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
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
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
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.
couple
6-10 cruises
23 Jan 2026
Quite a large ship. The crew and support staff were absolutely fantastic. The food was excellent with a good variety. The downside was that the internet connection was expensive and terrible.
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.
Nestled in the north of England, Liverpool is home to an extensive maritime history, having been one of the country's most vital maritime centres since the 18th century. As well as the museums and docks, music enthusiasts will love the Beatles Story Museum and the world-famous Cavern Club. A walking tour of this vibrant city will allow you to truly soak up its cultural highlights, as well as Hope Street, a must-visit for delectable cuisine and classic pubs.
Things to do in Liverpool:
Royal Albert Dock
A vibrant waterfront with a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, shops and other attractions, the Royal Albert Dock is situated in the heart of the city. The ultimate destination to visit when in Liverpool, it’s also host to an array of events throughout the year that’s suitable for all the family.
Sefton Park
A beautiful 235 acre, Grade 1 historic nature park with breathtaking scenery, Sefton Park is a popular, award-winning attraction that features statues, caves, a bandstand, and a large greenhouse amongst other attractions.
Tate Liverpool
An art gallery and museum, the Tate Liverpool has a large collection of artworks and events throughout the year. Located in the Royal Albert Dock, this attraction is well worth a visit for those that love art; from contemporary to classic pieces.
At Sea
DAY 2-3
28 Jul 2027
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!
Matosinhos, for Porto
DAY 4
30 Jul 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
Lisbon - Overnight onboard
DAY 5-6
31 Jul 2027
Time at Port: TBD
The largest and capital city of Portugal, and one of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon is an idyllic cruise holiday destination, offering attractions to suit all interests. From ancient forts to artistic neighbourhoods and the breath-taking Jerónimos Monastery, this port of call has plenty to explore. Families will love to discover the many species at the Oceanarium, while couples will love an escape to the charming town of Sintra to explore the castle.
Things to do in Lisbon - Overnight onboard:
Alfma District
One of the oldest and most vibrant districts of Lisbon, Alfama is the place to be for artisan eateries, quirky boutiques and Fado bars. It’s best explored on foot or by the tram to experience as many of the attractions and highlights as possible.
Jeronimos Monastery
One of the most visited sites in Lisbon, the Jerónimos Monastery was completed in the seventeenth century. In 1983 UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site and it’s certainly a must visit to admire the beautiful architecture both inside and out.
Lisbon Oceanarium
Here visitors will discover over 450 different species of marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins and otters. Cruisers of all ages will love following the route around the central aquarium to learn about the major ecosystems of the ocean.
Torre de Belem
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Torre de Belém was built to protect Lisbon from attackers from the sea. Despite its role, the fort was decorated with lavish carvings and details, which are best viewed from the banks of the Rio Tejo.
Tram 28
Tram 28 is the classic Lisbon mode of transportation – rattling around the narrow streets in a bright yellow tram that dates back to the 1930’s. Hop on and take one of the best tours of Lisbon, passing highlights and attractions along the way.
Sintra
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape, Sintra is a romantic destination to escape to for the day. Featuring enchanting palaces and rolling hills, this town is easily accessible from Lisbon via a regular train service.
St George's Castle
Established in 200 BC, Castelo de Sao Jorge is one of the biggest highlights of Lisbon. Get to know the city’s unique and fascinating history, explore the imposing walls, wander the shady gardens and admire the vast views from the Observation Terrace.
Solar Eclipse Viewing
DAY 7
02 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
Funchal, Madeira
DAY 8
03 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
This lush, green city found in the south of Madeira is a haven of relaxation, outdoor activities and beautiful gardens. For the most adventurous, visitors will love diving in the crystal-clear sea, catching some waves and even swimming with dolphins, while those looking to take things at a slower pace can enjoy whale watching. One of the most popular events in Funchal is the yearly New Year’s Eve Fireworks display, which is one of the largest in the world.
Things to do in Funchal, Madeira:
Funchal Cathedral
Found in the city centre, Funchal Cathedral is an impressive Gothic-style monument, popular with locals and visitors alike. Take a look inside to learn about the fascinating history of the architecture, including the altarpiece ordered in 1510 to 1515.
Monte Cable Car
For unrivalled panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the vast landscape, Monte Cable Car will take you to one of the best vantage points in Funchal. The fifteen-minute journey is a relaxing ascent towards Monte, with a souvenir photo at the end of the journey.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Occupying 70,000 square meters, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna from all corners of the world. You will get lost in the tranquil beauty of this garden, enjoying the space with black swans, colourful koi and vibrant peacocks.
