Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines – Discover the Joy of Smaller Ship Cruising
Sail from local UK ports to destinations all around the world.
Thoughtfully crafted journeys, remarkable destinations and a more personal way to explore the world.
There is something rather special about travelling by sea. The anticipation of discovering somewhere new, the pleasure of watching the coastline slowly disappear into the distance, and the simple luxury of having time to enjoy the journey itself.
For Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, these are the moments that make cruising truly memorable.
While some cruise companies focus on ever-larger ships, spectacular attractions and bustling entertainment complexes, Fred. Olsen takes a refreshingly different approach. Its smaller ships, carefully considered itineraries and warm, attentive service offer a style of cruising that feels more personal, more relaxed and altogether more rewarding.
It's an approach rooted in Norwegian maritime heritage, where an appreciation of the sea and a genuine spirit of exploration have helped shape the company's distinctive character.
For travellers who believe the journey should be every bit as enjoyable as the destination, a Fred. Olsen cruise could be just the ticket.
Smaller Ships, Bigger Experiences
One of the greatest pleasures of cruising with Fred. Olsen is the intimate atmosphere of its ships.
Rather than navigating enormous vessels carrying thousands upon thousands of passengers, guests can enjoy a more traditional cruising experience aboard a fleet designed around comfort, character and personal service.
The company's three ocean-going ships — Bolette, Borealis and Balmoral — each offer welcoming surroundings, inviting lounges, comfortable accommodation and plenty of opportunities to simply sit back and enjoy being at sea.
There is a lovely sense of familiarity that develops on board. Favourite places soon emerge, whether that's a quiet corner overlooking the ocean, a comfortable lounge for afternoon refreshments or a spot on deck to watch the sun disappear beneath the horizon.
Smaller ships can also offer an important advantage when exploring the world. Their size allows access to certain ports and waterways that are less practical for the largest cruise vessels, opening up opportunities for more intimate encounters with fascinating destinations.
It is cruising that feels less like visiting a floating resort and more like embarking on a proper voyage.
Itineraries Designed for Discovery
Of course, a great cruise is about far more than the ship itself.
Fred. Olsen has developed a reputation for creating imaginative itineraries that go beyond simply ticking famous destinations off a list.
Its cruises are thoughtfully planned to showcase the character, culture and natural beauty of the places visited, often combining celebrated landmarks with destinations that might otherwise escape the attention of the average traveller.
Imagine sailing deep into the spectacular Norwegian Fjords, where towering mountains rise almost vertically from still waters. Picture the extraordinary colours of the Northern Lights dancing across an Arctic sky, or discovering the colourful harbours and historic streets of Scandinavia.
Elsewhere, there are opportunities to explore the sun-drenched Canary Islands, discover the architectural treasures of European cities, visit the islands of the Mediterranean or venture much further afield on extended ocean voyages.
What makes these journeys particularly appealing is the attention given to the experience of getting there.
On selected itineraries, scenic cruising becomes a highlight in its own right, with opportunities to appreciate dramatic coastlines, beautiful waterways and remarkable landscapes from the comfort of the ship.
Rather than treating sea days as simply the time between destinations, Fred. Olsen embraces them as an essential part of the holiday.
The Pleasure of Life at Sea
For many experienced cruisers, the magic of a holiday at sea lies in its wonderful sense of freedom.
There is no need to unpack at every destination, no daily rush to catch a train or change hotels, and no pressure to fill every waking moment with activities.
With Fred. Olsen, guests are encouraged to enjoy their holiday at their own pace.
Perhaps that means beginning the morning with breakfast overlooking the ocean before joining an interesting talk or activity. Maybe it's an afternoon spent reading beside the pool, enjoying a leisurely coffee or simply watching the world drift by.
Those looking for a little more activity will find entertainment, organised events and opportunities to socialise, while evenings offer the chance to enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a show, live music or a relaxed drink.
There's a reassuringly traditional quality to the experience, but without the feeling that everything must be formal or regimented.
The emphasis is firmly on choice, comfort and the freedom to make the holiday your own.
Dining Worth Taking Your Time Over
Few things complement a day of exploring quite like returning to the ship for a memorable evening meal.
Dining is an important part of the Fred. Olsen experience, with an appealing choice of restaurants and culinary styles.
Guests can enjoy carefully prepared multi-course dinners in the main restaurants, while more relaxed dining venues provide flexibility throughout the day.
For those who fancy something a little different, speciality dining experiences offer opportunities to explore additional flavours, including Asian, Italian and grill-inspired dishes.
It's the kind of dining experience that invites you to linger a little longer over dessert, enjoy another conversation and appreciate the fact that there's nowhere else you need to be.
Some speciality experiences carry an additional charge, but the main dining experience is included in the cruise fare.
A Warm Welcome That Makes All the Difference
Ask regular Fred. Olsen guests what keeps them coming back, and the atmosphere on board is likely to feature prominently in the conversation.
The company places particular importance on its crew and the personal service they provide.
It's the small touches that can transform a good holiday into a memorable one — a friendly greeting, a familiar face in the restaurant or a crew member remembering how you like your morning coffee.
That welcoming atmosphere is especially appealing to travellers who appreciate attentive service without unnecessary fuss.
It can also make Fred. Olsen an attractive choice for those embarking on their first cruise, as well as guests travelling independently.
Solo travellers can enjoy opportunities to meet fellow guests through dedicated gatherings and sociable dining arrangements, while still having the freedom to spend time on their own.
Ultimately, it's about feeling comfortable and well looked after, wherever in the world you happen to be sailing.
Cruise from Newcastle – Discover the World from Your Doorstep
For holidaymakers in the North East of England, one of the most appealing aspects of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is the opportunity to enjoy selected cruises departing from the Port of Tyne, Newcastle.
