A delightful small ship for life-enrichment cruises
Overview. This comfortable, intimate ship operates in areas devoid of large cruise ships. Although not quite matching the standard of Seabourn or Silversea ships, it provides a fine cruise experience at a moderate cost. It suits seasoned travelers who like a relaxed lifestyle, good food and service, and an itinerary that promises ‘get away from it all, but in comfort.’
The Ship. Island Sky has contemporary mega-yacht looks and handsome styling, with twin flared funnels that give it a smart profile, and a ‘ducktail’ (sponson) stern that provides stability and seagoing comfort. This ship was originally built as one of a series of eight similar ships for the now-defunct Renaissance Cruises. It was completely refurbished in 2010.
There is a narrow teak walk-around promenade deck outdoors, and a reasonable amount of open deck and sunbathing space. The ship has a fleet of Zodiac inflatables for shore landings.
Inside, the interior design is elegant, with polished wood-finish paneling throughout. There is a very small library with two Internet-connect workstations. Gratuities are included, as are house wine, beer, and soft drinks during lunch and dinner.
Accommodation. The spacious cabins combine highly polished imitation rosewood paneling with lots of mirrors and hand-crafted furniture, lighted walk-in closets, three-sided vanity mirrors – in fact, there are a lot of mirrored surfaces in the decor – and just about everything you need, including a refrigerator, a TV set and player, and Wi-Fi access. The bathrooms are extremely compact; they have real teakwood floors and marble vanities, and shower enclosures, but none have tubs, not even the Owner’s Suite. All were replaced in a 2010 refit.
Dining. The dining room operates with open seating for all meals. Small but quite smart, it has tables for two, four, six, and eight. You sit where you like, with whom you like, and at what time you like. The meals are self-service, buffet-style foods for breakfast and lunch, with hot foods chosen from a table menu and served properly. The dining room operation works well. The food quality, choice, and presentation are all very decent.
Entertainment. There is no formal entertainment in the main lounge, the venue for all social activities. Anyway, six pillars obstruct sight lines to the small stage area.
Spa/Fitness. Water sports facilities include an aft platform, and Zodiacs.