A wide range of cuisine, including five course a la carte meals and afternoon tea served in The View restaurant
A variety of dazzling entertainment from live music to cabaret shows
Captivating lectures and talks in the Neptune Lounge
A fully equipped fitness centre
Gastronomy demonstrations in The Auditorium
Complimentary yoga, pilates and stretching classes
Enjoy selected drinks with lunch & dinner, gratuities, complimentary guided walks ashore & shuttle buses for selected ports when booking on Freedom Fare on 2026 & 2027 Sailings!
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
Insurance is not included in your package. We've partnered with Holiday Extras. They have 40 years of experience and offer excellent insurance cover for your holiday. Their flexible policies offer cruise-specific cover, so you can rest assured that you are completely covered when you go away. Get a Holiday Extras insurance quote
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.
We've partnered with The Travel Visa Company for all your visa needs. They will be able to provide tailored advice and for a fee, assist with arranging your documents.
Ship Facilities
Borealis - By Fred. Olsen
Good for couplesOver 50sInformal
Year: 1997
·
Refurbished: 2020
·
10 Decks
·
Max capacity: 1,404 people
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Borealis
4.5
Based on 138 reviews
Cabin
5
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
5
Activities
4
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
Excellent evening live music in bar areas.
Disappointing movie showings.
Swimming pool and hot tubs very relaxing.
TV picture quality very poor in bar lounge.
user
2-5 cruises
31 Jan 2026
We were happy with the facilities of the Borealis and as it was only about two thirds full there was always plenty of space. It might feel rather crowded if full.
couple
10+ cruises
29 Jan 2026
Amazing ship! Relaxing environment. Ample choice of food, cater for all dietary requirements.
Value for money excursion
couple
6-10 cruises
23 Jan 2026
This was our first cruise with Fred Olsen having cruised many times on larger ships.
Overall it was great and really enjoyable.
The check in process was efficient and we were on board in time for lunch.
The food was really good throughout the cruise both in the main restaurant or self service.
The staff were fantastic and e were impressed with the quality of the ship overall.
The itinerary was good although the stop in Stavanger was cancelled due to the weather resulting in an extra day at sea. Fast refund of excursions though.
We have already booked the Christmas Market cruise in December as we were very happy with Fred.
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.
Supplier Reference:
S2608
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 UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
At Sea
DAY 2
23 Apr 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!
Lysefjord - Cruising
DAY 3
24 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
Eidfjord
DAY 4
25 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
In Norway's Vestland county, Eidfjord serves as the municipality's administrative hub. The village is located on the shores of the picturesque Eid Fjord, a smaller branch of the vast Hardangerfjorden. Beautiful scenery, a warm and welcoming feel and a selection of fascinating attractions can be found here.
Things to do in Eidfjord:
Ravenheart
Immerse yourself in the one-of-a-kind Ravenheart Hardanger. A popular museum within easy reach of the port, you'll discover what it was like to be alive during the Viking ages, and see an array of artefacts, what they ate, as well as historical reconstructions. A fun activity to enjoy during your time in Eidfjord, you'll feel as though you've been transported back in time.
Kråkeskarvet
One of three beaches in the area, this picturesque beach has a small swimming area that features a diving board. A wonderful way to spend a day in Eidfjord, you’ll feel as though you’re in a fairytale when you arrive here.
Eidfjord kyrkje
The Church of Norway's parish church in Eidfjord Municipality, Vestland County, Norway, is known as Eidfjord Church. Serving as the parish church for the Eidfjord area of the Hardanger og Voss prosti in the Diocese of Bjrgvin. The architect Sigurd Sekse's designs were used to construct the rectangular, contemporary-looking red brick church in 1981 and it caters for around 375 people.
Cruising Hardangerfjord
DAY 4
25 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
Skjolden
DAY 5
26 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Skjolden is a picturesque village in Vestland County, Western Norway. It’s part of the Lustre municipality, and located at the head of the Sognefjorden, the longest navigable fjord in the world, making the sail there a spectacle in and of itself. With a small population of only 300 inhabitants, if the busyness of a major city is what you're looking for, you're in the wrong area; on the other hand, if you want peace and quiet together with a breathtaking landscape, you're in the perfect spot. With 3 national parks at its doorstep (Jostedalsbreen, Breheimen and Jotunheimen), alongside a variety of other attractions, you’ll have an unforgettable stop in Skjolden.
Things to do in Skjolden:
Wittgenstein Lodge
The Wittgenstein family was one of the most powerful in the Austro-Hungarian monarchy in the second part of the nineteenth century. Hochreit, Karl Wittgenstein's hunting lodge, was furnished by Hoffmann in 1907 and is situated in a lovely area directly on the lake. Inside, feel like you've been transported back in time as you discover the historic future from the early 19th century.
