Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
In This Guide
- Introduction
- A Brief History
- The Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Fleet
- Accommodation and Service Levels
- What’s Included in Your Fare
- Loyalty Programme: Oceans Club
- Pre-Paid Packages Available
- Dining Options
- Onboard Entertainment & Activities
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for Solo Travellers
- Dress Code
- Gratuities / Tipping Policy
- Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
- What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
- Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
- Official Websites
- Required Travel Documents
- Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
- Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
- Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
- Food Policy
- Current Starting Ports (2025)
- Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines stands out as a proudly British, Norwegian-owned cruise line that cherishes its heritage while offering modern, thoughtfully crafted voyages. Renowned for its smaller, more intimate ships and friendly atmosphere, it offers a truly personal cruising experience. The line specialises in innovative itineraries that delve deeper into destinations, often departing directly from regional UK ports.
A Brief History
The Fred. Olsen maritime legacy began in 1848 when three Olsen brothers purchased their first ships in Hvitsten, Norway, establishing an international shipping company. For over a century, the family business expanded into various ventures, including passenger and cargo services. This rich history formed the foundation for the dedicated cruise line.
The company has always focused on providing a distinctive cruising style by using smaller ships that can access lesser-known ports and waterways. This offers a more immersive destination experience for guests. Now into the fifth generation of the family, the cruise line remains deeply committed to delivering authentic and memorable holidays from the UK.
The Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Fleet
Fred. Olsen operates a charming fleet of mid-sized ships that retain a traditional maritime feel. They are designed to offer spacious public areas, comfortable accommodation, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The smaller size means the crew can genuinely get to know guests, adding to the personal touch that the line is famous for.
Balmoral
- Launch Date: 1988 (Acquired by Fred. Olsen in 2007)
- Tonnage: 43,537 GT
- Capacity: 1,325 passengers
- Notable Features: Classic design, multiple lounges, two swimming pools, extensive sun decks.
Named after the Scottish royal estate, Balmoral is known for its spaciousness and traditional charm. Its size allows it to navigate narrow waterways like the Kiel Canal, offering unique scenic cruising opportunities. The ship provides a comfortable and classic British cruising experience for all who sail on her.
Bolette
- Launch Date: 2000 (Acquired by Fred. Olsen in 2020)
- Tonnage: 62,735 GT
- Capacity: 1,338 passengers
- Notable Features: Two-tiered theatre, culinary demonstration theatre, all-weather swimming pool with retractable roof.
The fleet’s flagship, Bolette, exudes classic elegance and offers a high space-to-guest ratio. The ship features an impressive array of public areas, including a wide variety of lounges, bars, and restaurants. It perfectly balances a sense of intimacy with the amenities of a larger vessel.
Borealis
- Launch Date: 1997 (Acquired by Fred. Olsen in 2020)
- Tonnage: 61,849 GT
- Capacity: 1,360 passengers
- Notable Features: Grand two-tiered dining rooms, large observatory lounge for scenic viewing, wide promenade deck.
Sister ship to Bolette, Borealis is ideal for scenic cruising, with elegant and comfortable spaces for enjoying the views. Its classic design and sophisticated interiors create a refined and relaxing atmosphere for guests. The ship is perfectly suited for exploring the world’s most beautiful coastlines and waterways.
Accommodation and Service Levels
Fred. Olsen offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed cabins to suit different tastes and budgets. All accommodation includes a TV, hairdryer, safe, and tea and coffee making facilities. Service across all categories is renowned for being exceptionally attentive and personal.
Standard Cabins
Fred. Olsen provides a variety of standard cabins, decorated in a classic and comfortable style. These range from cosy Interior cabins to Ocean View cabins with a picture window or porthole. Balcony cabins offer private outdoor space to enjoy the sea air and passing scenery.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Interior Cabins: The most affordable option, providing a comfortable base for your cruise.
- Ocean View Cabins: Feature a porthole or picture window, allowing for natural light and sea views.
