Fred Olsen Cruise Lines – Small Ship Cruising, Crafted for You

Experience the difference of small-ship cruising with Fred. Olsen. Family-run and proudly British, Fred Olsen offers a warm, friendly atmosphere, award-winning itineraries, and handpicked destinations—reaching hidden gems and iconic ports alike. Discover a more personal way to cruise, where every guest is treated like family.

Why Choose Fred Olsen Cruise Lines?

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is dedicated to delivering a truly personal cruise experience. Their smaller ships mean less crowding, more attentive service, and access to unique ports that larger vessels can’t reach. With a heritage dating back to 1848, Fred. Olsen combines classic maritime traditions with modern comfort, offering a welcoming onboard atmosphere and expertly crafted journeys from convenient UK ports.

Smaller, More Intimate Ships

Enjoy a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and get to know your fellow guests and crew. Fred. Olsen ships carry between 900 and 1,400 guests for a more personal experience.

Handcrafted Itineraries

Award-winning journeys designed by in-house specialists, featuring unique ports, scenic cruising, and immersive experiences ashore.

British Heritage & Hospitality

Family-owned, with a long maritime history and a focus on traditional British cruising—think Afternoon Tea, Gala Evenings, and White Star Service.

A Cruise Experience Like No Other

On board, you’ll find a welcoming, home-from-home atmosphere. Enjoy curated Signature Experiences led by experts, from chart-reading sessions to regional cooking classes. Dine in a choice of restaurants, unwind in the spa or fitness studio, and take part in deck games, quizzes, and evening entertainment. With smaller ships, you’ll also enjoy less time queuing and more time exploring ashore.

Meet the Fred Olsen Fleet

Bolette

The flagship, Bolette, offers classic elegance, spacious lounges, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a capacity of around 1,338 guests, she features stylish cabins, multiple dining venues, and a wide range of itineraries from the UK

Borealis

Sister ship to Bolette, Borealis combines modern amenities with traditional charm. She carries up to 1,360 guests and is known for her light-filled spaces, comfortable accommodation, and varied entertainment

Balmoral

Balmoral is renowned for her intimate feel and classic design. With capacity for around 1,350 guests, she offers a relaxed, friendly onboard experience and sails a variety of itineraries, including scenic fjord cruises

Braemar (retiring 2024)

Braemar has long been a favourite for her ability to navigate narrow waterways and smaller ports, offering a truly unique cruise experience. (Note: Braemar is retiring in 2024 and may not be available for future sailings.)

What’s Included with Fred Olsen

Not Included / Extra Charge Applies

A Proud Maritime Heritage

With roots dating back to 1848, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines brings generations of seafaring experience to every voyage. Their classic ships, British traditions, and family-run ethos create a cruise experience that’s as welcoming as it is memorable. Enjoy Afternoon Tea, Gala Evenings, and the famous Fred. Olsen hospitality on every sailing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fred. Olsen offers a more intimate, personal cruise experience on smaller ships, with award-winning itineraries, British hospitality, and a focus on unique ports and scenic cruising.

Your fare includes comfortable accommodation, all main meals and snacks, self-service tea and coffee, onboard entertainment, use of pools and fitness centre, Captain’s Drinks Party, and all UK port taxes.

Self-service tea and coffee are included. Alcoholic and soft drinks are extra, but drinks packages are available to purchase.

Wi-Fi is available for an extra charge. Packages can be purchased onboard or in advance.

Gratuities are not included and will be added to your onboard account. You can adjust or remove them at the Guest Services desk.

Ready to Experience Fred Olsen Cruise Lines?

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