Bolette

The Bloomsbury & Terrace Restaurants

These elegant two-tiered main restaurants are at the heart of the Fred. Olsen dining experience on board our flagship.

Every evening, you can enjoy a delicious five-course, á la carte menu, created, freshly prepared and cooked by our team of chefs and you will be taken care of by our wonderful waiters at your own table. The menu is changed daily and the elegant dishes include steaks, seafood, freshly made soups, pasta and salads plus a selection of beautiful homemade breads, made overnight in our on board bakery.

When you book a cruise on Bolette, your table will be allocated to you for the same time each evening for the duration of your cruise. However, if you prefer, you can choose flexible dining, which allows you to dine at any time in the evening.

The View

The View restaurant, Bolette’s buffet-dining venue, is a wonderful treat created to be just right for the relaxing feel you often want from days away and at sea. It is designed to be easy-going, with its light and open feel, beautiful views of the ocean, no formal dress-codes and no set tables.

Delicious breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas and dinners are laid out as the most generous buffet and served to you by our crew. You can come and go as you please and eat whatever takes your fancy. And, when you are feeling peckish in the late evenings, you’ll find The View is open for a delicious late night buffet and bedtime snacks.

The Poolside Café

Situated close to the swimming pool and Jacuzzis on Lido Deck, midship, The Poolside Café is perfect for when you want a break from soaking up the sunshine and to enjoy a bite to eat in a relaxed, al fresco setting.

Walk the short distance from the pool or your sun lounger to The Poolside Cafe, take a seat and enjoy a selection of delicious dishes, from perfectly cooked burgers and fish and chips to caesar salads and a ploughman’s plate. Whether you fancy something light, or perhaps have a bigger appetite, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your tastebuds.

Colours and Tastes

An evening at Bolette’s opulent Colours & Tastes restaurant makes for an unforgettable dining experience, one that is sure to be the highlight of any cruise on our flagship.

Take a seat, settle in to your colourful, yet intimate Far East-inspired surroundings and enjoy a real taste of Asia at a venue where the mood is as vibrant as the flavours bursting from every mouthful.

The delicious food from Japan, Thailand, China, the Philippines and more, including a selection of classic dishes and unique delicacies such as spiced grilled meats, seafood, gyozas, dim sum and sushi, is expertly crafted by our talented chefs and will leave your tastebuds satisfied, yet eager for more.

With our knowledgable waiting team on hand to take care of your every need too, dining at Colours and Tastes is something you’ll want to experience time and again.

Booking ahead is highly recommended at our speciality dining venues and this can be done using the pre-book button in your ‘My Cruises’ account from 13 weeks before and up to 1 day prior to departure. Please note, there is a £10 per person supplement for this dining option, speciality dining booked on board is chargeable at £15 per person.

Vasco

Influenced by the cultures and flavours of India, and named after famous explorer Vasco Da Gama – the first European to reach India by sea, Bolette’s Vasco restaurant offers a fresh and modern take on some of the world’s finest food.

Vasco’s Goan chefs handcrafted every dish on the menu, to provide guests with a insight into the unique culinary delights of their homeland – a place where the tastes of Europe were first infused with Western India’s fragrant spices.

From delicious seafood to traditional spiced curries and perfectly-grilled meats, everything is cooked fresh and to order, to ensure that every morsel enjoyed is unforgettably flavoursome. What’s more, the restaurant’s bright colours and welcoming feel are also in keeping with Goa’s richness and warmth.

Booking ahead is highly recommended at our speciality dining venues and this can be done using the pre-book button in your ‘My Cruises’ account from 13 weeks before and up to 1 day prior to departure. Please note, there is a £10 per person supplement for this dining option, speciality dining booked on board is chargeable at £15 per person.

Afternoon Tea

Each day complimentary afternoon tea is served, with sandwiches, scones and cakes, along with fresh tea and coffee, always a popular choice.

During sea days guests can book a very select experience: Traditional Premium Afternoon Tea*. Enjoy beautiful views from the stylish The Observatory Lounge, with musical accompaniment from our on board pianist and the careful attention of white-gloved waiters.

Your choice from a selection of premium teas by Taylors of Harrogate is served in porcelain teapots, along with elegant finger sandwiches, pastries and warm scones with jam and clotted cream. Such civilised indulgence – and all for only £11.99 per person*.

*Chargeable to your on board account.

Afternoon tea can be pre booked 8 weeks before departure via your My Cruises account or alternatively once on board

Room Service

All rooms and Suites have tea and coffee making facilities as standard, so you can enjoy a pick-me-up first thing, and a relaxing drink at the end of the day. For those times when you’d like something more while you’re in your home-from-home at sea you can also order room service up until 11pm every day.

Continental breakfast can be ordered in advance for delivery at your preferred time, while snacks are available from 10am onwards. Should you prefer not to head to the restaurants, short lunch and dinner menus are also available. Whatever the time of day, you’ll never be hungry on a Fred. Olsen cruise.

The Observatory

The Observatory, with its tranquil atmosphere and timeless elegance, is perfect for moments of relaxation and reflection on board Bolette. By day, take a seat in one of the comfortable chairs and watch the world go by through the large panoramic windows, or perhaps stop-by in the evening to enjoy pre or post-dinner drinks and cocktails accompanied by soothing sounds provided by our resident Pianist.

This stylish venue is also where we host our premium Traditional Afternoon Tea service, which offers a selection of delicious sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones to be enjoyed with top quality teas and unforgettable scenic views.

