QE2 Story Forum

Non-QE2 Area => Ships => Saga Ruby => Topic started by: Jeff Taylor on Jul 10, 2012, 03:24 PM

Title: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Jeff Taylor on Jul 10, 2012, 03:24 PM
I've seen posts from members thinking of trying out Saga Ruby again.  Well, don't waste any time.  Apparently Saga plans to retire her in January, 2014 at which time she will be 40 years old.  No mention of whether she will be put up for sale for further trading or head straight for India.
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 11, 2012, 10:00 AM
Have you seen the itinerary for Saga Ruby's final world cruise?
From a personal perspective, she is doing just about the best Southampton to Sydney voyage imaginable.
Rio - Port Stanley, Cape Horn, Easter Island, Bora Bora et al and nearly a week sailing round New Zealand (ex-home!)
Lucky are those who can afford it...
Over last weekend there was one brilliant cabin in the lowest grade on offer at £10,800 for the 60 night segment. This was nearly £5000 more than our Full worldie on QM2 cost us in 2011 - and Saga's price is something completely beyond our means.

Saga's cruise dept have said that there are no firm plans for her to be decommissioned in the near future - and at the moment, there are several discounts and availability on cruises next year. 
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Andy F on Jul 12, 2012, 12:05 AM
Saga's cruise dept have said that there are no firm plans for her to be decommissioned in the near future - and at the moment, there are several discounts and availability on cruises next year.
Now where have I heard that before...?
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Jeff Taylor on Jul 12, 2012, 12:57 PM
I wish I had copied it, but I also saw a quote from a Saga official saying that her retirement was due to the difficulty of providing their high level of quality and service on a ship of that age, etc, etc, etc.  Ally also picked up the same story on the Cruising Forum.  I think, unfortunately, that it's true and the sales department may think their version will be better for sales.  On the other hand, look how QE2 was sold out from the moment her retirement was announced.  As I said before, if anyone has an interest in her I wouldn't wait...
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Jul 12, 2012, 06:47 PM

Quote from Cruise Critic
'The 25,000-ton, 655-passenger ship will celebrate its 40th (ruby) anniversary with one final round the world cruise at the start of 2013.

Meanwhile, the line has announced Quest for Adventure will revert back to its former name of Saga Pearl II once its published cruise calendar is complete in 18 months. It will also no longer offer adventure itineraries.

The move means that Saga will be back to a two-ship fleet in 2014, and the line has hinted at plans for a new-build ship, most recently at the European Cruise Council meeting in Brussels.

A U.K. spokesman has confirmed that Saga would like to expand the fleet, but he denied any order had been placed for a new-build.

Robin Shaw, Chief Executive of Saga Shipping said: "Saga Ruby has delighted cruise-goers for some 40 years, but operating a ship of this age to meet the exacting standards we and others set is becoming an increasing challenge. We have therefore decided that she should be gracefully retired in 18 months. Saga Ruby will in her ruby anniversary year visit many of the ports where she been warmly welcomed over the years.

"We believe that Saga cruising has a great deal of potential and we have invested over the last few year well over £100 million on our fleet and we continue to look for opportunities to expand and improve our classic cruise experience."

Saga Ruby was built in 1973 at Jarrow Shipyard on Tyneside, and has sailed under two previous incarnations: Vistafjord and Caronia, when it became part of Cunard's fleet. Saga bought the vessel in 2004 and spent £17 million refurbishing it.'

From Cruise Critic
http://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/news/news.cfm?ID=4901

The beaches of Alang could hardly be experienced as graceful...maybe the yard in the River Yangste will be her fate, like that of 'The Rose'... :(
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Jul 12, 2012, 07:07 PM
Some (not me) would argue that Rose had a more graceful end than QE2...

Sent from my phone using Tapatalk.
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Jeff Taylor on Jul 12, 2012, 08:16 PM
Remember how vigorously Saga shopped Rose around after they retired her?  She was the subject of many rumors, and even moved around a bit.  It had to have been a hotel ship audience as unlike Ruby she was not Solas compliant.  At least with Ruby she has that, but 40 year old mechanicals and plumbing must present some challenges.  Well, Godspeed to her.
Title: Last British built cruise ship to retire
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Jul 13, 2012, 11:35 AM
Nice article here

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/cruises/cruise-news/9394984/Last-British-built-cruise-ship-to-retire.html

Some nice facts and stories there, including the fact that before the first world war, Britain made more ships than ever other country combined. Amazing. How far we've come...

Sent from my phone using Tapatalk.
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on Jul 21, 2012, 10:19 AM
You would think that Saga themselves would know that the ship was not built in Jarrow but at Wallsend.
Title: Re: End for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Sep 23, 2012, 05:33 PM
some nice images here of her classic lines   
                                         http://www.captainsvoyage-forum.com/showthread.php/455-Vistafjord-Caronia-Saga-Ruby-and-Sagafjord-Gripsholm-Saga-Rose/page5  just page down a wee bit, so so sad that the  ''Last''    is going, no more beautiful ladies...................
Title: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Gill on Feb 07, 2013, 03:55 PM
 :(2013 will be in the final year for Saga Ruby.  She apparently has numerous sailings throughout this year - 2 from Portsmouth; 5 from Southampton and 13 from Dover.  She will begin her final World Cruise on 7th December 2013 from Southampton, returning to Southampton for the final time on 7th January 2014.  So there will be several opportunities to see her throughout the year, depending on which part of the south you are in, but perhaps a special day would be Saturday 7th December 2013 when she begins her final World Cruise from Southampton and anyone who is able, to be there on 7th January next year to welcome her home for the final time at the end of her World cruise.  If all the dates are still valid, perhaps 7th January next year (weather permitting) might be a special day to be in Southampton to welcome her home.
Title: Have Saga finished with Ruby earlier than advertised?
Post by: pete cain on Mar 27, 2013, 06:01 PM
 Have today received the latest cruise brochure from SAGA ,& it looks as though the (what has been billed as the final cruise, in previous issues) Christmas In The Caribbean,  dep Southampton Dec7 for 31 nights has been dropped, (listed as cruise no RU669).      Voyage To The Canaries dep Southampton  Nov 23 (cruise no RU668) is her last, according to the May2013- March 2014 issue received today.

