We don't know the hotel yet but it will be centrally located, a minimum of 4 stars, selected from our list of preferred hotels & based on a 'room only' board basis. Local government city taxes & local resort fees may be payable.
Ship Facilities
Balmoral - By Fred. Olsen
Good For CouplesOver 50sInformalSmall Ship
Year: 07/06/1988
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Refurbished: 01/11/2020
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9 Decks
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Max capacity: 1350 people
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Customer reviews for Balmoral
4.3
Based on 119 reviews
Cabin
4.3
Service
4.4
Excursions
4.2
Dining
4.3
Activities
4.3
Value for money
4.3
Entertainment
4.2
First time with Fred Olsen and we were very impressed. We only did a mini cruise but nothing was too much trouble for us. The ships décor was really beautiful with lots of different areas to relax in. The decks were great with the pools and Jacuzzis on different levels. The food was excellent and the specaility dining exceptional. The crew were all amazing. Will definitely be booking again.
couple
6-10 cruisesSuperior Ocean View Guarantee
15 Sep 2023
It was a fantastic cruise on a lovely ship which was well maintained, had a special and caring staff and was a wonderful cruising experience. I will definitely travel Free Olsen cruise again. Overall experience was outstanding.
user
10+ cruisesSingle Superior Interior
2 Sep 2023
Balmoral is an excellent small ship with fantastic friendly staff, great itineraries and super choice of food. Ideal cruise for couples and solo travellers who enjoy traditional cruising.
couple
10+ cruisesSuperior Ocean View
17 Jun 2023
Lovely ship. Perfect size for us. No queues for food.
Missed having somewhere sheltered from the wind to put feet up. Entertainment could be quite poor at times but the trade off was a nice quiet relaxing break with great staff in attendance. 3rd deck forward probably not a great choice for us but the price was good as a last minute booking. Found 2nd sitting at dining difficult as we are early to bed types but we coped. Colours and taste was a great experience with lovely food with sound menu advice and attentive staff.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
Talk to a Cruise Expert
Our cruise experts will help you pick the perfect cruise line, ship and destination.
We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
Casablanca
DAY 5
As the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca is the modern hub of the country where business and art comes to prosper. The magnitude of the city means that while it may not have the intimate feel of a small town, there’s plenty to be discovered by simply exploring. Visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, discover the history of Judaism in Morocco at the museum and take a long walk along the scenic waterfront boulevard.
Things to do in Casablanca:
Hassan II Mosque
With the ocean as a picturesque backdrop, the Hassan II Mosque is a truly breath-taking sight. Take a tour of the largest mosque in Africa (with enough capacity for 105,000 worshippers) and admire the intricacy of the interior it took 6,000 craftsmen to create.
La Corniche Beach
Stretching for several kilometres, La Corniche is the perfect place for a walk at sunrise or a gentle stroll after dinner. Here you’ll find a lighthouse at the end of the jetty, sweeping views of the seascape and numerous restaurants and entertainment.
Museum of Moroccan Judaism
Originating as an orphanage in 1948, The Museum of Moroccan Judaism is now dedicated to the 2000-year history of the Jewish religion in the Arab world. Visitors will find artefacts, clothing, photographs and a reconstructed 1930’s synagogue.
Sky 28
Considered to have the best views of the city, Sky 28 is a bar and restaurant situated on the 28th floor of the Kenzi Tower Hotel. Dine in luxury while you admire the panoramic view of Casablanca, and enjoy live music, entertainment and delicious cuisine.
United Nations Square
This huge square is bustling with life and you’ll find yourself frequently becoming part of the crowd that passes through. Here you’ll find musicians and street performers setting the tone, as well as numerous restaurants, cafés and shops in the surrounding area.
Arrecife, Lanzarote
DAY 7
The capital of Lanzarote, Arrecife’s cosmopolitan city holds many hidden gems of history among its backstreets. After beginning as a small fishing village in the 15th century, it is now home to high-end shopping and boutiques, traditional Spanish cuisine, a beautiful sandy beach and gorgeous monuments. Whether you’re here to shop until you drop or are looking to uncover the old history of Arrecife, there’s plenty to do in this quickly-growing capital.
Things to do in Arrecife, Lanzarote:
Castillo de San Gabriel
Originally built to defend Arrecife from pirate attacks, Castillo de San Gabriel is conveniently situated in the centre of town. Though it was once a wooden structure which was destroyed by fire, the monument has since been restored and is fascinating to explore.
Centro Commercial Marina
Arrecife’s main shopping destination, Marina Lanzarote is a trendy waterfront teeming with shops including designer outlets, as well as casual fast-food and restaurants. A walk along the marina will take you past stunning yachts and to where cruise liners dock.
Charco San Gines
What was once a small fishing port has flourished into the beautiful, natural lagoon of Charco san Gines. Many traditional seafood restaurants and bars have emerged in the area, creating a laid-back hub to find fresh food and enjoy live music on the waterfront.