Afternoon tea is bookable 13 weeks in advance via your My Cruises account, or alternatively whilst on board

The Bookmark Café & Lounge

Situated in a quiet location on Lounge Deck 5, midship, the Bookmark Café is the perfect spot for some peaceful relaxation. Perhaps start your day with a cup of Earl Grey or breakfast tea, or take a seat in the afternoon and read a book whilst sipping a delicious latte or cappuccino. You could also treat yourself to handmade chocolates and freshly baked treats.

To make choosing your coffee or tea even easier, you have the option to pre-book your Bookmark Bestseller card. The card includes 7 hot drinks for you to enjoy, as well as a bag of milk or mixed truffles, and you’ll find it added to your cabin account when you arrive on board, all ready for immediate use. Why not treat someone special and arrange a Bookmark Bestseller card for their cruise too?

You can pre book your Bookmark Bestseller card 13 weeks before departure via your My Cruises account, or alternatively whilst on board

Morning Light Pub & Lounge

Akin to your ‘local’ at home, the Morning Light Pub & Lounge feels familiar, warm and welcoming, featuring plenty of comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and décor designed to resemble a British pub, but with a Scandinavian twist.

Open throughout the day, from lunchtime to late evening, this inviting venue is a space in which you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy a drink in the company of your loved ones, friends and fellow guests. Perhaps stop by for a quick pint or glass of wine in the afternoon; for a pre-dinner drink; or to wind down at the end of the night when resident bands and musicians showcase their talents here.

Ocean Bar

Situated close to the Neptune Balcony on Lounge Deck 5, the spacious and sociable Ocean Bar is the perfect place to begin your evening, enjoy a drink or two and catch up with friends and fellow guests before taking in the live show.

After the show, the Ocean Bar is a great place to be too; the venue really comes to life in the late hours, when the resident band or DJ provides the music that’s sure to have you on the dancefloor until it is time to finally say goodnight. 

The Oriental Tea Room

The Oriental Tea Room is our most elegant lounge. Here everything has been designed with quiet beauty and gentle elegance in mind. The colours are pale and powder-soft, the light is clear and calm, the furnishings are inspired by Chinese silks and rare orchids.

During the day, we serve a refreshing menu of unusual loose-leaf teas from the East and on some afternoons we offer either a delicious afternoon tea together with petit fours and finger sandwiches, or a tea-tasting experience where you can find out about each tea’s story and origin.

In the evenings, join us for a relaxing drink with tea-inspired cocktails like a Mint Julep or Lime & Mint Mar-tea-ni, canapés from Colours and Tastes restaurant and a selection of cold beers including specialities from Japan, Singapore and Thailand.

Lido Bar

When you’re spending the day relaxing in the sunshine and enjoying a few dips in the pool, the Lido Bar is the ideal place to grab a drink if you’re in need of something to help you cool off.

Situated close to the pool and Jacuzzis on Lido Deck, midship, this bar is open throughout the day and is a bright, open space with comfortable rattan furniture, perfect for enjoying a cold beer perhaps, a soft drink or even a fruity, exotic cocktail. 

Piano Bar

The Piano Bar is the perfect place to make the most of peaceful moments on board Bolette, especially during time at sea. Settle in, sit back and enjoy a drink whilst enjoying the laidback ambience of the venue and the restful sounds of music provided by a talented pianist.

Perhaps head to the Piano Bar before dinner and begin your evening in style with a cocktail, or visit this elegant, spacious venue after the evening show to wind down before retiring to your cabin for another relaxing night’s sleep. 

Neptune Lounge & Balcony

When the lights go down at the Neptune Lounge and you settle in for the evening at Bolette’s elegant, two-tiered entertainment venue, you’re in for an entertainment extravaganza of live shows ranging from music and cabaret to quick-fire comedy and much more.

There is plenty of comfortable seating in this spacious venue, with unspolit views of the grand stage to be enjoyed from every vantage point – including the upper-tier Neptune Balcony.

The lounge is also used for daytime lectures and events, as well as Captain’s Welcome and Farewell parties.

The Auditorium

Specially-designed to host everything from cooking demonstrations and presentations to cinema evenings and special guest appearances, Bolette’s Auditorium is where guests can take in a host of exciting, educational and interactive events, in addition to the entertainment offered in the main Neptune Lounge.

This stylish, spacious venue has plenty of comfortable seating, which is carefully positioned to offer great views of the stage no matter where guests choose to sit, helping to ensure that every occasion enjoyed in the Auditorium is a unique and memorable experience. 

The Bolette Card Room

Featuring plenty of card tables and comfortable chairs, the Bolette Card Room provides guests with a quiet, relaxing space to enjoy a competitive hand or two, or simply a bit of fun, perhaps with a delicious coffee or tea from the nearby Bookmark Café.

Bridge is always a popular pursuit on board, so you’re sure to find players up for a challenge. On some cruises, Bridge tuition is on offer to help you develop your skills.

Boutique Shopping

The shops on board Bolette offer everything you may want or need during your time on board, whether you’re treating yourself or a loved on to a holiday gift or simply need some basic essentials.

Visit the Boutique Shop for designer handbags, perfumes and much more at fantastic Duty Free prices, or perhaps to pick from the range of casual clothing and evening wear if you need a new outfit; and bring home something special from the Jewellery Shop. At the Port Shop, you’ll find everything from sun cream, shampoo and toothpaste to books and tasty snacks too. 