regards Pete....
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Mar 30, 2013, 09:11 PM
Some good news (for a change  on the forum) Ruby is enroute to Port Stanley at a steady 16Kn, however still Very Worried at the apparent cancellation of her final cruise (see last post).
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Peter Mugridge on Mar 30, 2013, 09:16 PM
Is it not simply a case of it not being in the brochure because it has sold out?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Mar 30, 2013, 09:25 PM
Peter they usually have bragging rights to say so, be it cabin grades or whatever, however you are probably correct in your correction.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Peter Mugridge on Mar 30, 2013, 09:30 PM
They might be wanting to avoid a huge fuss over it after all the egg that a certain other shipping line is still getting after several years?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: riskygizmo on Mar 30, 2013, 09:47 PM
Just had a look at the Saga Travel site and the Dec 7 Farewell Cruise is still listed and with berths available.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on May 16, 2013, 07:03 PM
Now the opportunity is there to put a bid in for the Ruby:

http://www.marine-consultant.com/p505.htm
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Rob Lightbody on May 16, 2013, 07:20 PM
Now the opportunity is there to put a bid in for the Ruby:

http://www.marine-consultant.com/p505.htm

Well that's more than QE2 got from her original owners... good luck to her! Gives her a better chance than our old lady got
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: cunardqueen on May 16, 2013, 08:58 PM
Quote
  Well that's more than QE2 got from her original owners... good luck to her! Gives her a better chance than our old lady got   

When you consider the price of some of the private yachts, she seems a bargain price...
I hope she goes to a nice home..

And unless lm mistaken, isnt that the Cunard Countess for sale as well further down the list...
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Alan Snelson on May 16, 2013, 09:12 PM
More likely to be the Cunard Princess, Countess' sister ship which used to cruise Alaska in the '80's.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on May 17, 2013, 01:51 AM
When I made an earlier link to this site some months ago when the Marco Polo first appeared I seem to remember that there was only a thinly disguised picture of the Ocean Countess in her blue livery, but then again the memory may be playing tricks.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Alan Snelson on May 17, 2013, 09:15 PM
And unless lm mistaken, isnt that the Cunard Countess for sale as well further down the list...

Apologies to Cunardqueen, the Countess and Princess were always very difficult to tell apart especially in their Cunard colours, but after extensive looking at pics of both ships it certainly does appear to be Ocean Countess, formerly Cunard Countess, which is for sale. I was still thinking of Ocean Countess with the dark blue hull and hadn't realised she changed to the lighter colour which is why I had thought it must be the Princess.

 Sorry I know this has drifted off the saga ruby topic.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: andy liney on May 18, 2013, 09:24 AM
I was still thinking of Ocean Countess with the dark blue hull and hadn't realised she changed to the lighter colour which is why I had thought it must be the Princess.


She is still in the dark blue C & M livery, that must be in old picture. At present, she is laid up in Chalkis.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Jun 06, 2013, 03:05 PM
'The Magic of the Fjords' - 29th May - June 5th 2013.
Despite fog, rain and low cloud, the early days on board were absolutely lovely - Saga Ruby continues to be the most beautiful ship on the high seas, she handles conditions as well as she ever did, she's retained her stunning good looks, and alongside Aida Stella (Flam and Dover) - there was no doubting who was the true Star. When did you last walk up along the steepening gradient of the deck as you reach the 'Bit beneath the Bridge? When were you last able to watch in wonder over a fo'c'sle full of winding lines, windlasses, cables and capstans etc complete with an officer and crew working their socks off - or equally good, stare astern towards the wake, across seven open decks from up top?
It's easy to recognise the ship's enjoying life as her bow cuts through waves sometimes in haste at over 20kts, and at others, while she trundles happily along at 12!
Sparkling white superstructure (painted throughout whilst being repaired Jan-April), not a sign of rust - the only wrinkles of the 'ageing' process we noticed (to our amateur eyes) was from one or two of the exhausts from her QE2 look-alike tenders, billowing yellowish black smoke under the canopies - these both in serious need of attention!

Reminders of QE2 are ever-present - from Saga Ruby's almost identical Bridge, her wonderful whistle, and right down to the magnificent sounds and reverberation of her engines / shafts and props; her teak decks and yards of railings too, all remain on the whole in incredibly good nick. 

Cabins are well lit, thoughtfully furnished in varnished wood (no 'plastic'), complete with a basket of maritime necessities including binoculars! Together with a smart bathtub and shower, in a nicely fitted bathroom - these would please many a 'passenger' on a 'hotel ship' should this be her next type of work. 
The new owner of Saga Ruby could do a great deal worse than replicate her original furnishings as Vistafjord, - take a look at her interiors on this site from the Love Boat Cruise, 25th May 1985
http://www.thecaptainslog.org.uk/ShipGalleryIndex/Vistafjord.html

Yes - there's no doubt she is hard work for all departments needing to keep her on her toes. However with a passenger to crew ratio of 2:1, it's been interesting to think of and compare this with the Cunarders' ratios. There, the high tempo working pace is accompanied by periodic anxiety experienced by some (on board the 'Queens'), both from the perspective of pax as well as crew. On board Saga Ruby - evidently a happy ship, the waiters and others were often heard singing / humming as they worked, and yet most are heading for an uncertain future after January 7th - again more reminders of the last days of Service on board QE2.

