Thomson Destiny

The MS Thomson Destiny is the largest vessel in the Thomson Cruises fleet. It was built for Royal Caribbean in 1982 and its original name was the MS Song of America. It was operated by Sun Cruises between 1999 and 2004 and was acquired by Thomson in 2005.

An attractive vessel with loads of gorgeous wooden deck space and a vibrant, modern interior, it's a fabulous choice for families, couples and solo travellers looking for a fun-filled and relaxing voyage. The ship has an easy-going atmosphere and is a popular choice for British holidaymakers.

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The Destiny can generally be found in the waters around Europe. Favourite routes are those around the Mediterranean, stopping at places like La Palma, Villefranche, Palamos, Rome, Corsica and Florence. Voyages to the Canary Islands are also available, with ports of call including Madeira, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Las Palmas.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 1,450
Year entered service: 1982
Beam (ship width): 93.1 feet
Draught (ship depth): 22.3 feet
Length: 705.0 feet
Tonnage: 37,773
Crew: 540
Maximum speed: 21 knots
Number of passenger decks: 11
Number of lifts: 7
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 725

Food, cuisine and dining

There are two restaurants on the Destiny, both offering delicious cuisine and excellent service. A wide range of menu options is available, giving passengers plenty of choice - ensuring there's something to suit any preferences.

The main restaurant is called the Seven Seas - it's a massive space with two wings that can be booked for special events (called the Magellan and Galileo Rooms).

Breakfast is available as a buffet or table service and includes continental items like cold meats, cereals and pastries. Egg dishes, pancakes and other cooked items are also available.

Lunch and dinner feature table service and dinner is served at two set times - breakfast and lunch are open seating. Dinner menus are fairly simple, but you get large portions and it's all tasty.

The other restaurant is the Lido Cafe - a self-serve area that is open 24 hours a day. A vast range of dishes is available from this location, although the selection can be limited in the early hours of the morning.

In addition, grilled items like burgers, as well as pizzas and sandwiches can be acquired on the pool deck at lunch time. Room service is also available throughout the day and night.

On-board entertainment and activities

There are loads of options when it comes to keeping busy on the Thomson Destiny and passengers of any age are sure to find something that suits their particular preferences.

Younger cruisers will enjoy the newly refurbished kids' zone, which hosts a variety of activities and edutainment for children aged three to 12. These include everything from games and movies through to arts and crafts sessions. The facility is run by qualified hosts and there's also a massive play area.

Adults will enjoy spending time in the five bars - each one has a different theme and atmosphere, so it won't be difficult to find one where you feel comfortable. Options include the Clipper Bar, which is a vibrant piano bar, the Lido Bar and the Mast Bar. Meanwhile, the Sky Bar is located at the top of the ship and Blake's is a cafe that features large, comfortable seating and a laid-back ambience.

There are also two show lounges. The Can Can Lounge is a large venue that offers cabaret and revue productions. Typically, the cast is drawn from crew members who enjoy spending time in the limelight - although professional acts are also offered.

The smaller Oklahoma Lounge is a cosier venue with a stage and dance floor. It often hosts late-night comedy.

Spas and fitness facilities

The Oceans Spa is a peaceful area where you can relax with some time in a sauna or you can book a treatment like a massage or body wrap.

A beauty salon is also available and if you're looking for a vigorous workout, the gym has a number of exercise machines. There are also two swimming pools - one for adults and one for kids - if you prefer to get your exercise in other ways.

Cabins

The Destiny has more than 600 staterooms, which are spread across five categories: Interior, Outside View, Deluxe, Suites and Grand Suites. They are further categorised into nine price ranges, so there's sure to be an accommodation option to suit your needs - whether you're looking for a cruise deal, or want to splash out on a luxurious holiday at sea.

Most rooms are provided with two twin beds and in some rooms, these can be pushed together to make a queen. However, in many of the smaller rooms, the beds are placed in an L-shape arrangement, so this is not possible. Therefore, if a queen size bed is something you require, be sure to check this can be accommodated in the room you select.

There are nine suites, which are situated in a private section of the vessel and come with a number of plush amenities like a furnished, semi-private balcony. They also include a sofa bed, providing additional sleeping space and making them an ideal choice for families.