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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.
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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 (Port of Tyne):
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.
Amsterdam
DAY 518 Apr 2020
One of the most popular cruise destinations in Europe, Amsterdam is perfect for a picturesque city getaway. Whether you're exploring the city on foot, by bike or by a canal boat, a tour is a great way to discover hidden gems as well as iconic landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. Depending on the time of year, you may also experience the vibrant Keukenhof Gardens which are home to more than 7 million tulips.
Things to do in Amsterdam:
Rijksmuseum
Situated in the centre of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum, also known as the museum of Netherlands is home to an array of art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Showcasing over 800 years of history, this beautiful and historic building is an iconic landmark that’s popular with both tourists and locals.
Anne Frank House
Located next to Westerkerk, the Anne Frank House is a museum that honours the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Situated on the Prinsengracht Canal, this fascinating but sorrowful landmark makes for a harrowing visit.
Vondelpark
This picturesque park spans an incredible 120 acres. Full of picturesque flora and fauna, it features a cafe, bandstand and more. A tranquil way to spend your day in Amsterdam, many people choose to ride bikes around it.
Kiel
DAY 619 Apr 2020
With state of the art port facilities, easy access to the city centre and varied attractions to suit cruisers of all ages, Kiel is a hidden gem in the Baltic sea. A good way to get your bearings of this port city is through a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, taking you to the top landmarks in comfort. To discover the history of Kiel, head to the Maritime Museum and the German Submarine U-995. For a laidback wander and good food, visit Kiellinie.
Things to do in Kiel:
Zoological Museum
Dating to the 17th century, the Zoological Museum in the University of Kiel is home to an array of exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons. Housed in an impressive building, it’s one of the oldest of its kind in Germany, and has evolved into one of the most significant archives with unique scientific and cultural collections.
Botanical Garden
Over 350 years old, the Old Botanical Garden features an array of plant life from tropical trees to flowers. A calming and tranquil attraction to visit whilst in the city, it has greenhouses, a pavilion and other scenic sights throughout it.
Schlossgarten
Within the beautiful Kiel Castle Garden lies a historic Renaissance garden, a sculpture garden and other features. Spanning 300 metres, this quaint garden is the perfect place to relax with a refreshing drink or enjoy a picnic on a nice day, in-between exploring the city.
Copenhagen
DAY 720 Apr 2020
Comprising unique architecture, scenic canals and a wide range of attractions within easy reach of the cruise port, Copenhagen is often hailed as the best city in the world in which to live. No matter your age or interests, and no matter the weather, there's something for everyone - take a bus tour to get your bearings, then explore royal palaces, museums and parks. Nyhavn is an iconic spot for photos, cafes and culture, and breathtaking 18th-century architecture.
Things to do in Copenhagen:
Little Mermaid Statue
The Little Mermaid sculpture, perhaps one of Copenhagen's most well-known tourist destinations, took inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's well-known fairy tale. The Little Mermaid, a gift from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen to the City of Copenhagen, was unveiled on August 23, 1913 and is located on Langelinie Pier.
Tivoli Gardens
Situated in the centre of Copenhagen, Tivoli Gardens is a theme park with rides, a beautiful lake, shops, cafes and more. The third-oldest operational amusement park in the world, it dates back to 1843. A magical attraction that’s worth a visit when you’re in Copenhagen, it has something for all ages.
National Museum of Denmark
Denmark's main cultural history museum, the National Museum of Denmark in Copenhagen, contains a variety of exhibits, from Danish artefacts to international exhibits. Located near Strget in Copenhagen's downtown, it's the perfect day out for those wanting to learn more about Denmark's captivating past.
Gothenburg
DAY 821 Apr 2020
Situated on the shores of the Göta älv river on Sweden's west coast is the country's largest city, Gothenburg. A significant seaport, it is renowned for its Dutch-inspired canals and green boulevards like the Avenyn, which is the city's main avenue which is surrounded by an array of popular cafés and shops.
Things to do in Gothenburg:
Liseberg
Featuring a variety of thrilling rides, theatre spaces and a beautifully designed sculpture garden, Liseberg was opened in 1923. With around three million visitors each year, it is one of the most popular theme parks in Scandinavia.
Horticultural Society
In the heart of Gothenburg, Sweden, there is a park and horticultural garden called The Garden Society of Gothenburg. Situated next to Kungsportsavenyen, it was established 1842 and features an array of beautiful plant life from local flowers to tropical plants found within the greenhouse.
VOLVO Museum
Gothenburg is home to the popular Volvo Museum. It covers the growth of Sweden's top automaker, Volvo, from the original "V 4" to the present-day automobiles, lorries, buses, and other goods. A popular attraction with those that love to learn about the history of cars, it's situated just outside of the city centre.
Oslo
DAY 922 Apr 2020
As Norway's capital city, there's no doubt that Oslo is a hub of stylish architecture, Scandinavian culture and quirky art scenes, as well as plenty of traditional Norwegian cuisine. The renowned Opera House and Holmenkollen Ski Museum are just two examples of the fascinating and eye-catching attractions you'll find in this cosmopolitan city, while outdoor adventurers will love exploring Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Things to do in Oslo:
Akershus Fortress
Akershus Fortress is an amazing place to learn about Oslo's past. Under king Hkon V, construction on Akershus Castle and Fortress began in 1299. The 1300s saw the completion of the mediaeval fortress, which was strategically situated at the tip of the headland and resisted several sieges throughout the centuries.
The Vigeland Park
A bus ride away from the cruise port, Vigeland Park is an incredible sculpture park and museum that displays an array of exhibitions and pieces, including from the park’s namesake, Gustav Vigeland. A beautiful, tranquil park it spans an impressive 80 acres.
Oslo Opera House
Situated within easy reach of the cruise port, in the centre of Oslo, the Oslo Opera House is the permanent home of the Norwegian Ballet and National Opera. Unique in design, it’s located within the popular Bjorvika neighbourhood. You can even climb the opera house, which grants incredible views of the Oslofjord from the top.
Newcastle (Port of Tyne)
DAY 1124 Apr 2020
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 (Port of Tyne):
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.