The Flower Shop

Add a touch of floral colour and fragrance to your cabin, or perhaps treat someone special, with a delightful bouquet from the Flower Shop, available on Bolette.

With a choice of both stunning year-round and seasonal flowers, create a personalised bouquet to suit your style, or simply select from the beautifully crafted ready-made arrangements. You also have the opportunity to select single stems to provide the finishing touch to your Formal Night.

Photo Gallery

Throughout your time on board, our expert photographers will be on hand to capture some of the most magical and memorable experiences enjoyed during your cruise holiday.

At the Photo Gallery, our friendly team will be ready to help you view your photos and purchase your favourites – whether you choose to take home individual shots or a photo package. 

Neptune Balcony

The Neptune Balcony is the upper level of the two-tiered Neptune Lounge, providing a wonderful vantage point from which to sit back, relax and enjoy the fantastic entertainment offered in Bolette’s main theatre.

There is plenty of inviting, comfortable seating, and no matter where you sit you get to experience unspoilt views overlooking the grand stage where musicians, comedians, singers and more perform every evening.  

Headline Acts

Alongside our resident show companies, guest performers and headline acts such as vocalists, comedians and magicians are also on hand to showcase their talents and entertain with very special performances in our Neptune Lounges.

Guests could take a seat and enjoy the sounds of classical piano over a glass of their favourite drink; dance the night away to music provided by a DJ or live singer; and much more, all in the comfort of our stylish and spacious bars and lounges.

Resident Show Company

Every evening our smaller ships come alive with the bright lights, colourful sights and wonderful sounds of live entertainment provided by the incredible singers, dancers and actors of our multi-talented resident show companies.

At the main entertainment venue on board their Fred. Olsen ship, guests can take a seat, settle in and simply enjoy extravaganzas of song, dance, music, cabaret and theatre in the company of loved ones, friends and fellow guests.

The Botanical Room

Located next to The Oriental Tea Room on Bolette, the new Botanical Room is dedicated to celebrating the beauty and brilliance of our natural earth. This elegant and peaceful lounge has been designed to inspire green-fingered guests in the beautiful surroundings of lush green and vibrant yellows. Here you can relax and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee or tea, whilst also finding magazines and books on the topics of gardening, flowers, plant care and the various flora species across the world.

Atlantis Spa

Relax and indulge yourself in the Atlantis Spa on board Bolette, and let our expert team pamper you. With a wide range of luxurious treatments on offer, including massages, manicures, pedicures, relaxation treatments and hairdressing; you’ll leave feeling energised and revitalised.

Please see below for our full list of treatments and for advance booking.

The Atlantis Spa can be pre booked 8 weeks in advance, via your My Cruises account

Thermal Suite

Book yourself into our Thermal Suite and let time melt away.

Our Thermal Suite is a relaxation centre with the ambience of a Turkish bath. Our steam rooms are filled with aromatherapy vapours which are the perfect way to unwind and de-stress, while our heated ceramic relaxation beds are designed to match the curvature of your spine and melt away muscle tension.

Our mineral bath, heated to body temperature, gently embraces you with warmth to alleviate sore joints and soothe away your aches, providing wonderful relief for tired muscles. This is the perfect experience for poor circulation and just right after a long day exploring ashore.

THERMAL SUITE ACCESS

• Hour Pass: Single £11.50pp | Couples £20
• 7 Day Pass*: Single £67.50pp | Couple £112.50
• 14 Days Pass*: Single £112.50pp | Couple £135

THERMAL SUITE PACKAGES

Pamper Package | 120 mins | £95.50pp or £168.75 per couple

60 min Swedish Massage • Thermal Suite access* • Glass of Champagne • Canapés • Orange Juice

* 1 hour maximum

Total Bliss Package | 150 mins | £110pp or £197 per couple

Wash & Blow Dry • Express Mani or Pedi • Illuminating Radiance Facial OR Swedish Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage • Thermal Suite access* • Glass of Champagne • Canapés • Orange Juice

Fitness Centre

If you enjoy working out, our fully equipped Fitness Centres have a wide selection of running machines, cross trainers, bikes and weights available.

Across our fleet of ships, we also run a variety of complimentary yoga, aerobics and Pilates classes here which are suitable for everyone from beginners to regular gym-goers.

Treat yourself to Personal Training sessions with our fully qualified, friendly trainers, where you can receive a one-to-one programme tailored just to you; or discover your body composition with our analysis programme, or Food Detective™ test, which can give you the blueprint for improving your health (chargeable to your on board account).

PERSONAL TRAINING & FITNESS CLASSES

Personal training | 60 mins | £46 or 30 min | £23.50

Pilates | 45 mins | Complimentary

This low-impact exercise emphasises the use of your abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and thighs to help improve flexibility, build muscular strength and enhance movement.

Yoga | 45 mins | Complimentary

This class focuses on the core elements of flexibility, strength, power, and balance. You will be taken through a series of different poses to give your entire body a complete flexibility and toning workout.

Fitball | 45 mins | Complimentary

This core strengthening class is designed to improve your range of motion, strength, stability co-ordination and balance. Fitball provides a thorough workout which helps to develop a stronger core, correct posture and improve body alignment.

Dyna-Band | 45 mins | Complimentary

Resistance bands are easy to use, effective and perfect for beginners. Enabling you to focus on specific areas of your body, they are great for toning and sculpting muscles. Used correctly, they are also great for a full body workout.

Stretch & Relax | 45 mins | Complimentary

This series of slow and gentle, low-intensity exercises and stretches help to maintain your balance, improve flexibility and to relax and focus your mind.

