Princess Chatter

Not that this applies directly to me as we don't reserve sanctuary seating but more and more Princess is beginning to revert to the days of old, similar to the ships of the early 1900's.

"Guests staying in a stateroom or suite designated as part of the Sanctuary Collection will enjoy exclusive access to the ship's top-deck retreat area, along with several additional amenities including a private dining room, priority specialty restaurant reservations, premium stateroom amenities, and a complimentary Princess Premier bundle."

I wonder what included in their Princess Premier bundle?

The only thing different that I see is that in the buffet area the food is served rather than self service. It might result in smaller sized portions.
I still prefer to serve myself so I can take only a small amount of interesting things and if I like it go back for a regular size amount.
If I'm serviced a large amount of something I don't care for, it goes in the garbage.
We'll have to see in Nov.
First time for us also.

Once again, I think we'll be skipping it until everyone on board learns the ropes & all venues are operational.
I've never understood the appeal of being the first to sail on a new ship. 

This seems to be a growing trend in many ports these days.

Here in Florida we get numerous snowbirds from up north (Canada, upper US and even Germany) every year for about 5 months beginning in Nov through April.
Our economy seems to thrive on it although I don't see the benefit directly.
We manage to adjust our schedules very nicely but it is more peaceful during our summer season.

It's a rust bucket with failing A/C when I sailed on it two years ago.

I didn't want to say "rust bucket" but I don't think many will argue that point.
It's probably an impossible task to keep up with maintenance when a ship gets that old.
It's days are numbered.

Why only California? It should be for anywhere in the US, eliminating confusion an advertising.

We were on the Ruby last Nov and it's still in good shape. Not one of our favorites, but still on of the old style better designs.