Review: A sports-studded cruise in the Caribbean

Enjoying cruise-ship standards
Of course some things don't change no matter cruise you go on: Tribute acts to stars like Neil Diamond and Robbie Williams provide crowd-pleasing music, stand-up comedians crack jokes and contemporary dance and circus acts perform. We particularly enjoyed the weekly Moon show - an extravaganza of music and dance with acrobats daringly suspended above the swimming pool on the top deck.

They say that the average cruise passenger gains four pounds of weight a week, and it's easy to see how. Two of the restaurants, including the 24-hour buffet, serve meals that are included in the cost of your cruise. There are seven bars to choose from, including The Blue Bar, ideal for a quiet drink, and the Oval, a typical English pub complete with TVs showing the footy. There's even a small casino with a couple of tables if you feel Lady Luck is on your side (experts are on hand during the day to offer tips).

If you fancy pushing the boat out a little, dine at The Bistro for a supplement of £12.95 per head. The ship's formal restaurant is run by TV chef, James Martin. I sampled the Thai crab risotto which was delicious, before tucking into a hearty cassoulet. I rounded my meal off with a wicked chocolate and macademia nut pudding.

The ship bustles by day - as well as sunbeds to lounge on, there's a well equipped gym, deck sports including a football/basketball court, a jogging track, even golf driving nets. If all this seems too energetic, retire to the Karma Spa for some pampering, with wraps, facials and massage. (I recommend the Poultice Therapy -- a full body massage with a muslin wrap containing aromatics.)

Childcare
Fellow cruisers - many of them returning travelers - were full of praise for Ocean Village, enjoying its informal atmosphere and range of activities and entertainments. Although the week we sailed, most passengers were older than the targeted 30-50 age group, the company says the Mediterranean cruises (available from May to October) appeal more to younger travellers and families. An onboard kids' club caters for kids from six months to 17 years and escorted trips ashore keep youngsters aged 9-17 happy while allowing parents some time on their own. Parents can even enjoy the nightlife as there's a night nursery offering supervised care for children aged six months to five years old, with the opportunity of leaving children up to age eight if space permits. The nursery is free between six and midnight and then costs £3 per hour for the first child, and £2 per hour for each sibling until 3am when it closes.

The details
Ocean Village sails in the Caribbean between November and April each year, and is revamping its itineraries for the 2005/2006 to ensure that even return visitors will get the chance to see some new destinations. From May to October, it offers cruises in the Mediterranean.

Prices range from £799 for an inside cabin with shower to £1,170 for a suite with balcony, bath and shower for a one-week winter Caribbean cruise. Mediterranean cruises start at £599 and £896, including the online booking discount. Visit www.oceanvillageholidays.co.uk for more information.