Abdominal | 30 mins

This class is designed to improve the abdominal muscles which have a crucial role in posture, supporting the spine, stability and respiratory functions such as breathing.

Exercise To Music | 30 mins

This fun class combines a variety of techniques to offer a great low-impact cardio workout, improving the strength and movement of your muscles and joints, while promoting a healthy heart.

Legs, Bums & Tums | 30 mins

Great for building and strengthening key muscles, this class includes a combination of movements to target the lower body, shaping and toning your lower body while improving flexibility.

NUTRITION

Body composition analysis | 45 mins | £32.50

Body composition analysis is a physical test that accurately measures your body fat and the amount of lean tissue you have, which includes your muscle, water, bone and organs. Accurate assessment of body composition allows you to plan sensible nutrition and exercise programmes based on your body fat and lean tissue percentage.

Food Detective™ | 45 mins | £98

This is a blood test that measures IgG antibodies which may be linked to inflammatory conditions in the body, manifesting in a range of health issues. You don’t have to send off a sample and wait weeks to receive results, simply visit the Atlantis Spa for a Food Detective™ check instead. Simple, safe, accurate and fast. Food Detective™ is the world’s first test for food intolerance.

Nutrition consultation | 45 min | £26

Swimming Pool and Jacuzzi

When you’re taking time out to relax on Bolette’s spacious Lido Deck, whether on a sea day or after enjoying exploration ashore, the deck’s all-weather swimming pool is perfect for taking a cooling dip after a few hours in the sunshine, or simply swimming a few lengths. For blissful relaxation, head for a Jacuzzi and let the warm, bubbling water soak any cares away.

The pool is surrounded by plenty of open deck space and comfortable loungers, so there’s somewhere to sit or lay down when you’re not in the water too, while there’s no need to move too far to find a bit to eat or something to drink, thanks to the nearby Poolside Café. 

Spa and Beauty Treatments

Each of our ships has a relaxing spa where you can enjoy everything from soothing massages, manicures and pedicures to hair treatments and styling in our salons. On our new ships, Bolette and Borealis, you can also book our private Thermal Suite for an extra special treat.

Fitness Classes

Whilst a Fred. Olsen cruise is about relaxing and enjoying some time away from daily life, we understand that many of our guests like to continue their fitness routine even when they’re on board our smaller ships.

This is why our ships feature fully-equipped Fitness Centres, and we offer a wide range of complimentary fitness classes – perfect for beginners and experience gym-goers alike – too. Guests can join our instructors for Pilates, Yoga, Fitball and much more, and all at no extra cost.

The Olsen Art Studio

The Olsen Art Studio on board Borealis is a peaceful, light and airy space filled with arts and crafts materials for guests to use on a variety of projects – and really bringing to life the Olsen family’s appreciation of art.

It’s a place for those guests who love to paint or draw at home and would like to refine their skills whilst at sea. And it’s a place for those guests who perhaps used to enjoy art many years ago, and have been looking for the opportunity to take it up again.

The studio will host classes and activities guided by different instructors, and also providing an open space for guests to visit and work on their personal arts and craft projects.

Guest Speakers

We’re often joined on board our ships by port experts and guest speakers to talk our guests through a range of subjects and topics, such as history, geography, aviation, wine tasting and foods of the world.

On all cruises our informative Port Talks will be available for our guests to enjoy in preparation for arrival into each port. Our knowledgable lecturers share information to help guests make the most of their time ashore, while on some sailings, there are lectures that delve deeper into specific destinations on the itinerary too.

Cookery Demonstrations

On board Bolette and Borealis, our expert chefs and teams from the Galley host cooking demonstrations to showcase their culinary craft and provide a taste of the skill and passion that goes into every meal served at our dining venues.

Guests can take a seat at the spacious Auditorium to watch, listen and learn how to make some of their favourite Fred. Olsen dishes, as the chefs take them through each step of their creation, from preparation to plate.

Dance Classes

For many of our guests, the time spent on the dance-floor is one of the highlights of their days on board our smaller ships. So its no wonder that our Dance Classes – hosted by our wonderful Entertainment teams – always prove popular.Show less

Our instructors teach a variety of dancing styles, from line dancing to ballroom and sequence dancing, helping guests to learn and perfect their steps and moves before they head for their ship’s lounges in the evening to dance the night away. 

Tasting Events

Hosted by our Sommeliers, Tasting Sessions* on board our smaller ships offer a fascinating insight into the production processes, scents and flavours of some of the world’s finest tipples.Show less

The Tasting Sessions on your cruise could include opportunities to sample everything from delicious wines and Champagne to whiskey and a range of spirits, while occasionally our experts will also teach you the art of pairing food and drink to create combinations that perfectly blend the nuances of their flavour.

*To join our Tasting Sessions, there is an additional charge and this can vary on the type tastings on offer, full details can be found in your Daily Times once on board. 

Travels to Come

Unlike other cruise companies who sail the same routes year after year, we are constantly researching and hand-crafting new itineraries. On every cruise we run a programme designed to inspire travel, where you can find out about the development of our new itineraries. Don’t worry, these are not sales talks or “exit through the gift shop” ruses – just an opportunity for travel enthusiasts to daydream about what is yet to come.

