Island Cruises

Relaxed, friendly and informal are the three words that best sum up Island Cruises. Jointly owned by the travel company First Choice (now part of TUI Travel) and the cruising giant Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Island Cruises describes itself as “the casual cruise line” where the emphasis is on flexibility at a value-for-money price. The essence of an Island cruise is that passengers are free to dine where and when they want without worrying about what to wear. In addition, Island Cruises are known for their lively entertainment, innovative shore excursions and friendly crew as the ship’s captain and officers are encouraged to make passengers feel at home.

Island Cruises has two ships. Its first ship was the Island Escape which takes 1,740 passengers and started cruising in 2002. It was joined by the larger Island Star which takes 1,875 passengers and joined the company in 2005. Both ships offer similar facilities with a good choice of dining venues that range from buffet and a la carte restaurants to a grill and steakhouse. One restaurant is even open 24 hours a day. With swimming pools, a gym, sauna, spa there is plenty to ensure that passengers are pampered on board. Island Cruises attract a high number of first-time cruisers who are attracted by its relaxed atmosphere, good entertainment programmes and competitive prices. The ships are aimed at the value end of the cruise market, making them ideal for families too. There is a raft of family-friendly activities ranging from kid’s menus in the restaurants and family-friendly cabins to child prices and good children’s excursions, plus kids’ clubs aimed at different age groups.

Passengers looking for lively nightlife can find plenty to keep them amused on an Island cruise. The cruise line has linked with the Jongleurs comedy club for comedy acts on Island Star while both ships lay on West End style shows in their main theatres, along with cabaret acts and game shows, quizzes and bingo in their on-board lounges. In addition, there is live music, an English-style pub, bars, nightclub and a casino, plus various deck parties and events. The range of shore excursions has also been increased with family-friendly outings and more unusual options introduced. Both ships are based in Palma and sail the Mediterranean, with some cruises to Brazil. A newer introduction is voyages that sail from Barbados through the Caribbean.