We were struggling to find a late deal and after looking on the internet we went to see a travel agent. We were not impressed by the hotel based holidays on offer and he asked if we had considered a cruise and recommended the Island Escape which we booked there and then. The itinerary we booked was the 7 day "Mediterannean Spirit" cruise departing from Palma, Majorca on 14 July.After returning home we went on the internet and were dismayed to read some of the reviews about this ship and so when we set off it was with a sense of trepidation. However these fears were unfounded and we had an excellent time and had no complaints about the experience.The transfer from Palma airport to the port was trouble free and once we checked in at the terminal our bags were taken directly to our cabin. We boarded the ship and were pleasantly surprised by what we saw. The public areas were well-maintained and clean and when we arrived at our cabin (an outside cabin on deck 4) we were pleased to see it was slightly larger than we thought it might be. It was slightly worn but was by no means tatty and was extremely clean and was kept clean by the steward throughout the cruise. The bathroom was a bit more tired and in need of refurbishment but was perfectly functional. The cabin was more than adequate for the time you spend in it.The food was good in the Island Restaurant and the Beachcomber and we had no problems getting a table. Both the food and service in the Oasis a la carte restaurant were excellent. Likewise we had no problems getting served in any of the bars and always managed to get a seat, with the exception of the Sundowner which is a small venue and was always very busy. Drinks prices are typically what you would pay in a city centre pub.We were able to see all the entertainment we wanted to and had no problems getting a sunbed. We didn't bother with the pool which is very small.The ship was fully booked and all the passengers were British or Irish, the majority being in their 40's or 50's, with maybe 200 children, couples in their 20's and 30's and quite a few elderly passengers, including a number of disabled. The majority we spoke to were first timers like us.The crew were very friendly and efficient and gave every impression of enjoying their work and interacted really well with the passengers. There are plenty of excursions to choose from (maybe too many?), typically costing £30 for a half day trip and £50 for a full day, or you can go ashore independently if you prefer.This was our first ever cruise and won't be our last. We really couldn't fault it and loved the informal style. The ship's strapline is "friendly, relaxed and informal" and it really does what it says on the tin.As for the bad reviews this ship has had I can only assume that the authors are professional complainers or are used to the best of everything, in which case they should stick to the likes of Royal Caribbean, Princess or P&O and be prepared to pay their prices.