We decided to cruise just one month before the end of the year, had limited time, thus the availability and cruise offerings were limited. We were pleased to get an outside cabin on Empress of the Seas, for a seven day cruise. Check in was so easy, and we arrived early. The staff at the check in desk was friendly and everyone was in a festive mood.

We ate at the Windjammer restaurant, not that impressed with the food. Cabins were available by 1 PM. The cabin was nice, seemed rather spacious, and we had a port hole window. The cruise passengers were a mix of families, couples ranging from mid 20's to 70's. Empress of the Seas is a small ship, so moving around the ship was easy. Only one pool area, including the hot tubs. Another deck for sun bathing, though it was disappointing that most deck chairs were 'reserved' by 9 AM daily. While the ship had been restored this past spring, it showed wear in most public areas. Carpet stains and disrepair were prevalent.

Food was disappointing, rather average. Servers at breakfast were horrible. My husband asked for double salmon daily and extra capers never arrived until the end. Coffee service nil. Read more