Empress of the Seas Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Wanted a smaller ship so not as much walking from Point A to Point B. Didn't take long to learn the ship's layout. Walking stem to stern felt about half the distance of the big ships, but that suited us just fine. Our inside cabin on Deck 7 was small, but adequate. There was always something to do; loads of activities day and night. We didn't use the pool - it was small and there were a LOT of people in it. We wondered about the pH and how well it was maintained/chlorinated, so we just swam at the beaches. Food in MDR wasn't outstanding but sufficiently good. Service was top notch. Seas were VERY calm the entire 7 days so no motion sickness and not a lot of sway. The Schooner Bar on Empress was larger than on the Freedom. The view from the balcony in the Royal Theater isn't good - go early and sit downstairs. The swivel cocktail chairs are uncomfortable. The VERY LAST ROW - CENTER on Deck 5 is the best place to sit for the shows. Perfect view and it's raised a little higher. Night buffet doesn't open till 10:30. Starve if you're hungry at 9:30 or 10 p.m. Altun Ha & River Wallace shore excursion in Belize was well worth the money. We prefer Carnival, but we'd sail Empress again if the price was right.
Cabin Review
Small cabin that is better made up as twin beds with walkway in the middle
Port Reviews
Key West
Kermit's Key Lime Shop has a wonderful selection of products - and he's standing outside to greet you. The pie is the best ever - eat it at a table in the courtyard and buy the key lime cooler cookies to bring home. You won't be sorry.
Cozumel
Our second visit to Mr. Sanchos Beach Club. No charge to get in, clean restroom & shower, shaded tables or beach loungers, and just buy your food there. Chicken nachos were awesome.
Costa Maya
Taxi $2 pp for 5 minute ride to Mahahual. Went to Krazy Lobster. Just buy your food there & use the tables or loungers. The water stays shallow for a pretty good distance out. Vendors come by selling bracelets, cigars, & hats. Gets a little repetitive, but that's how they make their living. Shopped at the sidewalk stores for souvenirs. Don't forget to bargain the prices.
Miami
Point of embarkation. We were eating our buffet lunch at 11:30. They let you leave your carry on bags with a claim ticket at the Royal Theater, rather than carrying them around till your room is ready at 1 p.m.. When the rooms are ready, you go back to retrieve your bags from the theater. I thought this was convenient.