We were going on the Empress with no expectations. Some really bad reviews made us think we would be entering a horrible ship. Not at all. It was a step back in time. The intimate feeling of the ship is wonderful. We are Diamond Plus and have sailed all the ships except Harmony. We never had the service, friendliness and caring as we did on this little ship. If you want, flow riders, and parades and tons of shops and places to eat, big pool, this is not for you. But, if you don't mind a small cabin and a tiny shower and just want to relax and be taken care of, this is the right ship. Yes, she is old, but that doesn't make her unappealing. Nassau is never the best stop, but Key West is fun. Now Empress will be sailing to Cuba. We think she is great for a 4 or 5 day getaway. Fun, relaxing and the best crew. Also, she is a casual ship. No formals.