anyone else out there going to Bermuda out of Philly next week? Or, has anyone just returned from Bermuda recently on the Empress? This is my first time on this ship and I would like to know how it is/was. I'm cruising with my 12 year old grandson and 20 year old nephew. Thanks!

I cruised on The Empress in May to Bermuda. I was very learly of sailing this ship because of it's age and size, but was VERY pleasently surprised! It is still a beautiful ship! I enjoyed the fact that it was easier to get from one end of the ship to the other since our room was in the very back of the ship (although, I do love the large ships, too!) I have actually been avoiding this ship due to its age, but now am kicking myself since this is the last year that she will be sailing to Bermuda. This is the only 7-day RCL cruise to Bermuda--the 5 day cruises just are not in Bermuda long enough!
You will find, however that the passengers tend to be on the "older" side. I don't think that this has anything to do with the ship, but rather the destination. Not to say that there is not enough to do for younger people in Bermuda, but it is not the "party" atmosphere that you will find on some of the other islands...plus it is a more expensive destination which sometimes discourages some younger people. Be forewarned, also, that the rooms are rather small on this ship, but it is still a GREAT cruise! Hope this helps--have a great time!

Memom5, We'll be on the Empress the second week of Sept. We just got our documents yesterday! Sorry we'll miss you though. If you care to give a review after returning I'd love to hear it. Jodiroadie, thanks for your comments.

Agutaya