I had read some pretty negative things about this ship before I boarded. Fortunately, I found most of them not to be true. Though the ship was "old", it was very well maintained. The maintenance crew seemed busy on most post days, cleaning and painting. Our state room, though small, was very clean and easily manageable. Our cabin attendant was always quick to make up the room when we left. Perhaps my biggest disappointment was the overall friendliness of the crew. Though no-one was rude to us, there were not a lot of smiling faces or crew making sure we were satisfied with our trip. Finally, the food in the Windjammer was just OK. There really wasn't a whole lot of variety (day-to-day) on what was being served. And I'm not sure what it is with their deserts, but I find them mostly very bland though always beautifully presented. I'll continue cruising on Royal Caribbean, but doubt I'll seek out the Empress of the Seas.