My husband and I chose this cruise because we wanted to visit Cuba. The Empress of the Seas did not disappoint. We absolutely loved the ship. It was by far the cleanest, happiest, friendliest ship we have ever been on in some 20 plus years of cruising between us. The cruise director, Hugo, was the best cruise director we have ever met with a larger-than-life personality. I had to give him a hug after one of the shows! Oh, the entertainment was fantastic. The small group of musicians, singers and dancers was top-notch, and the shows were professional and incredibly entertaining. We loved them.

We loved the fact that we were on the 4th mid-deck so it was very easy to get to the elevators and go up to the dining room and theatre. Everything was so convenient. We've been on the huge ships, but this was really nice and very relaxing and the ship is laid out very well. Everything is easily accessible. We chose that cabin for that reason.

The food and service on this ship was OUTSTANDING! We ate in the main dining room for 3 nights and at Chops Grille for 2 nights. Chops Grille was definitely worth the premium. I had the most fantastic filet mignon there, and the jumbo shrimp cocktail was to die for. The food in the main dining room was excellent as well. All of the food in the Windjammer was fresh and varied - no end of choices. Good food is very important to me, and I was so pleased with everything. Read more