Balmoral
Sail with heritage and heart aboard Balmoral
Balmoral is the longest-serving ship in the Fred. Olsen fleet — a classic vessel known for her intimate charm, timeless style, and warm atmosphere. Named after the Scottish royal residence, she offers a refined cruising experience where personal service, scenic exploration, and traditional values take centre stage.
Perfectly sized for smaller ports and closer coastal cruising, Balmoral is your ticket to discovering the world at a gentler pace — whether you’re sailing through the fjords, the Baltics, or the British Isles.
Balmoral Cruise Ship Overview
Balmoral is the flagship of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, known for her warm and welcoming atmosphere, timeless design, and destination-led itineraries. With a guest capacity of just over 1,300, Balmoral is a smaller ship that offers an intimate, friendly cruising experience that harks back to the golden age of ocean travel. Originally launched in 1988 and refurbished since joining the Fred. Olsen fleet in 2008, she carries a loyal following of guests who appreciate her traditional ambiance, attentive service, and ability to access ports less visited by larger ships.
Why Choose Balmoral?
If you value thoughtful itineraries, attentive British hospitality, and a relaxed onboard pace, Balmoral may be your ideal cruise ship. She offers a classic cruising feel with modern comforts and personalised service. Her size allows her to navigate into smaller ports, giving guests access to more unique and culturally rich destinations. Balmoral is perfect for those who prefer peaceful days at sea, curated excursions, and social settings without the crowds. Her décor, lounges, and entertainment venues are all designed to create a home-from-home experience at sea.
Staterooms and Accommodation
Balmoral offers a mix of Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, and Suite accommodations. Each stateroom is equipped with comfortable furnishings, en-suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, a flat-screen TV, and ample storage. Ocean View cabins are popular for their natural light and sea views, while Balcony cabins offer fresh air and a quiet outdoor space. Suites feature additional space, luxury amenities, and priority services, ideal for longer voyages or guests who prefer added comfort.
Balcony and Suite Enhancements
Balcony staterooms provide the luxury of private outdoor space to enjoy scenic cruising and quiet relaxation. For those seeking extra indulgence, Balmoral’s Suites offer premium bedding, enhanced in-room amenities, and exclusive benefits such as early boarding, complimentary welcome packages, and access to a dedicated concierge.
Where You Can Sail on Balmoral
Scenic UK and British Isles Cruises
Balmoral frequently sails from UK ports, visiting charming destinations like the Isle of Skye, Guernsey, and Orkney. These voyages are perfect for discovering the beauty and history close to home.
European Rivers and Baltic Capitals
With her smaller size, Balmoral can access ports along the Seine, Elbe, and other European rivers. Baltic cruises often include stops in Stockholm, Tallinn, and Helsinki, as well as scenic cruising along archipelagos and coastal routes.
Fjords, Iceland and the Arctic
Balmoral regularly explores the dramatic Norwegian fjords and travels to the land of fire and ice - Iceland. Some itineraries venture even further north into the Arctic Circle, offering the chance to witness the Midnight Sun or Northern Lights.
Southern Europe, Iberia, and Africa
From spring through autumn, Balmoral offers longer voyages to sun-soaked destinations such as Lisbon, Casablanca, and the Canary Islands. These itineraries balance historic city ports with scenic cruising and extended time ashore.
Dining & Bar Experiences on Balmoral
Traditional and Buffet Dining
Balmoral’s main restaurants, the Ballindalloch, Spey, and Avon, offer classic British and international cuisine in a formal setting. Guests can choose from fixed or flexible dining times. The Palms Café offers a more casual buffet option throughout the day.
Specialty and Themed Dining
The Grill offers al fresco dining when weather permits, with a focus on grilled meats and seafood. Special themed evenings, such as seafood nights and regional cuisine menus, provide added culinary variety.
Bars and Lounges
Popular social spots include the Observatory Lounge for panoramic views and cocktails, the Morning Light Pub for live sports and ales, and the Bookmark Café for coffee, cakes, and reading. The Neptune Lounge hosts nightly shows, while the Lido Bar and Marquee Bar offer relaxed drinks with sea views.
Activities and Entertainment Onboard
Evening Entertainment
Live music, cabaret performances, comedy, and guest entertainers take place in the Neptune Lounge and other venues. There are also dance nights, themed parties, and quizzes to suit different tastes.
Daytime Enrichment
Balmoral offers enrichment lectures, crafts, painting workshops, bridge tournaments, and dance lessons. There’s also a well-stocked library and games room for quieter moments.
Wellness and Recreation
The Atlantis Spa offers massages, facials, and hair treatments, alongside a thermal suite. Guests can stay active in the fitness centre or unwind on the open promenade deck with traditional deck games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, the ship offers dedicated solo cabins and social activities aimed at helping solo guests connect.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available for purchase, with several usage packages to choose from.
Yes, guests can pre-purchase drinks packages covering soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and hot drinks.
Yes, Balmoral offers adapted cabins and accessible public spaces. Guests should inform the cruise line of any special requirements in advance.
The fare includes accommodation, all meals in non-specialty restaurants, entertainment, and most onboard activities. Drinks, excursions, and spa services are extra.
Daywear is casual, while evenings range from smart-casual to formal depending on the night, especially for Captain’s Welcome and Farewell evenings.
Ship facts
Balmoral
Entertainment
Entertainment
Lido Lounge
Entertainment
Observatory Bar
Activities
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Spey Restaurant
Food & Drink
Vasco
Food & Drink
Colours & Tastes
Body & Soul
Body & Soul
Body & Soul
The Spa