Choosing the right cruise can be tricky, but if you’re looking for a more personal and relaxed experience, Fred Olsen Cruises could be just what you need. Forget the huge, crowded ships—Fred Olsen keeps things small and friendly, offering you a laid-back atmosphere with access to some truly unique destinations.
In this article, you’ll discover five reasons why you should choose Fred Olsen Cruise Line for your next cruise holiday.
Smaller, Intimate Ships
Fred Olsen’s fleet is designed with smaller ships, creating a more personal and relaxed cruising experience. Here’s why their smaller ships stand out:
Exclusive Access to Ports: The smaller size allows Fred Olsen ships to access lesser-known ports and hidden gems that larger vessels can’t reach.
Personalised Atmosphere: Fewer passengers mean a more intimate setting where crew members can provide personalized service, making you feel like more than just a number.
Less Crowded Onboard: With fewer passengers, you can enjoy all the ship’s amenities without the long queues or crowded spaces typical of larger ships.
Closer to Nature: Smaller ships allow for a closer view of stunning natural scenery, such as the Norwegian fjords or Mediterranean coastlines, offering a unique perspective.
More Relaxed Environment: The smaller scale fosters a peaceful, friendly atmosphere where it’s easier to mingle and connect with fellow travelers.
Friendly, Attentive Service
Fred Olsen Cruises is all about making sure you feel at home from the moment you step onboard. Here’s how they do it:
More Crew, Fewer Passengers: With fewer people on the ship, the crew can really focus on you, making sure you’re well taken care of throughout the trip.
Personal Touch: The staff often remembers your name and gets to know you, which makes it feel more like you’re cruising with friends rather than strangers.
Little Details Matter: Whether it’s remembering your go-to drink or giving you tips for your day ashore, the crew pays attention to the small things that make a big difference.
Relaxed, Friendly Vibe: The smaller ship size means the crew is always nearby, ready to help with a smile, so you’ll always feel welcome and comfortable.
Traditional British Cruising
When you cruise with Fred Olsen, you’ll feel right at home with their quintessentially British cruising experience. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Afternoon Tea: Treat yourself to a proper afternoon tea, complete with scones, clotted cream, and your favorite cuppa—perfect for a relaxing break during your day at sea.
Classic British Cuisine: You’ll enjoy hearty British favorites like Sunday roasts, fish and chips, and classic puddings like sticky toffee. It’s comfort food at its finest!
British Entertainment: From West End-style performances to tribute acts and comedians, the entertainment is tailored for you, bringing a touch of British charm to your evenings onboard.
Made for UK Cruisers: Fred Olsen knows what you like, with familiar foods, English-speaking staff, and the occasional pint of ale—so you’ll feel comfortable from the start.
Celebrate British Holidays: If you’re sailing over Christmas or Easter, Fred Olsen goes all out with festive touches like mince pies, crackers, and traditional holiday dinners to make you feel at home.
Unique Itineraries and Excursions
Here’s what makes their trips stand out:
Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Fred Olsen takes you to places that bigger ships can’t reach, from the remote Arctic Circle to the stunning Norwegian fjords and hidden gems across the world.
Immersive Shore Excursions: Their shore excursions go beyond the typical tourist spots. You’ll experience the true culture, history, and natural beauty of each destination with expertly guided tours that give you a deeper understanding of the places you visit.
Exclusive Access to Smaller Ports: Thanks to the smaller ships, you can access less-visited ports and harbours, offering you a more authentic and quieter experience compared to crowded cruise hotspots.
Tailored Experiences: Whether you’re an adventurer, history buff, or nature lover, Fred Olsen offers excursions tailored to your interests, from hiking in scenic landscapes to exploring ancient ruins.
Special Themed Cruises: They also offer themed cruises like Northern Lights or wildlife-watching expeditions, giving you the chance to focus on something truly extraordinary.
Flexibility in Exploring: With longer stays in port and even overnight stops, you’ll have more time to fully explore and immerse yourself in the destinations, rather than feeling rushed.
Perfect for Solo Travellers
If you’re travelling solo, Fred Olsen is a fantastic choice! They go the extra mile to cater to single cruisers, offering a selection of single cabins across their ships, making it easier for you to explore the world on your own terms. Here’s why Fred Olsen is perfect for solo travellers:
Solo Cabins: Fred Olsen provides dedicated single cabins at reasonable prices, so you won’t have to pay the hefty single supplement that comes with booking a double room.
