Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
Cruise Ship: Empress of the Seas
Cruise Destination: Bermuda Cruise from Philadelphia
Cruise Dates: July 15 - July 22, 2006
Guest Contributor: Lynn
Of all of the cruises we have taken, this was absolutely the best. Reason why - We had the our family with us. This is a perfect cruise itinerary and ship for first-timers, and even those who have cruised a bit.
The Empress of the Seas Cruise Ship
Yes, the Empress of the Seas is small.
However, for Bermuda, it works to your advantage. The ship was able to dock at both St. George and Hamilton harbors. In our opinion, these are far better ports to dock in than the Royal Dockyard. We had 22 people in our group, ranging in age from 3 to 86. A few members of our family have difficulty walking, so the small size of the ship worked out very well for them. We all had inside cabins, and yes, they are the smallest cabins of any cruise ship we have been on. However, we only used our room to shower, change clothes, and sleep, so none of us really cared. The rooms were clean and well appointed.
Sailing to Bermuda was a bit rough on Sunday. Some folks felt a bit queasy, but most of us were fine. Sailing back to Philadelphia was VERY smooth, and great weather all the way.
The Empress of the Seas Crew
The entire crew was so helpful and courteous. They always went out of their way to provide good service. In total, the most friendly crew we have experienced.
The Empress of the Seas Entertainment
The show on the 2nd night was fantastic and great for all ages.
Other shows were typical cruise shows, but very enjoyable. Bill Forrest at the Schooner Bar is great and had quite a following each night at the piano bar. Tyson (assistant cruise director??) was hilarious and had quite a fan club on board. Everyone enjoyed his wit and pleasant way.
The Empress of the Seas Food
The food was great. Everyone in our family enjoyed the meals. Most of us ate in the Carmen Dining room each night. Some of our family with small children ate in the Windjammer one or two nights.
Bermuda
Weather was terrific. Our only bad weather was on Wednesday night - it POURED. Because of that, we missed the Hamilton "festival" held every Wednesday and also missed an evening tour, but the rest of the weather was great.
Port of Philadelphia
We would be remiss if we didn't comment on the efficiency of the Port of Philadelphia. They have the process down to a science, and getting on and off the ship was quick and easy. Kudos to the management team there.
Like RCCL's ads say, don't let the size fool you, there is plenty to do. They are right. The ship is in excellent condition, has added a Rock Wall, Portifino's, Ben & Jerry's and Seattle Coffee during its refurbishment. No ice rink, no miniature golf, but a great itinerary and a great crew. Highly recommend this cruise, particularly if you want to make it a family cruise. Everyone in our group had a fantastic time.
Cruise Ship: Empress of the Seas
Cruise Destination: Bermuda Cruise from Philadelphia
Cruise Dates: July 15 - July 22, 2006
Guest Contributor: Lynn
Of all of the cruises we have taken, this was absolutely the best. Reason why - We had the our family with us. This is a perfect cruise itinerary and ship for first-timers, and even those who have cruised a bit.
The Empress of the Seas Cruise Ship
Yes, the Empress of the Seas is small.
However, for Bermuda, it works to your advantage. The ship was able to dock at both St. George and Hamilton harbors. In our opinion, these are far better ports to dock in than the Royal Dockyard. We had 22 people in our group, ranging in age from 3 to 86. A few members of our family have difficulty walking, so the small size of the ship worked out very well for them. We all had inside cabins, and yes, they are the smallest cabins of any cruise ship we have been on. However, we only used our room to shower, change clothes, and sleep, so none of us really cared. The rooms were clean and well appointed.
Sailing to Bermuda was a bit rough on Sunday. Some folks felt a bit queasy, but most of us were fine. Sailing back to Philadelphia was VERY smooth, and great weather all the way.
The Empress of the Seas Crew
The entire crew was so helpful and courteous. They always went out of their way to provide good service. In total, the most friendly crew we have experienced.
The Empress of the Seas Entertainment
The show on the 2nd night was fantastic and great for all ages.
Other shows were typical cruise shows, but very enjoyable. Bill Forrest at the Schooner Bar is great and had quite a following each night at the piano bar. Tyson (assistant cruise director??) was hilarious and had quite a fan club on board. Everyone enjoyed his wit and pleasant way.
The Empress of the Seas Food
The food was great. Everyone in our family enjoyed the meals. Most of us ate in the Carmen Dining room each night. Some of our family with small children ate in the Windjammer one or two nights.
Bermuda
Weather was terrific. Our only bad weather was on Wednesday night - it POURED. Because of that, we missed the Hamilton "festival" held every Wednesday and also missed an evening tour, but the rest of the weather was great.
Port of Philadelphia
We would be remiss if we didn't comment on the efficiency of the Port of Philadelphia. They have the process down to a science, and getting on and off the ship was quick and easy. Kudos to the management team there.
Like RCCL's ads say, don't let the size fool you, there is plenty to do. They are right. The ship is in excellent condition, has added a Rock Wall, Portifino's, Ben & Jerry's and Seattle Coffee during its refurbishment. No ice rink, no miniature golf, but a great itinerary and a great crew. Highly recommend this cruise, particularly if you want to make it a family cruise. Everyone in our group had a fantastic time.
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