- Balcony Cabins: Offer a private veranda with seating, perfect for relaxing in the open air.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Suite Categories
For guests seeking more space and added amenities, the cruise line offers several suite types. These accommodations typically include a separate seating area, a private balcony, and a larger bathroom. The top-tier suites provide the most spacious and luxurious experience available on the fleet.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Junior Suites: Provide extra living space and often a larger balcony compared to standard cabins.
- Premier & Marquee Suites: These are among the largest suites, featuring separate living and sleeping areas, expansive balconies, and premium furnishings.
- Enhanced Amenities: All suites come with additional comforts and perks to elevate the cruise experience.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Exclusive Suite-Level Services
Guests booked in suites receive enhanced benefits as part of the complimentary “Suite Dreams” package. This package is designed to add an extra layer of comfort and convenience to the voyage. It ensures a premium experience from the moment of embarkation.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Welcome Luxuries: A welcome bottle of sparkling wine and a fruit basket await you on arrival.
- Onboard Comforts: Enjoy the use of plush bathrobes, slippers, and premium toiletries during your cruise.
- Priority Services: Benefit from priority embarkation and complimentary shuttle bus vouchers in most ports.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Accessible Cabins
A number of specially adapted accessible cabins are available across the fleet for guests with disabilities or limited mobility. These staterooms are thoughtfully designed to provide more space and feature fully adapted wet rooms. It is highly recommended to book these well in advance due to their limited availability.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Wider Doorways: Allow for easy access for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Adapted Wet Rooms: Feature roll-in showers, grab rails, and shower seats for safety and convenience.
- Spacious Layout: Provide ample room to manoeuvre within the cabin.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
What’s Included in Your Fare
A cruise with Fred. Olsen offers excellent value, with many essentials included in the price. The focus is on providing a complete holiday experience without a constant stream of extra charges. This approach allows guests to relax and enjoy their voyage with peace of mind.
Key inclusions in your fare typically cover:
- Accommodation: Your chosen cabin or suite for the entire duration of the cruise.
- Full Board Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main and buffet restaurants, plus afternoon tea and late-night snacks.
- Selected Beverages: Tea, coffee, water, and fruit juice are available free of charge from selected outlets during the day.
- Onboard Entertainment: A full programme of live shows, music in the lounges, guest lectures, and daily activities.
- Port Shuttle Buses: Complimentary shuttle buses are provided in most ports where the ship is not docked within easy walking distance of the town centre.
- UK Port Taxes & Gratuities: All port taxes for UK departures are included, and gratuities for the crew are also covered in the fare.
Please note that inclusions may vary depending on the specific fare type, ship, and itinerary. Always confirm details at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programme: Oceans Club
Fred. Olsen’s loyalty programme, the Oceans Club, rewards returning guests for their continued patronage. Membership is automatic after completing your first cruise. Guests earn one Cruise Point for every night spent on board, progressing through tiers that offer increasing benefits.
Blue Tier
- Requirement: 1-30 Cruise Points.
- Perks & Benefits: Members receive the exclusive Oceans Club magazine to keep up to date with the latest news and are given access to member-only cruise offers.
Silver Tier
- Requirement: 31-100 Cruise Points.
- Perks & Benefits: Includes all Blue Tier benefits, plus a 5% discount on onboard spending and shore excursions. Members are also invited to a dedicated Oceans Club party on board.
Gold Tier
- Requirement: 101-250 Cruise Points.
- Perks & Benefits: Encompasses all Silver Tier benefits, with the onboard spending and shore excursion discount increased to 10%. Additional perks include priority embarkation at UK ports and a complimentary half-bottle of wine.
Platinum Tier
- Requirement: 251+ Cruise Points.
- Perks & Benefits: The top tier includes all Gold Tier benefits, with the onboard spending and shore excursion discount rising to 15%. This level also includes a complimentary laundry service and priority disembarkation.
Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.
Pre-Paid Packages Available
To help guests manage their onboard budget and enjoy a more inclusive experience, Fred. Olsen offers a popular drinks package. Internet access and specialty dining are also available for purchase on board. Guests are advised to visit the official website for the most current pricing and to book packages in advance for the best value.
