Royal Caribbean International brings short Caribbean getaways to a whole new level when the newly-enhanced Empress of the Seas returns to the fleet in March 2016. Following a stint with sister brand Pullmantur, Empress will be back in Miami giving guests the chance to get away from it all and enjoy a lively, casual, laid-back atmosphere while visiting some of the Caribbean’s most popular islands.
Guests can languish over daily ‘Sunday’ brunches served with a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary, enjoy My Time Dining with no formal nights, take in the new Vegas-style “Sequins & Feathers” show and then party all night long in the newly reimagined Boleros Latin Lounge. Empress of the Seas also will offer fast pier-to-ship boarding, and earlier boarding and departure times of 11:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. respectively, to help guests maximize their cruise holiday time even further.
As Miami’s newest hometown ship, Empress of the Seas will offer short four- and five-night getaways from Miami to Nassau, The Bahamas; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Grand Cayman and Key West, Florida. With longer stays in every port guests will be able to experience spectacular golden sunsets in the Caribbean. On select five-night itineraries guest can experience the authentic Mexican culture and cuisine during overnight stays in Cozumel, Mexico.
“We’re excited to welcome Empress of the Seas back to the family, and back to the Caribbean,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Empress’ short Caribbean getaways will give adventure-seekers the opportunity to party, chill and repeat. They will feel like it’s the weekend every day on Empress.”
Empress of the Seas will offer signature amenities including a thrilling rock-climbing wall for adrenaline seekers; new pools and whirlpools, including an adults-only Solarium; a Vitality Spa with an extensive treatment menu; and a complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program. Empress also will offer a variety of dining options, including the casual atmosphere of the Windjammer Café and fine dining at the brand’s signature steakhouse Chops Grille.
Originally launched as Nordic Empress in June 1990, the ship was the first to set sail from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey in 2004. Built in Chantiers de L’Atlantique, St. Nazaire, France, the ship spans nine decks, encompassing 48,563 gross registered tons, and has a double-occupancy capacity of 1,602 guests.
SOURCE Royal Caribbean International