Boudicca gets a refit.

My first experience of Boudicca was in December 2016 and must admit she was looking very tired and a wee bit old fashioned. This had no impact on our little mini cruise but for some passengers doing longer itineraries I must say may be a bit disappointed. Fred Olsen’s reputation is highly held within the cruise market however with so many glam glitzy new comers it is time to up your game. Prices are very good although certainly not cheap and having sailed with them the service, food and entertainment was excellent and worth every penny. All staff knew you by name after the first day and the welcome atmosphere was all around.

So the refit or pamper session is taking place from 17th March at the Blohn Voss shipyard in Hamburg and Boudicca with return to the fleet on 29th March with a sailing from Dover.

Boudicca is known as one of Fred’s smaller classic ships and the Company are proud of all of their fleet but do understand how important it is to make investments to upgrade and improve. They need to ensure passengers enjoy their holidays to the full. So where will we see the difference.

One of the main features throughout the fleet is The Morning Light Pub. This will be moved port side of the Secret Garden Cafe making room for a new Oriental Tea Room.

The cabins as well as the public areas will have new carpets, soft furnishings to include lamps, mini fridge, safe and an interactive smart TV.

The Heligan Room will be transformed into an intimate dining venue named The Indian Ocean Restaurant which is similar to the Orchid Room on its sister ship The Black Watch.

The Guest Services area which I feel is a main meeting point is having a complete overhaul making it modern and more user friendly. General engineering, painting of the interior and exterior will also be carried out.

Black Watch was refurbished at the end of 2016 with Braemar and Balmoral just before Christmas 2017. All ships are continuing to provide passengers with excellent facilities and in some cases over exceed expectations.

With the cruise market being full of mega ships I feel it is refreshing to know that there is still a little bit of intimacy out there. Well done Fred Olsen I have many clients that love your ships.