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Holiday Reviews > Cruise > Island Cruises > Island Escape > Island Escape Cruise Ship > Read Reviews
Island Escape Cruise Ship ReviewsPage 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
| Itinerary: |
Med Explorer |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
jab61 |
| Overall
Rating: |
8/10 |
| Comments: |
Not long back and apart from the first two day's poor weather(rain and overcast,sea calm all cruise) found this our first cruise to be quite enjoyable.The ship is let down only by it getting a bit in need of a major refit.Food,staff/crew and entertainment all 1st class.Beware of the bingo though expensive to play every night and the snowball wont go until last night of the cruise.
Cabins are quite limited for space on Gold deck anyway but stayed in worse hotels
Excursions to Florence/Pisa then Milan worth doing but long drives on coaches make it quite tiring days.Barcelona easy to do on your own as were Marseille and Valencia,though we stayed on the ship for those two latter ports of call to catch some rays befor heading back to winter here.
Not the lap of luxury but overall a pleasant trip
PS .. Ship's photographer seems to get everywhere and his pictures are not cheap ro buy
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr KEVIN MOULD |
| Overall
Rating: |
10/10 |
| Comments: |
first allinclusive cruise for me wife and two fiends,and must say we were very impressed,food was great, plenty of choices ,always hot and fresh daily,plenty of drink choices ,cabins very clean all staff were very polite and friendly,captain mixed with guests, entertainment was some of the best wev'e seen on any holiday,excursion were ok as well.they laid on pick up buses at ports,overall a fantastic holiday, and can't wait to book again thanks island escape.
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| Itinerary: |
Mediterranean Essence |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
Miles Morgan Travel |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr D Cartwright |
| Overall
Rating: |
9/10 |
| Comments: |
Had a great holiday,ok the ship may look a bit tired in places a 3 star ship with a bit of character,our ocean view room was quite adequate clean & comfortable.
I think overall the cruise was good value for money,I think the shore excursions were a
little expensive. We caught the train to Rome 9 euro each return, hired a car for the day in Menorca
The ship was full , a great atmosphere on board.
I was pleasantely suprised at the quality of the food, enjoyed the Island Restaurant in
the evening even when there was a queue you were seated in a few minutes.
The Ocean Restaurant was nice for something a little different
The entertainment programme was very good , the Hollywood & Broadway show were
excellent in the theatre
The staff on the ship were great very attentive ,helpfull & friendly .
Captain David Bathgate was very interactive with his guests on board
Highlight of trip Porto Fino
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr S Houghton |
| Overall
Rating: |
9/10 |
| Comments: |
second trip with island cruises in last 4 months,previous cruise on island star,then stayed onaqua deck,this time had deluxe on golden deck, apart from windows fridge and free safe in room, there wasnt much difference,in fact aqua cabin was a lot newer looking than the island escape one, had leaking tap in bathroom that sprayed water on the floor,reported it as had disabled friend in cabin, and was worried about him slipping,said would get a plumber but never did.that said the food ,entertainment and staff was excellent,thought the island star had that bit of an edge over the escape, due to having better pub area,jaccuzzis ,but otherwise everything else the same,cruise itenery was excellent{med discovery} would def go with island cruises again.
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| Itinerary: |
Med Spirit |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr T Dyer |
| Overall
Rating: |
9/10 |
| Comments: |
Just returned from Island Escape had a great time.Although the ship is a little tatty in places the crew made up for it,they are brillient.From the time we boarded to when we left they {included Capt.Guy Lockwood}couldn't do enough for us.The food good but sometimes rather cold.The price of drinks reasonable.We did find it rather unpleasent to spend much time in The Pub as there is a smoking section there and the smoke spilled out from here to the non smoking section making our clothes smell and making it very unpleasent for non smokers.The entertainment was first class.Our cabin was spotless on Flamingo deck and we were periodically surprised by the tatents of our cabin steward with the creations he made with our towels.We would have no hesitation in booking another cruise aboard the Island Escape.
