Just got off the balmoral this morning back from the five day cruise, Im only 17, but i thouroughly enjoyed it, especially the shuffleboard and the food, was good.
Excellent, well paced, informative and accurate presentation. Balmoral is brilliant, everything works really well and it is always a treat to board and sail on her.
Very nice narration you’re very easy to listen to. Have booked Balmoral out of Newcastle in March for Northern Lights and I’m really looking forward to being on a more intimate ship ( quite a contrast from my last cruise out of Barbados on the massive PO Arvia).
I have just come off Arvia funnily enough - and I will be back on Balmoral speaking again on some northern lights trips in March - so possibly see you there!
Great video, very comprehensive. We had our first experience of Fred Olsen this month on Bolette to Shetland, Orkney Islands and Faroe Islands. The ship was showing signs of age and our inside cabin 3406 was in desperate need of refurbishment particularly the bathroom however that ceased to be significant because we had an incredible time and loved the whole FO experience. We're looking to go on another cruise around Scotland from Edinburgh next year and your video has helped us manage our expectations.
The Balmoral will feel older but if you already know you'll enjoy the FO experience then I think you'll enjoy it regardless :) Thanks for watching and have a great trip!
Just today booked a cruise to the Baltic on the Balmoral, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Kiel Canal for 8 nights in a Superior Suite on deck 9 can't wait till next year. Great video full of info!!
I travelled solo on the Balmoral last December for 8 nights. I was on a dining table of other solo travellers of various ages and backgrounds. We all got on really well. Lots of get together meetings for solos to meet and chat if you want. Lots of activities to join in on the ship. Great shows. The dance hosts were brilliant. The entertainment team were very approachable and friendly. The food was plentiful and fabulous. I had a great time and look forward to returning to the Balmoral in December 2024. I'm off on the Bolette in a few weeks around Scotland.
we have just booked 7 days in September from North Shields we did not know about the two specialist restaurants so i will ring travel agent to book them
We just returned from a trip, our room 4XXX and our companion's room, 9XXX did not have USB sockets or UK plug sockets. We needed adaptors. We didn't take them because of this video and the charge onboard was £36 to hire one for the week. Not all rooms have USB ports, take plugs and adaptors if you need them!! Otherwise, a really lovely stay.
I travelled solo on P&O Iona about 18 months ago. A beautiful ship with over 5000 souls on board. The intimate atmosphere on a Fred Olsen ship is completely different. You really feel one of the family rather than just another number. Having the same dining table each day, the waiters really made an effort to learn our names. The crew and staff are so friendly and go above and beyond. For example, after one of the tours, I had a swollen foot and had difficulty putting my evening shoes on. My cabin host had noticed what time I left for my evening meal, and had also noticed I was limping. She actually knocked on my cabin door for a few nights to help buckle my shoes for me.
I have been on both the Bolette and Borealis and have had a looked around the Balmoral. For me it's perhaps a little bit tooo small, but it's a great option for others.
I think much depends on the destination. I love the outdoor space on the Balmoral, so if you can take advantage of that, the ship would feel more spacious. Thanks for watching :)
Considering I sailed on the former Royal Viking Star aka Star Odyssey of NCL to the North Cape on one of her last cruises. We were shadowed by the Norwegian Crown the whole way!
Thank you very much for your video. It helps me decide whether or not I’m willing to take this cruise. Unfortunately, this shipped the Balmoral is now the ship used for Northern light cruises in the dead of winter. I’m going to pass. Cheers.
