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With a welcoming, friendly reputation and a worldwide roster of destinations, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines aspires to create the jovial atmosphere of a British country house at sea.
Whether you’re dreaming of crystal clear Caribbean waters, rugged Norwegian fjords or storybook European scenery, there’s plenty of routes to choose from. Explore the exotic islands of the Indian Ocean or venture into Southeast Asia to learn more about the rich culture and history there. One of Fred. Olsen’s more unique offerings are its Arctic cruises, allowing you to set sail for this remote and intriguing continent. You can also opt for European river cruises aboard a smaller boat, making your way leisurely down the Seine or cruising past tranquil Scottish Lochs.
Boudicca
By: Jurin, Lytham St Annes on 21st Sep 2018
We visited Cape Verdi, Senegal and Gambia on Fred. The excursions were extremely good.
Balmoral
By: Gundle, Cardiff on 26th Aug 2018
Balmoral has a choice of bars, all pleasant venues for a quiet drink.... An excellent holiday-which I recommend.
Select a ship below to view its reviews, Q&A, deals, photos & videos
Braemar is a smaller cruise ship. It's large windows bathe public areas in natural light.
Braemar CruisesBalmoral is the largest of Fred. Olsen's ocean-going cruise ships, yet it can still navigate size-restricted waterways.
Balmoral CruisesTheir brand new flagship, Bolette exudes classic, elegant style in her design features plus spacious and comfortable public spaces
Bolette CruisesThe Olsen’s used to have a ship called Borealis in their fleet many years ago, in 1948, long before they became a cruise line.
Borealis CruisesFred. Olsen dress codes fit the cruise line’s traditional atmosphere. By day, you can dress in comfortable casualwear to partake in on-deck activities. Most evenings have a standard smart casual dress code. For men, this means smart jeans, trousers or chinos with a button-down or polo shirt. Ladies have plenty of options as well, ranging from summer dresses to tailored trouser suits. Shorts, T-shirts, tracksuits and trainers are banned from evening restaurants. There are also a couple of formal nights on each cruise, when you can lay on the glamour with cocktail dresses, ball gowns and dark suits and ties.
Yes, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines provide excellent entertainment, and they organise get together activities so it's not difficult to get to know new people. Also, all the usual British traditions are preserved, including Sunday roast, afternoon tea, and bingo which makes it easy to make contact.
Balmoral
"The entertainment team put on some great shows. I would go as far to say this is some of the best mix of entertainment I have seen onboard."
Balmoral
"Life onboard a Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is very laid back and relaxed. They make a huge deal of arranging get togethers for solo passengers each day and encourage everyone to mix with each other."
Boudicca
"Boudicca has been lovingly maintained and refurbished, so that despite being an older, traditional vessel, she has a light, fresh and airy feel once aboard."
Get Closer With Fred. Olsen
Enjoy a cruise aboard Balmoral
Fred. Olsen pulls out all the stops when it comes to delicious dining options, so meal times are always a class act! This begins every morning with your choice of a hearty full English or a lighter continental breakfast, moving on to soups, salads and fresh seafood for lunch and elegant multicourse meals at dinner. There are a couple of main restaurants on each ship to accommodate all your mealtime needs, with a selection of buffet and a la carte menu items. Breakfast and lunch are open seating in the main dining room, with two seating times for dinner.
If you prefer a relaxed dining experience, visit the onboard buffet restaurant and help yourself to whatever takes your fancy. A number of specialty dining options are also on hand when you’re in the mood for something a bit different.
Naturally, room service is also available up until 11 pm each evening, for those moments when you just want breakfast in bed or a relaxing evening in.
Cruising can work up a thirst! Upgrade to the All Inclusive package and you’ll enjoy unlimited access to a bevy of beverages in the onboard bars, lounges and restaurants. This includes soft drinks, mineral waters, wine or Cava by the glass, beer, cider, and house spirits. Guests who have opted for the All Inclusive upgrade can also sip on premium or branded drinks at a 50% discount. On cruises that are 7 nights or longer, the package costs £19pp per night. On cruises that are 5 nights or fewer, the package costs £35pp per night.
Unwind in the evenings with your choice of laid back lounging or upscale theatre. The Neptune Lounge is the venue of choice on many Fred. Olsen ships for live music, cabaret acts, and side-splitting comedy. A resident band is on hand to crank out the dance tunes, with dedicated Dance Hosts at your disposal to make sure the ballroom floor is always busy and upbeat. Are you looking for great conversation and a sense of refinement? Visit the lush Oriental Tea Room for specialty teas and an intimate atmosphere. Here are a few other venues to visit:
Boredom is not an option on a Fred. Olsen cruise, so you can brighten up your downtime with as many (or as few) activities as you prefer. There’s a full programme of guest speakers, performers, quizzes, and art and craft lessons to help you pick up a new skill or two. Improve your fancy footwork with ballroom dancing lessons, prepare for your next port with language tutorials, or pay tribute to the stirring seascapes with watercolour painting.
Feel energised with a walk around the open deck, or boost your endorphins in the Fitness Studios where you can hit the treadmill, use the rowing machine or stay strong with weight machines. A tennis court, Pilates, aerobics and yoga lessons are all on hand to spice up your fitness routine. Alternately, relax in the Atlantis Spa where you can choose from a luxurious menu of massages, manicures, pedicures, facials and hairdressing. Try out a new style for the evening or soothe tired muscles with a full body massage.
Your stateroom is a home away from home with all the amenities one would expect from a world-class hotel. Each room and suite comes equipped with individual climate control, tea and coffee making facilities, a TV and en suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.
Gratuities are voluntary, with a suggested charge of £5.00 per person, per day throughout your stay. This is added automatically to your onboard account, but you can adjust or remove it if you wish. These service charges are shared between the staff, including the stewards and waiters. You also have the option to pre-pay gratuities if you prefer.
Thinking about adding on a drinks package? Check this article out before making your decision...
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