Thomson Spirit

The MS Thomson Spirit was constructed in 1983 for the Holland America cruise line. It was originally called the MS Nieuw Amsterdam and was the third of four liners to have that name. In 2003, the vessel was acquired for Thomson Cruises and its name was changed to the Spirit.

A spacious and attractive vessel, the Spirit has a contemporary design and a stylish white hull with a blue band at the waterline.

Thomson Cruises is part of the Thomson Travel Group, which was established in 1965 and is based in Luton, England.

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The company first embarked on cruises in 1973, but this initial attempt at breaking into the market only lasted for three years. In 1995, the company acquired the MS Sapphire and the SS Island Breeze and started once again offering cruise holidays.

Voyages on the Spirit generally set sail to destinations in the Mediterranean and popular ports of call include Corfu, Venice, Split, Dubrovnik and Montenegro, as well as Alexandria, Jerusalem and Cairo.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 1,350
Year entered service: 1983
Beam (ship width): 89.4 feet
Draught (ship depth): 24.6 feet
Length: 704.2 feet
Tonnage: 33,930
Crew: 520
Maximum speed: 21 knots
Number of passenger decks: 10
Number of lifts: 7
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 627

Food, cuisine and dining

The main restaurant on the Spirit is called the Compass Rose. It's an expansive venue that is elegantly decorated and has large windows that afford gorgeous views out to sea. All three meals are served on an open-seating basis, so you can enjoy your meal whenever and wherever you like.

Fare in the Compass Rose is typically traditional and vegetarian options are always available. There's also a children's menu that includes smaller portions and kid-friendly items. And, of course, there is plenty of choice when it comes to delicious desserts!

Sirroco's is the alternative restaurant and it offers a more intimate atmosphere. The menu includes a number of gourmet items that are carefully prepared with high-quality ingredients, while the chic decor and smaller tables will ensure you have a meal to remember.

The self-service buffet is called the Lido Restaurant and it's a popular place to grab a bite to eat at any hour. Options range from soups and salads through to more substantial entrees and each day there's an international cuisine theme.

Meanwhile, the Terrace Grill is available at lunchtime for guests to get a juicy burger or a slice of pizza. Room service is also offered 24 hours a day for an additional fee.

On-board entertainment and activities

The Spirit is a fabulous choice for those who enjoy cruises with a variety of activities going on all the time and there is plenty to keep passengers occupied, whatever their age or personal preferences.

For a professionally-produced show, The Broadway Showlounge is the place to go. It's a two-deck high venue with space for 600 guests and performances can range from musicals to revues, cabaret, concerts and comedy.

There's a large cinema, where you can watch recently released films and Hollywood blockbusters and the High Spirits Lounge is a popular live music venue. In addition, it hosts game shows and quizzes and in the evenings is transformed into the disco for late-night dancing.

A number of bars and public rooms are also available, where you can go for your favourite tipple and some lively conversation. Options include Horizons - located near the top of the ship, it offers some gorgeous views and there's often live classical music playing in the background. Other choices include the Lido bar and the Explorer's Lounge.

Raffles Casino is a vibrant space with various slot machines and games tables - including poker, roulette and blackjack. Meanwhile, Raffles Bar is a piano bar with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Spas and fitness facilities

Oceans Health Club is a fully equipped gym and spa facility located at the aft end of the ship. The exercise room features modern cardio and resistance equipment and there's a studio that hosts exercise classes.

A beauty salon is available, where you can indulge in an aromatherapy facial, manicure or pedicure - or even get a new hairstyle. Services for men are also offered, such as wet shaves and hair darkening.

Treatments are provided by Harding Brothers - a company known for operating excellent spa facilities on a number of cruise ships worldwide.

If you prefer getting your exercise out in the fresh air, there's a sports deck with a large mutli-sports court. Alternatively, you could go for a swim in one of the two pools or unwind in the whirlpool.

Cabins

Accommodation options are widely varied on the Spirit, meaning that passengers should be easily able to find something that suits their requirements. Options range from interior no-view cabins - which are the lowest in price and a great choice for cruise deals - through to the penthouse suite.

Most rooms are suitable for two passengers and are furnished with two twin beds that can be converted to a queen. A few cabins - mainly suites - can accommodate three or four passengers. All rooms include a private en-suite bathroom, televisions with satellite reception and generous storage space.