Quinta do Palheiro Ferreira
Thanks to Madeira’s fertile soil, many tropical plants thrive here and Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro’s gardens are an excellent showcase of this. The most notable collection are the camellias, first planted by the Count of Carvalhal.
At Sea
DAY 9
04 Aug 2027
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!
Ponta Delgada, Azores
DAY 10
05 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Ponta Delgada offers unspoilt, lush landscapes and terracotta rooftops, as well as a truly stunning coastline. It has quickly become popular for the breathtaking scenery and for its hot springs, though you won't find massive crowds flocking to the Azores, making it perfect for unrivalled relaxation. Take a stroll around the Old Town centre, or enjoy a romantic tour by horse-drawn carriage. During the summer, you may also spot whales off the coast.
Things to do in Ponta Delgada, Azores:
Botanical Garden
A historic garden dating back to the mid-19th century, the Jardim Botânico António Borges botanical garden features a variety of walkways, along with a selection of rare and exotic plants.
Gruta do Carvão
A fascinating cave that you can take a tour around, it's filled with stalactites and rugged surfaces. A unique attraction to explore, you can spend hours discovering its natural beauty.
Pineapple Plantation
If you're looking for something a little different to explore, head to the Plantação de Ananás dos Açores. A pineapple plantation, you can taste delicious pineapple liquour, jams and juice, whilst seeing where this mouth-watering fruit is grown.
Praia da Vitoria
DAY 11
06 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
A vibrant municipality in Portugal, Praia da Vitoria is your gateway to the picturesque Azores archipelago, with breathtaking scenery in abundance alongside a charming historic town centre – in which you’ll find fantastic cafes and restaurants, boutique shopping experiences, and more to enjoy. This coastal town also enjoys a stunning pale-sand beach, which is quite rare in the Azores, making it an ideal place for lounging around in the subtropical sunshine. While here, you’ll also have the opportunity to venture to the other side of the island and visit the historic Angra do Heroísmo, the island’s oldest city and somewhere where an incredibly authentic experience awaits. The 16th century cathedral here is among the landmarks you’ll have the chance to see when you visit, alongside enjoying some of the flavourful local foods and soaking in the incredible atmosphere here. With breathtaking natural beauty everywhere you look, and excursions involving whale-watching and water sports always an option, there’s so much to look forward to when you dock in Praia da Vitoria.
Things to do in Praia da Vitoria:
Forte de São Sebastião
Located in Angra do Heroísmo, Forte de São Sebastião was constructed as a demonstration of new coastal defence ideas in 1580 at the suggestion of architect Tomaz Benedito de Pesaro. The first major maritime fortification built in the city, it actually crosses fire with Fortress of São João Baptista, providing effective defence of Porto das Pipas (Pipas Port) – a vital seaport and anchorage for transit ships heading from destinations like India and Brazil to the Kingdom of Portugal.
Cathedral of Angra do Heroísmo
An impressive 16th century cathedral in Angra do Heroísmo, the Cathedral of Angra do Heroísmo is the largest religious institution in the archipelago and a stand-out landmark in the city today. Boasting a simple Portuguese Chã design with twin bell towers, parts of the cathedral were reconstructed following the 1980 earthquake. Interestingly, due to a lack of space when construction began, the church is orientated northwards, and not eastwards as was the tradition for medieval religious buildings.
Praia da Riviera
A stunning sandy beach in Praia da Vitoria, Riviera Beach is the perfect place to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the warm weather of the Azores when you arrive. A stone’s throw from central Praia da Vitoria with easy access to the other beaches in the area, you’ll never be too far away from something exciting – or somewhere even more serene.
At Sea
DAY 12-14
07 Aug 2027
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!
Liverpool
DAY 15
10 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Nestled in the north of England, Liverpool is home to an extensive maritime history, having been one of the country's most vital maritime centres since the 18th century. As well as the museums and docks, music enthusiasts will love the Beatles Story Museum and the world-famous Cavern Club. A walking tour of this vibrant city will allow you to truly soak up its cultural highlights, as well as Hope Street, a must-visit for delectable cuisine and classic pubs.
Things to do in Liverpool:
Royal Albert Dock
A vibrant waterfront with a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, shops and other attractions, the Royal Albert Dock is situated in the heart of the city. The ultimate destination to visit when in Liverpool, it’s also host to an array of events throughout the year that’s suitable for all the family.
Sefton Park
A beautiful 235 acre, Grade 1 historic nature park with breathtaking scenery, Sefton Park is a popular, award-winning attraction that features statues, caves, a bandstand, and a large greenhouse amongst other attractions.
Tate Liverpool
An art gallery and museum, the Tate Liverpool has a large collection of artworks and events throughout the year. Located in the Royal Albert Dock, this attraction is well worth a visit for those that love art; from contemporary to classic pieces.
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.