All-Inclusive Drinks Package
- Beverage Selection: Includes a range of soft drinks by the glass, selected beers, house spirits (such as gin, rum, vodka, and whisky), and house wines by the glass.
- Premium Discounts: Provides a 50% discount on premium and branded drinks, cocktails, and wines by the bottle (excluding Champagne or sparkling wine).
- Booking Conditions: The package is available on all cruises of five nights or more and must be purchased for the entire duration of the voyage by all adults sharing a cabin.
Internet Packages
- Onboard Wi-Fi: Satellite Wi-Fi is available across the fleet, allowing guests to stay connected. Various data packages can be purchased onboard to suit different needs, from basic social media access to more comprehensive browsing.
Specialty Dining Packages
- Cover Charges: While not sold as pre-paid packages, guests can book a table at specialty dining venues for a supplementary cover charge. This allows for a special culinary experience outside of the main inclusive restaurants.
Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line’s official website.
Dining Options
Dining with Fred. Olsen is a highlight of the cruise, focusing on high-quality British and international cuisine served in a variety of settings. The ships offer a mix of formal and casual dining venues to suit every mood. The culinary experience is designed to be both delicious and memorable, with attentive service as standard.
Key dining venues across the fleet include:
- Main Dining Rooms: Elegant venues offering classic, multi-course meals with attentive table service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menus change daily, providing a wide variety of expertly prepared dishes.
- The View / Palms Café: For a more relaxed atmosphere, these buffet restaurants serve a vast array of international dishes throughout the day, from breakfast through to late-night snacks.
- Vasco: A specialty restaurant inspired by the culture of Goa, serving innovative Indian fusion cuisine with a modern twist.
- Colours & Tastes: This specialty venue offers vibrant and fragrant Asian fusion dishes, providing a flavourful and authentic dining experience.
- The Poolside Café: A casual, al fresco spot for enjoying grilled favourites, burgers, and salads in a relaxed setting by the pool.
Please note that dining options may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
Life onboard a Fred. Olsen ship is relaxed and enriching, with a focus on traditional cruise entertainment and engaging daytime activities. Evenings come alive with music, dancing, and impressive production shows. During the day, guests can choose from a wide range of pursuits or simply relax and enjoy the sea views.
Onboard, you can expect:
- Evening Shows: The main theatre on each ship hosts a variety of performances, including talented vocalists, dancers, comedians, and magicians.
- Live Music: Live bands and classical musicians perform in the various lounges and bars, creating a sophisticated and sociable ambience.
- Guest Speakers: The enrichment programme features guest lecturers who are experts in fields such as maritime history, astronomy, and wildlife, providing fascinating insights relevant to the itinerary.
- Daytime Activities: Guests can participate in arts and crafts classes, bridge tournaments, deck games like shuffleboard, or attend culinary demonstrations in the Auditorium.
- Wellness & Fitness: For relaxation and exercise, each ship has swimming pools, jacuzzis, a fully equipped fitness centre, and the Atlantis Spa offering a range of treatments.
Please note that entertainment and activities may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for Solo Travellers
Fred. Olsen is widely regarded as one of the best cruise lines for solo travellers. The friendly, intimate atmosphere on their smaller ships makes it incredibly easy to meet fellow guests and feel part of the community. The crew are also particularly adept at making single cruisers feel welcome and included throughout their journey.
Accommodation for Solo Cruisers
The cruise line actively caters to solo travellers by providing dedicated single cabins across the fleet. These are very popular and tend to sell out quickly, so booking well in advance is essential. This commitment ensures solo guests do not have to pay excessive supplements for a private cabin.
Key options and features include:
- Dedicated Single Cabins: A number of Interior, Ocean View, and sometimes Balcony cabins are specifically designed and priced for one person.
