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
NEW YEAR SALE! Enjoy FREE Onboard Spend + Additional Savings on selected sailings in 2025 & 2026! BOOK NOW & set sail on your next adventure with Fred.Olsen!
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Drinks
Some teas, coffees and soft drinks will be included but alcoholic drinks are extra. If you want alcoholic drinks you can buy individually at the bar or buy the Premium Drinks Package (see details below).
Drinks Package£24.99 Per passenger, per day
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.
Tips
Typically, gratuities are charged at £5.00 per person, per day for guests aged 12 and over. While very much appreciated, these gratuities are voluntary, and therefore can be adjusted or removed completely at Guest Services on board the ship if you wish.
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.
Insurance
Have the peace of mind that you're covered. Contact us after you have made the booking if you would like us to add this to your package.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise. Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day. Alternatively we can arrange transfers from your home to the departure airport/port.
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.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
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 131 reviews
Cabin
4.3
Service
4.4
Excursions
4.2
Dining
4.3
Activities
4.2
Value for money
4.3
Entertainment
4.2
We had a lovely cruise on the Balmoral with Fred. Olsen. It was great, friendly and helpful staff to show us the way on our first cruise. We had a balcony junior suite at the rear of the ship ,the cabin was great roomy plenty of storage, kettle for tea stocks regularly topped up. Food was good, plenty of choice. Would definitely book again for a different destination. Overall a great experience.
couple
1 cruiseBalcony Cabin
15 Jun 2024
Very good service
couple
6-10 cruisesInterior Room
30 May 2024
We had an absolutely fabulous 5 star experience and would love to go cruising again.
couple
1 cruiseInterior Room
30 May 2024
The ship is really good. Food and entertainment was excellent the crew were brilliant and Norway as usual was lovely
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 compact city of Newcastle has plenty to be discovered during a day onshore. Once an industrial hub, it has successfully transformed into a quirky and stylish destination, popular particularly for its vibrant nightlife. But, as well as the restaurants, bars and clubs, you'll find over 2,000 years of history and architecture thanks to the city's Roman origins. Discover the Roman ruins, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, many museums, parks and galleries to learn more about Newcastle.
Things to do in Newcastle:
Discovery Museum
A scientific and local history museum, The Discovery Museum is located in Blandford Square in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are several local history exhibits there, including the Turbinia ship. Showcasing the renowned maritime history, alongside fashion, science and technology, this diverse museum is fun for all the family.
Newcastle Castle
The castle is situated in the heart of the city, and is a prominent mediaeval fortification that was constructed on the site of an ancient fortress. Within the castle, you’ll find the iconic fortified gatehouse (the Black Gate) as well as the Castle Keep and other impressive features.
Biscuit Factory
Newcastle upon Tyne is home to the contemporary art gallery The Biscuit Factory. The Gallery underwent extensive renovations before opening in 2002, and was originally constructed in the late 19th century. The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial gallery for art, craft, and design, making it a popular attraction for those visiting the city.
At Sea
DAY 2
14 Mar 2026
Take time to enjoy all the amazing facilities the ship has to offer
Molde
DAY 3
15 Mar 2026
Known as the 'City of Roses', Molde is teeming with breathtaking, panoramic views, lush gardens and plenty of jazz music. From the town's best viewpoint you'll see fjords, the archipelago and 222 snow-capped peaks. Looking for something adventurous to do? Go for a hike, a swim or rent a boat to kayak the pristine waters. As well as this, history buffs will enjoy a wander around the museum and cathedral to truly get to know the heart of Molde.
Things to do in Molde:
Molde Cathedral
The cathedral, which was formally opened in 1957, is a large church with two naves built in the Gothic architectural style. A copper-clad pyramid rises from a freestanding bell tower that is 50 metres tall and the interior is lavishly ornamented with Christian symbols and signs, including some exquisite stained glass. After the first two churches on the property were destroyed by fire, the cathedral in its current form was built on the grounds.
Romsdal Museum
Only ten minutes' walk separates Molde's downtown from one of Norway's biggest and most comprehensive folk museums. The Romsdal Museum was founded in 1912 and features noteworthy interiors and structures from the entire area, such as pre-war townhouses in Bygata street.
Varden Viewpoint
If you’re looking for breathtaking views of Molde, head to the Varden Viewpoint. At 407 metres up, you can enjoy views over the town, fjords and its surrounding islands. Reachable in one hour by foot or a 10 minute car journey, the viewpoint’s panoramic views are out of this world.
Torghatten - Cruising
DAY 4
16 Mar 2026
Sorry we don’t have any content about this yet, we’re working on it
Seven Sisters Mountains - Cruising
DAY 4
16 Mar 2026
Sorry we don’t have any content about this yet, we’re working on it
Arctic Circle - Crossing
DAY 4
16 Mar 2026
Sorry we don’t have any content about this yet, we’re working on it
Tromsø, Norway
DAY 5
17 Mar 2026
Just 400km from the Arctic Circle, Tromso is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' and is teeming with attractions no matter what time of year you visit. With stunning fjords and snow-capped mountains, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures to be found here, as well as a range of historical and cultural landmarks, and authentic, local cuisine. Tromso is also one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights.
Things to do in Tromsø, Norway:
Polar Museum
The Polar Museum is a prominent attraction in Tromso which conveys exhibits showcasing the history of Tromso and the Arctic. Within the museum you’ll find exhibitions about winter trapping, sealing and illustrious characters such as Wanny Wolstad and Henry Rudi. Situated within a colourful 1830s warehouse on the seafront, it also features a museum shop.