Thanks to Capt.Lockwood and crew for a great time.-Tony & Joyce.
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
island cruises |
| Submitted
By: |
SWEETS |
| Overall
Rating: |
10/10 |
| Comments: |
this was my 2nd cruise and again i have no awful comments the staff were class 1 service with a smile all the time considering the long hours we went all inclusive and you can get tea and coffee 24hrs from the beachcomber restaurant yes not speciality coffees but come on you can not expect everything as with cocktails the ships special was included the staff were class1 considering the long hours they all put in just one word great and we have booked again for 2009 even a comment request i mentioned last year was done about a fridge we were on deck 9 well done island escape you are definitely not a ferry as mentioned by some not satisfied people see you next year
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
island cruises |
| Submitted
By: |
Miss G Hallas |
| Overall
Rating: |
9/10 |
| Comments: |
For a first time cruise I would definately recommend Island Escape. After reading other reviews was a bit apprehensive about the ship and the cabins especially. Stayed on the bronze deck in an external cabin, it was not a problem at all cabin was bigger than i expected and spotless and bathroom has no mould or nasty smells. The food was excellant and the staff extremley helpful and friendly. Entertainment was varied and something for everyone. Ship was not to big for a first time and the a la carte restaurant was really good for a treat. Would not hesitate to go with them again.
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Jules2477 |
| Overall
Rating: |
9/10 |
| Comments: |
Have just returned from a cruise and have had a wonderful week. The good parts are all well covered by other reviews so pointless repeating. It was everything we expected for what we paid and highly rated by other seasoned cruisers we spoke to. Some had been on Cunard and P & O which obviously have posher ships but you pay through the nose so it is horses for courses. The only real downer is the appalling tour prices. We know from experience of land based holidays to ignore what the site may be offerring. Go into town and book with a local operator and you get exactly the same for less than half the price - On the boat they have got you or you chance doing your own thing. Generally public transport is a good and a bit of internet searching gives you all the info you need - Italy's rail is not only good but very cheap indeed. In Barcelona the metro is cheap, modern and covers the whole city. Gaudi's park is an absolute must. Cost 1.30 euro to get there and we walked back.
In short do the cruise but sort out your own trips.
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Sep 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Miss K L Battrick |
| Overall
Rating: |
10/10 |
| Comments: |
I could not fault this holiday, from the moment we arrived to the minute we left the service was 1st class. There is something for everyone onboard this ship...
First the food, in both the 24 hour restaurant and the more formal restaurant there was a large selection of hot or cold buffet food. Each night there was a different selection of food available and on all nights there was a cheif cooking food to order. The theme nights were what you would expect, pasta during Itallian and curry during Indian - not too sure what some people expect? Breakfast was just as good with all the Brittish favourites such as black pudding, fried and scrammy eggs as well as fresh omelettes being prepared (of course there were healthier alternatives).
My partner and I were all-inclusive, despite what other reviews say, you most certainly did not have to pay for tea and coffee. These drinks were available 24 hours a day from the beachcomber reastaurant. The only exception was cocktails, these had to be paid for, however, childrens cocktails were free so you could always order a kiddy one and order your all-inclusive alcohol free and mix the two.
The entertainment was second to none, throughout the day there were activities to suit all ages from napkin folding to salsa classes - all included in the price. The evening entertainment was just as good with a choice of live music, bingo, quizzes, comedy and live shows, they even have their own versions of deal or no deal and play your cards right!
Finally the staff..I know sometimes when you go abroad you get the sense that the staff are only being friendly to try and get a tip off you. This is not the case on the ship, all staff are very sincere and obviously enjoy their jobs - this includes all staff from the room porters to the bar tenders. As the ship operates a cash free policy staff know that it is unlikely that they will receive any sort of tip (although we left our room porter one as he was excellent - Clive, Coral deck 5). Yes, the rooms are small, but at over a grand and a half for the week who stays in their rooms for god's sake!!!
