Family members wanted to see Cuba.
I have sailed on several different cruise lines, but never had a poorer cabin than on the Empress of the Seas. Paid an upgrade price for a seaview - note NO balcony or access and the "partially obstructed" view was virtually totally obstructed except for a nice view of a lifeboat! Very difficult to enter bed without lumps on the head from metal bunks over head. Very little room between bulkhead and bed on either side. Not counting the foot of the bed there was sitting space for only one person at a time in this 4 space cabin! (and that was a back breaking chair with only about a 6 inch high back) Save your back, save your money!
(All else about the ship was first rate) I can not remember a more friendly crew, and with one exception, the dining room food was first rate. (the exception was the "butter" served with lobster one evening. I think they got it from a can, but it certainly was not drawn butter!
I have sailed on several different cruise lines, but never had a poorer cabin than on the Empress of the Seas. Paid an upgrade price for a seaview - note NO balcony or access and the "partially obstructed" view was virtually totally obstructed except for a nice view of a lifeboat! Very difficult to enter bed without lumps on the head from metal bunks over head. Very little room between bulkhead and bed on either side. Not counting the foot of the bed there was sitting space for only one person at a time in this 4 space cabin! (and that was a back breaking chair with only about a 6 inch high back) Save your back, save your money! (All else about the ship was first rate)