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Island Cruises

MS Island Escape

Your Rating:
Reviewed by: Mick Ingham
# previous cruises: 6
Date of Trip: May 14, 2002
Itinerary: Mediterranean

Before we went we were aware of problems that had happened on her maiden voyage but had been assured by Travel agents and First Choice that she was now sorted!! Unfortunately she was not as we were to find out. Everything about the transfer was perfect including getting on the ship; it was as smooth as clockwork. First impression of the ship is she's quite bulky, like a floating shoebox but not really that ugly. Cruise postponed same evening (Cancelled following day)

Didn't see much of these areas even though we got on board at about 10am. Too busy sunbathing. It is not easy to find your way about, as doors are not clearly marked as such. They have fire exit stamped all over them and you are unsure initially whether to use them as normal access. From top deck to the pool bar is a nightmare even though it's directly above it. There may have been an easier way but we didn't find it and we tried several times.

Had one meal in the evening before getting off, it was bland and warm (not hot) type of food you would expect from a cafi not a 4 star (!!!) ship. All drinks are drastically over priced. Can of coke = #1:25, Can of Fosters #2:40, A pint (Worth mentioning here that dependant on the glass (Plastic) you are served with depends on whether you get a full pint or > pint, price is the same) #2:20. Bar service is slow, plastic glasses are disgusting and the staff are clueless.

Compared to ships we have been on before (Carousel, Seawing, Topaz) the cabin was quite spacious. Plenty of hanging space, comfy beds (only sat on it) a TV with numerous channels including an outside camera that is handy if you're in an inside cabin as we were. The shower I had to fix by securing it to the wall!! The floor had tiles missing and there was a large damp patch outside our cabin as a result of something leaking!!

Didn't get to see as we got off on the first evening due to faulty sewage system (Yes the same problem they have had on several cruises prior) Worth mentioning the staff here, brain dead, rude, incompetent half-wits. They could not organise a Drink in a brewery! We disembarked at midnight and travelled to our temporary hotel where we queued for over 1-= hours. When we got to the front we were told it was full and would have to go to another hotel. Luckily we did get in but only because we agreed to share with another couple!!! The following day we sat around waiting for news, which eventually arrived at 7pm 2 hours late. .Cruise cancelled 2 options take it or leave it, goodbye.. It was delivered so matter of fact; chaos then ensued for several hours. Suitcases never turned up, had to recover them at own cost, had to move hotels at own cost. The staff had a good line of approach to questions . If you don't know the answer make one up or just lie. Luckily we managed to book another cruise on the Topaz sailing the following day. Since returning we have been given a full refund and 25% value in vouchers (Good will gesture!!) to be used with First Choice. We have not received any monies regarding Taxis and other outlays. After a few correspondences with First Choice informing them of these facts we received a computer generated response. I am now in consultation with legal advisors to recoup costs and compensation.

Organised Chaos if your cruise is cancelled is guaranteed and with her recent record you will probably experience it. Good luck

People who have vouchers from their last cancelled cruise. Anyone who pays brochure price has to be clinically brain dead, if you can get a late deal and pay about #350 for a week it is probably worth the risk (we certainly would) As for being a 4 star this I would contend purely on the bar service and we didn't experience any 4 star or 2 star service for that matter at any time. If your budget cruisers like us stick with the Topaz or even Airtours. For those of you have booked Good Luck those of you who haven't Don't. Two final points 1. If the ship was .Sorted. as they claim where is their Winter brochure for the Caribbean (Its now mid June and she is meant to be in the Caribbean in late October . 3 months away!!) Not much chance of booking in advance. 2. Book me a cruise (internet Cruise travel agent) Are NOT booking anyone on her for at least another month

If you have experienced this ship please e-mail me at mickingham@btinternet.com