Playa del Reducto
As the main beach in Arrecife, Playa del Reducto boasts the ‘Blue Flag’, signifying it as good for bathing, cleanliness and possessing great facilities. The calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling as well as stand-up paddle boarding.
Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura
DAY 7
Whether you're planning to stay in the town of Puerto del Rosario itself, or are looking to venture further afield, this lively capital of Fuerteventura is a hub of authentic restaurants, bustling bars and quirky street art. Enjoy a shopping spree at Las Rotondas which features everyone's favourite brands, or admire over 50 pieces of art at the outdoor sculpture park. Embark on a scavenger hunt to find the best mural paintings around the city, or simply enjoy a cold drink at a local bar.
Things to do in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura:
Our Lady of the Rosary Church
The stunning Our Lady of the Rosary Church is located in the city's centre, situated back from the waterfront. A modest catholic church that was constructed in the 19th century has a unique appearance, with black lava stone with whitewashed walls. Within the church, there is a quaint altar, statues and murals adorning the walls.
Miguel de Unamuno House Museum
This extraordinary museum is located in what was once known as Puerto Cabras (now Puerto del Rosario), in a nineteenth-century home. Don Miguel de Unamuno, a prominent Spanish philosopher and novelist, resided in this home in 1924 while he was exiled on Fuerteventura. Within it, you'll find an array of artefacts from his life, including furniture used by the rebel, who spent 6 months living here whilst being banished from mainland Spain.
La Alcogida Ecomuseum
If you’re looking for a unique activity throughout your time in Puerto del Rosario, head to the La Alcogida Ecomuseum. Situated to the north of the town, this extraordinary attraction is a living museum where guests can see craftspeople at work. There’s also a cottage, and ancient houses which will make you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.
Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura
DAY 8
Whether you're planning to stay in the town of Puerto del Rosario itself, or are looking to venture further afield, this lively capital of Fuerteventura is a hub of authentic restaurants, bustling bars and quirky street art. Enjoy a shopping spree at Las Rotondas which features everyone's favourite brands, or admire over 50 pieces of art at the outdoor sculpture park. Embark on a scavenger hunt to find the best mural paintings around the city, or simply enjoy a cold drink at a local bar.
Things to do in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura:
Our Lady of the Rosary Church
The stunning Our Lady of the Rosary Church is located in the city's centre, situated back from the waterfront. A modest catholic church that was constructed in the 19th century has a unique appearance, with black lava stone with whitewashed walls. Within the church, there is a quaint altar, statues and murals adorning the walls.
Miguel de Unamuno House Museum
This extraordinary museum is located in what was once known as Puerto Cabras (now Puerto del Rosario), in a nineteenth-century home. Don Miguel de Unamuno, a prominent Spanish philosopher and novelist, resided in this home in 1924 while he was exiled on Fuerteventura. Within it, you'll find an array of artefacts from his life, including furniture used by the rebel, who spent 6 months living here whilst being banished from mainland Spain.
La Alcogida Ecomuseum
If you’re looking for a unique activity throughout your time in Puerto del Rosario, head to the La Alcogida Ecomuseum. Situated to the north of the town, this extraordinary attraction is a living museum where guests can see craftspeople at work. There’s also a cottage, and ancient houses which will make you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
DAY 9
Home to one of Europe’s most famous beaches as well as an abundance of historic architecture and natural beauty, Las Palmas is much more than just a place for fun in the sun. Hike the breath-taking Bandama Caldera crater, discover the interactive Elder Museum of Science and Technology, or for those just looking to relax, grab a lounger and top up your tan on the beach, or visit the high-end boutiques and shop until you drop.
Things to do in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria:
Bandama Caldera
The epic Caldera de Bandama is a volcanic crater stretching 1,000 metres in diameter. Thanks to the observation platform you can enjoy the sweeping views from the top, or – for the brave – take the adventurous hike down into the crater itself.
Casa de Colon
This excellent, informative museum – and originally Christopher Cloumbus’ house before he embarked upon his travels - is dedicated to the history of the famous explorer. Visitors will find his personal possessions, drawings, diaries and a portrait, as well as two talkative macaws.
Elder Museum of Science and Technology
Specialising in hands-on interaction, the Elder Museum of Science and Technology features weird and wonderful scientific exhibits. With four floors of content, you’ll find everything from physics to biology, art to engineering and even a planetarium.
Las Canteras
Among Europe’s most famous city beaches is Las Canteras, a golden-sandy beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and year-round warm weather. Spend the day snorkelling, sunbathing and swimming before filling up for dinner at the restaurants and bars.
Las Palmas Cathedral
Considered the most important monument of Canarian religious architecture, Cathedral of Santa Ana features Gothic, neoclassical and Baroque styles of architecture. Inside, you’ll find more stunning examples of expert craftsmanship as well as a tower from which you’ll see stunning views.