Arctic Cathedral
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Tromso, the Arctic Cathedral (also known as the Tromsdalen Church) is situated close to the Tromso Bridge and the Tromsdalstinden Peak. An active parish church, it has unique architecture and was built in 1965.
Fjellheisen
Alternatively, if you’re looking for breathtaking views over Tromso, head up the Fjellheisen cable car. A dual-gondola cable car, it soars high above the city and up Storsteinen mountain.
Narvik - Overnight onboard
DAY 6-7
18 Mar 2026
A haven for mountaineering and skiing, Narvik offers some of the best alpine adventures in Norway. From Scandinavia's tallest drop heights to fantastic off-piste skiing, those looking for thrilling outdoor activities will love this city. On the other hand, if you're looking for something more laidback, simply take advantage of Narvik's clear skies to observe the dazzling Northern Lights, or wander around the Narvik War Museum to learn about the city's efforts during World War II.
Things to do in Narvik - Overnight onboard:
Narvik War Museum
With a large collection of WWII memorabilia, this museum is a fascinating visit for those wanting to learn more about Norway's part in the historic event.
Narvik Church
A picturesque church, you can enjoy a scenic walk around it or explore the church, which comes complete with chandeliers and historic wooden features.
Narvik Motor Museum
With a wide variety of exhibitions, this is a must-visit for any car enthusiast whilst visiting Narvik. From retro cars to vans, caravans, tractors, buses and more!
At Sea
DAY 8
20 Mar 2026
Take time to enjoy all the amazing facilities the ship has to offer
Ålesund, Norway
DAY 9
21 Mar 2026
Sorry we don’t have any content about this yet, we’re working on it
At Sea
DAY 10
22 Mar 2026
Take time to enjoy all the amazing facilities the ship has to offer
Newcastle
DAY 11
23 Mar 2026
The compact city of Newcastle has plenty to be discovered during a day onshore. Once an industrial hub, it has successfully transformed into a quirky and stylish destination, popular particularly for its vibrant nightlife. But, as well as the restaurants, bars and clubs, you'll find over 2,000 years of history and architecture thanks to the city's Roman origins. Discover the Roman ruins, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, many museums, parks and galleries to learn more about Newcastle.
Things to do in Newcastle:
Discovery Museum
A scientific and local history museum, The Discovery Museum is located in Blandford Square in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are several local history exhibits there, including the Turbinia ship. Showcasing the renowned maritime history, alongside fashion, science and technology, this diverse museum is fun for all the family.
Newcastle Castle
The castle is situated in the heart of the city, and is a prominent mediaeval fortification that was constructed on the site of an ancient fortress. Within the castle, you’ll find the iconic fortified gatehouse (the Black Gate) as well as the Castle Keep and other impressive features.
Biscuit Factory
Newcastle upon Tyne is home to the contemporary art gallery The Biscuit Factory. The Gallery underwent extensive renovations before opening in 2002, and was originally constructed in the late 19th century. The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial gallery for art, craft, and design, making it a popular attraction for those visiting the city.
Drinks Package
£24.99 Per passenger, per day
Enhance your stay on a Fred Olsen cruise. Enjoy house wines and spirits, selected branded beers and ciders, and a selection soft drinks by the glass. You are also entitled to 50% off selected premium and branded drinks.
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
Room service orders
Mini Bar Items
Terms and Conditions
The “Drinks Package Upgrade for F.OCL Cruise Holidays”, shall include, where possible, selected house beers, house cider in cans, house wines, house spirits, draught (post-mix on pump) soft drinks and mineral or spring water by the glass.
Excluded from the Drinks Package Upgrade are champagne, special selection red, white and rosé wines, sparkling and dessert wines, cocktails, bottled water, drinks ordered on room service (other than those listed in the room), mini-bar drinks, coffees and teas served in The Bookmark Café, drinks taken ashore, and drinks ordered via duty free or via cabin shopping.
Guests who purchase our Drinks Package Upgrade package can also save 50% off premium and branded drinks, other red, rosé and white wines (excluding Champagne or sparkling wine) cocktails and bottled water.
House spirits will be served in single measures and one drink to be ordered per person, per transaction.
For the avoidance of doubt, any Guest entitled to the “Drinks Package Upgrade” must order each drink for themselves.
The quantity of drinks that FOCL can carry on board any vessel is limited by the size of the vessel and it is possible that certain drinks included within the
Drinks Package Upgrade may be unavailable from time to time, in which case the
Guest shall not be entitled to any refund.
Subject to availability, guests can book our Drinks Drinks Upgrade once on board the ship, for £34.99 per person, per night (cruises of six nights duration and above) and £45 per person per night (cruises of five nights duration). Please note the Drinks Package Upgrade is not available to book on board your ship for cruises of one to four nights.
Those booked under a concession, or as a prize winner, will be charged the on board price.
Once the cruise has commenced, the All Inclusive upgrade package cannot be cancelled and is non-refundable.
The Drinks Package Upgrade must be booked at least 6 days prior to departure.
The Drinks Package Upgrade must be booked for all guests on a booking, with the exception of children/youths where the purchase is not compulsory (For example, if two guests are sharing a cabin and only one wishes to book the All Inclusive
Upgrade, it must still be booked for both guests).
Children/youths are charged at the same price as adults, when the adults are charged at £35 per person per night, with the exception of cruises of five nights duration where the Drinks Package Upgrade if free for children/youths.
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.
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