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Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

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Fred Olsen Cruise Lines fleet

Fred olsen bolette, fred olsen borealis, fred olsen balmoral, review of fred olsen cruise lines.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines (fredolsencruises.com) is a Norwegian-owned, UK-based cruise shipping company headquartered in Ipswich (Suffolk UK). The company is part of Fred Olsen Group (family-owned, by Bonheur and Ganger Rolf). Other subsidiaries of Fred Olsen Group (headquartered in Oslo Norway ) are the shipping companies Fred Olsen Express (fast-speed ferries in the Canary Islands) and Fred Olsen Energy (crude oil tankers).

In November 2022, Fred Olsen announced that is looking for a buyer for MS Braemar . The 30-year-old vessel was sold in December 2023 to Villa Vie Residences.

Company History

The cruise company and travel brand Fred Olsen was established in 1848 (in Hvitsten Norway) by three Olsen brothers (Petter, Andras and Fredrik-Christian) with the purchase of their first ships and starting international passenger shipping.

Today, this family-owned business (into its 5th generation) operates several companies specializing in cruise ship travel, ship crewing, shipbuilding, and even in aviation and offshore industries. Fred Olsen Group also has business interests in the sectors of property development, estate management, luxury hotels, and electronics.

The cruise company's current President and CEO is Peter Deere.

In July 2022, Fred Olsen Jr resigned, being the Fred Olsen Group's Chairman and Board Member for 29 years (between 1993-2022).

Fred Olsen's Head of Itinerary Planning and Destination Experience is Martin Lister.

Fred Olsen ships are smaller-sized but attractive with stylish bars and lounges, smartly furnished staterooms and premium restaurants. Airy public areas provide excellent places to read, have a drink and relax at sea. Daily scheduled activities, uncrowded pool decks, luxury spas are among the other reasons to book cruise vacations with Fred Olsen.

Fred Olsen purchased its first ship in May 2006 - Norwegian Crown (now Balmoral), bought from NCL Norwegian Cruise Line . In November 2007, the vessel was drydocked for lengthening and refurbishment, adding a 40-m long pre-built midship section. The ship (renamed MS Balmoral) entered service in 2008. This project was repeated in summer 2008 with the extension of MS Braemar. The vessel's size was increased from 19,000 to 24,000 GT tons.

Fred Olsen provides traditional, home-like cruising with unhurried onboard life - the main reason for the company's many repeating customers. The liners offer a variety of itineraries with different durations - from a few days (European mini-cruises) to Around the World Voyages . Brochure 2018-2019 ("Venture to the four corners of the world") included two World Cruises - 107-night ( Black Watch , departing from Southampton on November 12, 2019, prices from GBP 9,850 pp) and company's ever-longest itinerary - 168-night ( Boudicca , departing October 3, 2019, prices from GBP 15,000 pp).

On March 7, 2017, Fred Olsen announced its most successful sales day ever. Total bookings were over GBP 3 million for that day. Most of the bookings were made by top-tier loyalty club members, following the official release of Fred Olsen's 2018-2019 cruise itinerary program. The increase in bookings over the same launch day in 2016 was 15%. By the new program, all 4 Fred Olsen ships had planned visits to 228 ports/islands in 73 countries. The program also featured 91 scenic cruising destinations included in 135 unique itineraries.

The company enjoys a high repeat booking rate. To attract first-timers, since 2013 Fred Olsen offers "Enjoyment Promise". By this initiative, a full cruise full refund is guaranteed to anyone who doesn't enjoy the company's cruising vacation product. The cruise line guarantees that if passengers find that the experience is not for them, they can leave the cruise ship at the next available call port. The "Enjoyment Promise" offer applies only to new bookings and first-time customers.

Occasionally, Fred Olsen offers short-breaks (themed as "Taster Cruise") allowing potential customers to book 1-night UK cruise deals. This is a perfect opportunity to sample the company's product without committing too much money or time. Booking these 1-night deals doesn't require purchasing travel insurance. Package price includes Drinks Package added for free. Optional flights from Belfast or Derry can be added with cruise port transfers for GBP 1000 pp. For cruise passengers who don't want to fly, overnight ferry ( Belfast Ireland to Birkenhead England) can be added with cruise port transfers for GBP 100 pp.

In August 2017, the company contracted Speedcast International Ltd to provide fleetwide full package communication (voice and data) services. Speedcast (renowned provider of remote communication and IT solutions) installed on all Fred Olsen ships satellite VSAT terminals plus land-based 4G data connectivity. The new technology allows seamless, automatic switching between various networks ensuring highly reliable connectivity at all times. The new network also provides connectivity between the company's offices and the fleet all over the world.

2018 was the company's record year for cruise sales, with November 19 (Monday) being the year's most successful sales day (nearly GBP 1,6 million). Also in 2018 started charter operations Fred Olsen's first dedicated riverboat Brabant/fka Amadeus Princess . The 156-passenger ship cruises on the rivers Moselle, Rhine, Main, and the Danube.

