we have just returned from a 7 day cruise around the canaries and madeira, I have been on 2 cruises with Thomson and really enjoyed them. this was just as good, my sister has not cruised before but she too enjoyed it. the embarkation process was satisfactory, our cabin had 2 births which were comfortable, better than many hotels ive stayed in!, plenty of draw space, the bathroom was very small but did the job. the staff are very friendly and mostly eager to please.the food wasvery good although, as in many buffets cool at times, the have fresh cooking stations were your food is made to order, we enjoyed Asian and pasta specials. we mostly ate in the buffet, but did eat in the waiter service restauraunt which was lovely, you are encouraged to sit with other people which encourages conversation! you would have to be extremely fussy not to find something you like.the entertainment was varied with a lot of choice including a good quality show and comedian.The excursions are well run and the guides are very informative, we did 2 trips and in some ports did it under out own steam, we loved the fact all tips were included, yes the ship is dated but has character, know this ship is going next year and Thomson have got newer ones, just hope they don't get too big and impersonnel, looking for my next cruise!!