Solo Traveller Events: They host meet-and-greets, cocktail parties, and special events designed specifically for solo cruisers, making it easy for you to meet like-minded travellers.
Welcoming Atmosphere: With smaller ships and a friendly crew, there’s always a warm, inclusive vibe on board, making it simple to strike up conversations whether you’re dining or joining in with activities.
Special Offers: Fred Olsen regularly runs promotions with reduced or no single supplements, making their cruises more affordable for solo travellers.
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Environmentally Conscious Cruising
Fred Olsen Cruises is committed to protecting the environment, making sure you can enjoy your cruise knowing they’re taking steps to minimize their impact. Here’s how they’re leading the way in eco-friendly cruising:
Energy Efficiency: Fred Olsen has invested in energy-efficient technologies, from advanced engine systems that use less fuel to energy-saving LED lighting onboard, reducing their carbon footprint.
Waste Reduction Initiatives: They’ve implemented robust recycling programs and have reduced single-use plastics across their fleet. You’ll also find efforts to cut down on food waste, ensuring a more sustainable approach to cruising.
Cleaner Fuels: Fred Olsen uses low-sulfur fuels and continues to explore cleaner energy alternatives to reduce harmful emissions, making their cruises better for the planet and marine life.
Sustainable Practices: From water conservation efforts to eco-friendly cleaning products, Fred Olsen ensures that their day-to-day operations onboard are as sustainable as possible.
Marine Conservation: They actively support marine conservation projects, partnering with organizations to protect oceans and marine wildlife. Their focus on responsible tourism means that you’re contributing to preserving the environment while cruising.
Environmental Awareness for Guests: Fred Olsen also provides educational talks and activities onboard, so you can learn more about the importance of protecting our planet and the role we all play.
Continuous Improvement: They are always looking for new ways to minimize their environmental impact, with plans to implement more green initiatives, ensuring that future cruises are even more eco-friendly.
- Read more about the environmental impact of cruising.
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11 responses
Hi just returned from Africa on the Borealis and met some very friendly people and had great food.
A very friendly crew and a great drinks package.
The only negative side was the size of the shower and I’m only a small man but all in all ok.
I travelled on the Balmoral with my son Nicholas.
He was ten and I can honestly say that we had a fab time.
All the staff were friendly and professional they looked after us and our waiter Con we was great, nothing was too much trouble, the lady who did our room was also great.
The Captain was kind and on our side when this man was cruel to my son. Barnaby the comedian was so funny and Adam the pianist was nice and played a mean tune.
Marlene Graham
Having sailed, for the first time with Fred Olsen ,on Boudicca, out of Belfast, I was absolutley disgusted.
A stinking, norovirus infected ship, which every crew member tried to bluff over. When the dining room is only half full, I know something is not right.
The Captain wouldn’t even shake hands with guests at the cocktail party (he could have worn gloves).
No announcements regarding the outbreak, but my daughter sent me a text saying that it was on the news re the outbreak! She said it was reported that 70 plus people were infected, but I think 170 would be nearer the truth.
We only cruise with Fred. Food and service is always good but be careful before you book as some cabins can be a little noisy.
Bolette for me. Never been on one of the new fancy liners as they look like amusement parks.
Went on the Bolette three years ago on my own and met some lovely people.
Have been on many Fred Olsen cruises. Off to South Africa in January.
Have travelled by myself many times on their ships.
They are small enough to meet people and easy to find your way around.
Can recommend to anyone who is looking for a good holiday at reasonable price.
I have travelled on three cruises with Fred, one on the Balmoral and the last two on the Braemar.
I have enjoyed every one. The ships are not too big, so therefore you meet different people and see them again and again.
It is such a friendly line, the staff are tremendous, and nothing is too much trouble.
The food is of a very high standard, and I am a “food snob” ! and I cannot complain about anything I have been supplied with.
The entertainment has been first class, particularly from the ‘resident’ entertainers, who are also very friendly to all the passengers.
There is just one small point one could class as a negative, and that is that there are insufficient balcony cabins at affordable prices, especially for the single traveller (me !!).
But this is a minor point. God willing, I will be back again in the future.
Also great food and lots of it.
so much choice.
Not the ship that causes norovirus, usually a passenger brings it on.
No problem with me regarding the captain not shaking hands, they are only looking after the passengers.
Fred Olsen are the best.
I have been twice on Bolette. Last year we went to Norway, fantastic and friendly ship.
Also the drinks package was really cheap!