It was a seven night cruise as far as Skjolden, Norway via Stavanger (a reminder of the remarkable sail-away that the port shared with QE2 almost five years ago) Flam, and then to Bergen - by which time there was a generalised concern regarding the spread of a virus. Somehow only a few seemed to be thinking of the future of this truly wonderful ship with her Master, Captain Wesley Dunlop with his Ukrainian Senior Officers, and Crew who are almost all from the Philippines with a few from the UK. Interestingly she took two pilots (working shifts) who remained on board throughout the cruise in Norwegian waters.

It would be a significant mistake by this maritime nation were there not to be a buyer who cared enough about this ship, to keep her out of harm's way and the scrap merchants.
She is a wonderful ship - QE2's old mate and 'Piglet to her Pig'!
Saga Ruby needs to earn a living for someone who can afford to keep her alive as 'working' ship, whether as a training vessel, hotel or museum - or all three - she'll grace any port she's parked in.
I have taken photos, will post soon
In the meantime - there is more to see of 'The Ruby' here:
https://www.flickr.com/search/?q=Saga%20Ruby

PS - I'm sorry - I almost forgot to mention her stairways!
Pete in his description and  comparison with QE2 on his topic mentions the external stairways - I agree with everything he writes.
These (Sssh - dare I say it?!) are more impressive than those on almost any other ship - and the rounded staircases spanning the 3 decks forward are simply the best! Although she has only three lifts (elevators) Saga Ruby wins hands down when it comes to stepping about at sea!

If you can manage to go and spend a few nights on board, there's no doubt that she'd be delighted to show you all of her very best bits!
Rosie


Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jun 06, 2013, 09:53 PM
Hello Rosie, thank you for writing this up, and thank you for the reminder of this beautiful ship, which we enjoyed so much when she was a sister ship of QE2 and at that time called Caronia.

A proper ocean liner, strong and stable and (for those who are proud of the British maritime heritage) British built. Yes, Rosie, I too loved those elegant stairs and wish I had taken some decent pictures of them.

You make me think seriously about revisiting her as a Saga ship before she is sold once more. When she is gone, we will still (I hope!) be left with Marco Polo -- but while her shape and her hull are delightful, her interiors are refurbished, and nothing much is left of her original rooms, whether public rooms or cabins. The new interiors are not bad, but they are a bit bland compared with what they must have been like originally.

I am so glad that you had a wonderful cruise -- and thank you for the reminder that we need to hurry and enjoy Saga Ruby before it is too late!
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Alex Tarry on Jun 07, 2013, 08:22 PM
Rosie, your report is wonderful....something you may be able to help with, would the current owners let this 42 year old book a trip before she goes?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Jun 07, 2013, 09:16 PM
Rosie, your report is wonderful....something you may be able to help with, would the current owners let this 42 year old book a trip before she goes?

And a 40 year old!  They should lift their age restrictions from now until the end! :)
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: riskygizmo on Jul 06, 2013, 03:24 PM
From the Maritime Memories website. The cruise is listed on the Saga site too, but there's no mention of an age restriction on the MM site. Perhaps worth a try for any "kids" who want to try her before she goes.

http://www.maritime-memories.co.uk/another-special-voyage-around-the-canary-isles-and-morocco-2013.php (http://www.maritime-memories.co.uk/another-special-voyage-around-the-canary-isles-and-morocco-2013.php)
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jul 22, 2013, 09:50 PM
Some super images here of Ruby transit Kiel Canal, double click top image for full screen,  page through & enjoy while she's still around. Also these videos linked from the same page.

http://oceanliner-pictures.com/galleries/saga-ruby.html?startimg=0&offset=0



Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Jul 23, 2013, 09:33 AM
Having worked on board "Saga Ruby" whilst she is the port of Southampton many times over the last three years, it appears that the age restriction is over "50" as the lead passenger, and then anyone over the tender age of "40" may accompany them, there is however very few sailings left available before her final farewell.
You may travel on board Quest of Adventure/Saga Pearl11 if you are over 21
Her Southampton end of season tours start as far as I know start on 10th October 2013
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on Aug 19, 2013, 11:18 PM
The weather was dire on Saturday afternoon with very heavy rain but a visit to the mouth of the River Tyne was essential as the Saga Ruby was due to pass the river of her birth, almost certainly for the last time, whilst on her non stop cruise aroud the British Isles.

I attach a selection of photographs taken on Saturday evening as she made her majestic way up the coast of Tyne & Wear and Northumberland:

These show her suddenly emerging from a bank of heavy rain off Tynemouth, a distant view as she passed St Marys Island and Lighthouse, passing Dunstanburgh Castle, off Beadnell and making a sharp turn to starboard off Seahouses to pass outside the Farne Islands and as darkness was falling head direct to Scotlands east coast.

Feeling sentimental? You bet, to me she still looked as good as when I first saw her over thrty-eight years ago shortly after completion on "my river"
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on Aug 19, 2013, 11:30 PM
There seems to have been a problem loading my first image as she appeared off the Tyne so I shall make this further attempt and keep my fingers crossed:
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Aug 19, 2013, 11:56 PM
She really is a most beautiful ship, pleasing to behold and no doubt even now pleasing to stay on board. I am not surprised that you made the journey just to spot her sailing by.

I wonder why she made it a non-stop voyage rather than calling into the various ports for a farewell?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on Aug 20, 2013, 12:14 AM
The non-stop round UK cruise has figured in the Saga programme for a few years now, and indeed I believe the duty is being undertaken by the Saga Sapphire next year.

