We flew into Vancouver and were pleasantly met by cruise staff directing us where to go. The process of documentation was easy and quick. We were taken to a waiting room for the cruise lines and were put on a bus. We didn't have to worry about our luggage, which was great!! Our driver took us on small tour of Vancouver and answered questions, he was great!!
Embarkation was easy and quick, even though we were warned we might have a wait. The only problem we had is that there wasn't anyone to tell us where to find our cabin, but we found it of course! We had paid the extra 50.00 for upgrade possibility which paid off! We ended up with a private balcony with a great view, about 3 feet above a lifeboat. The rooms were clean and cleaned it seemed all the time! We had to put a privacy please sign once, so we could rest!
The staff was friendly and very nice. The food in the empire was really good and we enjoyed the LaPlaya buffet, even though some of that food wasn't great. With the number of choices there, it was your fault if you didn't find something good.