A card room - perfect for an afternoon game of Bridge
An extensive library
4 Stylish Restaurants including The Ballindoch Restaurant
A fantastic selection of bars/lounges including the popular Lido Bar
A fully equipped Fitness Centre
Enjoy selected drinks with lunch & dinner, gratuities, complimentary guided walks ashore & shuttle buses for selected ports when booking on Freedom Fare on 2026 & 2027 Sailings!
Tips included
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Your itinerary
Day 1-10Cruise from Southampton and back
Day 1
Cruise departs from Southampton
12 Sep 2027
SeaCity Museum
Solent Sky Museum
The New Forest
Tudor House and Garden
Southampton City Art Gallery
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.
Day 2
At Sea
13 Sep 2027
Day 3
La Rochelle
14 Sep 2027
La Rochelle Aquarium
Musée des Automates
Grosse Horloge
A centre for fishing and trade since the 12th century. Wander round the old harbour, take in Renaissance architecture, and sample local oysters!
Day 4
Bordeaux - Overnight onboard
15 Sep 2027
Place de la Bourse
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
Cité du Vin
A paradise for wine lovers, Bordeaux is where world-class vineyards meet elegant French charm.
Day 6
At Sea
17 Sep 2027
Day 7
Seine River - Cruising
18 Sep 2027
Rouen - Overnight onboard
18 Sep 2027
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen
Le Gros-Horloge
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
Considered a cultural capital of France’s Normandy Region, Rouen is a remarkable historical city sitting on the banks of the River Seine, which has been significant in one way or another since the Middle Ages. Seat of the Exchequer of Normandy and a capital of the Anglo-Norman and Angevin dynasties throughout the 11th to the 15th centuries, home to the site where Jeanne d’Arc was tried and burned alive, severely damaged during Operation Overlord in 1944, and now contributing to France’s impressive HAROPA Port – of which Le Havre and Paris also contribute – the cultural, historical, and economic importance of Rouen and cannot be overstated. With an overnight stay aboard your cruise ship in Rouen, you’ll have even more time to enjoy this remarkable city – and, of course, more time to travel inland to Paris and indulge in everything the French capital has to offer.
Day 9
Honfleur
20 Sep 2027
Église Sainte Catherine
Le Jardin des Personnalités
Honfleur Port
On the south side of the mouth of the river Seine from Le Havre, Honfleur is a historic Normandy town boasting picturesque 18th-century houses, Mediaeval architecture and an idyllic harbour.
Day 10
Southampton
21 Sep 2027
SeaCity Museum
Solent Sky Museum
The New Forest
Tudor House and Garden
Southampton City Art Gallery
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.
Fred. Olsen Freedom Fare bookings include house beers, wines by the glass, and draught soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Served via waiter service, these complimentary drinks are available in the main dining rooms, buffet, and speciality restaurants. Non-alcoholic alternatives are also fully available with your meals.
Drinks with meals
Premium Drinks
You have added the preium drinks package
Premium Drinks Package
Tips
Your cruise fare fully includes all crew gratuities, covering your cabin stewards, dining teams, bar staff, and onboard service teams. Because these tips are built into the price upfront, you do not need to budget for extra daily gratuities or service charges while on your holiday.
Fred. Olsen's Satisfaction Guarantee
With Fred. Olsen, you're invited to enjoy your cruise or get your money back! Within the first 48 hours of sailing, if you feel the cruise isn't for you, you can discuss this with the Guest Services team onboard. Then, Fred. Olsen will arrange and cover your flight home from the next available port, and you'll receive a full refind of your cruise fare.
Entertainment
Choose from a variety of things to entertain yourself including restaurants, bars, theatre, pools and much more.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
Cabin
Your cabin is fully included in the price. Unwind in total comfort each evening and wake up to a breathtaking new horizon every morning of your cruise.
Port Fees & Taxes
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Wi-Fi
If you would like to use the internet onboard you can add a package from £8.50 - £12 per day depending on the length of the cruise. This can be added to your package after booking.
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Car parking
Car parking at the port or airport is not included in the cost of your cruise, and this cannot currently be booked through Iglu Cruise. However, please contact us after you have made your booking if you would like to add this to your package, so we can discuss options. An approximate cost for parking during a cruise is around £12 to £20 per car per day. Alternatively, transfers can be arranged.
Excursions
If you would like to do any excursions/tours while docked these will be an additional charge. Excursions/tours can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package. Alternatively these can be bought while on the ship but may be more expensive than pre-booking.