Fred Olsen's 2020-2021 schedule (ocean and river voyages) listed a total of 277 ports/destinations in 90 different countries (6 continents) on 170 itineraries.

In August 2023 was signed the partnership with Go Stargazing (2002-founded, UK-based astronomy organisation) for 26 voyages scheduled for 2024 on 3x ships (Bolette, Borealis, Balmoral) visiting destinations like Norway, Iceland, Portugal's Azores, and Spain's Canary Islands. This partnership provided passengers on the select voyages to be assisted by Go Stargazing's experts offering laser-guided tours of constellations and insights into celestial objects, as well as the opportunity to observe sky phenomena like meteor showers and the northern lights/Aurora Borealis.

Fred Olsen cruise and ferry fleets' cellular services (onboard Internet/WiFi/connectivity) are provided by WMS-Wireless Maritime Services LLC (Miramar Florida-based company).

Fred Olsen Ferries

"Fred Olsen Express" (1974-founded as "Ferry Gomera", headquartered in Tenerife ) is also part of Fred Olsen Group. The company provides regularly scheduled inter-island passenger shipping services via fast ferries in the Canary Islands. The company's main rival in this market is Naviera Armas .

Fred Olsen Express has a fleet of nine Ro-Pax ships (including 2 trimarans under construction , scheduled deliveries 2020-2021). Among these vessels is the world's first trimaran ferry (HSC Benchijigua Express, launched 2005) with a capacity of 1350 passengers and 357 vehicles. Each of the new trimarans is powered by four Rolls-Royce engines (MTU Series 8000 M71L / 20-cylinder) with combined power output 36,4 MW. Trimaran's max capacity is 1100 passengers and 276 cars. Max speed is 38 knots (44 mph / 70 kph).

Currently, Fred Olsen ferries operate 12 routes in the Canaries, connecting the islands Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and La Gomera. Crossings travel time range between 25 min (Lanzarote - Fuerteventura) and 4 hours (Lanzarote - Gran Canaria).

Fred Olsen fleet meets 2015-2018-2021-2023

For the first time ever, on July 28, 2015, all four Fred Olsen liners (the whole fleet) came together in Bergen - Norway's second-largest city after the capital Oslo .

The four vessels arrived at 8 am and left the port at 6 pm.

• MS Balmoral was on an 8-night "Norwegian Fjords" cruise from Southampton UK (July 25). Arriving from Stavanger Norway , it docked at Bontelabo Terminal.
• MS Black Watch was on a 9-night "Cruising the Fjordland" cruise from Liverpool UK (July 23). Arriving from Flam Norway , it docked at Skolten South Terminal.
• MS Boudicca was on a 7-night "Glaciers, Fjords and Waterfalls of Norway" cruise from Newcastle UK (July 26). Arriving from Newcastle upon Tyne, it docked at Skolten North Terminal.
• MS Braemar was on a 14-night "Falls, Fjords and Faroe Islands" cruise from Dover UK (July 18). Arriving from Akureyri Iceland , it docked at Festningskaien Terminal.
• The day-long festivities in Bergen included quayside live music performances (marching drummers, singers, music bands), onboard entertainment (afternoon show, open deck party, live band music), onboard treasure hunt, "water cannon" send-off show as all Fred Olsen ships were leaving the port.
• All four Fred Olsen ships visit Bergen every year since 1997.
• Following the "fleet meet" day, Balmoral continued to Flam, both Black Watch and Braemar to Eidfjord, Boudicca - to Alesund.

On September 10, 2018, for the company's 170th anniversary, Fred Olsen's fleet docked together in Cadiz (Spain) . The 4 themed cruise itineraries ("Captains in Cadiz") were open for booking on September 28, 2017. Port's excellent facilities are located within the city and allowed all 4 liners to be berthed alongside each other.

• All 4 liners sailed into Cadiz harbor at ~8 am and ~4000 passengers were welcomed by "Los Sones de Cadiz" (music band). The ceremony was attended by Fred Olsen Junior, as well as the city's Mayor, Cadiz Port Authority's President, and other VIP guests.
• At 5 pm, all 4 liners departed in convoy, serenaded by a local jazz band. They were led out of Cadiz Harbour by a fire tugboat spraying water cannons. The fleet passed under "Constitution of 1812 Bridge" information: Braemar returned to Southampton; Black Watch and Balmoral went to Lisbon; Boudicca - to Ibiza.

The next fleet-meet was initially planned for April 4, 2020, in Port Funchal (Madeira Island) . All 4 itineraries (themed "Four Freds in Funchal") included as activities welcome ceremony, live music performances, specially-prepared food menus, fun competitions between the crew and passengers of each boat. However, due to the global health crisis, the fleet rendezvous was canceled and rescheduled for October 22, 2021 ("Four Ladies in Lisbon") in Port Lisbon Portugal .

Next are listed the 4 itineraries planned for the "Four Ladies in Lisbon" (fleet-meet 2021).

