Topic: Help! Booked on to Island Escape

Booked on impulse before reading reviews for our 25th wedding anniversary in october. Paid what I feel is quite a lot for a delux cabin with a balcony
Now dreading it been to travel agent who has tried to convince us it is not nearly as bad as reviews say but I do not know what to do.
Have the option of changing to a hotel but will have to pay extra to do this.
We have never been on a cruise before and do want an informal one but we also expected a little bit of luxury in our special cabin watching the sunset while sitting on balcony etc Doesnt sound as if this is the case!!
I would appreciate feedback so I can change holidays if neccesary

Thanks

If you've never been on a cruise before, I'd say stick with it and go for it.
You'll have no basis for comparison, and so it should be OK but not great.

You'll learn several ways from the experience
and your second and third cruises will be chosen with greater care.

Please take pics for us to see just how really good or bad this ship is.
I have a feeling most of the Eeeeuuwww! is nothing more than cosmetic
but we'll never know until you post your pics, when you get back.
.

Their are not many bad ships sailing today.Being owned and controlled by 2 major companies..Carnival Cruise lines and Royal Carribean.Although outside of these are smaller companies who give an enjoyable experience.

Would be better in your case if you say which ship and Itenary you are travelling on.

Have just noticed your ship is "Island Esape" and cannot be recomended.

QUOTE:

Booked on impulse before reading reviews for our 25th wedding anniversary in october. Paid what I feel is quite a lot for a delux cabin with a balcony
Now dreading it been to travel agent who has tried to convince us it is not nearly as bad as reviews say but I do not know what to do.
Have the option of changing to a hotel but will have to pay extra to do this.
We have never been on a cruise before and do want an informal one but we also expected a little bit of luxury in our special cabin watching the sunset while sitting on balcony etc Doesnt sound as if this is the case!!
I would appreciate feedback so I can change holidays if neccesary

Thanks

I had a week onboard early nov, Palma to Palma. Have only been on fancier and newer ships in 'delux' style. What an eyeoper, it was once of the best breaks I have had. Thing is, it depends on what your expectations are, and what do you want from the ship,and the holiday.

This ship I believe was originally a rear loading ferry, that ran up and down the East coast of the USA. So, there are lots of unusual walking area's, and big wide wooden handrails everywhere.

The ship is not luxurious, but it is functional and the staff are good too. The food was very good in both the restuarant, and the buffet. The buffet also has specialist dietary dishes, marked up, and is open 24 hours per day. Can require queuing at peak hungry times.

From the buffet there is an open back deck, and a staircase that leads onto the higher open deck with a bar. There is smoking allowed on the starboard side of the ship only on that bit of deck.

The cabins that I saw are mostly rectangular, and quite small, lovely cotton bedding and no feather pillows. Lots of clever storage space. and good house keeping.

Many people I spoke to on the ship were either devoted regulars or newcomers, either way the ship seems to give them a taste for more.

Its not luxury, but if you have no expectations then you will be pleasantly surprised. Its informal, very efficient, and very friendly.

She also sails like a dream, I felt very safe on this ship.

Hope this helps. :D Will look out the photo's I took and post them here on this thread.

Hi
Go for it.
I went on I/E 3 times last year + had a great time,yes she is old + a bit shabby but go with an open mind + you will love it.
See last few posts on Review section,they had a good time.
JC

Go for it !!! If it was that bad it would go bust!

I flew with thomsons, independently, and it was an organised and efficient service.

Island Escape is now run by TUI Thomson whose cruises are well known for wonderful staff, excellent entertainment, good food, good organisation, tips included, generally good value for money so don't worry and go with an open mind.

Gembey....to upload your pics click on 'post reply' then scroll down to 'additional options' then 'manage attachments'.....browse to find your photo and then 'upload' ....wait for it to upload (do another if you want to) and then scroll down to 'submit reply' (below Additional options.)

Hope you can understand that lot!!!

QUOTE:

I flew with thomsons, independently, and it was an organised and efficient service.

This link may also help with uploading pics:
How to... Include IMAGES in your post