Overview

Join Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines aboard Borealis for 26 nights of discovery and relaxation, departing from the port of Liverpool. From Gibraltar to Ceuta, the itinerary spans 3 ports across England and Mediterranean, with 4 sea days to savour life on board the Borealis. England and Mediterranean has a way of getting under your skin, and seeing it from the water only deepens the experience. Available from £3,599 per person - a fantastic opportunity to explore England and Mediterranean aboard the Borealis.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

With more than 175 years of know-how behind it, this heritage brand has the expertise to deliver quality cruising with strong, customer-friendly value. It's known for its ideally sized ships and caters to a broad range of guests, including couples, solo travellers and families. It also offers a wide selection of carefully curated itineraries, from no-fly mini cruises from the UK to mystery cruises in the Mediterranean.

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Cruise Itinerary

Day 1
Liverpool
Liverpool, renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles, is a vibrant port city that has long played a central role in maritime history, influencing the world's shipping and music scenes alike. Cruise lines such as Cunard and Royal Caribbean frequently stop here, allowing passengers to soak in its rich musical legacy and architectural grandeur. The city's climate is characteristically mild, providing an inviting atmosphere for exploring its bustling docks and historic buildings. Liverpool offers a genuine slice of British life, with its lively pubs and museums. A unique fact: it boasts more listed buildings than any UK city outside London, showcasing its architectural wealth and historical importance.
Days 2-4
At sea
Day 5
Gibraltar
The North District of Gibraltar unfolds like a chapter from a historic novel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of naval supremacy and strategic importance. Its rugged landscape, framed by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar, creates a dramatic backdrop for exploration. The climate here, tempered by the Mediterranean Sea, provides a pleasant ambiance year-round, perfect for leisurely strolls through quaint streets lined with colorful houses. Away from the bustle of typical tourist spots, this district showcases authentic glimpses of local life, from bustling markets to cozy cafes. As the gateway to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it's also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the chance to spot Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkeys, roaming freely amidst lush vegetation.
Day 6
Cartagena
Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena exudes an air of ancient grandeur, tracing its roots back to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. This historic port city boasts a climate blessed with year-round sunshine, perfect for leisurely strolls along its palm-lined promenades. Beyond its famed Roman ruins and imposing fortifications, Cartagena offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish life, with bustling markets brimming with local flavors and artisans' wares. Cruise lines strategically dock to provide easy access to Cartagena's wealth of cultural treasures, from the Roman Theatre to the Modernist architecture of its city center. It's a destination where history meets modern charm, leaving an indelible mark on every visitor's memory.
Days 7-8
At sea
Day 9
Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination
Day 9
Messina
Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Messina lies a tapestry of history woven with tales of ancient civilizations and legendary events. Its storied past, marked by encounters with Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, echoes through its cobblestone streets and majestic architecture. The Mediterranean climate here offers a balmy embrace, perfect for leisurely exploration and al fresco dining. Beyond the bustling ports, Messina unveils hidden gems, from charming cafes to vibrant markets, where travelers can savor authentic Sicilian flavors and immerse themselves in local traditions. As the gateway to Sicily, Messina beckons cruisegoers with its rich heritage and timeless allure, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy.
Day 10
Siracuse, Sicily
Welcome to Siracusa, where ancient myths and legends intertwine with the present. Set along the sparkling shores of the Ionian Sea, Siracusa basks in a Mediterranean climate, inviting cruisegoers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm. Away from the typical tourist traps, this coastal gem offers an authentic experience that showcases the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines often dock here to provide travelers with a glimpse into the country's soul, from exploring the ancient Greek ruins of Neapolis to strolling through the enchanting streets of Ortygia. As a testament to its rich history, Siracusa boasts one of the largest Greek theaters in the world, where performances still captivate audiences to this day.
Day 11
At sea
Day 12
Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination
Day 12
Kotor
Day 13
Dubrovnik
Day 14
Split
Day 15
Koper
Day 16
Zadar
Day 17
Bari
Bari, a port city nestled along Italy's Adriatic coast, beckons with a history as vibrant as its sun-drenched streets. Famous for its ancient roots tracing back to Greek and Roman times, Bari offers a glimpse into the captivating past of Southern Italy. The Mediterranean climate blesses travelers with warm, sunny days perfect for strolling through the winding alleys of the old town, where authentic trattorias and bustling markets await. Unlike the typical tourist destinations, Bari retains its authentic charm, providing cruisegoers with an immersive experience in the real Italy. And did you know? Bari is home to the Basilica di San Nicola, housing the relics of Saint Nicholas, making it a pilgrimage site for many.
Day 18
Sarandë
Day 19
Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination
Day 19
Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination
Day 20
Cagliari
Set against the backdrop of ancient civilizations, Cagliari welcomes travelers with the echoes of its storied past. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, its sun-kissed shores offer a haven for those seeking a genuine Italian experience. Away from crowded tourist hubs, Cagliari boasts authentic charm and unspoiled landscapes, revealing the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines dock along its picturesque harbor, providing access to historical treasures such as the impressive Bastione Saint Remy. Delight in the local cuisine, where savory seafood dishes reign supreme, complemented by the renowned Cannonau wine, cultivated in the island's sun-drenched vineyards.
Days 21-22
At sea
Day 23
Ceuta
Days 24-26
At sea
Day 27
Liverpool
Liverpool, renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles, is a vibrant port city that has long played a central role in maritime history, influencing the world's shipping and music scenes alike. Cruise lines such as Cunard and Royal Caribbean frequently stop here, allowing passengers to soak in its rich musical legacy and architectural grandeur. The city's climate is characteristically mild, providing an inviting atmosphere for exploring its bustling docks and historic buildings. Liverpool offers a genuine slice of British life, with its lively pubs and museums. A unique fact: it boasts more listed buildings than any UK city outside London, showcasing its architectural wealth and historical importance.
Day 1 Liverpool
Liverpool

