Empress of the Seas Review
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Five women (3 in our 50s plus our grown daughters) take a bi-annual cruise. We've done Europe twice, one on NCL one on Celebrity, and Bermuda once on NCL. With not a lot of time this go round, we chose the 4-night Nassau and Havana cruise based solely on its itinerary.
That was the mistake! The Empress is the oldest and smallest of RC's fleet and boy do you know it! She's dated to say the least--not well designed public space, tired 1980s decor, low ceilings, dingy bars and simply a run-down feel.
As for the dining--there are FEW options. The brunch in the main dining room, Starlight, was virtually inedible: cold, tasteless, rude disengaged service etc. The buffet spot serves typical fare--lots of low-quality food with a poor presentation. That said, it was better than Starlight. The up-charge at Chops was worth it--terrific menu, excellent food quality and decent service.
Cabin Review
Junior Suite with Balcony
Our "junior suite" was adequate though not terribly well-appointed; 3 out of the four drawers were broken, hangers (the kind you can't remove) were scarce, bath products cheesy at best (note the " shampoo pump" in the tiny shower), flourescent lighting, not a box of tissues etc. etc.etc. While clean with a comfy bed the cabin was mediocre at best.