Transfers (home to port)
Transfers from your home to the port or airport aren't included but we can help organise coach transfers, taxis etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included in your cruise package. However, Iglu Cruise has partnered with Holiday Extras to provide this service. With flexible policies and cruise-specific cover, you can rest assured that you’re completely covered when you go away. Get a Holiday Extras travel insurance quote right here.
Visa
Visas are not included with your cruise fare and are not provided by Iglu Cruise. Important visas and travel documents must be obtained by the individual guest prior to embarkation. To help, Iglu Cruise has partnered with The Travel Visa Company for professional assistance with all your travel documentation and visa needs.
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Balmoral
4.5
Based on 237 reviews
Cabin
4
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
5
Activities
4
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
We absolutely loved this cruise . No flying and easy parking and boarding meant there was no stress . The outside cabin was great . The whole ship was decorated to a high standard . The food was excellent ! The service and all the staff were always smiling and very helpful . We did our own excursion but booked the kayaking which was great ! There was a great comedian on John Evan’s who was brilliant . All in all this 5 days Norway cruise was brilliant . Nothing to complain about
couple
6-10 cruises
3 Sep 2026
Very enjoyable short trip
couple
1 cruise
28 Aug 2026
Everything you would expect from Fred Olsen. From organisation at port of Rosyth, beautiful cabin with loads of storage, good food and excellent service. Then we have the varied entertainment with singers, comedian, musicians and loads to do either with quizzes, games, cookery or just relax reading a book with a coffee in hand. Loads of ports to visit, excursions, talks by experts.
Yes all this Iceland and the partial solar eclipse. An experience not to be missed.
couple
10+ cruises
19 Aug 2026
Loved it! What a glorious break from over-hot Southern England. Great dining table company of Scottish women and of course wonderful food. Looking to cruise again on Balmoral.
The Satisfaction Guarantee applies to bookings made directly with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or through a travel agent, for cruises of 5 nights or more departing more than 12 weeks from the date of booking. It excludes Party Night cruises and voyages operated by Fred. Olsen but sold through third-party operators. To invoke the guarantee, guests must notify Guest Relations on board within 48 hours of the vessel's departure from the original port of embarkation. Fred. Olsen will arrange and cover the cost of return travel to the UK and will refund the cruise fare in full. Other costs are not refundable.
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.
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.
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.
At Sea
At Sea
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
La Rochelle
La Rochelle Aquarium
Musée des Automates
Grosse Horloge
La Rochelle
Overview
Description
Inclusions
Features
Things To Do
Things To Know
Time at Port: TBD (day Day 3)
Description
A centre for fishing and trade since the 12th century. Wander round the old harbour, take in Renaissance architecture, and sample local oysters!
A family-owned aquarium situated in the centre of the city, the La Rochelle Aquarium is home to more than 12,000 animals. A popular attraction to visit, you’ll learn all about the 600 species that live in the aquarium, from what it takes to care for them to their origins.
Musée des Automates
If you love to learn about automotion, this museum is the place for you. Opened in 1993, this museum is home to more than 300 contemporary and historic models, historical scenes and more. Replicating Parisian street scenes, sailing vessels and other landscapes, this extraordinary attraction is a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the centre.
Grosse Horloge
Known as the gateway to the old part of the city, this Gothic-style clock tower dates back to the 12th century. A fascinating landmark that’s often photographed, Gross Horloge is a must see when stopping off in La Rochelle.
Bordeaux - Overnight onboard
Place de la Bourse
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
Cité du Vin
Bordeaux - Overnight onboard
Overview
Description
Inclusions
Features
Things To Do
Things To Know
Time at Port: TBD (day Day 4)
Description
A sprawling port city on the banks of the Garonne, Bordeaux is a breathtaking French city boasting an abundance of impressive landmarks, sensational museums, insightful cultural experiences, world-renowned restaurants, and stunning riverside scenery you won’t want to miss. Both a gastronomic capital of the world and a world capital of wine, thanks to the many world-famous vineyards and wineries found throughout the Gironde department, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the culinary landscape to explore here and the rich tapestry of wines to uncover in an endless amount of charming bars and quaint cafes. Bordeaux is also home to the second-most registered historical monuments and protected buildings in France, second only to Paris, something that highlights just how rich the sightseeing experiences are here. There are so many fascinating landmarks to admire and histories to uncover when wandering Bordeaux’s streets. If you’re looking for a more curated exploration of regional and national history, you’ll find a variety of interesting museums in Bordeaux; exploring everything from international fine art and local street art to the history of wine trading and the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, there’s so much fascinating history to immerse yourself in. Or, of course, you can look to the future and shop for something exciting for yourself or a loved one; Bordeaux is home to an abundance of boutique shopping experiences, with Rue Saint-Catherine among the longest pedestrianised shopping streets in Europe. You’ll also find numerous well-kept public gardens throughout the city, ideal for strolling through on a sunny day, and as an escape from the hustle and bustle of busier streets.
