Gina's tonic!

I'VE been working on Heartbeat as Gina Ward for 17 busy years, so because my filming schedule is winding down, I grabbed the chance for a relaxing holiday with my favourite boys - husband Mark and our sons Jake, six and one-year-old Freddie.

And this one was set to be extra special because it was our first as a family of four.

We chose to take an Ocean Village Mediterranean cruise because we've been on one before, loved every minute and knew we'd be in for a fantastic time.

As soon as we got on board, I remembered why we loved Ocean Village. The atmosphere is so relaxed. I love that you can wear what you like day or night - there are no dress codes. Which is perfect for me because I spend so much time in hair and make-up for filming that it's good to get a break from all that.

World

Our cabin was spacious with a walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom - plus we could see the world sail by through the big picture windows. There is a young, energetic family feel to Ocean Village holidays. Our boys had so much to see and do. The facilities for children are amazing - Jake and Freddie spent hours every day in the kid's club, Base Camp.

Jake loved the organised games and activities and made lots of friends. Freddie just couldn't get enough of the ball pool, bless him! The children's pool on Kid's Deck is excellent - youngsters can be noisy but safe and well-supervised, leaving the adults to relax in peace on the main deck.

The highlight for Jake and Freddie was meeting and having their picture taken with Paddington Bear.

While the kids were in Base Camp or spending time with their grandparents, who joined us on the cruise, Mark and I got to spend quality time together.

We visited the fabulous Karma Spa and treated ourselves to full body massages - I can't remember the last time I felt so relaxed! We also spent time reading and lying around the pool and in the Jacuzzi. We felt so content, we had to remind ourselves to get off the ship to visit the fabulous destinations we called at!

Our itinerary had stops in Palma, Tunis, Rome, Genoa, St Raphael and Barcelona - you wake up in a new destination nearly every day. Ocean Village has a fantastic Action Ashore programme with options to suit adrenaline junkies and those looking to take it a bit easy like me!

The family hit the beach in Tunis and in Rome we visited a waterpark, a popular choice with Jake.

By the time we reached St Raphael, Mark and I were re-energised so ventured out to see the sights on mountain bikes supplied by Ocean Village at every stop.

It was a great way to experience the town - plus the exercise helped keep me in shape! Other options included rock climbing in Palma and helicopter sightseeing in Barcelona.

Evenings on Ocean Village were my favourite part of the holiday - the ship comes alive.

Amazing

We headed to one of the restaurants which include eating out on deck at La Luna and celebrity chef James Martin's fabulous Bistro. The amazing food here was well worth paying a bit extra for. The desserts were to die for - my favourite was sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and vanilla ice-cream.

After dinner, we went to see the fantastic entertainment. It was like being in the West End - I was bowled over by their talent. My favourite was Jackie Graham, her voice was incredible.

Other nights we watched comedians and visited the casino - I didn't have much luck! We rounded off our evenings at the Blue Bar which served the most gorgeous cocktails. Mine was a Blue Lagoon, nice and refreshing after a day lazing in the sun!

The bar also had ocean views, a fab way to end the night.

I left the liner feeling refreshed and relaxed. I would definitely take another Ocean Village cruise - I've become a real fan over the years. And I'd recommend it to other young families who are looking for a summer holiday with a difference.

GETTING THERE:

OCEAN Village is in the Caribbean throughout the winter but heads back to the Mediterranean next April to sail a mix of Eastern, Western and Central Mediterranean itineraries. You can sail on the Tapas and Togas itinerary that Tricia and her family did from £849 per person on selected dates. You will fly from a UK airport to Palma, Majorca to meet the ship, sailing to Tunis, Rome, Genoa, St Raphael and Barcelona before heading back to Palma for the flight home. Visit www.oceanvillageholidays.co.uk or call 0845 358 5000.

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