• (Braemar) 27-night "Iconic Sites of Croatia and Italy" roundtrip from Southampton (September 30, from GBP 3800 pp)
• (Balmoral) 16-night "Heritage Sites of the Med" roundtrip from Newcastle (October 12, from GBP 2000 pp)
• (Borealis) 15-night "Exploring the Azores and Portugal" roundtrip from Liverpool (October 18, from GBP 2000 pp)
• (Bolette) 15-night "Escape to the Canaries" roundtrip from Dover (October 18, from GBP 1900 pp)

Next are listed Fred Olsen's "fleet-meet in Funchal" itineraries scheduled for 2023. Prices ranged between GBP 2000-2100 per person.

• (Bolette) 15-night "Spain & Portugal with Fleet in Funchal" roundtrip from Southampton (October 29)
• (Balmoral) 15-night "The Canary Islands with the Fleet in Funchal" roundtrip from Southampton (October 30)
• (Braemar) 15-night "Discovering Cultural Morocco with the Fleet in Funchal" roundtrip from Dover (October 30)
• (Borealis) 14-night "The Azores with The Fleet in Funchal" roundtrip from Liverpool (November 1)

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Fred Olsen suspended the entire cruise fleet's passenger shipping operations (all vessels - ocean and riverboats) canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures between March 14, 2020, and June 30, 2021.

River- and ocean fleets' operations were planned to resume on October 24, 2020, but were eventually canceled. Ocean voyages resumed in 2021 on July 5 (Borealis/ Maiden Voyage , cruise to nowhere from Liverpool), and on August 16 (Bolette/ Maiden Voyage , cruise to nowhere from Dover). Balmoral restarted in 2022 (May 2/Canaries from Newcastle). Braemar was scheduled to restart in 2023 (on April 28, from Southampton).

All affected bookings were fully refunded, including on prepurchased through the cruise company packages and services. All bookings on Fred Olsen cruises 2020 (any itinerary) are allowed to cancel penalty-free (up to 14 days prior departure) and rebook any Fred Olsen 2021 cruise (river or ocean).

During the lay-up period, all ships were anchored in

Itinerary of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

Fred Olsen"s cruise fleet is UK-based (homeported) during most of the year, with roundtrips out of UK departure ports - Southampton , Dover , Falmouth , London-Tilbury , Harwich , Liverpool , Newcastle , Rosyth (Edinburgh) , Portsmouth , Greenock-Glasgow and Belfast Ireland . MS Braemar"s winter Caribbean fly-cruise program is from homeport Bridgetown Barbados and provides connecting flights from Manchester and London Gatwick.

Fred Olsen"s itineraries are in popular destinations like the Baltic, Norway Fjords, Mediterranean, Canaries, Caribbean. Longer itineraries include " Around the World " and "Around South America" voyages. The list of cruise destinations operated by Fred Olsen ships includes Mediterranean (also Adriatic), North Africa (Morocco), Canary Islands, Transatlantic crossings, Canada-New England, Northern Europe-UK (Around Britain/British Isles, Iceland, Norway), South America, USA-Canada.

One of the "most British" cruise companies, Fred Olsen"s fleet consists of smaller-sized vessels. Fleet"s largest liners (two former Holland America ships) joined in September 2020 - Bolette/MS Amsterdam (2000-built) and Borealis/MS Rotterdam (1997-built). At the same time, the fleet left Boudicca (1973-built, 47-years-old) and Black Watch (1972-built, 48-years-old).

Fred Olsen cruise itinerary changes

Fred Olsen added a South Africa program on MS Boudicca (transferred to Bolette) operated with the UK to South Africa fly-cruise deals. Boudicca"s fares were inclusive of flights from London (or Manchester) to Cape Town (departure port). The 14-day roundtrip itinerary included overnights in Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, and Durban. The 3-day stay in Cape Town offers as tour options Scale Table Mountain (cable car ride), wine tours (Stellenbosch, Constantia), Camps Bay strolling, visiting the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront complex and the Newlands (cricket ground), Cape Town Harley Davidson bike tour, boating, shark diving, whales-dolphins watching.

• mv Balmoral (1988) - the UK/British Isles, Baltic Sea (Russia-Scandinavia and Norwegian Fjords) and the Canary Islands leaving out of Newcastle (home-port), also from Dover and Southampton (home-port) including on Transatlantic round-trip cruises to South America.
• sold and left the fleet in 2020/ ms Black Watch (1972) - World Cruise from Southampton, Northern Europe (Norway Fjords, Russia and Scandinavia) leaving from England (Dover, homeport) and Scotland (Edinburgh-Rosyth homeport).
• sold and left the fleet in 2020/ ms Boudicca (1972) - UK/British Isles, Azores, and Madeira, the Mediterranean leaving from Liverpool (home-port), World Cruise round-trip from Southampton to the Caribbean and South America. Select departures from Greenock-Glasgow, Belfast, and Rosyth were also available.
• ms Bolette (fka MS Amsterdam, 2000-built) was acquired from Holland America Line ( Carnival Corporation ) in July 2020.
• ms Borealis (fka MS Rotterdam, 1997-built) was acquired from Holland America Line (Carnival Corporation) in July 2020.

