The MS Oriental Emperor (East Emperor) had a complete refit in March 2003, including a new water supply and air conditioning.The cafe, with its cane furniture and trailing plants, is a pleasant place to relax and watch the scenery go by, and the observation deck is like an outdoor meadow.

Breakfast is a Western and Chinese buffet, whilst lunch and dinner offer superb Chinese meals including six cold dishes, eight hot dishes and soup as well as snacks and fruit. MS Oriental Emperor is well-managed, and although she's a 4-star ship, the food and service are 5-star.Complimentary tea and coffee is also provided in the morning, and free "midnight snacks". There are plenty of activities to indulge in during the cruise, including a shadowboxing coach, and competitions like wrapping jiao-zi (dumplings).