Formally serving in the Holland America fleet under the name Rotterdam as an extremely popular ship due to her stylish design and medium size, Borealis lives up to her new name, giving 1,404 lucky passengers the chance to take in the wonders of the Northern Lights in Fred. Olsen’s classic yet modern take on luxury. Offering itineraries departing from as close to home as Liverpool, guests won't have to travel far to enjoy the comfort and adventure of a Fred. Olsen cruise.
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The ship in numbers
- Launched 1997
- Tonnage 61849
- Wheelchair accessible cabins 26
- Decks 9
- Lifts 12
- Pools 2
- Restaurants 6
- Formal nights Yes
- Adult only Yes
- Maximum capacity 1,404
- Crew 615
- Refurbished 2020
What's onboard
Dining
Serving up delightful Fred. Olsen cuisine at all its restaurants, you'll love each and every meal during your time onboard Borealis. If you're looking for an elegant and sophisticated venue perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner, the two-tiered main dining room invites you inside, where you'll be treated to world-class service by the dedicated crew. What's more, with plenty of other restaurants to choose from, including both speciality and those included in your fare, you'll be able to try a different menu each night of your holiday.
Entertainment
No cruise holiday would be complete without evenings spent soaking up the entertainment options, and with Fred. Olsen's Borealis you'll be delighted by what's on offer. As well as live performances at the theatre, you'll also find culinary demonstrations which show off some of the best foods and wines from ports of call you'll visit during your journey.
Meanwhile, if you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a drink, you'll find plenty of bars and lounges, with a range of venues- from cosy to lively and late-night- meaning you'll find somewhere to suit your mood. What's more, if you're feeling truly daring, why not head to the casino and try your luck on the games tables and slot machines?
Things to do
When it comes to making the most out of your time at sea onboard Borealis, guests won't be disappointed by the variety of ways in which they can spend their down time. Alongside getting to know other guests, admiring the views from the deck and exploring the ship, be sure to book in a session at the spa where you'll find treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy pool and even a thermal spa. Alternatively, for those who want to relax without the additional cost of the spa, the all-weather pool is the ideal spot, with loungers and a retractable roof meaning you can wind down and let the afternoon pass you by.
Borealis Image gallery
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Borealis
From entering the cruise terminal for embarkation onto Borealis to returning back there on departure day everything was smooth, efficient and exceptionally well run by all the Fred Olsen staff. Everyone went out of their way to make you feel welcome and nothing was too much trouble.
We had a fantastic cruise on Fred Olsens Borealis. The crew and all the staff were so helpful and friendly. The tours were brilliant. The shows were better than any west end show. The food was exceptional. We will definitely book another cruise with Iglu
The cruise was amazing, wonderful helpful crew, clean well managed ship, food excellent. I would definitely cruise on Borealis again. Entertainment very good. Overall experience very favourable. The staff at in the restaurant were excellent.
I have just returned from a 5 day cruise to Northern Spain. I had a brilliant time. Borealis is a beautiful ship and the remodeling of the open back deck makes so much difference. On sailaway from Santander it was lovely sitting up there listening to the group playing. As usual it's the crew who really make a good holiday great. Already planning my next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cabins
What are the main types of cabins on Borealis?
You can choose from standard Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms, alongside a selection of spacious, premium Suites.
Families and Kids
Is Borealis family-friendly?
No, this is an exclusively adult-only ship. Guests must be 18 or older to sail.
Does Borealis have waterslides?
No, this ship does not have waterslides. The ship does have one main swimming pool and two hot tubs.
Food and drink
What are the main dining options on Borealis?
Enjoy complimentary, multi-course meals in the elegant Main Dining Room, or visit the casual buffet for relaxed, flexible dining.
What speciality dining is there on Borealis?
The ship offers premium dining venues like steakhouses, Italian trattorias, or Asian-fusion restaurants. Cover charges usually apply.
Itineraries
Which ports does Borealis usually sail out of?
The ship typically sails from UK ports such as Southampton, Dover, Liverpool, or Newcastle.
Ship Features
What are the top highlights onboard Borealis?
Its scenic cruising abilities and the two-tiered, grand main dining room.
