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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.
Olden
DAY 324 Jun 2022
Found at the end of the magical Nordfjord, Olden has a population of just 505 and is home to some of Norway's most breathtaking glaciers. Each point of interest is within walking distance of the cruise port, including tourist information, cafes and a picturesque old church. Take an excursion to the Briksdal Glacier where you can hike to the glacier viewpoint, or hop on the Loen Skylift to the top of Mount Hoven for unforgettable views of the landscape.
Things to do in Olden:
Loen Skylift
If you’re looking to soar high above the Nordfjord, take the impressive Loen Skylift. An aerial tramway, 7 metres per second is the top speed and it is among the steepest in the world with a gradient of up to 60 degrees.
Huaren Viewpoint
Taking 3 hours, this incredible hike takes you up the picturesque Mount Hauren. When you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with an all-encompassing vista of the natural splendour that surrounds Olden. Well worth the effort, you’ll pass a lush forest and other captivating scenery throughout your hike.
Oldevatnet Lake
Located in the valley of Oldedalen, this impressive lake covers just under 8 square kilometres and spans 12 kilometres. Situated between the fjords, the turquoise waters of the lake are like something out of a dream and the surrounding mountains are simply magical.
Kristiansund
DAY 425 Jun 2022
Spanning four picturesque islands, the city of Kristiansund is a beautiful destination to visit in Norway. Accessible by a ferry, the city is known for its rich culture and is home to Norway’s oldest opera, vibrant shops and restaurants and a number of popular tourist attractions including the Nordmore Museum and the Varden Utsiktspunkt.
Things to do in Kristiansund:
Nordmore Museum
The regional museum for North Moorish cultural history, the Nordmore Museum includes both cultural and natural history collections, and is a member of the nationwide museum network.
Varden Viewpoint
Standing at an impressive 78 metres above sea level, Varden viewpoint is the highest point in the town. A short 15 minute walk from the city centre, it was originally used as a watch tower to guard the city from invaders and was built in 1964.
Shipbuilding Museum
The only in-use shipbuilding museum in the country, this historic building was built in 1856 and has only had a few renovations made to it throughout the years. Discover the maritime heritage of the city through fascinating exhibits within the Old Shipbuilding museum, and dive into the incredible history of the area.
Honningsvåg and North Cape
DAY 728 Jun 2022
The gateway to the North Cape, Honningsvag is a compact city with just 2,800 inhabitants.The star of the show is the North Cape itself, with visits to this otherworldly coast being a popular excursion - stand at the impressive cliff for vast views out to sea and a breath of fresh Arctic air. As well as this, head into town for fresh Arctic seafood and crafts from indigenous Sami residents, or a chilly drink at Artico Ice Bar.
Things to do in Honningsvåg and North Cape:
Honningsvåg Church
The church, which was constructed in the Neo-Gothic style, holds a prominent place in the community. After World War II, the people lived in the building, which was built in 1885, while the other buildings were being rebuilt.
North Cape Museum
Also known as Nordkappmuseet, the museum is home to an array of exhibitions, from temporary art displays with pieces created by both local and international artists to information about how the area has developed since the Stone Age and permanent displays covering marine development. Showcasing the cultural heritage of the area, it’s frequently listed as the top things to do in Honningsvag.
Perleporten Kulturhus
A popular performing arts centre, it’s housed within a traditional Nordic house that was rebuilt after the war. See an array of performances here during your stop off, from comedy shows to dramas.
Longyearbyen - Overnight onboard
DAY 9-1030 Jun 2022
The world's northernmost city, Longyearbyen is a truly special cruise holiday destination. With reindeer wandering through town and countless snow mobiles to use, this winter wonderland invites you to experience the great outdoors as well as their unique lifestyle and culture. Stop by the museums for a history lesson and a glimpse into expedition life, or take a thrilling dogsled to admire the heart of this arctic landscape.
Tromsø, Norway
DAY 1203 Jul 2022
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.
Andalsnes
DAY 1405 Jul 2022
With just over 3,000 inhabitants, Andalsnes is a small but mighty city, surrounded by staggering mountains. On the shore of Romsdalsfjord, it's one of the most scenic ports of call on a Norwegian fjords cruise, and a great place to find a range of outdoor adventures, such as hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. As well as this, you can find a classic railway to explore Andalsnes,and the Vegmuseum which retells the history of the expansive Trollstigen road.
Things to do in Andalsnes:
Gondola
If you want to take in breathtaking views out over the valleys and mountains, the Romsdalen Gondola is the best way to do it. An state-of-the-art electric cable car, you’ll soar 1,679 metres up to Mount Nesaksla, which sits at an impressive 700 metres above sea level. Taking approximately 10 minutes, when you reach the observation point you can enjoy 360 degree views out across the beautiful surrounding landscapes!
Rampestreken
Alternatively, you can hike up to the Rampestreken viewpoint. A fantastic experience, when you reach the top you’ll have breathtaking views 537 metres above sea level. With the picturesque town of Andalsnes below you, this is an experience unlike anything you’ve had before.
Nesaksla
Taking just over 1 hour, the hike to Mount Nesaksla is a must for anyone that loves to walk. And the moment you reach the awe-inspiring 715 metre summit, the photo opportunities are endless!
Newcastle (Port of Tyne)
DAY 1607 Jul 2022
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.