Empress

Empress was a mid-sized cruise ship operated by Pullmantur Cruises between 2008 and 2016. Originally built as Nordic Empress and entering service with Royal Caribbean in 1990, she carried around 1,600 guests and was the first mainstream cruise ship designed specifically for short three to four day breaks from Florida. During her time with Pullmantur, she received the Spanish brand's distinctive new hull colors in 2012, giving her a fresh identity under her new operator.

The ship brought a comfortable, accessible feel to shorter cruises. She had five restaurants, lounges and bars spread throughout, alongside leisure amenities including two swimming pools, jacuzzis, a fitness center and sauna. An open Solarium reserved for adults provided quiet deck space away from the main activity, a welcome retreat on busier sailings. Entertainment centered on a Broadway Show Lounge featuring live shows, dancing and comedy, a two-level nightclub and a casino, while rock climbing offered something different for those seeking more active pursuits. Dining ran from casual cafés to a proper steakhouse in Chops Grille, and the ship's galleys were extensively rebuilt when she moved between operators, giving plenty of variety and choice for guests on even a shorter voyage.

Her compact size and efficient layout made her well suited to quick turnarounds and short itineraries, a format that had defined her since her earliest days in service. Even as ownership changed hands over the years, that fundamental character carried through each transformation, shaping the experience for every guest who sailed aboard her.

Empress suited travelers who wanted straightforward comfort without fuss on a quick Caribbean break, with a solid mix of bars, shows and relaxation for couples and families alike.

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