This cruise was a great value for my daughter (17) and I to get away from New England winter (we stayed in an inside cabin - it was VERY INEXPENSIVE!). The ship was small (our last cruise was the Oasis) but we enjoyed our time on the Empress. Despite being an older, smaller ship we found plenty to keep us busy. Also, it didn't feel crowded like I've sometimes felt on other, larger ships. The port excursions were great (snorkeling in Cozumel, zip-line and cave tubing in Belize, and hung around the dock area in Costa Maya). The ship personnel were always very friendly and attentive. Only 1 small pool and 1 hottub, but for us it was all about the ports. Even our cruising days were kept busy with bingo, nail appts at the spa, and getting sun by the pool. Great mix of other guests...all ages and from many parts of U.S and other countries. Evening events were a good mix of shows and comedians and we found ourselves enjoying the 'dance parties' they held in the centrum area.