Choose to fly from a variety of airports included within the price.
Drinks
On 2026 sailings 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. Non-alcoholic options are also available
Tips
Tips are now included in the Freedom Fare for 2026 sailings and beyond.
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.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
·
Refurbished: 01/11/2020
·
9 Decks
·
Max capacity: 1350 people
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Balmoral
4.4
Based on 226 reviews
Cabin
4
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
4
Activities
4
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
best small cruise ship i have cruised on
user
10+ cruises
15 Jan 2026
We really enjoyed our recent cruise to Norway on Balmoral. However, some public areas on board were too cold to sit in. The bar staff in the observatory were reduced to wearing coats and gloves on some days. The rear part of the Thistle restaurant and the Lido Bar were also very cold for much of the trip, with staff needing to wear coats there too. Because of this, passengers were all crammed together in the remaining public areas on board, meaning it became difficult to find somewhere to sit on the coldest days. Apart from this, the food and service were really good. The excursions we went on were very well organised and we enjoyed most of the entertainment. The pantomime was the highlight, funniest thing ever.
couple
2-5 cruises
7 Jan 2026
The young man you did the Scottish show was excellent. Enjoyed every minute. Including the brilliant tap dancing my another member of the entertainment team.
couple
2-5 cruises
19 Dec 2025
Amazing itinerary together with excellent weather
Nice ship with decent entertainment
Very good with solo travellers
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.
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.
Say goodbye to your current destination, for it’s time to head somewhere new! Flight information will be available closer to your embarkation date, but this will be when you’re hopping on a plane to continue your adventure – be that travelling somewhere new, or heading home.
Limassol - Overnight onboard
DAY 1-2
09 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
From the thrilling waterpark to the immersive zoo that’s perfect for all the family, to ancient castles and an archaeology park, Limassol is a hidden gem in Cyprus. At the heart of the city is Limassol Castle, home to a grizzly history and the Museum of Cyprus which is well worth a visit to uncover more about this city. Don’t forget to make time to visit the buzzing bars, cafes and restaurants for authentic Cypriot cuisine.
Things to do in Limassol - Overnight onboard:
Fasouri Watermania
Cyprus’ biggest waterpark, Fasouri Watermania boasts a huge range of attractions including paddle boats, a ‘Tarzan Swing’, countless thrilling slides and an exciting wave pool. You can also find several restaurants, bars and snack bars.
Kolossi Castle
This 15th-century castle in Kolossi Village is an excellently preserved structure and well worth a visit for history buffs. It was once fundamental in military strategy, and is now the place of production for Commandaria wine.
Kourion Archaeology Park
Excavations from the ruins of Kourion city have unearthed many significant artefacts visitors can find onsite. Greek settlers arrived to the area in 12th-century BCE, so you’ll be sure to discover the fascinating history of the people of Kourion.
Limassol Castle
After being built, destroyed and rebuilt over time, Limassol Castle has a rich and fascinating history. Archaeological findings suggest it may have been a cathedral, and once held a prison, though it now houses the Museum of Cyprus.
Limassol Zoo
Though this zoo may be small, Limassol Zoo offers a fun and immersive educational wildlife experience. In numerous natural-looking habitats you’ll find monkeys, flamingos, meerkats and more, as well as a cafeteria, snack bar and playground.
At Sea
DAY 3
11 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
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!
Alexandria
DAY 4
12 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
The largest city on the Mediterranean Sea and the second-largest city in Egypt, Alexandria is a stunning holiday hotspot overflowing with incredible culture and a rich ancient history worth exploring when you arrive. A settlement founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and somewhere now known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”, this city is known for being home to several ancient wonders – the Lighthouse of Alexandria and Great Library of Alexandria being among the most famous. An important intellectual and cultural centre throughout the Hellenistic age (which starts around 400 BC) to the start of the Middle Ages in the 8th century, the sightseeing experiences in Alexandria are among the most rewarding in the world. However, that’s far from the only thing to look forward to when it comes to visiting Alexandria via cruise; this city is home to some sensational seafood cuisine, boutique shopping experiences, and breathtaking beaches. You’ll have over 30 to choose from in Alexandria alone! So, whether you’re looking to soak up the sunshine on a public beach, or enjoy the warm weather with a table and a parasol umbrella on a more relaxed touristic beach, you’ll have plenty of options when you arrive.