After joining the fleet (in September 2020), Bolette and Borealis increased the company's passenger capacity by ~30%. To Bolette and Borealis were transferred the itineraries previously scheduled, respectively, for Boudicca and Black Watch.

At an extra charge, Fred Olsen cruise passengers benefit from exclusive excursions on newly-installed RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) with max capacity 12 people (each). Fred Olsen also offers all-inclusive cruise package upgrades (additional fixed price PP per day) and UK fly-cruise deals to Canary Islands (year-round discounted airfare from Southampton ).

In 2022, the company introduced 5x "Signature Experiences" (Itinerary Insights, Sky at Sea, Ship and the Sea, Scenic Discoveries, Treats of the Region) as part of its “Joy of the Journey” program.  All experiences are led by expert guides and include Sky at Sea (open-deck sunrise and sunset viewing , stargazing events, wildlife watching and nature-themed talks in the Observatory Lounge), Itinerary Insights (lectures and talks themed on culture, arts, and the history of the visited destinations), Ship and the Sea (themed on Fred Olsen company's history, including meetings with the Captains and crew), Treats of the Region (food- and dining-temed, led by the chefs and galley teams, live cooking demos for making and sampling local dishes).

OCEAN itineraries 2024-2025

Fred Olsen's 2024-2025 schedule lists specially-timed voyages to coincide with natural wonders/destination events, and opportunities to encounter wildlife/uncover rich histories across the planet. Among those are meteor showers, wildlife viewing (bird migrations, polar bears), participation in the world’s second-largest carnival (in Santa Cruz de Tenerife).

For the first time (since 2019) Fred Olsen schedules a "Mystery Cruise" (11-night itinerary without scheduled call ports) departing roundtrip from Southampton in November 2024), on which tourists will follow in the footsteps of explorers, seafarers, and navigators as they guess their next call port.

Traditionally for the brand, voyages in 2024-2025 are with departures from the UK homeports Dover, Liverpool, Newcastle/Tyne, Portsmouth, Rosyth-Edinburg, and Southampton.

Early booking and special promos offer up to GBP 150 per person in OBC/onboard credit on sailings of 5-12 nights, up to GBP 250 pp OBC and free door-to-door transfers (within up to 250 mainland miles from homeport) on sailings of 13-32 nights, plus special pricing for solo travelers.

Highlights of season 2024-2025 include:

(ship Balmoral) 5-night "Springtime Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights" leaves from Newcastle on May 23, 2024. Prices start from GBP 800 per person.

(ship Borealis) 14-night "Maritime Cities and Sailing Events of the Baltic" leaves from Dover on June 27, 2024. Prices start from GBP 2100 per person.

(ship Bolette) 27-night "Discovering the Arctic’s Wildlife and Remote Landscapes" leaves from Liverpool on July 19, 2024. Prices start from GBP 3800 per person.

(ship Balmoral) 15-night "Portugal’s Islands in Search of the Meteor Shower" leaves from Rosyth on August 7, 2024. Prices start from GBP 2300 per person.

(ship Bolette) 11-night "Spain, Portugal and the Spectacular Bird Migration" leaves from Liverpool on September 1, 2024. Prices start from GBP 1600 per person.

Fred Olsen RIVER CRUISE itineraries

The company launched its new European river cruise program via a chartered vessel. Fred Olsen river cruises are operated on the 156-passenger river ship MS Amadeus Princess (renamed "MS Brabant").

Fred Olsen"s river cruise program includes itineraries on Danube, Main, Rhine and Moselle rivers, with 30+ departures and itinerary durations from 5 to 25 nights (price-inclusive of luxury land tours and excursions). The new program was specifically planned to include a large amount of daylight river cruising, allowing passengers to enjoy as long as possible the riverside scenery along the itinerary routes.

The new river cruise itineraries on Brabant include Dusseldorf to Amsterdam (Holland), Dusseldorf to Nuremberg , Nuremberg to Budapest (Hungary), Budapest to Bucharest (Romania), Dusseldorf to Basel (Switzerland), and Bucharest to Dusseldorf.

Every Fred Olsen river trip is due to incorporate a lot of daytime scenic cruising so that travellers can enjoy some of the most fantastic European scenery with 14 areas of scheduled scenic cruising that are included across the itineraries. Brabant passengers can also benefit from the introduction of the brand's new enrichment program with almost every voyage featuring an onboard speaker, specifically tailored to the itinerary.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines related cruise news

Fred Olsen sells cruise ship MS Braemar to Villa Vie Residences

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has confirmed the sale of MS Braemar to Villa Vie Residences, who intend to rebrand the vessel as Villa Vie...

Fred Olsen announces Mediterranean fly-cruises for Balmoral ship in 2025

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled its Mediterranean fly-cruises aboard MS Balmoral ship for 2025. Passengers can embark on 7- to 12...

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines unveils 2025-2026 program with 90+ new itineraries

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has announced its 2025-2026 program, introducing 90+ new itineraries for travelers seeking diverse sea vacation...

