, with with many guests opting for a pre- or post-cruise land stay to island.
To mark the day and castoff, Princess president John Padgett hosted a traditional maritime plaque exchange with Galveston Port director Rodger Rees prior the ship's departure.
“Galveston is an important port for Princess Cruises, and provides an exciting and easy-to-reach option for millions of people living in the southwestern U.S. to enjoy the ultimate in classic cruise vacations marked by our Princess MedallionClass service,” said Padgett. “We appreciate the support of the Port of Galveston and the greater Galveston community for helping make this day possible.”
Rees, in turn, added, “Cruising from Galveston has never been better. Adding the first-class Ruby Princess to our sailing schedule, with its enticing itineraries, offers our cruise customers yet another spectacular sailing experience. These itineraries are a nice addition to our current ports of call. As the fourth most popular homeport in the U.S., we’re excited to welcome this beautiful ship to Galveston.”
As for those cruising along the Ruby Princess: Guests can enjoy onboard amenities including a luxurious spa, an array of dining options, nightly entertainment, four pools, and acres of teak-planked decks for sunning and relaxing — in a totally Gulf Coast Christmas.
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