**To the Captain at Sea** In the heart of the ocean, you steer with grace, Guiding us through waves, setting our pace. With the wind at your back and the stars shining bright, Your steady hand leads us into the night. So here’s to the journey, both near and afar, With you at the helm, we’re sure to go far. Let’s share tales of Norway, and dreams yet to be, Together on this ship, just you and me. --- !
these are the best ships hassle free and chilled out, a would like to book the cruise from newcastle to canaries but my wife has a lung condition, theres never any mention about people who have a disability, like insurance, do you require any oxygen during your stay, would you require a small mobility scooter for use when the ship docks or wheel chair on board, will you need help during boarding or accessing the ship will you require an air purifier in your cabin, its always the important facts that is missing, we all know how ships work decor the bigger ships just have more of the same as the smaller ships no difference but the 40k tonnage ships are better, less chew
Well I don’t mention those things because that’s not my experience. I’m not sure why you’d expect someone making UA-cam videos to know such detailed information about a very specific case. Perhaps these questions are best directed at the actual cruise line? You can Google “Fred Olsen cruise lines” and find a phone number for their Ipswich head office. Thanks for watching 🙌
Thanks for the valuable feedback, I really appreciate your time and your kind, polite suggestion. Unfortunately, I am not able to access cabins that have guests in them! Thanks for watching 🙌
Hey there! There are lots of options for those with dietary requirements, and you can even have a meeting with the restaurant manager about any concerns. I'm sure you'll have a great time! Thanks for watching! 🙌
There were positive experiences during our Fred Olsen Balmorral Fjords holiday, including the onshore excursions to the stunning Norwegian scenery, the good choice of on board food and dining, and the high standard of housekeeping in our room by our cabin stewardess. Unfortunately there were many negative experiences for us including; waiting 2 hours for our luggage to be delivered to our room, waiting up to 25 minutes for a drink in various bar areas around the ship, the overall amateur standard of entertainment (namely the live music and shows), dull on-board activities and talks, a charge for drinks room service (we took our own drinks to our room), and a feeling that despite paying a premium for our cruise package (deck 10 suite with balcony), we did not have a premium holiday experience.
Sorry to hear you didn’t have a great experience! I definitely think Fred Olsen generally and the Balmoral in particular isn’t for everyone, although they do get a huge amount of repeat business.
Saying that while there is a war going on, or better several wars going on. Spoiled Whoahandle. Further : be glad there are still a few not massive FUN-boats like the 3 Fred Olsen ships. They become rare and are in fact very wanted by passengers who appreciate what cruising once was. Not the ridiculous party-boats with 4-5-6000 passengers. Thank you very much. I once worked on a cruiseship ages ago , when ships were not that big (10.000 tons) and sometimes with 120 passengers. (The Funchal , still existing in Lisbon , not trading) Or with the former British "Southern Cross" (as "Calypso") round Africa with 300 passengers. Abt 22.000 tons. Now they call Borealis "small", while she is abt 55.000 tons or so. She once was the flagship "Rotterdam"( so the biggest) of the Holland America Line ,abt 220-230 meters I don't call that "small", but the new generation cruisepassengers have no idea (an nothing to compare). The last one I sailed on was the semi-sister of Bolette & Borealis, the German/Portuguese "Vasco da Gama"(ex "Statendam") now Nicko Cruises built 1993, so 30 years. It was one of the best ships I was on. I love old(er) ships, they are the best. It felt like an Atlantic crossing , pure nostalgia. Splendid voyage to various Cape Verde Islands and Senegal. Never seen so many square meters per passenger . I forgot the rate, but was the highest I ever noticed with only 800 passengers. You can keep the floating drydocks with 6-7000 passengers , any idea about the square meters p.p. there? Think before you book and don't fuss about age or size. If you have been on the Hurtigruten with the Nordstjernen (1956, but well kept an a real seaship with only 85 meters long) you don't cry any more about age and size. Have fun with all the noisy Carnival & Costa & MSC mega-ships! I will go back to the quiet & relaxing Vasco da Gama! (now on world cruise) Regards from an old connaisseur.
@@islaskinner4911 And right you are , Isla. !!! - cruiseships means complaining people. Some only board to complain. You always find something. So what? Enjoy the ship and the sea! The feeling of being away from it all. We are all too spoiled nowadays, at least many. Have a nice evening!
Just got off the balmoral this morning back from the five day cruise, Im only 17, but i thouroughly enjoyed it, especially the shuffleboard and the food, was good.