Fred. Olsen Book Club

With ample time and space to relax, many of our Guests make the most of the opportunity to get stuck in to a good book during your cruise holiday. This is why to enhance reading enrichment further, we have introduced the Fred. Olsen Book Club on selected sailings, a chance to talk all things ‘bookish’ with like-minded people. Hosted by the Entertainment Managers and their Team, the Book Club provides a welcoming, social space in which you can openly and informally discuss thoughts and views on bestselling lighter reads, crime-thrillers and traditional or contemporary classics.

With ample time and space to relax, many of our Guests make the most of the opportunity to get stuck in to a good book during a cruise holiday on board one of Fred. Olsen’s smaller, friendlier ships. This is why to enhance reading enrichment further, we have introduced the Fred. Olsen Book Club on selected sailings, a chance to talk all things ‘bookish’ with like-minded people.

Hosted by the Entertainment Managers and their Team, the Book Club provides a welcoming, social space in which you can openly and informally discuss thoughts and views on bestselling lighter reads, crime-thrillers and traditional or contemporary classics. Specific categories and titles to discuss at the Book Club on each cruise are chosen in advance and listed below, allowing you time to purchase and read the books before you set sail. These books will also be available from your ship’s Port Shop, should you wish to wait until you’re on board to join in the fun.

So, if you love a good book while discovering the world with Fred. Olsen, what better way to indulge your passion than joining your friends and fellow guests at the Book Club?

We look forward to welcoming you!

The Earth Room

Found on both sister ships, The Earth Room is a dedicated space for those who are inspired by our incredible planet. Located just along from The Bookmark Café, The Earth Room features a unique collection of rare and specialist books personally curated by Fred. Olsen, along with digital literature to read and videos to watch. The space is perfect for small group meetings, gatherings and topical discussions, whether you are a climate enthusiast or just keen to learn more.

Dress Code

Packing for your cruise holiday with Fred. Olsen is simple. The dress code is designed to ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable during your days and evenings on board, as well as your time ashore. This handy guide will help you decide what to pack for your cruise holiday.

DAYWEAR

On Board: Whether enjoying the sea views from the deck, or participating in the many activities available, we want you to feel at ease. Casual wear is perfectly acceptable for your days on board with many guests opting for shorts and a T-shirt or polo shirt while cruising in sunny climes, and a pair of light-weight trousers and a sweater or jacket for cooler daytime temperatures.

Whilst on deck, bathing suits are a must to ensure you can make the most of the pools and Jacuzzis on board. A pair of flip flops or sandals are advisable as the decks can sometimes get very warm (please take care, as the decks can be slippery too). A T-shirt and casual shorts is often preferred for lounging by the pool. Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses and sun cream, as the sun can be a lot stronger at sea.

Ashore: The weather can vary greatly depending on your destination and the time of year you cruise. For warm weather destinations like the Canaries, Mediterranean and the Caribbean, typical summertime wear such as T-shirts, shorts or swimwear are fine. For Shore Tours that include visits to churches, museums or cathedrals, it is advisable to dress a little more conservatively.

For cruises to cooler destinations, a pair of trousers, a jumper or jacket and a raincoat are recommended, as the weather can be changeable.

Whichever type of cruise you choose to embark on, a pair of comfortable walking shoes is strongly recommended to explore some of the fabulous destinations you will be visiting in comfort.

EVENING WEAR

Evening wear is simple on a Fred. Olsen cruise; most evenings are Smart Casual with a Formal Night or two providing the chance to dress up. And just to add some fun to the cruise, there may also be some optional Theme Nights on longer sailings.

Smart Casual Evenings: Most evenings on board have a smart casual dress code. Dresses and skirts or a pair of trousers, chinos or dark jeans, coupled with a polo shirt, shirt or blouse. Some guests opt to wear a jacket and tie too, but the choice is yours.

Formal Evenings: Cruises of six nights or longer will have at least one Formal Evening – this is your chance to ‘dress to impress’ and add glitz and glamour to your dining experience.

Most men opt to wear either a dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie. Ladies are often seen looking fabulous in anything from a cocktail-style dress to a full-length ball gown or evening suit.

Casual Buffet Dining: On any evening, you have the option to dine in our buffet restaurant. While we request that guests dress appropriately – avoiding swimwear and loungewear – this option offers a casual dress code for a more relaxed dining experience at a time that suits you.

FORMAL NIGHTS

Depending on the length of your cruise holiday there will be one or more formal evenings whilst you are on board. This is your chance to ‘dress to impress’ and add glitz and glamour to your dining experience.

Most men opt to wear either a dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie. Ladies are often seen looking fabulous in anything from a cocktail-style dress to a full-length ball gown.

All Fred. Olsen cruise ships feature a casual dining experience for those guests who do not wish to join the formal evenings. Dress code for these restaurants is smart casual every evening. These restaurants are The View Restaurant (Bolette and Borealis) and Palms Café (Braemar and Balmoral).

The exact number of formal nights will be highlighted on your cruise ticket. Below is a guide to the number of formal nights you can expect to enjoy on cruises of various durations.

3 nights or less:

Smart casual throughout

3 – 4 nights:

Captain’s Welcome Party, but no formal nights

5 – 6 nights:

Captain’s Welcome Party + 1x formal night

7- 12 nights:

Captain’s Welcome Party + 2x formal nights

13- 20 nights:

Captain’s Welcome Party + 3x formal nights

22 nights +:

Captain’s Welcome Party + 1x formal night each week

Dietary Requirements

On board all of our ships, we do our best to accommodate most dietary requests. So, vegetarian, vegan, low fat, low cholesterol, low salt, dairy-free, lactose-free, wheat-free and gluten-free food are all catered for.

