From the moment Balmoral slips out of Rosyth, the stage is set for 5 unforgettable nights with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in Europe and Scotland. A call at Kirkwall, Orkney Islands is the highlight of this cruise, alongside 1 restful days at sea in the waters of Europe and Scotland. On board, the days at sea pass effortlessly - with Europe and Scotland's ever-changing coastline stretching out in every direction. From £679 per person, you could be stepping aboard the Balmoral and heading for Europe and Scotland.
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.
Ensconsed inside Orkney's rugged shores, Kirkwall welcomes visitors with its affable nature and maritime past. This ancient seaport boasts a history dating back over a thousand years, where Norse and Scottish influences intertwine. Its temperate climate, tempered by the Gulf Stream, offers mild winters and cool summers, ideal for exploring its picturesque landscapes. As a gateway to Orkney's treasures, Kirkwall beckons with its charming streets and historic landmarks, inviting travelers to uncover its secrets. Don't miss the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral, a testament to the island's enduring spirit, standing proudly amidst the bustling harbor.
Ensconsed inside Orkney's rugged shores, Kirkwall welcomes visitors with its affable nature and maritime past. This ancient seaport boasts a history dating back over a thousand years, where Norse and Scottish influences intertwine. Its temperate climate, tempered by the Gulf Stream, offers mild winters and cool summers, ideal for exploring its picturesque landscapes. As a gateway to Orkney's treasures, Kirkwall beckons with its charming streets and historic landmarks, inviting travelers to uncover its secrets. Don't miss the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral, a testament to the island's enduring spirit, standing proudly amidst the bustling harbor.
Our smallest ship, Balmoral, is a classic gem, offering an intimate cruising experience. She has wonderful facilities - five beautiful restaurants, seven bars and lounges, two pools and lovely wide open decks which are perfect for when Balmoral is scenic cruising.
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.
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.
I Visited the fjords with my children, 7, 16, 18 and 22, we saw some some breathtaking views, shared lots of laughter, and memories to cherish forever.
The landscape's scale and beauty was captivating .
We cannot wait for our next adventure! which is in 2 days time on Fred Olsen's Balmoral 5night Christmas Markets cruise
A lovely ship with a lot of character and very well maintained. Some unique and somewhat quirky decoration and a range of public areas and restaurants. Clean throughout. Attentive staff. Room was comfortable with all the amenities you could expect. Did not feel over-crowded and the ratio of passengers/crew for the size of the ship was near perfect. Food in dining areas was very good.
There is so much to do on board depending on what you like I enjoy playing the games others the lecture or the demonstrations. There are quizzes 3 tines a day for all the pub quizzers.
