Don't panic; Island Princess is lovely.

I read the forum relating to what the Island Princess would be like after her re-fit with some amusement as everyone seemed to be worrying so much! Anyway, despite having not been on this ship before we have been with a couple of other lines so were able to have something to compare.

We were on Baja deck, mid-ship, and was a great position. Slight vibration but nothing I couldn't sleep through.

The shower is tiny and we did wonder how some coped but I'm sure there was a knack to it. Shampoo, body wash and lotion provided.

The ship never felt crowded, even on sea days you could find a fairly quiet spot and always a chair.

Smokers - no smoking on Promenade Deck - only inside at Churchills, however, a large area on Deck 14. This was great for smokers as the non-smokers, who are in the majority, left us well alone so there were always tables and chairs. The bar staff came around regularly to ask if you wanted drinks.

Horizon Court - we did anytime dining but actually only used the Horizon Court. We tend to eat late so it was fairly quiet. The food was delicious, really tasty and always a good choice. The coffee is pretty revolting but I'm a bit of a coffee snob.

If you have an early start for an excursion my advice would be to order room service for breakfast, sometimes that was a little "hectic".

Sabatini's - we went once for our anniversary/my birthday - personally I wouldn't bother.

Ports were all great - we did Princess tours in each. Some could be a bit better organised but overall all very good.

All the staff we encountered were helpful and really nice.

I swore I would never go on another cruise, but just maybe the Island Princess has swung it.

So in summary, don't worry, you'll have a lovely cruise, and remember we're the lucky ones cruising around the Mediterranean in relative luxury - some are fleeing their countries and risking their lives to get across.