We also kindly request that you make us aware of any special dietary requests at the time of booking or by calling our Guest Services Team on 0800 0355 145. We’ll do our best to source exact products, or provide certain foods, such as diabetic desserts. Guests with food allergies or intolerances will also have the opportunity to speak to the Maitre ’d or Executive Chef once on board to discuss any requirements.

We can also provide a vegan option for our Traditional Afternoon Tea service, which is available on all sea days. Prices can be found on the link below.

Please note that we may not be able to source specific brands given our location or the availability at local ports. 

Smoking Policy

We operate a strict ‘no smoking’ policy in all inside areas. Smoking will only be permitted on cabin balconies (excluding Terrace Balconies on Bolette and Borealis), and in designated open deck areas.

Electronic cigarettes that don’t emit vapour, may be used in cabins or on cabin balconies but are not permitted in any non-smoking public areas. They can easily be mistaken for real cigarettes, which may result in an unnecessary confrontation that requires staff intervention. Electronic cigarettes emitting any vapour – even water vapour – may only be smoked in designated external smoking areas.

Please ask a member of staff for the designated smoking areas when you board your ship.

Designated smoking areas are as below:

Borealis

Deck 8 aft, port side, outside The View Bar and deck 9 forward.

Bolette

Deck 8 aft, and deck 9 forward.

Balmoral

Deck 7 starboard side, Decks 8 and 9 aft – starboard side, and Deck 11 starboard side – outside the Marquee Bar.

Braemar

Deck 5 outside the Coral Club, starboard side and the upper sun deck forward.

Disabled Facilities

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines warmly welcomes guests dependent on the use of a wheelchair/scooter for mobility on all vessels within our fleet. However, with the very different nature of a holiday at sea when compared to one on land we very strongly recommend you are accompanied by an able-bodied companion who is responsible for providing any assistance that you may require both on board and ashore. On board we are unable to offer any sustained or long-term assistance. If you opt to travel alone but it transpires that you are unable to cope on board you will be required to meet with a senior officer to discuss the situation, and in extreme circumstances asked to disembark the vessel at your own expense. If in any doubt prior to departure as to whether we can safely accept the guest for passage, we do reserve the right to insist a guest is accompanied by an able-bodied companion.

The number of guests either reliant upon the use of a wheelchair/scooter, or with reduced mobility, that we can accept is governed by the number of crew we can assign to assist disabled/mobility impaired guests in the unlikely event of an emergency. This is in accordance with the International Maritime Organisation’s convention on ‘Safety of Life at Sea‘ (SOLAS), governing the safe evacuation of a vessel within 30 minutes of the emergency alarm being sounded. This regulation is not superseded by the EU Passenger Bill of Rights Regulation 1177/2010, effective 18 December 2012, concerning the rights of passengers when travelling by sea or inland waterways.

Please Note: All guests will be required to store mobility devices in their room on board and will not be permitted to leave them outside in corridors and stairwells, or have them stored on board.

If you would like to hire mobility equipment to take on your cruise, Mobilty at Sea can accommodate your needs – please call them on 0800 328 1699.

All four of our cruise ships feature cabins specially adapted for wheelchair use.

Should you wish to bring a wheelchair/scooter on board, please advise us in advance, so that a space can be allocated on board. We also request that a Mobility Questionnaire is fully completed. All wheelchairs/scooters must be stored by yourselves in your cabin.

In accordance with safety requirements, the number of guests using wheelchairs on board is restricted as follows:

• Braemar: 10
• Balmoral: 16
• Bolette & Borealis – 20 in total (of which 10 can be scooters)

Only those cabins indicated as adapted for wheelchair use have private facilities for wheelchair users.

DEAF AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED GUESTS

As with mobility impaired guests we would strongly recommend guests are accompanied by an able-bodied companion to assist them both on board and ashore.

Whereas infra-red hearing loops are fitted on all vessels, with headsets available from Guest Services, for use in the main ‘Show Lounge’, please note that this headset system is not suitable for people who wear permanently inserted hearing devices; and none of our rooms feature any additional emergency equipment such as flashing lights or ‘bed shakers’ that can be used in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency our specifically trained and assigned crew will come directly to your room. However, please let us have advance notice of any serious hearing impairment.

Environment

At Fred. Olsen we are committed to reducing the impact we have on the environment around us.

With our ships sailing to the four corners of the earth, we want to minimise the impact we make on all the beautiful places we visit∘ and ensure that they are protected for future generations. As a company, we strive to comply with all environmental requirements and take steps to exceed them whenever possible.

Continuing our ongoing efforts to help alleviate plastic pollution and its global environmental impact, single use plastic water bottles∘ are no longer available to purchase throughout our fleet, for guests or crew, and glass carafes, which are replenished daily, are in use in all cabins.

Guests can bring their own refillable water bottles, or purchase on board in the ship’s Port Shop; these can be filled in any of our bars, and we are in the process of installing water stations across the fleet.

Little changes can make a big difference

✔ We have removed all single-use coffee cups, plastic cutlery and plastic straws

✔ Plastic jam and butter portions have been replaced with refillable options

✔ New linen bags have replaced plastic laundry bags

✔ The consumption of cling film in The Galley has been reduced

✔ Ropes are now used to secure items during rough seas rather than plastic

✔ Wooden pencils are provided in cabins, instead of plastic pens

✔ All printed marketing communication is on responsibly sourced FSC approved paper

Refill your water bottle!