Fred Olsen schedules diverse European Arctic and Med cruises for 2024 (ship Balmoral)

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has resumed operations in the North Sea, presenting an array of destinations as the 2024 season commences. The...

Fred Olsen scraps Balmoral ship cruise after Norovirus outbreak

A 2-night cruise initially scheduled to depart from Southampton and travel to Newcastle, offered at a price lower than rail and air fare, has been...

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines returns to Dover for summer sailings

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is set to resume operations in Dover England, offering a series of summer cruises to various enticing...

Fred Olsen's ship Bolette to embark on inaugural Around-the-World Cruise

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is preparing to launch one of its ships on an inaugural around-the-world voyage in 2025. As part of the 'Voyage of...

Fred Olsen's ship Borealis starts 101-night World Cruise from Southampton UK

Embarking from Southampton England UK on Sunday, January 7th, Fred Olsen's ship Borealis charts a course destined for Bermuda by January 14...

With Fred Olsen's ship MV Bolette ends the successful cruise season at Mombasa Port

The coastal tourism sector experienced a significant upswing as the cruise vessel MV Bolette, carrying 859 tourists, berthed at the bustling port of...

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines unveils Grand Voyage itinerary to Southwest Asia's idyllic islands

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled a revised itinerary for its 82-night Grand Voyage to the islands of southwest Asia scheduled for MS...

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Borealis Itinerary

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines 2024 itineraries of the cruise ship Borealis with homeports and ports-of-call including dates and times. Find out where the ship is sailing and future vessel deployment at the exact date with arrival and departure times. To track how busy is the port or to see when the ship intersects with other vessels we have included a separate column Ships in Port. The following monthly cruise ship calendar is updated frequently using the latest official itineraries. You can also download a full year-round itinerary of the ship at the end of this page in a pdf format. This file is intended for the cruise ship crew, and their families back home to keep track of the ship’s itinerary.

• Tonnage: 61,849 GT
• Staterooms: 690
• Passengers capacity: 1,360 -standard occupancy
• Number of Crew: 615
• Bars & Lounges: 11
• Restaurants: 6
• Onboard Facilities: Swimming pools, Spa, Gym, Jacuzzis, Sports Courts, Culinary Theatre

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Fred. Olsen Cruise Line Borealis Deck Plans & Reviews

Fred. Olsen Cruise Line Borealis

Activities & entertainment

• Guest Services
• Destination Services *
• The Photo Gallery *
• Jewellery Shop *
• Boutiques *
• The Flower Shop *
• Port Shop *
• Future Cruise Information *
• The Bolette Card Room
• Atlantis Spa *
• Thermal Suite *
• Fitness Center
• Whirlpools (2)
• The Olsen Art Studio
• Sports Courts
• The Observatory
• Forecastle - Observation Area
• The Lookout - Observation Area
• Cooking Demonstrations
• Self-Service Laundry
• Medical Center
• Neptune Lounge
• The Auditorium
• Film Screenings
• Stand-Up Comedy
• Cabaret Shows
• Enrichment Lectures
• In-Room Entertainment
• Borealis Restaurant - Main
• Aurora Restaurant - Main
• The Indian Ocean Room Restaurant - Private Dining
• Colours & Tastes Restuarant - Asian Fusion *
• The Oriental Tea Room - Tea Bar *
• Afternoon Tea
• The Bookmark Cafe & Lounge - Coffee Bar *
• Piano Bar - Piano Bar *
• Morning Light Pub & Lounge - Cocktail Bar *
• Ocean Bar - Popular Bar *
• The Poolside Cafe - Pool Grill
• The Lido Bar - Pool Bar *
• Vasco Restaurant - Indian *
• The View Buffet Restaurant - Buffet
• The View Bar - Scenic Bar *
• Room Service

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Upcoming itineraries

Fred. Olsen Cruise Announces Special Offers for 2024 Voyages

• March 24, 2024

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering travelers enhanced benefits on selected 2024 sailings, including on-board spending credit or free door-to-door transfers, according to a press release.

This promotion applies to bookings made exclusively by April 30 aboard the Bolette, the Borealis, and the Balmoral. The offers apply to various destinations, including Canada, the Bay of Kotor, Cape Verde, and Iceland, with departures from Southampton, Dover, Portsmouth, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Rosyth ports.

Clare Ward, director of product and customer service at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, stated: “As the days become longer and the temperature becomes warmer, more and more of us are looking ahead to our travel plans for the year. Whether guests are looking to seek out natural phenomena such as the Perseid Meteor Shower in the Azores, enjoy the Tall Ships Races in Helsinki or witness birds migrating across the Strait of Gibraltar, these added-value extras will help them to truly make the most of their cruise experience with us.”

Special offers are available for selected sailings:

• up to £405 per person to spend on board 
• free door-to-door transportation within a 200-mile UK mainland radius
• various offers for solo travelers

This offer includes the following itineraries:

Balmoral’s nine-night L2410 ‘Natural Wonders of Iceland’ Cruise departing from Newcastle on April 17, 2024. Starting Price: £1,099 per person. 