Here is another image of her when she started a few cruises from the river in 2009:

Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Aug 20, 2013, 01:27 AM
"Coastal Voyager" as it is called is sailing from Dover 13th-19th May 2014 (7 nights) on board Sapphire, if anyone may well be interested. (Prices from £921.00)
Also there is a nice article about Saga Ruby and her 40 year history in the publication "World of Cruising" Summer Issue (Issue 59)
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Sep 08, 2013, 06:20 PM
Less than a week ago in the Baltic, so lucky to've been there, more to come if anybody is interested
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Rob Lightbody on Sep 08, 2013, 06:34 PM
Less than a week ago in the Baltic, so lucky to've been there, more to come if anybody is interested

Awesome historic photo of these two beautiful classic old ladies together.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Sep 08, 2013, 06:36 PM
Awesome historic photo of these two beautiful classic old ladies together.

I cannot agree more! What a great opportunity... and so sad to think it will probably never happen again.

Thank you for the pictures.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Sep 09, 2013, 02:02 AM
I notice that according to Marine Consultants the Saga Ruby may well have a new owner, there web site quote " As of August 2013 Sale under negotiation"
Anybody have any further news ? 
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Bruce Nicholls on Sep 09, 2013, 09:15 AM
The "New owner" however could still be planning only one one-way voyage.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Sep 09, 2013, 04:29 PM
Talking to one of the officers last week , strictly off record & don't quote me, phrases being used ,but Africa was mentioned as a destination.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Sep 10, 2013, 08:39 PM
Anyway, allowing for the hour,.only 1 week ago, and to be repeated 1 last time, arrival at the western locks of the Keil canal, prior to a southerly run down the North Sea heading for Dover. (wish I'd done this sort of thing for QE2)
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: andy liney on Sep 17, 2013, 03:12 PM
...and here's a version in daylight (taken from on board 'Discovery' as she exited the canal at Brunsbuttel  atabout 18.00 on 13 September).

[imghttp://(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b276/No1Dog/20130913_150611_zps2e45599e.jpg) (http://s21.photobucket.com/user/No1Dog/media/20130913_150611_zps2e45599e.jpg.html)][/img]
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: andy liney on Sep 17, 2013, 03:16 PM
PS Saga Ruby was waiting to enter the lock (we were the last ship out before she did so) as she headed towards the Baltic.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Sep 18, 2013, 07:21 AM
We also did the Nord-Ostsee (Kiel) Canal transit on the same ship (Caronia at the time), and thought that, even for this reason alone, the smaller ships have a great advantage...

Beautiful scenery and enthusiastic people abounded.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Oct 04, 2013, 09:45 PM
She's a pretty ship.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Oct 07, 2013, 06:51 PM
As of this Thursday 10th October 2013 she starts her final sailings from Southampton
Good Luck 'Ruby'
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Oct 26, 2013, 08:42 PM
 I know this site is dedicated to QE2 & I feel as though I've hi jacked it a bit of late , with all the Ruby posts, but, is there a hint (reading between the lines) that there might be life for Ruby after Saga.'' Sailing out of Dover for the last time, as Saga Ruby''. I don't know , maybe wishfull thinking.


http://travel.saga.co.uk/holidays/ocean-cruises/saga-ruby/captains-blog.aspx?year=2013&month=9
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Oct 27, 2013, 07:40 AM
After taking thousands of travellers to thousands of ports of call on voyages that have spanned the globe Saga Ruby will gracefully retire in December 2013, after a glorious 40-year career.
Then and Now her career @ Sea:
1973; Built as 'MS Vistafjord' in Newcastle upon Tyne for Norwegian American Line, she was the last cruise ship built in Britain.
1974; Sets sail for her first ever World Cruise, which was 94 nights long and visited 23 ports of call.
It marks the start of a glittering career as a long distance cruise line.
1983; Purchased by Cunard, who sailed her for 15 years before renaming her MS Caronia
2003; Saga begin talks to purchase the ship, a move which would reunite her with her sister, Saga Rose.
2005; The newly-named Saga Ruby is treated to a lavish £17 million-pound refurbishment by her new owners.
2006; Embarks on her first World Cruise under the Saga flag, taking in 40 ports of call across Africa, Asia and the Americas.
2008; After sailing south to Antarctica, she becomes the first Saga ship to take passengers on an intriguing 'Mystery Cruise'.
2013; Her Final 'World Cruise' reduced from 109 nights to 61 as she spends most of January/February berthed in Southampton
2013; To celebrate 40 years at sea, Saga Ruby will spend the year returning to classic ports throughout the Norwegian Fjords, Mediterranean, Baltic, Canary Islands, the Caribbean

2014; Who Knows what lies ahead for this famous 'Old Timer'

 
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Alan Snelson on Oct 27, 2013, 08:31 AM
Curious to know why she spent so much time berthed in Southampton in Jan/Feb 2012?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Oct 27, 2013, 12:43 PM
Saga Ruby RTW Update
January 18, 2013 - 2:08 pm
We thank everyone who was due to travel on Saga Ruby's final Round the World Cruise for their continued patience and understanding.
The technical team that has investigated the engine problem has determined that work is required on an engine crankshaft and bearings. This is time consuming and Ruby will be ready to sail from 20 February.

We have completed work on what promises to be a fantastic new itinerary and are contacting all affected customers to discuss these new arrangements very soon.
We know customers are disappointed not to be cruising around the world, and so we have focused our efforts on enhancing both ports of call and onboard entertainment - in short making it the 'best of the best' on Saga Ruby.

Robin Shaw Chief Executive of Saga Cruising, Saga Ruby

Stand corrected. It was Jan 2013. Seems such a long time ago already
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Gill on Oct 31, 2013, 06:29 PM
Saga Ruby is apparently being sold.  She will return to Southampton from her Caribbean Cruise on 7th January and once all passengers have disembarked she will be handed over to her new owners.  That came from Saga themselves. Today they have told me that at the moment there is nothing finalised, but we can only hope she goes to a good home.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Oct 31, 2013, 06:51 PM
Let us truly hope that Saga Ruby will be better treated and treated with more respect than our beloved QE2...
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Oct 31, 2013, 11:47 PM
Let us truly hope that Saga Ruby will be better treated and treated with more respect than our beloved QE2...