We are excited to be supporting the Refill Campaign, run by environmental campaigning organisation City to Sea, to raise awareness of the impact of single-use plastic water bottles on the environment, and encourage people to use refillable water bottles instead.

A million plastic bottles are bought around the world every minute and it’s predicted that figure will rise by another 20% by 2021.

Find out more about how you could save money, stay hydrated and help prevent plastic pollution at source with Refill.

Download the Refill app to find your nearest station today and become a ‘Refill Champion’.

Fuel

Fred. Olsen comply with all international policies∘ and take steps to exceed them whenever possible.

Our ocean-going ships use a mix of Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (LSFO) and Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). As we approach port of calls and sail through special emission control areas, the LSFO – which has a sulphur content of just 0.1% – is used. Outside of these areas, we switch to the use of HFO, which contains a sulphur content of 1-2%. Both fuels are currently below the existing global sulphur limit.

From 1st January 2020, the limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships operating outside designated emission control areas will be reduced to 0.50%. We have already started to take steps to switch our ships to lower emission fuel where possible.

Waste Recycling

All waste created on board is taken to a dedicated waste and recycling sorting area on the vessel.

It is then separated into glass, metal cans, paper/cardboard, plastic, food waste and general waste. Once sorted, these materials∘ are compacted and stored ready to be offloaded at the next available port. Cooking oil is also offloaded in port, so that it can be repurposed.

Food waste is, on some occasions, pulped and then discharged into the sea in accordance with Marpol regulations, as food waste can be eaten by fish. In addition, some items are incinerated∘ on board, again in accordance with all environmental and safety regulations.

Medical Facilities

For your peace of mind, all of our cruise ships have a Medical Centre offering primary and emergency care, with a doctor and/or nurse on call at all times. All our cruise ships also have two qualified nurses on board. The Medical Centres operate outside of British and European health services and charges are levied for consultations, investigations, prescriptions and room visits. A scale of charges is displayed in each Medical Centre, and charges incurred will be billed to your on board account. We would ask that any guest taking medication brings adequate supplies to last the duration of the cruise. Please ensure you pack medication in your hand luggage, if required, en route to your ship.

Cruise Vaccinations/Covid-19

All guests aged 12 and above must be fully vaccinated to join us on board.

This includes two original doses, and a third booster dose. You must have had your booster at least seven days before your cruise sets sail.

All children aged over 12 will need to have had both of their vaccinations before joining us on board, with at least 14 days since the date of their second dose. If more than nine months have passed since the second vaccine dose, a booster vaccine will required at least seven days prior to departure.

If you are due to have your second vaccine less than three months before your cruise sets sail, you do not need to have had a booster vaccination. Please note, you must allow at least 14 days after your second vaccine before you can sail with us.

All guests aged 12 and over will be tested on their arrival at the port, prior to check-in, before joining the ship.

If you would like to test at home prior to leaving for the port, you will be able to order a lateral flow test from our partners at BUPA by visiting https://bupatesting.everythinggeneticltd.co.uk/index.php.

If you test positive in the days leading up to your cruise, please do not travel to the port.

If you need to notify us of a positive result, please contact our Guest Services team on 0800 0355 145.

Wi-Fi

Staying connected with family and friends at home while on a Fred. Olsen cruise has never been easier.

Our WiFi package will allow you to connect to the internet via your smartphone, tablet, laptop and other devices to send email, keep up-to-date with the latest news and share your holiday experiences on social media as you cruise.

Simply connect to the ship’s WiFi signal once aboard, select your desired internet package and you’re set up. WiFi is available throughout our ships, so you can connect to the internet in your cabin or whilst relaxing in any of the public areas.

Any charges will be charged directly to your on board account. Charges for our WiFi service* are as follows:

Our Social Media Package* allows access to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other social media platforms.

• 1 day – £10.00
• 5 days – £40.00
• 7 days – £55.00
• 14 days – £100.00

*This package does not WhatsApp or Email.

Our General Browsing Package** allows access to most websites, including Social Media platforms, WhatsApp and Email.

• 1 day – £12.00
• 5 days – £50.00
• 7 days – £63.00
• 14 days – £120.00

**Streaming of YouTube, Netflix and similar is not included.

For those guests wishing to purchase a WiFi Package for a longer duration we do offer a reduced rate, please enquire at Guest Services once on board for current pricing.

To make the most of your WiFi package, we recommend writing any emails you wish to send before you log on. This will help you save internet minutes for browsing, checking social media and other tasks.

Please note: this internet service is operated via a maritime satellite connection, and speeds are often slower than you experience at home. The availability of the service is subject to environmental factors outside of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines control.

For more information regarding our on board WiFi and internet services, just ask at Guest Services.

Please note, pricing and packages are subject to change.

Suite Dreams Package

Our Suite Dreams package comes with our compliments in all our Suites. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a bottle of sparkling wine and a fresh fruit bowl – which will be topped-up anytime during your cruise at your request.

To assist you on your voyage of discovery, you’ll find a pair of binoculars, a world atlas and a country guide, as well as complimentary shuttle vouchers for those times where for operational reasons we can’t dock within walking distance of a destination. A newsletter with domestic and international news is delivered to your room daily, along with a selection of delicious canapés.

We know it’s the little details that make all the difference, and the inclusion of extras such as luxury towels, bathrobes and slippers, complimentary water, free pressing service and laundry vouchers ensures your Suite Dreams package is a valued treat.