Itinerary: Newcastle, UK – Reykjavik, Iceland – Ísafjörður, Iceland – Cruising by Hornbjarg, Iceland – Cruising Drangaskörd, Iceland – Akureyri, Iceland – Cruising Eyjafjörður, Iceland – Cruising by Hrisey, Iceland – Cruising Grimsey, Iceland – Cruising Borgarfjörður Eystri, Iceland – Seyðisfjörður, Iceland – Newcastle, UK.

Balmoral’s eight-night L2420 ‘Wildlife and Traditions of the Scottish Isles’ Cruise departing from Rosyth on July 4, 2024. Starting Price: £1,499 per person. 

Itinerary: Rosyth, Scotland – Lerwick, Scotland – Cruising by Sumburgh Head, Scotland – Kirkwall, Scotland – Cruising Pentland Firth, Scotland – Portree Isle of Skye, Scotland – Cruising by the Small Isles, Scotland – Cruising Loch Hourn, Scotland – Cruising by Dutchman’s Cap (Bac Mor), Scotland – Cruising by Fingal’s Cave, Scotland – Cruising by Iona, Scotland – Stornoway, Scotland – Cruising by Troup Head, Moray Firth, Scotland – Rosyth, Scotland.

Borealis’ 14-night S2417 ‘Volcanic Islands of the Azores and Madeira’ Cruise departing from Dover on July 31, 2024. Starting Price: £1,899 per person. 

Itinerary: Dover, UK – Praia da Vitoria, Portugal – Ponta Delgada, Portugal – Funchal, Portugal (overnight stay) – Cruise Mouth of River Tagus, Belem Tower and Discovery Monument, Portugal – Cruise by Cristo Rei and Abril 25 Bridge, Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal – Leixões, Portugal – Dover, UK.

Borealis’ 26-night S2423 ‘Canada in the Fall’ Cruise departing from Southampton on October 3, 2024. Starting Price: £3,699 per person. 

Itinerary: Southampton, UK – St John’s, Canada – Halifax, Canada – Gaspé, Canada – Cruising St Lawrence River, Canada – Trois-Rivières, Canada – Montreal, Canada – Quebec, Canada (overnight stay) – Saguenay, Canada – Cruising Saguenay Fjord, Canada – Corner Brook, Canada – Cruise Humber Arm and Bay of Islands, Canada – Cruising by Spike Island, Ireland – Cobh, Ireland – Southampton, UK.

Bolette’s 18-night T2427 ‘Winter Warmth in the Canaries and Cape Verde’ Cruise departing from Liverpool on November 24, 2024. Starting Price: £2,199 per person. 

Itinerary: Liverpool, UK – Arrecife, Spain – Mindelo, Cape Verde – Praia, Cape Verde – Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain – Santa Cruz de la Palma, Spain – Cruise Mouth of River Tagus, Belem Tower and Discovery Monument, Portugal – Cruise by Cristo Rei and Abril 25 Bridge, Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal – Dover, UK.

Borealis’ 14-night S2427 ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ Cruise departing from Portsmouth on December 7, 2024. Starting Price: £1,599 per person. 

Itinerary: Portsmouth, UK – Arrecife, Spain – Ålesund, Norway – Cruising Torghatten, Norway – Crossing the Arctic Circle, Norway – Tromsø, Norway (overnight stay) – Alta, Norway (overnight stay) – Sortland, Norway – Bergen, Norway – Portsmouth, UK.

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Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines becomes first cruise line to depart from Newcastle in 2024

The cruise operator is offering a range of spring and summer itineraries departing from the English city

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

By Laura Hyde | 04 March 2024

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has become the first cruise line to depart from the Port of Tyne in Newcastle, UK, in 2024, after its 1,350-guest ship Balmoral set sail from the port on 1 March as part of its nine-night ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ cruise.  

“We are delighted to have returned to Newcastle for another busy cruising schedule for 2024, and in particular, to be the first cruise line to sail from the Port of Tyne this year,” said Clare Ward, director of product and customer service at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. “Guests joining us can look forward to a host of cruises onboard our smaller-sized ship Balmoral. Opportunities in our hand-crafted itineraries include the chance to see the Midnight Sun, visit the Norwegian Fjords, and seek out the Perseid Meteor Shower.” 

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is also offering a variety of spring and summer itineraries departing from the English port in 2024, with destinations including Scandinavia, the Canary Islands, Portugal, Iceland and the islands of Malta, Gibraltar, Ibiza and Menorca in the Mediterranean. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines back to Newcastle for another exciting season of cruising from the Port of Tyne,” said Jak Johnston, international passenger terminal manager at the Port of Tyne. “Our friendly team is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to provide exceptional service and ensure unforgettable experiences for all passengers.” 

Tags: Port of Tyne     Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines     ports and destinations     News

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Can You Solo Cruise?

Going on a solo cruise can be a thrilling adventure. Freedom, relaxation and the opportunity to meet new people all lie in store. Whether you're planning your first solo cruise, thinking about booking one, or just curious about what’s involved, this article has everything you need to know.