One of Bordeaux, France's most identifiable landmarks is the Place de la Bourse. It is made up of a number of beautifully designed buildings created by architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel that was constructed along the Garonne River from 1730 to 1775. Contributing to the city's trade, beloved reputation and the overall growth of Bordeaux, it's been a prominent attraction for centuries.
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux is a stunning Catholic cathedral situated in the heart of Bordeaux. First mentioned in official documents dating from 814, this serves as the residence of the Archbishop of Bordeaux and has hosted two royal weddings throughout history: the marriage between Eleanor of Aquitaine and Louis VII in 1137 and the marriage of Anne of Austria and Louis XIII in 1615.
Cité du Vin
A fascinating modern museum and exhibition space that explores the soul of wine through immersive and sensory experiences, Cité du Vin invites you to embark on a sensational journey through the cultures and civilisations of wine. Housed in a unique building designed to evoke the sensation of swirling wine in a glass, you’ll encounter a wide variety of themed areas and interactive experiences, and come away having learned so much about wine in a wonderfully entertaining way.
At Sea
At Sea
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Rouen - Overnight onboard
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen
Le Gros-Horloge
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
Rouen - Overnight onboard
Overview
Description
Inclusions
Features
Things To Do
Things To Know
Time at Port: TBD (day Day 7)
Description
Considered a cultural capital of France’s Normandy Region, Rouen is a remarkable historical city sitting on the banks of the River Seine, which has been significant in one way or another since the Middle Ages. Seat of the Exchequer of Normandy and a capital of the Anglo-Norman and Angevin dynasties throughout the 11th to the 15th centuries, home to the site where Jeanne d’Arc was tried and burned alive, severely damaged during Operation Overlord in 1944, and now contributing to France’s impressive HAROPA Port – of which Le Havre and Paris also contribute – the cultural, historical, and economic importance of Rouen and cannot be overstated. With an overnight stay aboard your cruise ship in Rouen, you’ll have even more time to enjoy this remarkable city – and, of course, more time to travel inland to Paris and indulge in everything the French capital has to offer.
Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1801, Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen is one of the main regional fine art museums in France and features collections including impressionist paintings, Russian icons, Objets d’art, and more. The building currently housing the museum was constructed between 1877 and 1888 and features regular seasonal exhibitions alongside the permanent display of an incredible wealth of art from the 16th century onwards.
Le Gros-Horloge
An impressive 14th-century astrological clock in central Rouen, Le Gros-Horloge, is a marvel of technological advancements in the Middle Ages. Originally constructed without a dial, in which one revolution of the hour hand represented a day, a fresh facade was introduced in the 1520s, and the whole clock was electrified in the early 20th century. It’s one of the largest mechanisms of this type still in existence today and an impressive landmark to admire while exploring this incredible destination.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is an impressive 12th-century Catholic cathedral in the heart of Rouen; a must-see and hard-to-miss landmark, it’s famous for its three towers, each boasting a distinct architectural style. It’s believed that Rouen’s first church, which would have been established circa 260 by Saint Mellonius, is under or close to the present location of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. To say this site has cultural significance would be an understatement; it was also briefly the tallest building in the world from 1876 to 1880 and the subject of several impressionist paintings by Claude Monet.
Honfleur
Église Sainte Catherine
Le Jardin des Personnalités
Honfleur Port
Honfleur
Overview
Description
Inclusions
Features
Things To Do
Things To Know
Time at Port: TBD (day Day 9)
Description
On the south side of the mouth of the river Seine from Le Havre, Honfleur is a historic Normandy town boasting picturesque 18th-century houses, Mediaeval architecture and an idyllic harbour.
Built in the 15th century, this large wooden church is a popular tourist attraction in Honfleur. Unique in its appearance, it makes for a great photo opportunity.
Le Jardin des Personnalités
Spanning 10 hectares, this scenic park is home to a variety of plant life, statues and more.
Honfleur Port
Picturesque and bustling, the Port of Honfleur is surrounded by colourful buildings, restaurants and more making it a good place to explore whilst stopping off in the city.
