We just got off Empress of the Seas yesterday after an 8 day Best of Cuba cruise. It was wonderful.
The embarkation process in Miami went very smoothly. We were there quite early and they got us inside in an organized line. There was some waiting, but only because we were so early. We were on the ship about 11:00. The Windjammer opened at 11:30. Our room was ready at 1:00 and luggage arrived before dinner. It was a very smooth process.
While the Empress of Seas is an older ship and small, it has a lot going for it. It is very clean and the crew was extremely friendly and motivated to make the cruise a great experience. There are a lot of floor to ceiling windows and a lot of window seating throughout the ship. There are many quiet places to hide away while reading a book or napping. We enjoy smaller ships so this one was just our size.
Our cabin was close to both the diningroom and the elevator. Very convenient location and quiet. It's small, but that's because the ship is older, I think. Closets are small. No refrigerator. But who wants to spend their cruise inside their cabin?!!! So no complaints!
Love Labadee!!! Went to Columbus beach and enjoyed a lazy beach day.
Walked around and shopped. All of the shops are right there off the ship. Very nice to just walk around.
Took a ship tour to Juegas fortress. It was an average tour. Nothing outstanding, but ok.