Can you go on a cruise by yourself?

Solo cruises are very popular with travellers of all ages. Heading off on a solo cruise means you can enjoy some time out at your own pace plus indulge in activities you love. They’re also a great opportunity to meet new people, explore new destinations and take time for yourself.

Regarding the many travel options out there, cruises are a perfect choice if you're travelling alone. A cruise ship provides a safe and comfortable setting, with staff always on hand to assist you. Plus, shore tours and activities are all arranged, so there’s no pressure on you to plan. Finally, the built-in social opportunities make it easy to connect with others if you choose to.

Socialising on a cruise

One of the joys of cruises for solo travellers is that it’s easy to meet new people. With activities and events planned throughout the day and into the evening, you can easily connect with fellow cruisers who share your interests. 

Mealtimes are a great opportunity to socialise. Dining options often include shared tables, so you can enjoy your meals with fellow guests. Plus, welcome drinks make for an easy way early on in the cruise to mingle and make new friends.

Exploring destinations ashore

When your ship docks, solo cruisers have the freedom to explore destinations however they please. Whether you join organised shore tours or venture out independently, there's a sense of adventure in discovering new places at your own pace.

Entertainment on board

Great cruises are packed with a variety of entertainment choices . From amazing shows and live music to cooking classes and fitness classes, there's something for everyone. No matter what you’re up to, the inclusive atmosphere on board means you’ll have a great time.

Packing for your solo cruise

Packing for a solo cruise?

Start with the essentials: casual attire for daytime, formal wear for evening meals, swimwear, comfortable shoes for exploring, and necessary toiletries. 

Additionally, consider bringing a few items to make your solo cabin feel more like home, such as a favourite book or a travel journal. Also, don't forget chargers for your devices.

Making the most of your time on board

Whether you’re cruising for a few days, a week or even longer, take the time to explore the activities on offer. A fitness class or a spa treatment can be a great way to start the day, for example. Meanwhile, afternoons can be spent by the pool with a good book or spent enjoying a workshop or talk. Evenings are a great time to socialise, catch a show or try your luck with games. 

When you’re cruising, don't shy away from things you wouldn't normally do at home. Now’s a great time to step out of your comfort zone. Remember, the staff on cruise ships are eager to help, so if you're ever unsure about where to go or what to do, don't hesitate to ask.

Staying connected while at sea

Staying in touch with friends and family back home is a great way to feel connected and share some of your experiences. Most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages , so you can chat, share photos, or even hop on a video call.

Want to save on data?

Download any movies, books, or music you might want before your trip

Taking time to reflect

A solo cruise can be the perfect time to take some time to reflect and refocus - away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Plus, immersing yourself in new cultures always brings new perspectives and insights. Bringing along a journal can mean you’ve got a great place to note down your thoughts and reflections.

Tailoring your solo adventure with Fred. Olsen Cruises

Heading off on a solo adventure with Fred. Olsen Cruises is a fun, exciting and enriching experience. Discover personalised service and a friendly onboard community, so you will feel right at home from the moment you step aboard.

Fred. Olsen also offers solo cabins , making cruising affordable if you’re on your own. There are even exclusive events for solo travellers, so you can mix and meet others in a relaxed and friendly environment.

• Cruising Tips

The historic cruise line with a fiercely loyal British following

A classic stalwart of the British cruising scene, Fred Olsen Cruises is beloved by a devoted coterie of guests who are fiercely loyal to its particular brand of homespun cruising.

Founded by three brothers in 1848, the Ipswich-based company is still owned by Norway’s Olsen family, helping it to retain the cosy ambience that can be lacking in some of its larger, more corporate rivals.

Freds (as it is affectionately called) is known for its winsome mix of on-board comforts and more intimate ships, harking back to a traditional age of set dining times, formal nights, on-board lectures and captain’s cocktail parties which appeal to a more mature British clientele. 

And when it comes to dining, there’s no shortage of feel-good classic favourites including shepherd’s pie and roast beef on menus, in addition to a mix of international flavours and dishes that reflect the ships’ itineraries.

Where does it cruise?

Fred Olsen steers a more novel route across the globe on imaginative and offbeat itineraries, with a key strength being the network of UK departure ports it offers. 

Guests can opt for Southampton, Portsmouth, Dover, Newcastle, Liverpool and Edinburgh (Rosyth), making it one of the largest choices of any cruise company operating from the UK.

With its roots in Norway, Fred Olsen naturally prides itself in offering a more personalised taste of the fjords in “The Olsen Way”, which capitalises on smaller ships to seek out lesser-explored areas of Norway’s striking coast. It also covers the main cruising grounds of the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, UK, northern Europe and the rest of Scandinavia.

The start of each year normally heralds Fred Olsen’s annual world cruise, which in 2024 departs Liverpool and Southampton on an epic 103-night circumnavigation that heads for the Americas and through the Panama Canal before reaching Australia.