Liverpool, renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles, is a vibrant port city that has long played a central role in maritime history, influencing the world's shipping and music scenes alike. Cruise lines such as Cunard and Royal Caribbean frequently stop here, allowing passengers to soak in its rich musical legacy and architectural grandeur. The city's climate is characteristically mild, providing an inviting atmosphere for exploring its bustling docks and historic buildings. Liverpool offers a genuine slice of British life, with its lively pubs and museums. A unique fact: it boasts more listed buildings than any UK city outside London, showcasing its architectural wealth and historical importance.

View more
Days 2-4 At sea
At sea
Day 5 Gibraltar
Gibraltar

The North District of Gibraltar unfolds like a chapter from a historic novel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of naval supremacy and strategic importance. Its rugged landscape, framed by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar, creates a dramatic backdrop for exploration. The climate here, tempered by the Mediterranean Sea, provides a pleasant ambiance year-round, perfect for leisurely strolls through quaint streets lined with colorful houses. Away from the bustle of typical tourist spots, this district showcases authentic glimpses of local life, from bustling markets to cozy cafes. As the gateway to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it's also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the chance to spot Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkeys, roaming freely amidst lush vegetation.

View more
Day 6 Cartagena
Cartagena

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena exudes an air of ancient grandeur, tracing its roots back to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. This historic port city boasts a climate blessed with year-round sunshine, perfect for leisurely strolls along its palm-lined promenades. Beyond its famed Roman ruins and imposing fortifications, Cartagena offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish life, with bustling markets brimming with local flavors and artisans' wares. Cruise lines strategically dock to provide easy access to Cartagena's wealth of cultural treasures, from the Roman Theatre to the Modernist architecture of its city center. It's a destination where history meets modern charm, leaving an indelible mark on every visitor's memory.

