Black Watch

Originally constructed for the Royal Viking Line and named the Royal Viking Star, the MS Black Watch was acquired by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in 1996.

The vessel - which is named after the Royal Regiment of Scotland infantry battalion - has gone through a number of refits since it was launched in 1972. For example, in 1981, a midsection was added, stretching the length of the ship and adding space for more cabins and other amenities. Additionally, the engines were updated in 2005.

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More recently, the Black Watch was dry docked in 2009 for extensive refurbishment programme that included fresh interior decor, extra dining areas and new soft furnishings in many of the public spaces.

The ship boasts a variety of traditional cruise features making it the ideal choice for older British travellers who prefer a luxurious and fairly formal holiday at sea.

Generally based in Dover or Southampton, the Black Watch travels to a variety of destinations throughout northern Europe and the Mediterranean. It also occasionally embarks on special round-trip transatlantic voyages to the Caribbean, as well as even longer journeys to the South Pacific.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 868
Year entered service: 1972
Beam (ship width): 82.6 feet
Draught (ship depth): 24.7 feet
Length: 674.1 feet
Tonnage: 28,221
Crew: 350
Maximum speed: 22.5 knots
Number of passenger decks: 10
Number of lifts: 4
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 421

Food, cuisine and dining

The Glentanar Dining Room is the main restaurant on the Black Watch. Named after a picturesque estate in Aberdeenshire, it has a simple decor and offers two traditional dinner services every night. Breakfast and lunch are also served in this venue and guests can choose from table service or a buffet for these two meals.

There's also the Orchid, a small offshoot of the main dining room, which can be reserved for small groups and a more intimate meal.

Another option is the Braemar Garden Café, a new casual dining area. Its elegant and modern design gives diners the impression that they're eating in an outdoor garden, with stone tile flooring, trellis wall detailing, a colourful mural and plenty of potted plants. It can seat up to 120 guests and includes a bar and buffet as well.

For a luxurious and traditional afternoon tea, be sure to reserve a spot in the Braemar Room. Classic favourites such as cucumber sandwiches, cakes and pastries are provided, along with the highest quality service. This event is usually held a few times during each cruise and spaces book up quickly.

Alternatively, the Marquee Pool Bar gives passengers the chance to enjoy an informal al fresco lunch. Menu items include options like fish and chips and burgers while you sit back and enjoy the sunshine, and maybe even your favourite cocktail.

On-board entertainment and activities

If you're looking to enjoy a show during your cruise, then the Neptune Lounge is a comfortable spot to watch comedians, musical and dancing performances and various other entertainers. Meanwhile, the Marina Theatre is a cinema offering a range of films throughout the voyage.

Alternatively, some of the bars also provide live music, while the small on-board casino includes blackjack and roulette tables. Options include the Braemar Lounge, the Lido Lounge, Pipers Bar and The Observatory.

For those who want to enrich their minds during their cruise, the Black Watch offers educational lectures, teaching passengers about all sorts of topics, including valuable information about the ports of call that the ship will be visiting.

You can also sit back and relax in some of the public spaces located around the ship. These offer a tranquil atmosphere, comfortable seating and a place to enjoy your favourite drink, have a quiet chat or even enjoy a good book.

Spas and fitness facilities

Located on the Sun Deck, the large fitness centre offers a variety of exercise machines sure to get your blood pumping. Meanwhile, aerobics classes, as well as more relaxing pursuits like Pilates are held on a regular basis.

Heat therapy can be a great way to let off some additional stress. The liner has a number of jacuzzis for relieving the tension in your muscles, while saunas can help to clear your pores and sweat out impurities.

Of course, there are also a number of exercise options located elsewhere on the ship, like the swimming pool and jogging track.

Cabins

With 18 different price categories, there is certainly a wide range of stateroom options to choose from. This means that anyone who wishes to travel on the Black Watch will be able to select from high-end luxury, to lower cost cruise deals, depending on their particular requirements.

The most lavish of the rooms is the Owner's Suite, which measures 819 square feet. It includes a lounge, two bedrooms, a mini-bar and a large bathroom with a bathtub. Meanwhile, the large private balcony is furnished with a table, six chairs and a sun lounger.

Other types of luxury accommodation include Premier, Marquee, Deluxe, Bridge and Junior suites. Alternatively, the standard cabins are available with or without views.

While most rooms are designed accommodate two guests, some can sleep up to five people. There are also several single-occupancy cabins spread across the vessel.

All rooms include en suite bathrooms as well as televisions, phones, hair dryers and lockable storage space to help keep your valuables safe.