That's great to hear! I'll be back on the Balmoral later this year and I'm looking forward to it. Thanks for watching 🙌
Thanks for the tour David. Just booked a cruise on Balmoral. It will be our first on Fred Olsen
Have a great time! The ship is about to go into dry dock for a refurb, and I’ll be onboard again in January to film an updated ship tour :)
Excellent, well paced, informative and accurate presentation. Balmoral is brilliant, everything works really well and it is always a treat to board and sail on her.
Thanks very much! I’m actually about to produce a new version of this video following the refit at the end of 2024 :) Coming soon!
@@lifeinnorway1 Looking forward to it very much. Great ship. Great cruise line.
Very nice narration you’re very easy to listen to. Have booked Balmoral out of Newcastle in March for Northern Lights and I’m really looking forward to being on a more intimate ship ( quite a contrast from my last cruise out of Barbados on the massive PO Arvia).
I have just come off Arvia funnily enough - and I will be back on Balmoral speaking again on some northern lights trips in March - so possibly see you there!
@@lifeinnorway1 oh double coincidence. My March trip sails on the 19th
@@gerardmackay8909 Ah! I'm doing the two immediately before that :)
Happy to see that Captain Hudson was on the cruise! 🐱
The Captain liked the small ship as he could get around and see all his crewmates easily and quickly 👍🏽
Watching this again as heading to Norway on board Balmoral next month. I was looking forward to it anyway, but even more now.
Thanks for watching, and have a great trip! ⚓️
Great video, very comprehensive. We had our first experience of Fred Olsen this month on Bolette to Shetland, Orkney Islands and Faroe Islands. The ship was showing signs of age and our inside cabin 3406 was in desperate need of refurbishment particularly the bathroom however that ceased to be significant because we had an incredible time and loved the whole FO experience. We're looking to go on another cruise around Scotland from Edinburgh next year and your video has helped us manage our expectations.
The Balmoral will feel older but if you already know you'll enjoy the FO experience then I think you'll enjoy it regardless :) Thanks for watching and have a great trip!
Just today booked a cruise to the Baltic on the Balmoral, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Kiel Canal for 8 nights in a Superior Suite on deck 9 can't wait till next year. Great video full of info!!
Have a great time! ⚓️
I’m going on my first cruise next year on the Balmoral this is a great video thankyou ! I can’t wait now ! 😀
You're welcome! Have a great time, and thanks for watching :)
I’m off to Svalbard next month on board the Balmoral. Looks wonderful. Much prefer older ships. Thank you for this.
I'll see you on board, come and say hello!
Oh will do! Just realised you’re our speaker on board 😃
We've just booked this ship for next year. A very informative video, thank you.
I’m glad you found it useful. Have a great trip! 🚢
It’s nice to se that they’ve updated the ship - I’ll be going on there in 2 week’s time
Me too. See you there!
@@lifeinnorway1 Is it the 2 might Southampton to Newcastle trip?
@@carolinehodgkiss2274 Ah, no, it's the one immediately following that from Newcastle :)
@@lifeinnorway1 Ah ok, enjoy
Captain Hudson having a sneaky appearance 🤣🤣
Oh yes the pesky tyke gets everywhere!
Great video, planning a solo trip - were there many solo travellers?
Yes quite a few, especially older. There’s a solo traveller meetup on the first day.
I travelled solo on the Balmoral last December for 8 nights. I was on a dining table of other solo travellers of various ages and backgrounds. We all got on really well. Lots of get together meetings for solos to meet and chat if you want. Lots of activities to join in on the ship. Great shows. The dance hosts were brilliant. The entertainment team were very approachable and friendly. The food was plentiful and fabulous. I had a great time and look forward to returning to the Balmoral in December 2024. I'm off on the Bolette in a few weeks around Scotland.
we have just booked 7 days in September from North Shields we did not know about the two specialist restaurants so i will ring travel agent to book them
There is now only one. I am actually on board right and re-recording this video following a refit. Watch this space!