To sum up, if a relaxing break is what you want with the option to let your hair down this is the Cruise for you..a totally pampering experiance. We even booked to go back next year (do this whilst on the ship as it's cheaper).
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| Itinerary: |
Med spirit |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Aug 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
Thomas Cook |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr B HARRISON |
| Overall
Rating: |
10/10 |
| Comments: |
This was our first cruise, after booking and then reading some of these reviews I started to have doubts . The check in was very well organised, the cabin was as expected,( if you want a suite book one ). We were forward on Diamond deck, we left Palma some 3 hours late due to a flight being delayed, but that did nothing to spoil things, Palma at night was well lit up as we sailed. The food was excellent, we dined in the Island and Beachcomber often . The shows were top class with the crew joining in one night, led by Captain Guy Lockwood. We did 2 shore excursions, to Bar Vitelli in Sicilly and the Puccini/Pisa tour, enjoying both. We walked into Livorno, Toulon and Barcelona when we docked there .
Drinks were quite reasonable ,and nowhere did we have to pay for tea or coffee, just walk into the Beachcomber and help yourself.
Warren, the cabin steward was exceptionally helpful, as were any of the staff when asked .
I have one complaint, and that isn`t about the Island Escape . Thomas Cook must have the least leg room on any flight I have been on. I am an ex aircraft engineer and I think they have changed the seat configuration to the absolute minimum. My table was pressing against me.
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| Itinerary: |
Med Spirit |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Aug 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
Co-op Travel |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr S Tiernan |
| Overall
Rating: |
7/10 |
| Comments: |
After reading previous reviews I was quite concerned prior to going however the cruise turned out very well and was really enjoyable. Good points were the great staff, from Captain down I couldn't fault any of the crew, the waiters and bar staff were brilliant too.
Dining options are ok, the Island restaurant is friendly and food good although repetive after a few days. Beachcomber (24 hour cafe) much less formal environment but is still pleasant. Both were serve yourself buffet style and can get busy at peak times. Didnt try Oasis (cover charge of £10.95) but heard it was very good. Theme nights (Mexican, Italian and Indian) very much of a let-down, maybe I expected too much.
Accomodation is fairly dated (was on Bronze deck 4) but actually after initial disappointment of drab decor and small bathroom, was found to be bigger than anticipated and quite comfortable.
Entertainment team were excellent, especially in Ocean theatre, bars were good although Sundowners and Pub were very smokey. Bar prices reasonable (Stella £2.80 a pint).
Pool is too small during school holiday periods, but probably ok at other times. Deck area again too small if ship is full and as hardly any private balconies then almost everyone is competing for same space.
This was my third cruise, and I'd rate this third overall, but it was nowhere near as bad as some reports suggest and if you can get a good deal then this should prove to be a very enjoyable cruise experience. If you don't get a good deal then this cruise ship is not as value for money as other ships in similar or better class (Thomson ships , Ocean Village).
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Aug 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Miss J Brown |
| Overall
Rating: |
8/10 |
| Comments: |
Just returned from a week on the island escape.we tavelled as a party of four,myself my partner,his sister and her daughter,with ages ranging from 47 to 18.
having read all the bad reviews beforehand i was nervous to say the least but need not have worriedas we had an absolute ball and will definately be booking another trip for next year.
the ship itself is somewhat tired as has been said but that isn't a major problem as it's perfect for a first time cruise and then one can upgrade so to speak with different cruise operators if cruising is indeed for you.
cabins are in definate need of an overall but at the end of the day how long do you really spend in them??
some public areas could be better but the plusses far outway the minus points on the ship.
food is excellent and never ending!!beware i have put on a stone and i thought i was being good!!
beachcomber....fine for a quick breakfast or midnight snack and always very clean and well staffed.
island restaurant...we ate here mostly as although is buffet service the waiters will bring your drinks etc.if you want a table for two just ask for a table for two as they will seat you at shared tables but that can be good as you meet lots of different people.
oasis restaurant...we ate here on our last night and it was really good.supplement of 10.95 was worth it and we had a good bottle of rioja for 12 pounds.recommended.
entertainment staff are second to none and there was a guest comedian flown in,he was brillinant.there is always something to do for all ages.
pool area is very small but we only used it for a few hours when we came back onto the ship.only major problem is people keeping sunbeds.they say they take the towesl away but they dont.
i only had two moans.
