Traveled with my husband, brother his wife and a very good family friend. We had a great time overall. I still recommend at least a 7 night cruise if your traveling by flight to catch the cruise. 5 nights plus all the traveling just wasn't long enough. Felt like I just unpacked my bag and was packing up again. First time cruisers 5 nights will give you the opportunity to find out if cruising is for you. Happy Cruising everyone Boat life is the only way!!
Embarkation
3 out of 5
Miami Cruise Terminal was horrible. No direction for luggage with luggage porters and this made it very confusing. Empress made our 7th cruise so we know whats expected. I felt horrible for first time cruisers!! We were giving them more guidance than any employee or proper signage posted. Miami cruise terminal you need to step it up!!! No excuses !!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Main Dining Room Staff and food was 100% top notch. I would rate the experience and hospitality just at the top of all are cruising even compared to a much bigger ship. Only problem was that the host kept trying to sit us in a new section every night and I don't understand why? The waiter and his/her assistant the first two night already got familiarized with us and our drink choice, so why sit us in a new section? Very concerning
Pool Bar
4 out of 5
Pool Bar was very slow most times, I don't mind tipping so I'm seen first out of a full bar line, lol yes I'm one of those people while I'm on my vacation. But I did notice if you weren't tipping them then you were last in line and service got even slower. hmmmmm shame shame
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Small ship so keep in mind if you have children that there wont be a lot of action and on board activities, like the big ships have. The ship event leader does a great job trying to get everyone involved for what he/she has to work with. They sure keep you on your toes if you love to dance!!
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Casino was a fun time. The staff was welcoming and willing to teach you how to play any game if asked. Very small casino but has a nice personal touch.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
Very nice always willing to help with a personal touch. Thank you!!!
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
OLD SMALL BUT UPDATED AND CHARMING
VERY CLEAN
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Your only in your room for resting and changing. so save your money and explore!!
Ship tip
Updated very nicely and doesn't look almost 30 years old at all. Charming and personal
Wish this port was later in the evening or even an overnight stop. Key West is known for its evening life with a lot of night life added in. By Dinner time we were already boarding the ship to take off. Till next time Key West, we love you!!
We picked this cruise just because of Cuba. How ever the US law doesn't make it easy to visit and enjoy Cuba so it makes the visit less memorable. Have a plan in place and don't be scared to book with a 3rd party company but make sure you can before hand. Cuba is an eye opener so if your easily heart broken you might wanna stay on the cruise ship.
Full delay by over 3 hours missed our flight going home, thank god Delta worked with us and no extra charges. Again Miami Cruise Terminal you need to get with the program.
Agreed, this ship is not up to Royal Standards. The staff was great. The guys in Chops excellent, but the ship itself was rundown, felt like a miniature. The food was horrible. The worst I have ever experienced
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