We chose this cruise because we got a great deal for our family of four! We knew going into this cruise that this was a smaller ship and almost 30 years old. So, we were prepared for it to not have the amenities that the newer ships have. The Royal Carribean Embarkation was the smoothest I have experienced in my 5 cruises. The staff was caring and hardworking. These folks are some of the hardest working people that I have seen. Our room attendant was excellent. We read that there was a sewer smell that occasionally came upon the ship. This was true, but we didn't seem to care when we were hanging out on the pool deck in the Carribean Sunshine with full bellies, listening to live Reggae music and not a care in the world. If you are a ship connoisseur and have to be pampered and enamored by the latest / greatest in cruising experiences, then this ship is not for you. If you enjoy the Carribean and not having a care in the world for a week for a good price then the Empress of the Seas is for you. The staff made the experience worth it. Our children are 11 and 9 years old. The children's staff were some of the best we have experienced in cruising. Our children loved the activities and time they spent with them. The weather was perfect and God Blessed our cruise in many ways! Enjoy.