We went on this Calypso cruise for the itinerary - the Crimea and Istanbul, so we got what we wanted, but we have to say as experienced cruisers, that on-board was a disappointment, and as someone else said, Thompsons can (and do) do better. The fact that the ship wasn't built as a cruise ship shows at times, for example the theatre is a single storey room with no raked seating, and the stage is at the general floor level. A fair bit of live music around the boat, which was no bad thing, although the ever present musak (wailing pop music for passengers nearly all over 60?) was difficult to escape. Daytime entertainment was of the bingo, quiz and "Mr and Mrs" variety (but thankfully no ice carving or napkin folding demonstrations!); evening entertainment was around but we saw little due to its lateness after our second sitting meal, and our lack of enthusiasm. But many enjoyed it. We understand that this is the ship's last season, but it is to be hoped that this particular Black Sea cruise survives in a newer ship.

Overall, an enjoyable experience though we were disappointed about the altered itinerary and have contacted Thomsons since returning home. Calypso is a tiny ship - but we were prepared for this - and the cruising experience as very different from that on a larger ship. There are advantages though! Getting on and off the ship at ports of call is quick and easy!

The overall feeling about this holiday was that the ship is a lot smaller than we thought it would be, and although you could describe the Calypso as a cruiser you have to stretch your imagination. Why Albania has been included in the port of calls we cannot understand. Although there is a small beach area and shopping just outside the port, you will see why Albania is classed as the poorest country in Europe if you get off the ship. The journey up the Corinth Canal was something we all enjoyed and all the other ports we called at were worth getting off the ship for.