On our last spring cruise the PES was very poorly attended.
We went 4 or 5 times and it was never crowded. I attribute it to the fact that most people had the drink package and they weren't interested in a discounted drink
AND the appetizers they offered were nothing to get excited about. Potato salad in a small glass, carrots, celery olives, 1 night some small shrimp.
We just skipped it altogether & had our drinks and appetizers in the DR.