Great commentary just like try before you buy thank you.
Thank you! And thanks for watching 🙌
We just returned from a trip, our room 4XXX and our companion's room, 9XXX did not have USB sockets or UK plug sockets. We needed adaptors. We didn't take them because of this video and the charge onboard was £36 to hire one for the week. Not all rooms have USB ports, take plugs and adaptors if you need them!! Otherwise, a really lovely stay.
Sorry for that, however, it isn't possible for me to look in every single room. I'm glad you had a good trip nevertheless!
Very good and informative video
Thanks! And thanks for watching. Enjoy your trip 🚢
well done
great video.
Thanks! 🙌
Thank you a very good review .We have never been in a ship with so few passengers. We are looking forward to our wee cruise to canaries 🥹
I’m sure you’ll have a great time. There is a lot of outdoor space, so ideal for a Canaries cruise :)
I travelled solo on P&O Iona about 18 months ago. A beautiful ship with over 5000 souls on board. The intimate atmosphere on a Fred Olsen ship is completely different. You really feel one of the family rather than just another number. Having the same dining table each day, the waiters really made an effort to learn our names. The crew and staff are so friendly and go above and beyond. For example, after one of the tours, I had a swollen foot and had difficulty putting my evening shoes on. My cabin host had noticed what time I left for my evening meal, and had also noticed I was limping. She actually knocked on my cabin door for a few nights to help buckle my shoes for me.
I have been on both the Bolette and Borealis and have had a looked around the Balmoral. For me it's perhaps a little bit tooo small, but it's a great option for others.
I think much depends on the destination. I love the outdoor space on the Balmoral, so if you can take advantage of that, the ship would feel more spacious. Thanks for watching :)
@@lifeinnorway1 Absolutely. Pros and cons for both
Considering I sailed on the former Royal Viking Star aka Star Odyssey of NCL to the North Cape on one of her last cruises. We were shadowed by the Norwegian Crown the whole way!
She’s a bit longer now! Thanks for watching 🙌
Looks like a great ship
It certainly has its fans and has A LOT of repeat guests. But it’s fair to say it’s not for everyone.
Thank you very much for your video. It helps me decide whether or not I’m willing to take this cruise. Unfortunately, this shipped the Balmoral is now the ship used for Northern light cruises in the dead of winter. I’m going to pass. Cheers.
Sure, but it sails to different places at other times of the year 🤣
Excellent 👌🏻
Thanks!
Love the gluten free options ❤
I know right! Thanks for watching 🙌
**To the Captain at Sea**
In the heart of the ocean, you steer with grace,
Guiding us through waves, setting our pace.
With the wind at your back and the stars shining bright,
Your steady hand leads us into the night.
So here’s to the journey, both near and afar,
With you at the helm, we’re sure to go far.
Let’s share tales of Norway, and dreams yet to be,
Together on this ship, just you and me.
---
!
Beautiful, just beautiful! Yet I fear it will not be enough to melt the heart of a Viking.
We've cruised on the Borealis and have taken a wander around the Balmoral. It is noticeably smaller in the public areas. "Cosy" would be the word.
Very true. I do prefer the other ships but I love the outdoor space on the Balmoral. Thanks for watching 🙌
Hello Captain Hudson
Meow
Could you give us an idea of drinks costs and dress code please ...
UK pub prices, cheap for a cruise. Relaxed in the day, smart casual in evenings, 1-2 optional formal nights per week
Captain Hudson!
He’s a sneaky one!
these are the best ships hassle free and chilled out, a would like to book the cruise from newcastle to canaries but my wife has a lung condition, theres never any mention about people who have a disability, like insurance, do you require any oxygen during your stay, would you require a small mobility scooter for use when the ship docks or wheel chair on board, will you need help during boarding or accessing the ship will you require an air purifier in your cabin, its always the important facts that is missing, we all know how ships work decor the bigger ships just have more of the same as the smaller ships no difference but the 40k tonnage ships are better, less chew
fresh sea air is good for those who have a lung condition
Well I don’t mention those things because that’s not my experience. I’m not sure why you’d expect someone making UA-cam videos to know such detailed information about a very specific case. Perhaps these questions are best directed at the actual cruise line? You can Google “Fred Olsen cruise lines” and find a phone number for their Ipswich head office. Thanks for watching 🙌
Any pools on this ship?