View more
Days 7-8 At sea
At sea
Day 9 At sea
At sea

Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination

View more
Day 9 Messina
Messina

Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Messina lies a tapestry of history woven with tales of ancient civilizations and legendary events. Its storied past, marked by encounters with Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, echoes through its cobblestone streets and majestic architecture. The Mediterranean climate here offers a balmy embrace, perfect for leisurely exploration and al fresco dining. Beyond the bustling ports, Messina unveils hidden gems, from charming cafes to vibrant markets, where travelers can savor authentic Sicilian flavors and immerse themselves in local traditions. As the gateway to Sicily, Messina beckons cruisegoers with its rich heritage and timeless allure, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy.

View more
Day 10 Siracuse, Sicily
Siracuse, Sicily

Welcome to Siracusa, where ancient myths and legends intertwine with the present. Set along the sparkling shores of the Ionian Sea, Siracusa basks in a Mediterranean climate, inviting cruisegoers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm. Away from the typical tourist traps, this coastal gem offers an authentic experience that showcases the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines often dock here to provide travelers with a glimpse into the country's soul, from exploring the ancient Greek ruins of Neapolis to strolling through the enchanting streets of Ortygia. As a testament to its rich history, Siracusa boasts one of the largest Greek theaters in the world, where performances still captivate audiences to this day.

View more
Day 11 At sea
At sea
Day 12 At sea
At sea

Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination

View more
Day 12 Kotor
Kotor
Day 13 Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik
Day 14 Split
Split
Day 15 Koper
Koper
Day 16 Zadar
Zadar
Day 17 Bari
Bari

Bari, a port city nestled along Italy's Adriatic coast, beckons with a history as vibrant as its sun-drenched streets. Famous for its ancient roots tracing back to Greek and Roman times, Bari offers a glimpse into the captivating past of Southern Italy. The Mediterranean climate blesses travelers with warm, sunny days perfect for strolling through the winding alleys of the old town, where authentic trattorias and bustling markets await. Unlike the typical tourist destinations, Bari retains its authentic charm, providing cruisegoers with an immersive experience in the real Italy. And did you know? Bari is home to the Basilica di San Nicola, housing the relics of Saint Nicholas, making it a pilgrimage site for many.

View more
Day 18 Sarandë
Sarandë
Day 19 Sarandë
Sarandë

Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination

View more
Day 19 Sarandë
Sarandë

Nestled at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar beckons with its legendary past, guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean like a steadfast sentinel. Its iconic Rock, a natural fortress steeped in myth and history, towers majestically over the sparkling waters below. The Mediterranean climate offers temperate winters and balmy summers, inviting exploration year-round. Beyond the duty-free shopping and bustling main street, Gibraltar unveils hidden treasures, from the labyrinthine tunnels of the Great Siege to the Moorish Castle perched atop its rocky perch. As one of the last remaining British Overseas Territories, Gibraltar's blend of British and Mediterranean influences creates a truly unique destination

View more
Day 20 Cagliari
Cagliari

Set against the backdrop of ancient civilizations, Cagliari welcomes travelers with the echoes of its storied past. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, its sun-kissed shores offer a haven for those seeking a genuine Italian experience. Away from crowded tourist hubs, Cagliari boasts authentic charm and unspoiled landscapes, revealing the true essence of Italy. Cruise lines dock along its picturesque harbor, providing access to historical treasures such as the impressive Bastione Saint Remy. Delight in the local cuisine, where savory seafood dishes reign supreme, complemented by the renowned Cannonau wine, cultivated in the island's sun-drenched vineyards.

View more
Days 21-22 At sea
At sea
Day 23 Ceuta
Ceuta
Days 24-26 At sea
At sea
Day 27 Liverpool
Liverpool

Liverpool, renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles, is a vibrant port city that has long played a central role in maritime history, influencing the world's shipping and music scenes alike. Cruise lines such as Cunard and Royal Caribbean frequently stop here, allowing passengers to soak in its rich musical legacy and architectural grandeur. The city's climate is characteristically mild, providing an inviting atmosphere for exploring its bustling docks and historic buildings. Liverpool offers a genuine slice of British life, with its lively pubs and museums. A unique fact: it boasts more listed buildings than any UK city outside London, showcasing its architectural wealth and historical importance.