- Special Offers: On select cruises, Fred. Olsen offers special deals with no or low single supplements on standard twin cabins, providing even more choice.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Meeting People and Onboard Life
Fred. Olsen excels at creating a sociable environment where solo travellers can easily connect with others. The cruise line organises specific events and makes arrangements to ensure no one feels left out. This focus on community is a key reason for its popularity among single cruisers.
Key options and features include:
- Solo Gatherings: A welcome reception is often held for solo guests to meet each other at the beginning of the voyage.
- Dining Arrangements: In the main dining rooms, solo travellers can request to be seated with other singles, fostering companionship over meals.
- Hosted Activities: Dance hosts are often available on longer cruises to accompany single guests on the dance floor, ensuring everyone can join in the evening entertainment.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Dress Code
The dress code on a Fred. Olsen cruise is generally relaxed and comfortable, but with opportunities to dress up for special evenings. The guidelines are designed to be simple and appropriate for a classic British cruising experience. This ensures a pleasant atmosphere for all guests in the ship’s public areas.
Key dress code guidelines include:
- Daytime Casual: During the day, casual wear such as shorts, T-shirts, and comfortable shoes is perfectly acceptable both onboard and ashore. Swimwear is appropriate for the pool areas but not in the ship’s indoor restaurants or lounges.
- Evening Smart Casual: In the evenings, the dress code is smart casual. This typically means trousers and an open-neck shirt or polo shirt for gentlemen, and a dress, skirt, or smart trousers for ladies.
- Gala Evenings: On select nights (usually one or two per week), guests are invited to dress more formally for Gala Evenings. For men, this can be a dinner jacket, suit, or tuxedo, while for women, a cocktail dress or evening gown is appropriate, though this is not mandatory.
Please note that dress code enforcement can vary. It is always best to check the latest guidelines for your specific sailing.
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Fred. Olsen aims to make the onboard experience as straightforward and relaxing as possible for its guests. For all cruises booked in the UK, gratuities are included in the holiday price. This policy ensures that guests can enjoy the friendly, attentive service without worrying about tipping.
Key aspects of the gratuity policy include:
- Gratuities Included: For UK bookings, tips for the cabin steward, waiters, and other crew are already part of the cruise fare. No further tipping is expected or required.
- No Automatic Charges: Unlike many other cruise lines, there are no automatic daily gratuities added to your onboard account.
- Exceptional Service: If you feel a particular crew member has provided truly exceptional service, you are of course welcome to tip them personally, but this is entirely at your discretion.
Please note that gratuity policies and amounts are subject to change. Always confirm the latest details with the cruise line.
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
Fred. Olsen has a clear policy regarding bringing beverages on board to ensure a consistent and safe experience for all guests. Guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol or soft drinks onboard for consumption. This rule is strictly applied on embarkation day and at all ports of call.
Key rules for bringing beverages onboard include:
- Alcohol Prohibition: Guests are not allowed to bring any alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, or spirits, on board the ship.
- Soft Drinks Restriction: The policy also extends to non-alcoholic beverages, meaning guests cannot bring their own soft drinks, water, or juices on board.
- Port Purchases: Any alcohol purchased ashore in ports of call during the cruise will be securely stored by the ship’s crew. It will then be returned to the guest on the final evening of the voyage for them to take home.
This policy is strictly enforced and subject to change. Items outside the allowance will be confiscated.
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines enjoys a very loyal following, with guests consistently praising the traditional and friendly cruising experience. The overall sentiment reflects a comfortable, service-focused holiday that appeals to a mature demographic. However, this classic style may not be the right fit for every type of traveller.
Common Praises
- Personal Service: Guests frequently highlight the exceptional, friendly, and personal service from the crew, who often remember names and preferences.
- Smaller Ship Atmosphere: The intimate size of the ships is a major plus, allowing for a strong sense of camaraderie among passengers and access to more unique, smaller ports.
- UK Departures: The convenience of sailing from a wide range of regional UK ports is highly valued by guests who prefer no-fly cruising.
- Itinerary Design: The thoughtfully crafted and often unique itineraries, especially scenic cruising through fjords and rivers, receive high marks.