Southampton
Southampton
SeaCity Museum
Solent Sky Museum
The New Forest
Tudor House and Garden
Southampton City Art Gallery
Southampton
Overview
Description
Inclusions
Features
Things To Do
Things To Know
Time at Port: TBD (day Day 10)
Description
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.
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.
Drinks with meals
Drinks with meals
The Freedom Fare now includes selected drinks with lunch and dinner. This is available with waiter service only in selected venues, including the main, buffet, and speciality restaurants.
How to book
Included
Selected house beer (by the glass)
House wines (Red, White, Rose)
Soft drinks on tap
Terms and Conditions
Selected house beer (by the glass), selected red, white and rosé wine (by the glass), and draught soft drinks,
Included with lunch and dinner.
Available with waiter service only in selected venues, including the main, buffet and speciality restaurants.
Premium Drinks Package
Premium Drinks Package
Enhance your stay on a Fred. Olsen cruise. Enjoy a selection of premium wines and spirits, cocktails, selected branded beers and ciders, and a selection of soft drinks by the glass. You are also entitled to 25% off all wines by the bottle, 25% off fine whisky & cognac and 10% off sparkling & dessert wines.
If you’re interested in enjoying Fred. Olsen’s Premium Drink Package during your cruise, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s actually cheaper to pre-purchase your drinks package at the time of booking. If you do add this to your booking, you’ll be saving around £4 per person, per night, which certainly adds up when you consider the full duration of your sailing.
How to book
You can add the drinks package when booking your cruise, up to 6 days prior to your departure date or onboard by going to guest services and have them add it to your cabin account (subject to availability and only on days 1 and 2 of your sailing). You cannot book onboard if your cruise is less than 5 nights.
Included
Wines
Beers & Ciders
Spirits
Cocktail of the Day
Mocktail of the Day
Soft Drinks
Excluded
Drinks ordered via Room Service
Mini Bar Items
Terms and Conditions
Fred. Olsen's Premium Drinks Packages include:
Soft drinks and juices
A choice of premium red, white, rose and non-alcoholic wines by the glass
Cava by the glass
A range of cocktails, including signature cocktails
Branded spirits, including rum, gin, vodka whisky, brandy and Irish Cream
Branded beers and ciders (bottles, cans and draught)
25% off all wines by the bottle
25% off fine whisky & cognac
10% off sparkling and dessert wines
The following are not included in the Premium Drinks Package:
750ml glass bottles of mineral water
Red Bull
Speciality coffee and drinks from the Bookmark Café & Oriental Tea Room
Bottles of wine
Sparkling and dessert wine
Speciality whisky and cognac
The Premium Drinks Package varies in price, depending on cruise duration. For example, for a cruise of 1-5 nights, when booked in advance, the package is £44 per person, per night (or £48 pppn when booked onboard).Guests can enjoy up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day. There is no limit to the number of soft drinks. To qualify for the Advance Purchase Cost, the drinks package must be added to the booking at least six days before departure.House spirits will be served in single measures and one drink to be ordered per person, per transaction. Drinks must be ordered by the person consuming it and the quantity/selection of drinks onboard a Fred. Olsen ship will vary; no refunds will be given if a certain drink is not available.Those booked under a concession, or as a prize winner, will be charged the on board price.Once the cruise has commenced, the package cannot be cancelled and is non-refundable.Please note that the Drinks Package Upgrade is only available for beverages served on board and does not extend to pre or post cruise arrangements, hotels, flights or any establishment ashore. The cost of the Drinks Package Upgrade is calculated on the cruise duration and not the entire holiday duration.On board purchase of the Drinks Package Upgrades must be made no later than the end of the second day of the cruise.Please note, other terms and conditions may apply.
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0203 848 3607
Book as a cruise onlySelecting this option will remove flights, transfers and any hotels
Included
When you factor in transfers and luggage, it's generally cheaper to book a flight with us. If the airport, airline or departure time you want is not in this list, give us a call on
0203 848 3607.
AI review summary
Entertainment
A significant number of customers remarked that the entertainment provided was varied, excellent, and enjoyable.
Service
Many customers appreciated the excellent service provided by the ship, praising its friendliness and cleanliness.
Crew
Customers expressed appreciation for the friendly and helpful crew, which was mentioned multiple times in the reviews.
Trip
Customers appreciated the good selection of shore trips and the variety of ports available, although some were a little expensive.
Cabin
A significant number of customers remarked that the cabin was spacious, clean, warm, and well-appointed.