View more
1353
Passengers
642
Crew
1997
Launched
2022
Last refit
61849t
Tonnage
238m
Length
34m
Width
22kts
Speed
10
Decks
GBP
Currency
Borealis

Borealis

Sister ship of our flagship Bolette, Borealis joined us 2020, and is perfectly suited for enjoying scenic cruising of the world's lesser-known waterways. From cruising past remarkable landscapes and historical sites to capturing the beauty of the natural world.

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Cabins

All Prices

Customer reviews

Reviews Memorable world crise
Memorable world crise
Exceptional experience lasting 110 days crusing the Southern hemisphere. Cannot fault Fred Olsen. As a solo traveller special events were put on for us. Port talks were informative. Specialist speakers and entertainment was on a rolling programme. Various classes for dancing,craft,deck games, events were provided fir the whole trip. Optional port excursions well thought out. A truly wonderful experience. Well done FredOksen
5
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Bolette
Reviews Great ship and great service
Great ship and great service
We had heard so many good things about Fred Olsen we decided to do a short cruise to give them a try. On 22nd May we boarded Bolette and were very pleasantly surprised at how spacious the community areas were. We had a window cabin which we found quite spacious with lot’s of proper wardrobe space. There was a small refrigerator and tea and coffee making facilities. The bathroom had a spacious walk in shower compared to many other ships we had been on. Believe it or not there was still a nightly turn down service which has now gone from many ships due to cost cutting. The theatre was I think the best I had seen on any ship and they had some very good entertainment on board. The dining room was great with an upper and lower level with very attentive staff. The menu had certain things on that were on there daily but also with quite a comprehensive menu which changed every day (unlike a lot of the bigger ships I have been on)to suit all tastes. My only disappointment was the fact that they had two sittings for dinner but I would have liked to see an open sitting scheme. I am not a buffet person but I think this is the best buffet I have seen on any of the ships I have been on. We did not try it fully just on the first and last day. Overall I was very impressed.
5
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Bolette
Reviews Absolutely fantastic
Absolutely fantastic
I recently went on a 5 day cruise, with Fred Olsen on the Borealis. We went to Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The whole experience was great. Loved the sea days. Especially the 10am craft classes. The lady leading the class really knew her stuff. I did my own thing in Rotterdam and a Fred Olsen excursion in Amsterdam. Again very well organised and a knowledgeable guide.
5
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis
Reviews Borealis to Cartagena
Borealis to Cartagena
Fabulous, only slightly spoiled by a faulty mooring line capstan winch that had inadequate maintenance resulting in horrid noises late at night when the sea conditions got rough, also the Portuguese dock workers strikes at the time that meant we had a day at Queta instead, which was a fabulous alternative. The cruise was a little pricey compared to our usual Ambassador Cruise Line, and missed out on offers from FOCL of £200 per cabin free OBC by just a week when they started extra promotions to sell remaining cabins. Our next cruise will be back with ACL as they are better in Customer considerations of the need for my wife to take a small mobility scooter on board, to enable getting about easier at the ports of call. Most aspects of the FOCL cruise were absolutely superb, however both ACL and FOCL could improve significantly if they really looked at each others operations with little or no extra input.
5
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis
Reviews Lovely relaxing time.
Lovely relaxing time.
Lucky we were on this ship, the weather wasn’t brilliant on this cruise to the Canaries but we were well looked after, food good (especially Colours & Tastes Asian Fusion), good shows. Fireworks in Lisbon worked better than the previous year on a different ship.
4
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis
Reviews A tired old ship
A tired old ship
As with all cruise lines the staff were mainly very friendly. Food ok though often lukewarm. All inclusive drinks very limited although that will have changed with FO's new policy. Cabin was frankly shabby but functional. Be prepared for a very senior demographic.
3
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Borealis

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Liverpool 1 xyby
Gibraltar
Cartagena
Messina 1 xyby
Bari 1 xyby
Cagliari 1 xyby

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