Common Criticisms
- Quiet Onboard Life: Some travellers, particularly those used to larger, more modern ships, may find the onboard atmosphere and entertainment too quiet or traditional for their taste.
- Older Fleet: While beautifully maintained, the ships are older than many in the industry, which may not appeal to those seeking the latest mega-ship amenities and attractions.
- Pace of Travel: The relaxed pace and traditional activities may be less engaging for younger cruisers or families.
- Internet Speed: As with many cruise lines, the satellite Wi-Fi can be slow and expensive, which can be a point of frustration for some guests.
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is committed to protecting the marine environment and minimising its operational impact. The company has invested significantly in systems to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency. Their approach to sustainability also focuses on working positively with the communities they visit.
Key environmental initiatives include:
- Emissions Reduction: The fleet has been updated with systems to reduce emissions and comply with international maritime regulations, aiming to lessen their carbon footprint.
- Waste Management: The cruise line has robust waste management programmes in place to reduce, reuse, and recycle wherever possible, minimising the amount of waste sent to landfill.
- Sustainable Tourism: By prioritising local tour operators and suppliers in destinations, the company helps ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are shared within local communities.
- Water Conservation: Onboard systems are designed to produce, treat, and conserve fresh water efficiently, reducing the ships’ impact on local water resources.
For the most detailed and current information, please refer to the cruise line’s official sustainability reports.
Official Websites
To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is crucial to use the official Fred. Olsen website for your region. This is the best source for the latest itineraries, pricing, and company policies. Booking directly or through a trusted travel agent is the safest way to plan your cruise.
The primary official websites are:
- United Kingdom Site: Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Always ensure the website URL is correct to avoid phishing scams.
Required Travel Documents
Ensuring you have the correct travel documents is one of the most critical aspects of preparing for your cruise. It is entirely the passenger’s responsibility to obtain all necessary passports, visas, and other documentation. Failure to present the correct documents at check-in will result in denial of boarding with no refund.
Key documentation requirements include:
- Passport Validity: All guests must carry a full passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the final day of the cruise. This is a strict requirement for most cruise lines, regardless of the destinations visited.
- Visas: Passengers are responsible for checking and obtaining all necessary visas for the countries on their itinerary. Visa requirements can change, so it is vital to check with the relevant embassies well in advance of travel.
- Other Documents: Depending on the itinerary, other documents such as proof of vaccination or international driving permits may be required.
A crucial warning: a cruise line’s passport validity rule almost always supersedes a country’s entry rule. For example, a destination country may only require three months of validity on a passport, but if Fred. Olsen requires six months, you will be denied boarding if your passport doesn’t meet their stricter standard.
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
If you are travelling with a child for whom you are not the parent or legal guardian, strict documentation is required. This policy is in place to protect children and prevent international parental child abduction. You must carry a notarised letter of consent from the child’s legal guardians.
Key requirements for non-guardian travel include:
- Notarised Consent Form: The letter must be signed by both of the child’s legal guardians. It must grant you permission to travel with the child for the specific dates of the cruise.
- Medical Authorisation: The consent letter should also explicitly authorise you to consent to emergency medical treatment for the child if needed.
- Supporting Documents: It is also wise to carry copies of the child’s birth certificate and the guardians’ passports.
Failure to provide required documentation can result in denial of boarding. Always verify requirements well in advance.
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
For the safety and security of all guests and crew, certain items are strictly prohibited from being brought on board. All guests and their luggage are subject to security screening before boarding the ship. It is also mandatory for all passengers to attend the safety drill at the beginning of the cruise.
Key safety rules and permitted items policies include:
- Prohibited Items: This list includes, but is not limited to, weapons, firearms, illegal drugs, flammable liquids, and explosives such as fireworks.
- Prohibited Electronics: Items with heating elements, such as clothes irons, travel kettles, and heating pads, are not allowed in cabins as they pose a fire hazard.
- Drones: The use of drones is typically prohibited on board and in many ports without specific authorisation.