Things to do in Alexandria:
Montaza Palace
A stunning site overlooking a beautiful beach, Montaza Palace is an impressive palace housing a unique museum and surrounded by extensive gardens. Originally built by Khedive Abbas II, the last Muhammad Ali Dynasty ruler of the region, in 1892 as a hunting lodge and residence for his companion, Montaza Palace was expanded upon by King Fuad I in 1932 and transformed into an elegant summer palace. Blending Ottoman and Florentine architectural styles, this is now an official presidential residence, with the palace being used as recently as 2011 by former president Hosni Mubarak. Both the surrounding gardens and the museum within are open to the public, with the museum focusing on the Muhammad Ali Dynasty family history and objects d’art collected over the years.
Serapeum of Alexandria
Often referred to as the daughter of the Great Library of Alexandria, and an ancient site that now lies in ruins, the Serapeum of Alexandria was an ancient Greek temple built during the reign of Ptolemy III Euergetes (246 BC to 222 BC). It was widely regarded as the largest, and most magnificent, of the temples in the Greek quarter of Alexandria and it also housed an offshoot collection of works from the Great Library of Alexandria until its closure in 392 AD. Largely destroyed by Roman soldiers the year before, and a site largely considered the final stronghold of the pagans during a series of riots, Pompey’s Pillar is the only notable structure remaining above ground on the site. An impressive column constructed circa 300 AD to celebrate Roman emperor Diocletian, it’s the only ancient monument in the city still standing in its original location.
Alexandria National Museum
Located in a renovated Italian-style palace which once housed the United States consulate, the Alexandria National Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history when visiting this remarkable city on the Mediterranean Sea. The building itself dates back to 1926 and was once used as an important meeting place for the affluent among Alexandria’s citizens. Housing around 1,800 artefacts with exhibitions and collections on Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, alongside the Roman Empire and Alexandria’s more modern history throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, there’s a lot to learn about this city and Egypt as a whole in this former three-storey palace.
At Sea
DAY 5
13 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
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!
Marmaris
DAY 6
14 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
At Sea
DAY 7
15 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
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!
Istanbul - Overnight onboard
DAY 8-9
16 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Istanbul’s history dates back thousands of years, making it an incredibly culturally enriching destination to visit. With warm and welcoming locals excited to show you around, you’ll explore breath-taking mosques with vibrant mosaics, find handcrafted souvenirs at lively markets and enjoy aromatic mezes and fresh seafood as well as locally produced wine. There’s a lot to see here, but be sure to simply explore this wonderful city to truly soak up the culture.
Things to do in Istanbul - Overnight onboard:
Basilica Cistern
One of the city’s most popular attractions, the Basilica Cistern was built in 532 and is the largest surviving cistern in Istanbul. The number of columns and the impeccable symmetry is a staggering sight and a must see, making a great escape on hot summer days.
Blue Mosque
Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque is named for its hand-painted blue tiles on the interior walls, and the blue lights that illuminate it at night. A walk around this impressive structure is truly awe inspiring- don’t forget to adhere to the dress code though.
Dolmabahce Palace
This magnificent structure took 13 years to build and was the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire. Take a tour of the entire palace or different sections and discover the exquisite decoration (particularly the 4.5 tonne chandelier) and the painting museum.
Hagia Sophia
Often considered the eighth wonder of the world, the Hagia Sophia was actually built three times after being destroyed, with the third and final structure being built 532-537 AD. Now, it is a museum filled with Christian and Muslim art, as well as breath-taking architecture.
Misir Carsisi
Selling countless varieties of Turkish delight, Mısır Çarşısı Market (also known as Spice Bazaar) is a fantastic place to find souvenirs, spices, snacks and stories from warm, friendly vendors. Whether you’re looking to buy or not, exploring the market is a great way to be immersed in the culture and atmosphere of Istanbul.
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square is where you’ll find the tourist hotspots of Istanbul all in one place. Located in one of the most historical parts of the city, you’ll find the largest cistern, two stunning mosques and numerous places to enjoy authentic cuisine.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace possesses a colourful history with many sultans living there since 1481. A visit here will give visitors insight into the fascinating stories of the Ottoman Empire, through collections of armour, weaponry, pottery, jewellery and more.
At Sea
DAY 10
18 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
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!
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 11
19 Nov 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Flight departs
DAY 11
Time at Port: TBD
Say goodbye to your current destination, for it’s time to head somewhere new! Flight information will be available closer to your embarkation date, but this will be when you’re hopping on a plane to continue your adventure – be that travelling somewhere new, or heading home.
Select your departure airport
If you are looking for an airport not available in the list below or want to make changes to your flights, please give us a call: 0203 848 3607
I will book my own flight
London:
North England:
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.