Åsafossen
A stunning waterfall that is reachable on foot from the cruise port, the Asafossen waterfall is simply stunning. Measuring 180m, this impressive attraction rushes down the slope across the street from Vassbakken Kro & Camping in Skjolden. And over the years, Sherpas from Nepal have strengthened and protected the ascent to the waterfall, making it quite simple to walk up to it.
Skjolden Llamas
If you’ve ever wanted to meet or walk llamas, you’re in for a treat. At this scenic farm you can opt to walk along the lake and get to know these amazing animals. And with the farm being located just 500 metres from the centre of Skjolden, it’s perfectly located for those wanting to stay closer to the ship.
Lustrafjord - Cruising
DAY 5
26 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
Bergen
DAY 6
27 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
UNESCO World Heritage City, UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and a quintessentially charming Norwegian port town, Bergen is a real haven for architecture enthusiasts, seafood fanatics and outdoor explorers. The iconic Hanseatic Wharf is a great place to start your exploration of Bergen, bringing you to the heart of this enchanting region through museums, galleries, shopping and some of the finest dining spots in Norway.
Things to do in Bergen:
Bergenhus Fortress
In Bergen, Norway, there is a fort called Bergenhus. The castle, one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved stone defences, is situated at the entrance to Bergen port. Early in the 1500s, construction of the fortification at Bergenhus started, and throughout the 1600s, the stronghold underwent continuous reinforcement, reaching its pinnacle development about 1700.
Fløibanen
In the Norwegian city of Bergen, there is a funicular train called the Floibanen. It provides access to the Flyen Mountain, where there are mountain treks and stunning city views, from the city's downtown. It is a popular tourist destination in Bergen and among the most popular in all of Norway.
Bergen Harbour
When sailing into Bergen, you’ll be greeted by beautiful views of the harbour. Aligned with colourful houses, cafes, shops and restaurants, this beautiful harbour is picture-perfect.
Haugesund
DAY 7
28 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
Where Vikings and kings once used to rule, Haugesund is now home to rugged landscapes, cultural celebrations, extreme sports and fantastic shopping in the city centre. For a taste of traditional Norse history, visit the Nordvegen History Centre where kids can dress up as Vikings. For active outdoorsmen, a guided hike to Langfoss waterfall is an unforgettable experience, though the steep cliffs are not for the faint of heart! Finally, take a walk around the city for dining, shopping and fun festivals.
Things to do in Haugesund:
Haraldshaugen
A national moment in Haugesund, Haraldshaugen is a moment that was built in 1872 to commemorate Norway’s unification, under the rule of the 19th century King Harald Fairhair. A prominent historical landmark, it’s a short bus or taxi ride from the cruise port.
Djupadalen
If you’re in port for most of the day and you fancy stretching your legs, the Djupadalen hiking trail is just the ticket. Along the way you’ll see an array of wildlife, flowers and trees. A beautiful walk that’s well worth a go for those fitness fanatics, it’s a more tranquil activity to enjoy during your time in Haugesund.
Nordvegen History Centre
If you want a true taste of Norway, head to the Nordvegen History Centre, where you’ll be greeted with ‘real’ vikings' before discovering the fascinating history of this beautiful country. Perfect for those wanting to find out more about Norway and its captivating past.
At Sea
DAY 8
29 Apr 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!
Southampton
DAY 9
30 Apr 2026
Time at Port: TBD
The UK’s largest cruise port and where many will begin their cruise holiday, Southampton has no shortage of maritime and historical attractions. Discover local landmarks on a walking tour including 30 ancient monuments, learn about the tragic story of the Titanic and escape to the great outdoors at the New Forest National Park. With numerous options for seafood dining and even a free art gallery, Southampton is an undoubtedly great destination for a pre or post-cruise stay.
Things to do in Southampton:
SeaCity Museum
Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.
Solent Sky Museum
Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.
The New Forest
If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.
Tudor House and Garden
As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.
Southampton City Art Gallery
Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.
AI review summary
Food
Many customers remarked that the food on the ship was excellent, with consistently very good and staff excellent.
Crew
Many customers loved the crew, praising their friendliness, punctuality, and helpfulness during their cruise.
Entertainment
It was observed by customers that the entertainment on the ship was very good, with varied and excellent performances.
Service
Many customers brought up the excellent service provided by the ship, praising its friendliness.
Ship
Many customers expressed satisfaction with the ship, describing it as excellent, fantastic, friendly, and stunning.