Just got back from my first cruise ever and the Island Escape was the ideal ship to cut your teeth on. Yes, the ship may be a converted ferry but it was fabulous. The crew worked so hard to make sure everyone was looked after - from the housekeeping staff right up to the entertainment team. The cabins were adequate, our steward, Satpal, kept it spotless - coming in 4-5 times a day to tidy up. There was plenty of storage/drawer space although a few more coat hangers would have been nice.

The food was gorgeous, there were salads, cold meats, hot meals, soups, breads etc and the desserts were fab. All the food was displayed so colourfully. There were some people who ate like complete pigs but you will get that on any all-inclusive deal. The entertainment was excellent. We played bingo and enjoyed the quizzes every night. The game shows were hilarious. Special mention to Tony Mack, Lucas, and the fab Ross - really enjoyed your shows. The excursions were a bit expensive but if you weren't too confident in going on shore on your own then then were ideal. The swimming pool is tiny but there were lots of sunbeds on most of the top decks, they were close together but you could move them if you wanted to. The bar crew came round often to take drinks orders so you could stay in one spot if you wished. The décor on the ship was really great and everything was kept spotlessly clean.

Overall I think that it was real value for money and would definitely go on this ship again. Don't listen to the moaners, they obviously would be more at home on the QE2.