Borealis
Discover the world in classic style aboard Borealis
Borealis brings timeless elegance and British hospitality to the seas, offering smaller-ship cruising that feels personal, peaceful, and refreshingly unhurried. With fewer guests on board, you’ll enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, beautifully spacious public areas, and access to hand-picked ports larger ships can’t reach.
From scenic fjord cruising to cultural gems around Europe and beyond, Borealis is all about thoughtful travel, exceptional service, and immersive itineraries designed with curious travellers in mind.
Borealis Cruise Ship Overview
Borealis is a beautifully refurbished ship operated by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, offering a classic cruise experience with modern enhancements. Originally built for Holland America Line and joining Fred. Olsen in 2021, Borealis has been reimagined with a warm, intimate feel and a strong sense of traditional seafaring. With capacity for around 1,360 guests, she strikes the perfect balance between spaciousness and sociability, appealing to those who value British hospitality, scenic itineraries, and peaceful voyages.
Why Choose Borealis?
Borealis is ideal for guests seeking a grown-up, relaxed atmosphere with enriching destinations and no-fuss elegance. With her wide open decks, comfortable lounges, and timeless décor, she embodies the spirit of classic cruising. Borealis is also known for her commitment to smaller ports and off-the-beaten-track destinations, allowing guests to explore hidden gems away from larger crowds. The ship’s smaller size also ensures a more personalised service and a sense of camaraderie among fellow travellers.
Cabin Choices on Borealis
The ship offers a range of accommodation options including Inside, Ocean View, Balcony, and Suite categories. All cabins are designed with comfort in mind, featuring stylish furnishings, tea and coffee making facilities, and en-suite bathrooms. Ocean View cabins are ideal for enjoying daylight and passing scenery, while Balcony cabins offer a private outdoor space to relax. Suites provide generous living areas, walk-in wardrobes, and priority perks like early embarkation and concierge services.
Balcony Staterooms and Suites
Balcony cabins on Borealis enhance the journey with personal outdoor space - ideal for enjoying fresh air during scenic cruising. These staterooms include additional seating and elegant touches. For guests seeking extra comfort, Suites offer expanded lounge areas, premium toiletries, and upgraded bedding, making them an excellent choice for longer voyages or celebratory holidays.
Where Borealis Sails
British Isles and Scenic UK Cruises
Borealis frequently sails around the British Isles, visiting charming ports such as Kirkwall, Belfast, Falmouth, and the Isles of Scilly. These cruises offer relaxed exploration and breathtaking coastal scenery.
Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Voyages
A signature of the Fred. Olsen experience, Borealis often cruises the Norwegian fjords, with scenic journeys through Geirangerfjord and Hardangerfjord, and stops in ports like Ålesund and Tromsø. Arctic itineraries extend further to the North Cape or even Iceland and Greenland.
Worldwide Discovery Cruises
Borealis also undertakes longer voyages to exotic locations, including the Caribbean, South America, Africa, and even round-the-world adventures. These cruises are thoughtfully curated with enrichment programmes and destination-focused excursions.
Dining & Bars on Borealis
Main and Informal Dining
The main dining room, Aurora, offers classic British favourites and international cuisine, with a choice of fixed or flexible dining. The buffet-style View Restaurant provides a more relaxed option, serving a variety of hot and cold dishes throughout the day.
Specialty and Signature Experiences
Borealis features The Oriental Room for Asian-inspired light bites and The Colours & Tastes restaurant for vibrant global dishes in a stylish setting. Specialty dining experiences like The Chef’s Table provide an elevated gastronomic journey with wine pairings.
Lounges and Bars
From the Observatory Lounge with panoramic views to the comfortable Bookmark Café serving speciality coffees and cakes, Borealis offers plenty of cosy spots to unwind. The Ocean Bar and Morning Light Pub are perfect for evening drinks, while live music sets the mood nightly.
Entertainment and Activities Onboard
Evening Shows and Music
Evenings aboard Borealis include West End-style shows, comedy acts, and classical performances in the Neptune Lounge. Dance nights, quizzes, and live piano music ensure there’s always something happening.
Daytime Enrichment and Relaxation
Daytime options range from arts and crafts to guest lectures, language classes, and deck games. The Atlantis Spa provides a haven of relaxation with massage treatments, a thermal suite, and a salon.
Outdoor Spaces and Wellness
The ship features two pools, a Jacuzzi, and open promenade decks perfect for walking and scenic views. The fitness centre is equipped with cardio machines and offers classes in yoga and pilates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Borealis is popular with solo guests and offers dedicated single cabins as well as social meetups and hosted events.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available for purchase, and various packages can be selected depending on usage needs.
Yes, Fred. Olsen offers drinks packages including soft drinks, wine, beer, and spirits, often at competitive prices.
Yes, there are adapted cabins and accessible public spaces. Assistance can be arranged if booked in advance.
Accommodation, main meals, most entertainment, and onboard activities are included. Extras include specialty dining, drinks, spa treatments, and shore excursions.
Daytime is casual, while evenings range from smart-casual to formal depending on the occasion, particularly during Captain’s Welcome Evenings.
Ship facts
Borealis
Entertainment
Entertainment
The Observatory
Entertainment
Entertainment
The Oriental Tea Room
Activities
Activities
The Library
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Colours & Tastes
Food & Drink
The Poolside
Food & Drink
Aurora Restaurant
Body & Soul
Body & Soul
The Fitness Centre
Body & Soul
The Spa