- Mandatory Safety Drill: All guests must attend the compulsory muster drill before the ship sets sail to familiarise themselves with emergency procedures.
For a complete list of prohibited items, please consult the cruise line’s official website before you pack.
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
Guests travelling with medication must follow specific guidelines to ensure compliance with maritime and international regulations. The cruise line also maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding illegal substances. Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including denial of boarding or disembarkation at the next port.
Key policies include:
- Prescription Medications: All medications must be kept in their original packaging, clearly labelled with the passenger’s full name, the prescribing doctor, and the pharmacy information. It is highly recommended to carry a copy of the official prescription.
- Carry-On Luggage: It is essential to pack all medications, along with any associated supplies like syringes, in your carry-on luggage, not in your checked bags.
- Illegal Substances: Fred. Olsen has a strict zero-tolerance policy for all illegal drugs and substances. Any guest found in possession of such items will be disembarked and may face prosecution by local authorities.
The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Consult the cruise line for any questions regarding specific medications.
Food Policy
Understanding the rules about bringing food on and off the ship is important for health, safety, and compliance with local customs regulations. Fred. Olsen has clear policies in place to manage this effectively. These rules are designed to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Bringing Food Onboard
In general, guests are not permitted to bring their own food or drink onboard for consumption. This helps the cruise line manage health and safety standards. Small, pre-packaged, and sealed non-perishable snack items are sometimes permitted at the discretion of the cruise line.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Perishable Items: Fresh food items like fruits, vegetables, and meats are not allowed to be brought on board.
- Dietary Needs: Any special dietary requirements or the need to bring specific food items for medical reasons should be discussed with the cruise line well in advance of sailing.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Taking Food Off the Ship
For public health reasons, guests are not allowed to take fresh food from the ship into port. This includes items from the ship’s restaurants, buffets, or room service. This policy helps prevent the accidental introduction of non-native species or diseases into local environments.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Fresh Food Prohibition: Items such as fruit, vegetables, sandwiches, or dairy products cannot be taken off the ship.
- Sealed Items: Commercially sealed, pre-packaged, and non-perishable items are generally acceptable to take ashore.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Bringing Food Back from Port
Bringing fresh food items back onto the ship from ports of call is strictly prohibited. This is a critical measure to prevent the spread of agricultural pests and plant or animal diseases. Local and international regulations govern this practice strictly.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Prohibited Fresh Items: Unpackaged food, fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and dairy products purchased in port may not be brought back on board.
- Permitted Sealed Items: Commercially sealed, pre-packaged food items like biscuits, chocolates, or coffee are generally permitted but may be subject to security inspection.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines specialises in convenient no-fly cruises, making the start of your holiday as relaxing as possible. The line departs from a variety of well-connected regional ports across the United Kingdom. This provides excellent choice and reduces travel time for many guests.
- Dover, England
- Liverpool, England
- Newcastle, England
- Portsmouth, England
- Rosyth (for Edinburgh), Scotland
- Southampton, England
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Fred. Olsen is celebrated for its handcrafted itineraries that explore destinations in greater depth. The smaller size of its ships allows them to navigate scenic rivers, fjords, and canals that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This offers guests a unique perspective on the world’s most beautiful coastlines.
Classic Norwegian Fjords Discovery
This classic itinerary showcases the breathtaking natural beauty of Norway, sailing deep into its iconic and majestic fjords. The smaller ships are perfectly suited for navigating these stunning waterways, offering unparalleled views and visits to charming coastal villages. It is a quintessential Fred. Olsen experience.
- Best For: Scenery lovers and those seeking a peaceful, nature-focused holiday.
- Duration: 7-10 nights
- Departure Port: Newcastle or Rosyth
- Example Ship: Balmoral
- Typical Ports of Call: Bergen, Flåm, Olden, Ålesund, Eidfjord.
Canary Islands & Madeira Winter Sun
Escape the British winter with a voyage to the sun-drenched Canary Islands and the lush, floral island of Madeira. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of relaxation, vibrant culture, and unique volcanic landscapes. It is an ideal choice for finding warmth and sunshine during the colder months.