During the year, the line peps up its schedules with other long-haul explorations and in 2023 these include a 34-night cruise to the United States and Canada; a fall foliage voyage to Canada that includes a passage along Quebec’s Saguenay River; a 29-night Caribbean cruise; and a 93-night circumnavigation of Africa, featuring Egypt’s treasures at Alexandria with safari outings in South Africa and tropical islands of Sao Tome and Zanzibar.

Within Europe, highlights include a 25-night “Renaissance Italy” sailing exploring the country’s rich artistic heritage, and a 26-night cruise to the Balkans and Adriatic, visiting the Croatian cities of Dubrovnik and Split, plus Durres in Albania.

Who does it appeal to?

Fred Olsen’s three ships tend to attract an older, mainly British clientele who like the gentle pace and style of the onboard ambience.

However, in school holidays the mix of ages becomes more varied with multi-generational groups as some passengers bring children and grand-children, and younger guests are catered for by Little Skippers children’s clubs on family-friendly sailings.

The line is also a traditional favourite among solo cruisers, as its ships have a higher-than-average number of single cabins and caters for them with exclusive social gatherings and seating solo guests together at dinner. There are even gentleman hosts and dance couples to spin singletons around the floor at the regular tea dances.

Many Fred Olsen customers return time and time again – the line claims to have more repeat guests than any other cruise line – and are greeted by crew members who welcome them back as old friends, such are the warm bonds that form between them.

The company prides itself on getting under the skin of destinations with its “Signature Experience” programme. This covers five initiatives including Treats of the Region, with cookery demonstrations of local delicacies, and Ship and the Sea which focuses on Fred Olsen’s maritime heritage, including talks with ship captains.

The tours programme also aims to give an authentic flavour by visiting local families and indigenous groups. Exhilarating alternatives are offered on RIB (rigid inflatable boats), carried on each Fred Olsen ship, while a partnership with wildlife charity Orca, which sends volunteers on selected sailings, adds an extra dimension to whale- and dolphin-spotting.

There’s much to appeal to British tastes on board, with arts and crafts classes and bridge sessions, a well-stocked library, and afternoon tea served to the tinkling ivories of the resident pianist.

Live shows and singalongs, cabaret and comedy acts fill the evenings, which have designated dress codes. There’s usually at least one formal night and occasional theme nights each cruise, with a favourite being the red-white-and-blue-themed British nights.

The Fred Olsen fleet

1,338 passengers

Fred Olsen’s flagship joined the fleet in September 2020, having previously sailed for Holland America Line, ushering a new level of ship facilities for the line. 

Named after Fred Olsen’s great grandmother, it can travel at higher speeds and reach destinations more quickly, thus paving the way for increasingly ambitious itineraries with additional destinations and more time for scenic cruising.

Bolette ushers in a grander style with signature features and six restaurants, including stately two-tiered main dining venues – plus a dedicated art studio and an auditorium for cookery demonstrations and cinema evenings. It is the first Fred Olsen ship to have a retractable roof over one of its two swimming pools.

1,360 passengers

A near-identical sister ship to Bolette, it also joined the fleet from Holland America Line in September 2020 and similarly boasts the high-speed capability that lends itself to more far-reaching itineraries. There’s a similar line-up of on-board amenities to Bolette, including speciality restaurants Colours & Tastes, serving Asian cuisine, and Vasco, whose Indian dishes are inspired by the line’s Goan chefs. 

The atrium centrepiece on both Borealis and Bolette is a gloriously intricate clock tower, while there’s old-style glamour in abundance in the two-tier theatre-style Neptune Lounge, with its sultry colours and velvet seats. Both Borealis and Bolette also have a wider choice of lounges with the addition of the Ocean Bar and Piano Bar.

1,325 passengers

The oldest ship in the Fred Olsen fleet, having joined in 2007, Balmoral is also the smallest. This means it can navigate some of Europe’s more slender waterways, such as the Seine River, where it sails inland as far as Rouen; along the Gironde and Garonne rivers to Bordeaux, and the Kiel Canal, linking the North and Baltic seas. 

Its design follows classic cruise ship lines and it boasts a homely ambience, but having been stretched, with a 30-metre section inserted in the midship, there’s a light and airy feel, too. Injecting an exotic flavour to the line-up of lounges is the Oriental Tea Room with its mix of blends and varieties from Japan, China and Taiwan. Another favourite across all three Fred Olsen ships is the Morning Light pub, offering a selection of British and international beers – just the thing to inspire the brain cells for popular quizzes held here.

Only with Fred Olsen

The Signature Experience programme features five such activities on every sailing, including Sky at Sea star-gazing on deck, Scenic Discoveries, where guests join guides to spot wildlife and scenic points of interest and an Itinerary Insights programme of lectures and talks.

November 9 will mark the third time Fred Olsen’s three ships come together, a reunion marked in Madeira with the ‘Fleet in Funchal’ celebration, marked with a quayside fiesta and programme of events.

Reader Service: Did you know that some cruise operators require specific cruise travel insurance ? Learn how to get the right travel cover for your trip.

Have you been on a Fred Olsen cruise before? Tell us about your trip in the comments section below

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