We would never, ever go on the Black Prince (Not the name we called it) again. We sailed in January 2001. Even then it was scruffy. We went to the Canaries . It wasnt Black Princes problem about the atrocious weather we suffered, but our outside cabin on Marina deck certainally left a lot to be desired. Two appalling hard beds , rusty porthole, scruffy carpet. Disgusting public toilets. No prom deck, no carpets on stairs. Entertainers and the cruise directors office and the reception desk all had curtains . Food I must admit was superb. Thats if you could get over the nausea caused by its rocking and rolling!

Many thanks for your swift replies to my question and your comments. We were so pleased to have booked our first cruise and rather liked the idea of a small ship as I had been in hospital for six months it would be lovely to recuperate on the holiday we had been promising to take for a long time. On visiting our Local Travel Agent yesterday we we informed that the "Black Prince" did not allow Wheelchairs to be used on Board as there was not enough room on the Decks. We asked for a Cabin on one of the other Fred Olsen Ships but there was nothing available for our needs. We have now booked with another Cruise Line and looking forward to next Spring. Getting excited already, won't come fast enough. Thanks again for your replies. Happy Cruising.

Hi Irene, a cruise review from someone in similar circumstances as yourselves "We had out first cruise this year in June to the Eastern Med. Wasn't sure if I would enjoy such a holiday, but my husband cannot walk far and thought this would be and easy holiday - no airports. How right we were, much to my surprise I thoroughly enjoyed this type of holiday, food first class , plenty tea,coffee etc. Staff most helpfull and assisted when we needed. Would definately go back. Black Prince is an older vessel, but is a 'real' ship (not a floating block of flats) it is also a very friendly ship, between staff and passengers, here's hoping for another cruise soon." So I am sure despite my negative views earlier you will be well looked after.

I can't speak for Black Prince, or indeed FO, but I'm sure you will be looked after extremely well on your small ship. The crew are usually only too willing to offer any assistance they can to people with mobility difficulties. There is a little noise on a small ship, but apart from docking and leaving port it is a background noise that one doesn't notice after the first day. Have a lovely holiday, but be warned, you'll be completely hooked on cruising when you get back!

Hi Irene, not been on the Black Prince but the data available is that it has only 2 wheelchair accessible cabins and only 2 elevators. The ship first entered service in 1966 so is 42 years old, so certain easy accessable areas you find in the newer ships, you may not find here. There is a lot of noise mainly when the ship is arriving in port or leaving one comment was you need not set your alarm in the morning the ship's vibration will wake you. Hopefully some others will be able to make a more positive contribution on this as I am working only from data available from various sources. It is a small ship so I am sure it will be very friendly and with helpful crew and passengers and that you will still enjoy your cruise.