American Waterways & Canada in the Fall

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is a traditional cruise line has been catering predominantly to a British clientele since it began operations back in 1948, with sailings from UK ports as well as fly-cruises. The Norwegian-owned company announced this year that it is retiring much-loved ships Boudicca and Black Watch, replacing them with two ships previously operated by Carnival Corporation-owned Holland America Line. Bolette and sister vessel Borealis – formerly Amsterdam and Rotterdam – will increase the cruise line’s capacity by nearly a third, offering larger public areas on board. However, with a capacity of fewer than 1,400 guests apiece, the new arrivals will retain the classic small-ship feel for which Fred Olsen has become known. Taking over Black Watch and Boudicca’s itineraries, the ships are due to launch in March and April 2021, respectively. Along with its four ocean-going ships, Fred Olsen also has a dedicated river ship, Brabant, built in 2006 and with a capacity of 156 passengers and 40 crew.