June, until December 2012, QE2 was kept in extremely good order by V-ships and her project manager.
Since then, there has been no detailed information published regarding her condition.

Saga employees to date have not been given any details regarding the  future of Saga Ruby.
Many hope  that she won't be sailed up the River Yangste for scrapping as her sister ship was.
There is speculation that SR will survive although no-one can be certain that she will sail again as a passenger ship.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Nov 01, 2013, 05:20 AM
I was under the impression that after her final sailing from Southampton 7th December 2013 31 nights farewell cruise that she is returning to Dover !
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Nov 01, 2013, 04:01 PM
June, until December 2012, QE2 was kept in extremely good order by V-ships and her project manager.
Since then, there has been no detailed information published regarding her condition.

Saga employees to date have not been given any details regarding the  future of Saga Ruby.
Many hope  that she won't be sailed up the River Yangste for scrapping as her sister ship was.
There is speculation that SR will survive although no-one can be certain that she will sail again as a passenger ship.

Yes, I do believe that our QE2 was well cared for until V-Ships left at the end of last year.  Plus she was in a warm lay up which is definitely a plus.  But just imagine what could and probably has happened to her since, as she has gone into a cold lay up as far as we know.  Almost a whole year has gone by with probably no systems running. 

Hopefully Ruby can be saved by some firm or someone...
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Nov 01, 2013, 04:20 PM
A link to Dover Ferry Photos, showing her last departure from Dover.   
   
       http://www.doverferryphotosforums.co.uk/mv-saga-ruby-past-and-present/http://
   
  Forgot to add , double click on images to getem bigger
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Nov 09, 2013, 08:39 AM
Saga Ruby was in trouble again yesterday as she sailed in to Southampton with the aid of a couple of tugs, rumour has it that she has been having engine problems on her previous cruise, consequently missing a few ports of call. She was due to depart yesterday @ 16.00 hrs, after her 606 pax boarded during the afternoon, only to be told after muster, that she was to spend her first night in Southampton, and hopefully sail early in the morning before breakfast, this she has done departing 'City Terminal' @ officially 06.01 hrs.

Good Luck 'Ruby'
No further news on who her new owners are !!

Incidentally if anyone is still thinking about joining 'Ruby' for her farewell cruise, cabins are available in most grades
Prices start for the 31 nights @ £ 5729 - £ 20203 per passenger
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Michael Gallagher on Nov 09, 2013, 09:07 AM
I attended a memorial service to Bernard Crisp (longtime Cunard Director) on Saga Ruby yesterday. It was lovely to be back on board Vistafjord / Caronia and Saga have refitted her very well.

She does have a future and has been sold to new owners - details to be announced and when there is a small chance that she and QE2 will spend a lot of time together!

Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Nov 09, 2013, 10:19 AM
Do you know who the New Owners are & will she still be sailing ?, It was reported back in August that a sale was being negotiated, but I have been unable to find any further information
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Alan Snelson on Nov 09, 2013, 10:25 AM
I attended a memorial service to Bernard Crisp (longtime Cunard Director) on Saga Ruby yesterday. It was lovely to be back on board Vistafjord / Caronia and Saga have refitted her very well.

She does have a future and has been sold to new owners - details to be announced and when there is a small chance that she and QE2 will spend a lot of time together!

Sounds very intriguing, can't wait to hear more!

I remember Bernard Crisp from my time on board R.I.P.
Title: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Nov 30, 2013, 09:13 PM
Hi Pete and All,

Captain Krys just told us in the Britannia Club cocktail party that the CEO of Saga has asked him to announce the fact that 'Saga Ruby has been sold. She will be used as a hotel ship somewhere in Asia'.
The handover will take place in Gibralter following her final cruise.
Rumour on board remains -it's possible that she may be situated in/off the coast of Burma (Myamar ?sp)
Will write more on our return to the UK - in the meantime, she is trundling, just a bit - maybe the rest will do her good.
The Crew have all known for sometime whether Saga will find work for them on their orther ships, or not.
Some have returned following a visit to their families, post typhoon.
Rosie



Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Dec 01, 2013, 11:28 AM
Well done Rosie, hot off the press so to speak, I do hope history doesn't repeat itself (re QE2) at least the new owners  should have learned how ' not to ' approach the project. Good luck Ruby here's hoping for the best!!.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Dec 01, 2013, 03:17 PM
Thank you, Rosie, for the update on Ruby.  I truly hope her new owners will take good care of her.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Dec 10, 2013, 01:16 AM
Unfortunately I missed "Ruby's" last scheduled departure from Southampton (Have been sunning myself in the Caribbean for 2 weeks) but should be around for her return in Jan 2014.
Her new owners ? Who are they ? Another floating Hotel in Asia ?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Dec 13, 2013, 08:53 PM
I understand from a friend that Saga Ruby now stuck in Tenerife with a failed generator;
and because it powers the air-conditioning, Captain Majdzinski decided to abandon the original itinerary that would have taken Ruby to the Caribbean for a last time - a new itinerary around the Med is being worked out.

Some passengers we met had been on board since October and were staying till her final night in Service.
This will be dreadfully sad news to both all on board, as well as to all who knew and loved this ship.
She was smoking heavily when we were there (a week ago), we were with several Chief Engineers who noticed that her engines didn't sound too healthy. She was due to call in to Gib for the handover - it would be terrible for them, if those lovely passengers were required to fly home from there too.