A no-fly cruise removes the need to travel to an airport, navigate lengthy check-in procedures or arrange flights before the holiday has even begun.
Instead, your adventure can begin much closer to home.
Fred. Olsen's Newcastle departures offer the chance to discover an exciting variety of destinations, with itineraries including the spectacular Norwegian Fjords, Northern European cities and longer voyages to more distant shores.
The company's ship Bolette features in its programme of cruises from Newcastle, offering North East travellers the opportunity to experience smaller ship cruising without the inconvenience of travelling to a distant departure port.
Whether you're considering a short European escape, a scenic voyage through Norway or an adventurous exploration of Northern Europe, cruising from Newcastle is a wonderfully convenient way to travel.
At JLM Travel, we're particularly enthusiastic about helping our customers discover the range of Fred. Olsen cruises from Newcastle, alongside sailings from other UK ports.
Is Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Right for You?
Every cruise line has its own personality, and finding the right one can make all the difference to your holiday.
Fred. Olsen is particularly well suited to travellers who value the destinations they visit, enjoy the traditional pleasures of cruising and appreciate a welcoming atmosphere aboard a smaller ship.
It is an excellent option for couples looking for a relaxing escape, experienced cruisers seeking interesting itineraries, solo travellers wanting a friendly environment and anyone who prefers a more intimate experience to the scale and bustle of a large resort-style cruise ship.
That's not to say there isn't plenty happening on board. There is entertainment, dining, activities and the opportunity to meet like-minded travellers.
The difference is in the pace and atmosphere.
Fred. Olsen offers a style of cruising where the destination remains the star of the show, while the ship provides a comfortable and enjoyable way to experience it.
Discover Fred. Olsen Cruises with JLM Travel
At JLM Travel, we believe choosing the right cruise is about much more than finding a departure date and a price.
It's about understanding how you like to travel, the destinations that inspire you and the kind of experience you want from your holiday.
As an independent travel agency, we can help you explore Fred. Olsen's cruise collection, compare itineraries and accommodation options, and find a sailing that suits your interests and budget.
Whether you're dreaming of the Norwegian Fjords, hoping to witness the Northern Lights, exploring a no-fly cruise from Newcastle or planning a longer adventure, our friendly travel experts are here to help.
Discover a different way to see the world with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines — and let JLM Travel help you find your perfect voyage.
Contact JLM Travel today or visit one of our branches in Team Valley, Whickham or Cullercoats to discuss your next cruise holiday.
Because sometimes the most memorable part of a holiday isn't simply where you go — it's the journey that takes you there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fred. Olsen Cruises
Find the answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions below!
What makes Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines different from other cruise companies?
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines specialises in smaller ship cruising, offering a more personal and traditional experience than many larger cruise operators. Its ships are known for their welcoming atmosphere, attentive service and carefully planned itineraries. The emphasis is on discovering fascinating destinations while enjoying a relaxed and comfortable journey at sea.
Which ships are operated by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines?
Fred. Olsen operates three ocean-going cruise ships: Bolette, Borealis and Balmoral. Each offers comfortable accommodation, restaurants, entertainment and inviting spaces to relax. Their smaller size also allows them to visit certain destinations and ports that may be less accessible to larger cruise ships.
Can you cruise with Fred. Olsen from Newcastle?
Yes. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offers selected no-fly cruises departing from the Port of Tyne, near Newcastle upon Tyne. These sailings are particularly convenient for travellers living in Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland, County Durham and the wider North East. Destinations vary by departure date and can include the Norwegian Fjords, Northern Europe and other fascinating regions.
What is included in a Fred. Olsen cruise?
Fred. Olsen cruise fares generally include your accommodation, meals in the main dining venues, entertainment and a selection of onboard activities. Additional charges may apply for alcoholic drinks, speciality restaurants, shore excursions, spa treatments and other optional extras. The exact inclusions depend on the fare and sailing selected.
Are Fred. Olsen cruises suitable for first-time cruisers?
Absolutely. Fred. Olsen is an appealing choice for first-time cruisers who prefer a friendly atmosphere, traditional cruising and a more manageable ship size. Guests can enjoy organised activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet fellow travellers, while still having plenty of freedom to relax and explore at their own pace.
Does Fred. Olsen cater for solo travellers?
Yes. Fred. Olsen welcomes solo travellers and offers dedicated single accommodation on selected sailings, along with opportunities to meet other guests through organised gatherings and social activities. Single cabin availability and pricing vary by ship and departure.
Where do Fred. Olsen cruises sail to?
Fred. Olsen offers cruises to destinations across Europe and further afield. Popular itineraries include the Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, the Arctic, Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and the British Isles. Longer voyages can also explore more distant destinations, with itineraries varying throughout the year.
Are Fred. Olsen cruises all-inclusive?
Fred. Olsen cruises are not generally sold as fully all-inclusive holidays. Standard fares typically include accommodation, main dining and entertainment, while drinks packages and other extras may be available at an additional cost. Always check the inclusions for your chosen cruise before booking. The Freedom Fares include selected drinks with lunch and dinner including house wines, beer and soft drinks.
Can I book Fred. Olsen cruises through a travel agent?
Yes. You can book Fred. Olsen cruises through independent travel agents such as JLM Travel. Our travel consultants can help you compare ships, itineraries, departure ports and cabin options, making it easier to find a cruise that suits your requirements and budget.
Whether you're looking for a Fred. Olsen cruise from Newcastle or another UK port, the team at JLM Travel will be happy to help you plan your next voyage.
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JLM Travel sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel's membership of ABTA with membership number K0885. JLM Travel are registered in England and Wales with company number 05070420 and VAT number GB193167195. Registered office: Unit 5b, Ground Floor Maingate, Kingsway North, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, England, NE11 0BE
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