Phenomenal scenery and exceptional service !

American Empress Cruise Review to River Cruises - United States

bjv777

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 2-3 cruises

Review: 1

Helpful Votes: 40

Overall rating:

4.8 out of 5

8 Night Riverways Of The Pacific Northwest (Vancouver Wa To Clarkston)

Sail date: August 01, 2021

Ship: American Empress

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 211

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 3 years ago

Review summary

A memorable and fun experience…. The scenery is so varied from all rocks, to trees, to waterfalls, to the high plains wheat fields. Excursions are well planned….a few less because of the last year, but nevertheless fun and educational to go on.

Embarkation

5 out of 5

Organized and smooth

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5

Many choices with extra add-ons if desired in main dining room. Safety of buffet service items in River Grill was a top concern as well as serving tasty food.

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5

Didn’t really do. Several were offered, Riveralogist talks were well attended by others.

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Enjoyed the Evening music performance each night. Went to piano bar music one night and went to the military recognition reception which I thought was done in an outstanding way.

Children's Programs

Adult cruise.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Our Room steward (she) was quick and efficient and very helpful with information. Wait staff was exceptional wherever you went including bar attendants. Tour guides and bus drivers did exceptional jobs and the main coordinator was super efficient. The Purser’s office did give us wrong info one time, but otherwise were fine in carrying out their duties.

Ship Quality

4 out of 5

Ship layout is fine. Empress is getting a little dated in overall furnishings. Our cabin’s outdoor table was in need of replacement as well as a couple broken deck rocking chairs. However still very clean and very serviceable..

Cabin / Stateroom

4 out of 5

Room very clean. Expected size was fine. Where bed is connected in the center had a bit of a dip. Outdoor table needed replaced. In the age of technology, would have been nice to have beside plug-Ins on both sides of bed. Liked ability to have music inside and out on patio . Liked thorough instructions in room. Liked having a mini-fridge in room. Liked how the suitcases fit under the bed so we could unpack and enjoy using the closets and drawers. Liked having a safe in the cabin. Overall, great!

Ship tip

Take country club wear for dinner, it’s fun to dress up a bit for dinner. And bring your patience. Tours are for everyone and sometimes physical abilities slow down the getting on and off the bus.

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