There hadn't been a Fancy Dress Ball on the ship until, together - with all of our group (Des Cox, Ulla and all from Maritime Memories) spent our penultimate (but one) final night having the time of our lives - it was one of the very best nights at sea, Ever!

Saga Ruby, your Passengers, Officers and of course, magnificent Crew (some only just back from their short-notice trip home because of the typhoon)   We shall be thinking of you all so much, and hoping that you will soon be heading off, ready for your next next adventure.
http://travel.saga.co.uk/holidays/ocean-cruises/saga-ruby/captains-blog.aspx
 

Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Dec 14, 2013, 03:15 PM
That is such sad news Rosie, ending her career with a whimper, what a shame!, I hope they can sort something out  . The care & nuturing being carried out on the externals of the ship , will I'm sure be continued inside, good luck with repairs, good luck to crew & passengers, I suppose if they stick to the Med, then help isn't too far away!.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Dec 14, 2013, 03:29 PM
Looking at vessel tracker just now it seems that she's opposite Marrakech doing about 12kn.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Dec 15, 2013, 05:26 PM
More unfortunate news for Saga Ruby's farewell cruise


Saga Holidays Cancels Caribbean Cruise Itinerary Due to Faulty Generator
 
(4:27 p.m. EST) -- U.K.-based Saga Holidays was forced to cancel its 31-night Caribbean itinerary aboard Saga Ruby, due to a faulty generator affecting the ship's air conditioning system.

The ship will continue in the Mediterranean, where it can operate normally at its current generator capacity.

According to a Saga spokesperson, "It was discovered that one of the six generators could not operate properly without a part that needed to be manufactured." Because the air conditioning needs to run at full capacity in the Caribbean, "The Captain decided that for passenger comfort, it would be better to change the itinerary."

Of the 557 passengers onboard, less than 30 have returned to the U.K. and will receive a full refund. Those remaining onboard will receive a 40-percent refund.

"Having personally spoken to a great many passengers about our revised plans, I know that -- although some are disappointed about not proceeding as planned -- there is an understanding that this has been beyond our control, and it was better to find out now than in the heat of the Caribbean," said Robin Shaw, chief executive of Saga Shipping.

The cruise -- which departed from Southampton December 7 -- marks Saga Ruby's last sailing before retirement.

The new Mediterranean itinerary includes stops throughout Spain, Italy, France and Portugal. Saga Ruby is scheduled to return to Southampton on January 7.

Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Dec 15, 2013, 06:36 PM
Sad news about Ruby....
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Dec 15, 2013, 07:36 PM
More unfortunate news for Saga Ruby's farewell cruise


Saga Holidays Cancels Caribbean Cruise Itinerary Due to Faulty Generator
 
(4:27 p.m. EST) -- U.K.-based Saga Holidays was forced to cancel its 31-night Caribbean itinerary aboard Saga Ruby, due to a faulty generator affecting the ship's air conditioning system.

The ship will continue in the Mediterranean, where it can operate normally at its current generator capacity.

According to a Saga spokesperson, "It was discovered that one of the six generators could not operate properly without a part that needed to be manufactured." Because the air conditioning needs to run at full capacity in the Caribbean, "The Captain decided that for passenger comfort, it would be better to change the itinerary."

Of the 557 passengers onboard, less than 30 have returned to the U.K. and will receive a full refund. Those remaining onboard will receive a 40-percent refund.

"Having personally spoken to a great many passengers about our revised plans, I know that -- although some are disappointed about not proceeding as planned -- there is an understanding that this has been beyond our control, and it was better to find out now than in the heat of the Caribbean," said Robin Shaw, chief executive of Saga Shipping.

The cruise -- which departed from Southampton December 7 -- marks Saga Ruby's last sailing before retirement.

The new Mediterranean itinerary includes stops throughout Spain, Italy, France and Portugal. Saga Ruby is scheduled to return to Southampton on January 7.



Hi Trevor,
Thank you for this - Please can yu let us know where it was published?

AIS - Saga Ruby is currently passing through the Straits of Gibraltar

Rosie
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Dec 15, 2013, 11:59 PM
Cruise Critic announced it earlier today.
Hopefully I will get a further update in the morning as I am with Saga all today on board Saga Pearl 11.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Dec 16, 2013, 02:17 PM
Hi Trevor,
Thank you for this - Please can yu let us know where it was published?

AIS - Saga Ruby is currently passing through the Straits of Gibraltar

Rosie

Hi Rosie - Can you please let us know where Ruby is today ?  Thanks !  June
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Dec 16, 2013, 02:42 PM
June, look at this link  hope it works. Pete



  http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/details/ships/248563000
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Dec 16, 2013, 02:51 PM
Hi Pete - Thanks very much for the link.  It does work and I see where she is.  June
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Dec 17, 2013, 05:33 AM
The Latest update via SAGA Ruby Captain:


Almeria, Spain
December 15, 2013 - 11:00 pm
At 5 o’clock on Saturday evening Saga Ruby departed from Southampton on her last cruise. With all of our passengers on board, we left the City Cruise Terminal accompanied by tunes from the local brass band.
Once we dropped the pilot, we set sail in a westerly direction along the English Channel on our Grand Voyage towards the Azores. However, on the following day, after carefully studying the weather forecast and consulting the weather routing service, we decided to follow a more southerly route across the Atlantic. This would take us South toward the Canaries before making a jump across the pond.
After a bumpy voyage to Tenerife, we docked in Santa Cruz on Wednesday evening with the intention of carrying on the following day. Just before arrival, our Chief Engineer reported a problem with one of our generators that he hoped to fix while we were alongside. However, the next day, we received the rather gloomy information that he required a part that could not be manufactured on board nor obtained in a short space of time from the shore side. While the vessel was still safe to run in the mild climate, we soon realise that it would not be comfortable operated in the Caribbean. Our Air Conditioning system draws large amount of power that, with one less generator, could not be provided.
Overnight, Saga came out with a new itinerary that would put us in the Western Med for the Christmas and New Year period. We asked passengers whether they would like to continue the cruise with us and receive compensation or travel back home and receive a full refund. I am pleased to say nearly all passengers decided to stay. I was warmed by the positive response we received.  I can honestly say that our passengers are the most loyal group that I have ever come across.
So here we are, on a completely new cruise to some lovely destinations. First on our list – Almeria in Spain.
Captain Krzysztof Majdzinski, Saga Ruby

Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Mauretania1907 on Dec 17, 2013, 07:51 AM
I thought Captain Philip Rentell was Ruby's master, or has he now retired. btw, thanks to whoever recommended his book, I have recently purchased it.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Dec 20, 2013, 03:58 PM
Revised itinerary for Ruby in the med, at bottom of link
           
http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/captain-greybeard/http://
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Dec 26, 2013, 10:37 AM
Captain David Bray (part of the Maritime Memories group on board) had painted Saga Ruby as a special donation to an Auction in aid of the rescue efforts post typhoon, in the Philippines.
It sold for £800.
There are also prints of the same picture available for £40.
Although, at the moment there doesn't seem to be a copy in his online gallery, Captain Bray can be contacted at his website:   http://www.nauticalnostalgia.com/Art/gallery.html

He also has a vast fascinating collection of photos of old ships taken worldwide.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Dec 26, 2013, 03:58 PM
Thank you very much, Rosie and Pete, for your news !!
Title: Re: Final year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Tyne Turbine on Jan 01, 2014, 03:32 PM
How many people on this forum wish they were in Funchal for the New Year - not just for the wonderful fireworks but for the collection of beautiful "traditional" ships all in one place. A look on Ais early last night when already nine cruise ships had gathered revealed the presence of Saga Ruby, Funchal, Marco Polo and although from a slightly younger generation of vessel I am not displeased by the look of Aurora. Hope a member of the Forum was there and has some pictures to publish.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 05, 2014, 04:52 PM
 If I'm reading this right,  somebody correct me  if not ,  she seems to've been alongside in Lisbon for rather a long time???
      http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/details/ships/248563000 (http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/details/ships/248563000)
     
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Jan 05, 2014, 06:00 PM
I have been informed, only yesterday that both Saga Ruby & Pearl 11, which were supposed to arrive together in Southampton on Tuesday 7th January @ 7.30am, were both ships will be moored along side each other as to transfer all stores and most of the crew from Ruby onto the Pearl, has been cancelled until Thursday due to adverse weather in the 'Bay' and that Ruby is holding up in Lisbon until more favourable weather.
Hope this answers your question.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Jan 05, 2014, 06:03 PM
Quote
January 2014
Bad Weather
January 5, 2014 - 4:11 pm
We have encountered bad weather on our current cruise back to the UK and so I have made the decision to remain safely out of the weather in Portugal to avoid the worst of the stormy systems coming across the Atlantic.

Given the TV news reports of the havoc the storms are creating in the UK - there can be do doubt that we have made the right choice to remain in the safe haven of Lisbon until the worst of the storm abates.
Unfortunately this means a later arrival at Southampton and new homeward travel arrangements for passengers.
We hope to arrive on Thursday 9 January - although this is weather dependent as the safety and comfort of passengers is uppermost in my mind.

That Quote was actually from the Captain and not myself (Copy & Pasted from Saga Website)
Saga Ruby Captain's Blog
http://travel.saga.co.uk/holidays/ocean-cruises/saga-ruby/captains-blog.aspx
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 05, 2014, 06:12 PM
Thanks for that, 2 extra days on the last 'classic' how lucky are they?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jan 05, 2014, 06:40 PM
We hope to arrive on Thursday 9 January - although this is weather dependent as the safety and comfort of passengers is uppermost in my mind.

I fear this demonstrates the weakened state of Saga Ruby. She is such a solid ship, a true Atlantic liner, that in normal times, the weather would not have kept her in port. Indeed, I heard a former passenger tell me that Caronia (or was it Vistafjord?) calmly sailed out of New York on one occasion she was on board, when most or all of the other ships opted to stay put until a storm had passed.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 05, 2014, 07:56 PM
Isabelle, I'm absolutely certain that, it's not the condition of Ruby that concerns Saga but the age profile of her passengers(customers).
Title: Re: Final year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Jan 07, 2014, 11:24 AM
Pete and All

Today is the day that Saga Ruby ids due to return from her final passenger cruise in service with SAGA
Then she is due to sail to Gibraltar for the final handover, with Captain Kryzs i/c

Please, if a one can track her and post here for the next few days/ weeks perhaps, it would be really good
(Sorry, impossible for me to do this  from a very confused, bit of mid Atlantic!)
Waving, and feeling very sad
God's speed to the ship and her crew.

Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 07, 2014, 03:57 PM
For Rosie, & posterity,

http://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/home/centerx:-9.374785/centery:38.62213/zoom:8/mmsi:248563000
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Jan 07, 2014, 06:02 PM
Hi Pete and Isabelle
V many thanks
Having been on the Bay and Atlantic since last Friday. I am certain that Pete's right.
Saga Ruby would have weathered this mega storm just as easily as QV, if not more so
QV crashes into waves as she pitches, then stops and judders, whereas although SR does pitch a fair amount, she would also have the ability to cut through them
Rosie
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Jan 07, 2014, 09:04 PM
Latest news regarding the Final arrival of Saga Ruby into Southampton (As a Saga Ship) is that she will arrive at Berth 101, City Terminal at around 21.21 hrs Thursday 9th, stay in Port until the following day, when she will dis embark her passengers in the morning. The morning of the 10th will also see the arrival of Saga Pearl 11, at the same berth for the transfer of stores etc, as previously mentioned.
A busy day for Southampton Cruise Terminals as QM2/QE & Arcadia are also all in setting sail on each of their World Cruises.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Jan 08, 2014, 08:32 PM
Thank you all for the news on Ruby.  Feeling sad... :'(
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 09, 2014, 11:35 PM
Rubys progress today, & her final turn to come alongside :'(
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Jan 10, 2014, 04:18 AM
She arrived safely just after 23-00 hrs, passengers are due to disembark later this morning, an then Ruby is due to set sail at 14-00 hrs for Gibraltar.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Jan 10, 2014, 05:02 PM
 :'(
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 11, 2014, 06:10 PM
it's an ill wind as they say, had she been in warmer waters , then maybe nobody would record her passing.