Suite Dreams benefits include*:

✔ A welcome bottle of sparkling wine

✔ Fruit basket (topped up on request throughout your cruise)

✔ Flowers or plant in your Suite

✔ Bathrobe and slippers

✔ Luxury towels

✔ Free pressing service for formal wear

✔ Binoculars in your Suite

✔ World atlas and country guide for your reference

✔ Afternoon canapé service

✔ Daily newsletter, featuring national and international news

✔ Pair of compact umbrellas for use ashore

✔ Laundry service discount vouchers

✔ Carafe of water, replenished daily

*Facilities (including room layout) vary by Suite type; please check when making your booking. Suite Dreams benefits are available on all cruises of three nights and above duration. Suite Dreams benefits apply to guests staying in all Suite grades.

Guide Dogs / Assistance Dogs

Guide dogs (assistance dogs) are warmly welcomed on board all our cruise ships.

In order to offer an enjoyable and safe cruise experience for both you and your dog, we kindly request you complete the ‘Assistance Dog Travel Application Form’. This can be obtained by contacting the Guest Services Department on 0800 0355 145 or via e-mailing guest.services@fredolsen.co.uk. We request that guests advise us before travelling that they wish to bring an Assistance Dog on board, and that all relevant application forms are completed.

The following items must be included in the application*:

Pet Passport

We require a copy of all pages, including your pet’s microchip number and confirmed rabies vaccination, which must be administered at least 21 days prior to travel, and valid for the duration of the cruise.

Training Certificate

A copy of the training certificate from ADI (Assistance Dogs International) or IGDF (International Guide Dog Federation).

Tapeworm Treatment Appointment

Confirmation of a pre-booked overseas veterinary appointment for tapeworm treatment. This is a mandatory requirement between 24-120 hours prior to return to the UK. We strongly advise you book this appointment for the penultimate port of call (if within the mandatory time period) to avoid any issues should the final port of call be missed for any unforeseeable reason. Exceptions include sailings direct from Ireland, Finland, Norway or Malta. Please note: other EU countries also have tapeworm compliance requirements if you are not travelling to that country directly from the UK (i.e. the ship makes a call in another country first).

Should you wish to bring a Service Dog on board, the same conditions apply as with Assistance Dogs, so please do let us know if you wish to bring your Service Dog on your cruise.

*If for any reason, after submitting the application, your request is denied by the Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA), you are entitled to cancel your booking free of charge. Please be aware that it can take time to process applications with APHA, so please submit your request at the earliest possible opportunity to avoid disappointment. Terms & conditions apply.  

Age Restrictions

We are delighted to accept booking for younger guests, aged between 2 and 17.

All children aged over 12 will need to have had both of their vaccinations before joining us on board, with at least 14 days since the date of their second dose.

On peak-time holiday cruises, and subject to numbers, our Little Skippers Club keeps kids between 5 and 11 years old entertained with a variety of fun activities. They will enjoy arts and crafts, discos, treasure hunts and loads more, all run by our friendly team of hosts and hostesses*.

A list of the day’s events are included in the Little Skippers Club’s mini-version of the Daily Times, which also shows the separate pool times for kids. Activities also stretch across the evenings, to suit the individual needs of families on board. Please note: our Little Skippers Club also welcomes children under 5, however parents must provide supervision at all times. The club operates subject to minimum numbers being achieved.

For those guests who are travelling overseas with children under the age of 16 for whom you are not the parent or legal guardian, it is a legal requirement that you obtain the written consent of the parent/ legal guardian and produce this upon request when checking in at the port/airport. Failure to produce this documentation may result in refusal of passage. Unfortunately, we regret we are unable to accept children less than 2 years of of age.

We regret that we are not able to offer a babysitting service during your cruise holiday.

*All of our Little Skippers Club hosts are Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked. 

Laundry Services

All of our ships have at least one fully equipped Laundry Room, complete with self service washing machines filled with with detergent and softener. Just collect a token from Guest Services (there is a small fee of £2 for this service) and pop it in the machine. Also in the Laundry Rooms are tumble driers, irons and ironing boards.

Or, let us do your laundry! A laundry bag will be supplied to you in your cabin welcome pack for your use, if you wish to return home with a case full of clean clothes. Simply fill the laundry bag with the items you need washing, and your cabin attendant will whisk them away for our ‘wash and fold service’. Full details of prices can be found in your cabin welcome pack.

Please note: travel irons and steamers are not permitted on any of our cruise ships.

Other Details

Children: Itinerary dependent

Childrens Facilities: Itinerary dependent

Nursery: None

Smoking: Some

Gratuities: Gratuities for our dedicated service team are not included in the cost of your holiday. While tipping is entirely at your discretion, we pride ourselves on the service offered to our guests, and are confident that you’ll wish to reward staff on board for the attention you receive. Typically, gratuities are charged at £5.00 per person, per day for guests aged 12 and over. This amount is split equally between your stewardess and restaurant waiter, and will be automatically added to your on board account. While very much appreciated, these gratuities are voluntary, and therefore can be adjusted or removed completely at Guest Services on board the ship if you wish; and you are welcome to tip personally if you prefer. For your convenience, you can also pre-pay gratuities before your cruise. We’ll check with you at the time of booking if you’d like to pay prior to your cruise. Pre-payment can be made anytime up to 5 days before departure by simply calling our Guest Services team on 0800 0355 145 or e-mail guest.services@fredolsen.co.uk Our Guest Services team are available from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

Wheelchair Cabins: 21 available