- Best For: Travellers looking for warmth and sunshine during the winter months.
- Duration: 12-14 nights
- Departure Port: Liverpool or Southampton
- Example Ship: Bolette
- Typical Ports of Call: Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Arrecife de Lanzarote, Lisbon (Portugal).
British Isles & Coastal Treasures
Explore the diverse history, culture, and dramatic coastlines of the United Kingdom and Ireland without the need for flights. This cruise visits remote islands, historic cities, and areas of outstanding natural beauty right on your doorstep. It is a wonderful way to discover the treasures closer to home.
- Best For: History buffs and those who want to explore the beauty of the British Isles.
- Duration: 10-12 nights
- Departure Port: Dover or Portsmouth
- Example Ship: Borealis
- Typical Ports of Call: St Peter Port (Guernsey), Dublin (Ireland), Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Tobermory (Isle of Mull), Belfast (Northern Ireland).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the currency on board? The onboard currency is Pound Sterling (£). All purchases are charged to your onboard account, which is settled at the end of the cruise with a registered credit or debit card.
- Are there laundry facilities on the ships? Yes, self-service launderettes with washers, dryers, and ironing facilities are available on all ships for a small charge. A full valet laundry service is also offered for convenience.
- What type of power sockets are in the cabins? The cabins are fitted with standard UK 3-pin electrical sockets (220v). European and US visitors may need to bring an adaptor.
- Is there Wi-Fi available? Yes, satellite Wi-Fi is available throughout the ships, but it is not included in the fare. Various packages can be purchased onboard depending on your data needs.
- Can I smoke on board? Smoking, which includes e-cigarettes and vaping, is only permitted in specially designated outdoor areas on the open decks. Smoking is not allowed in cabins, on balconies, or in any indoor public areas.
- Is Fred. Olsen suitable for families with children? Fred. Olsen primarily caters to a mature adult audience and does not have dedicated children’s facilities or kids’ clubs. While children are welcome, the onboard atmosphere and entertainment are geared towards adults.
- What is the “Rigorous Journey” programme? This is not an official Fred. Olsen programme. They do, however, offer a programme of special interest cruises focusing on themes like bird watching, maritime history, or astronomy with expert guest speakers.
- Can I celebrate a special occasion on board? Absolutely. The cruise line can arrange celebration packages that may include a cake, flowers, and champagne. You should notify them or your travel agent at the time of booking to make arrangements.
- Are the ships wheelchair accessible? Yes, the ships are generally accessible for guests with limited mobility, with lifts to all decks and accessible public areas. However, some ports may be accessible only by tender boat, which can be challenging for wheelchair users.
- What is the average age of passengers on a Fred. Olsen cruise? The passenger demographic is typically mature, with most guests being aged 55 and over. This contributes to the relaxed, sociable, and traditional atmosphere on board.
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:
- “Free Cruise” or “Exclusive Offer” Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you’ve won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced “exclusive” deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for “port taxes,” or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
- Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line’s official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a “limited-time offer” that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer’s legitimacy.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.
To ensure your journey with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.
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Hotels.com: USA | UK | Canada | Australia
Vrbo.com: USA | UK | Canada
Trip.com: Book Travel Services
Kiwi.com: Book Flights, Trains, and Buses
WayAway: Flight Aggregator
Tours & Activities
Get Your Guide: Book Tours & Attractions
Tiqets: Museums and Attractions
Transport & Transfers
AutoEurope Car Hire: Click Here to Book
Economy Bookings Car Hire: Click Here to Book
Welcome Pickups: Airport Transfers
Kiwitaxi: Private Transfers and Tours
Other Services
Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
Radical Storage: Luggage Storage
Yesim: eSIM Provider
Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
Affiliate Disclosure
Many of the links are affiliate links, The Essential Cruise Shop may receive a commission from qualifying clicks, orders or bookings. This income helps support our efforts to provide and improve our site and turn it into a one stop resource for travellers with a bias towards cruising.