1 the pub/sundowner bar is far too smoky.it's not allowed in britain anymore so should not be allowed on board the ship.my clothes were ruined with the smell.
2 because this cruise is so reasonable we found there was a bit of a chav element onboard during our week.they were largely in the minority but not what we wanted to see around the pool etc.slightly snobby i know but who cares?
trips far too expensive and not suitable for anybody with walking diffs so make your own way do your research before your trip.
we did go to pompeii and it was well worth it but couldnt bring my sister in law as she uses a wheel chair.
overall this is a great value,informal cruise.it is what it is and will not suit everybody but perfect for a first time cruise.staff are fantastic and captain guy lockwood runs a great ship.
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| Itinerary: |
Mediterranean Discovery |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Aug 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Mrs S REID |
| Overall
Rating: |
6/10 |
| Comments: |
We booked an All Inclusive package and were very disappointed to find it definitely was not all inclusive. We had to pay for tea, coffee and hot chocolate. We had a very limited choice of drinks which were included in the price. Thomsons All Inclusive is All Inclusive not SELECTIVE>
Our cabin carpet was filthy. It was possible to scrape hair and fluff from round the edges. A half empty bottle of water was found under the bed along with a 2 euro coin. Some parts of the ship had been upgraded but others were very shabby, especially the windows in the cabin and the restaurant, which had grime and condensation between the double glazing.
The itinery was good and the food was satisfactory. The thick smoke in the Pub was unbelievable in this day and age. It was not possible for a non smoker to sit in the Pub.
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| Itinerary: |
Island Escape Cruise Ship |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Aug 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
First Choice |
| Submitted
By: |
Mr B Smithers |
| Overall
Rating: |
10/10 |
| Comments: |
Brilliant holiday, easily the best for many years. Lots to do in the evening and the food was superb too. The entertainers worked really hard to give us a good time and suceeded. The cabin on Coral deck (5) was clean, but if I'm honest, the decoration was a "bit tired". Given that we really only slept in there it wasn't so bad.
Our excursions were very well organised and has been already said, the staff were brilliant and always willing to please. In our 50's we didn't find that the kids were out of hand. They were having as good a time as us it looked like.
I don't readily give 10/10 but this was a great holiday and I want to go back!
- Brian
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| Itinerary: |
MED DISCOVERY |
| Date of
Holiday: |
Aug 2008 |
| Tour
Operator: |
Thomas Cook |
| Submitted
By: |
Miss SJ DAWSON |
| Overall
Rating: |
9/10 |
| Comments: |
We have just returned from a weeks cruise on the Island Escape. As first time cruisers we had a fantastic time! we have a 2 and a half year old who was spoiled by captain and crew. We were made to feel SO WELCOME. Staff were friendly and efficient and couldn't do enough for us. Food was fantastic with a great variety of fish, meats and lots of healthy options too. Our cabin was small but clean and the animals that greeted us on our return to the cabin each day had us in stiches!! We will definately go on the Island Escape again. It's a brilliant holiday!!
Bad points( If I'm being picky!!!).... lots of more mature travellers who can tend to be very fussy at times
Shore excursion staff tell you the wrong information at times... We asked for directions to the nearest beach on arrival at port and were told it was a 10 minute walk away. In fact it was a 30 minute local bus ride way!
Neither spoiled our holiday however. I would definately recommend Island escape.
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Island Escape Cruise Ship ReviewsPage 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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