ooops who doesn't know what year it is?
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: tdickson on Jan 11, 2014, 09:10 PM
Sorry to correct you, but that Video was actually shot at approx 7-00pm on the 29th December 2012 as Saga Ruby left Piraeus Athens for a day at Sea then onto spend New Years Eve in Valletta Malta. This last trip she only got as far as Italian waters in the Mediterranean.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 12, 2014, 05:37 PM
No probs, if you notice I corrected myself after the post!
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jan 14, 2014, 03:17 PM
Nice article, with some fine photos of her final Southampton departure, in Maritime Matters :

http://maritimematters.com/2014/01/the-end-of-a-golden-era-of-cruising/

It is well worth reading the comments too!
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: June Ingram on Jan 14, 2014, 07:41 PM
Thank you, Isabelle, for posting the link to the story about Saga Ruby.  It is a very good article, quite sympathetic, and it includes some very nice photos of Ruby.  Yes, comments are definitely well worth reading.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jan 15, 2014, 05:13 PM
Another article here on Maritime Matters, with some fine photos too.

http://maritimematters.com/2014/01/a-last-look-inside-saga-ruby/

Also some comments on the design work created for her when she was built as the brand new Vistafjord.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: pete cain on Jan 15, 2014, 05:39 PM
Nice! thankyou Isabelle
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Twynkle on Jun 02, 2015, 06:01 PM
The penultimate voyage on board Saga Ruby
A report by Des Cox, our 'host' on board for the cruise which included many seafarers associated with Maritime Memories
and incidentally, the director of Snowbow - the website where Robert Lloyd's art work is for sale.
Des is also film-maker of the many fine old shipping films shown on TV sets on board all Cunarders as well as many other cruise ships.
 http://www.maritime-memories.co.uk/review-of-voyage-19.php
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: cunardqueen on Jun 02, 2015, 07:00 PM
She was my first ever ship visit as the Vistafjord, l was tendered out to her when she anchored in Kirkwall Bay. The same year as l set of on my first QE2 cruise in 1986. as a very young ship fan it was a great introduction to Cunard. I was given a quick ship tour and then taken for lunch where l met Perr The Rest manager and as a souvenir he gave me a NAC Fish plate.

Years later on the Hotel Managers table on QE2 l mentioned this to the Purser Jan Kristiansen, lm sure he told me that he was very ill, but remarked on what a small world it was.

Iv always said, No one looks after a visitor like Cunard does.     
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Barumfox on Jul 18, 2019, 01:07 AM
I have just come across this thread and after sparking a trip down memory lane thought it might be an idea to add some photos which are more fitting of a fine ship than those of her on the beach at Alang. On 9th January 2014 I happened to be staying overnight at the Holiday Inn next to Mayflower Park prior to joining QM2 for the first segment of her  World Cruise down to Capetown. Having noticed on the Shipfinder App that Saga Ruby was somewhat surprisingly making her way up Southampton Water at 10.30pm that night I finished a coffee and hen went out to the Park viewing area to watch her approach - first photo - and then dock behind fleetmate Saga Pearl II - as shown in the second photo the following morning.

After boarding QM2 in the Ocean Dock and being out on deck in the afternoon I heard her saluting another ship and then realised Saga Ruby was sailing past her former Cunard fleetmate so took the other two photos including one of her passing the Queen Elizabeth also starting her World Cruise (via New York) that day. - a comparison of Cunard past and present.  P&O's Arcadia was also in port - and, ironically had been the ship initially intended to replace the Caronia in the Cunard fleet as Queen Victoria in January 2005 before Cunard decided that she was not totally suitable for their needs and ordered the current Queen Victoria in April 2004,  which did not enter service until December 2007 so leaving Cunard a two ship fleet for another three years.

Another personal coincidence was that I had managed to get on Caronia's last cruise before delivery to Saga on 1st November 2004 and our last call was at Lisbon with QM2 - and as with Saga a transfer of stores took place. QM2 then led Caronia down the Tagus on a beautiful evening before accelerating away to get to Southampton 24 hours before Caronia. On arrival at the QEII terminal there were Saga lorries lined up with refit material as she was sailing to Malta for refit at noon.

It is sad to think that 2004 voyage may also have been the last one on a Cunard ship (also their last English built ship) with a traditional -ia name but this may well be the case as  - under Carnival it now seems obsessed with Queen names and has forgotten the merits of a balanced fleet with ships of different sizes.

Vistafjord / Caronia / Saga Ruby may be gone but is not forgotten.
Title: Re: Final Year for Saga Ruby
Post by: Isabelle Prondzynski on Jul 18, 2019, 08:14 AM
Thank you so much, Barumfox, for those beautiful memories and pictures. I am glad you caught sight of her one more time, looking great.


We were lucky enough to have sailed on Caronia during her last Cunard year and were charmed by the ship. She was like a smaller QE2, and we liked both the ship and her interiors on the one hand, and her restaurant for all passengers on the other. This enabled our little group to be sharing meals together at the same table.