Yes! The two pools that are in this video.
should have done a tour of the cabins an all decks.
Thanks for the valuable feedback, I really appreciate your time and your kind, polite suggestion. Unfortunately, I am not able to access cabins that have guests in them! Thanks for watching 🙌
Never mentioned Gluten Free
Hey there! There are lots of options for those with dietary requirements, and you can even have a meeting with the restaurant manager about any concerns. I'm sure you'll have a great time! Thanks for watching! 🙌
There were positive experiences during our Fred Olsen Balmorral Fjords holiday, including the onshore excursions to the stunning Norwegian scenery, the good choice of on board food and dining, and the high standard of housekeeping in our room by our cabin stewardess. Unfortunately there were many negative experiences for us including; waiting 2 hours for our luggage to be delivered to our room, waiting up to 25 minutes for a drink in various bar areas around the ship, the overall amateur standard of entertainment (namely the live music and shows), dull on-board activities and talks, a charge for drinks room service (we took our own drinks to our room), and a feeling that despite paying a premium for our cruise package (deck 10 suite with balcony), we did not have a premium holiday experience.
Sorry to hear you didn’t have a great experience! I definitely think Fred Olsen generally and the Balmoral in particular isn’t for everyone, although they do get a huge amount of repeat business.
Fred Olsen looks like a bunch of grave dodgers, the ship looks old and outdated, rooms old and dreary. I will give it a miss
Fair enough 😀❤️ Thanks for watching 🙌
It definitely isn’t dreary and it’s a lovely relaxing vibe but lots going on too . Yours suddenly a coffin dodger
Saying that while there is a war going on, or better several wars going on. Spoiled Whoahandle. Further : be glad there are still a few not massive FUN-boats like the 3 Fred Olsen ships. They become rare and are in fact very wanted by passengers who appreciate what cruising once was. Not the ridiculous party-boats with 4-5-6000 passengers. Thank you very much. I once worked on a cruiseship ages ago , when ships were not that big (10.000 tons) and sometimes with 120 passengers. (The Funchal , still existing in Lisbon , not trading) Or with the former British "Southern Cross" (as "Calypso") round Africa with 300 passengers. Abt 22.000 tons. Now they call Borealis "small", while she is abt 55.000 tons or so. She once was the flagship "Rotterdam"( so the biggest) of the Holland America Line ,abt 220-230 meters I don't call that "small", but the new generation cruisepassengers have no idea (an nothing to compare). The last one I sailed on was the semi-sister of Bolette & Borealis, the German/Portuguese "Vasco da Gama"(ex "Statendam") now Nicko Cruises built 1993, so 30 years. It was one of the best ships I was on. I love old(er) ships, they are the best. It felt like an Atlantic crossing , pure nostalgia. Splendid voyage to various Cape Verde Islands and Senegal. Never seen so many square meters per passenger . I forgot the rate, but was the highest I ever noticed with only 800 passengers. You can keep the floating drydocks with 6-7000 passengers , any idea about the square meters p.p. there? Think before you book and don't fuss about age or size. If you have been on the Hurtigruten with the Nordstjernen (1956, but well kept an a real seaship with only 85 meters long) you don't cry any more about age and size. Have fun with all the noisy Carnival & Costa & MSC mega-ships! I will go back to the quiet & relaxing Vasco da Gama! (now on world cruise) Regards from an old connaisseur.
@@islaskinner4911 And right you are , Isla. !!! - cruiseships means complaining people. Some only board to complain. You always find something. So what? Enjoy the ship and the sea! The feeling of being away from it all. We are all too spoiled nowadays, at least many. Have a nice evening!
@@koosriedijk3872 wow