Could be a first for Fred ….

Well, Fred Olsen is a line that I would describe as ‘Comfortable’ Like wearing your favourite slippers !!! They never seem to rush out with any new exciting news or launches, they are an extremely proud company and really revel in their success of their repetitive guests.

Could there be a new ship on the horizon? Could it be a brand new build?

It’s said they are looking into their options with so many other new builds hitting the water they may be thinking of getting in on the act.

They are not in any rush as yet but spoke out at a recent conference of growing their fleet. A new ship would take the fleet to 5 and would be the first ever new build for the line as the existing 4 ships were all previously owned.

The Current fleet look like this
Ship Built Entered service with Fred. Olsen
Black Watch 1972 1996
Boudicca 1972 2005
Braemar 1993 2001
Balmoral 1988 2007

It could still be a rumour as nothing been signed and sealed as they have recently spent £40M on renovations of the current fleet in the last 18 months and have unsuccessfully been looking at purchasing a ship to add to the fleet without any success.

One thing that has been said is they would be certainly looking to continue with the Fred Olsen theme of smaller ship experiences and the Fred Olsen identity and what the high percentage of repeat guests want.

Fred Olsen have already invested in a refurbishment of three of their existing ships Braemar, Boudicca, and their flagship Balmoral. They are said to be noticeably improved and repeat guests will already be enjoying the revitalised onboard environment. They have added new smart TV’s, new carpets and updated the fabrics making the cabins a lot more light and airy.
The public areas have also had an overhaul with a lot more modern and airy decor and also adding more dining and entertainment areas.

What do you think a new build for Fred?
Do you think it will go ahead?

Only time will tell let’s see what the future holds for Fred