Your cruise at a glance
Hand-crafted highlights
During your call into Madeira on this island-hopping cruise in the balmy climes of the Canaries, home to world-renowned fragrant floral gardens and sweet wines, you could opt to wander the breath-taking levada walking trails through the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest, a vast ecosystem that shelters a diverse range of fauna and flora, explore the sights and scents of the botanical gardens, or discover the mighty Cabo Girão, Europe's highest sea cliff. Immerse yourself in the Canarian way of life by sampling the famous Mojo sauce or sipping Malvasía wine, made from the sweet-smelling grape only found on the island of Lanzarote, while in Madeira and Lisbon, taste the traditional Portuguese custard tart, Pastéis de Nata. Elsewhere, you’ll have chances to witness the natural and cultural wonders of the Canaries, including Tenerife’s Mount Teide National Park, the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, La Gomera’s Garajonay National Park, and the Biosphere Reserve of La Palma.
Explore the ItineraryHighlights
Discover the sun-kissed Canaries
The Canary Islands' magnificent landscapes provide the ideal winter destination, with mild year-round sunshine. In La Palma, often described as 'La Isla Bonita' (The Beautiful Island) discover picturesque beaches of black sand, created by volcanic forces thousands of years ago, lush forests and colourful houses in the capital of Santa Cruz de la Palma. Meanwhile, La Gomera is a haven for nature lovers wanting to explore the diverse landscapes of steep cliffs and valleys, and Arrecife's lunar-like landscape enables exploration of Timanfaya National Park. The 'Fire Mountains' were created by volcanic eruptions in the 18th century and feature a striking panorama of lava fields, craters, and volcanic cones.
Immerse yourself in the Canarian way of life
Life in the Canaries is characterised by its unhurried and relaxed pace, blended beautifully with its subtropical climate. Throughout your cruise, you can indulge in local cuisines like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce in Tenerife and try aromatic Malvasía wine at a volcanic vineyard in Lanzarote; while in San Sebastian, you can immerse yourself in the islands' distinctive customs, including demonstrations of the ancient Silbo whistling language, which is exclusive to La Gomera. Experience the vivid rhythms of traditional Canarian music and dance, including Isa and Folías, and in Lisbon, visit a local bakery for a deliciously rich custard tart known as Pastéis de Nata.
Explore volcanic Canary Islands
Your cruise aboard Borealis has been planned for you to experience some of the vast, volcanic landscapes of the Canaries. As you arrive in Santa Cruz, the skyline is dominated by the iconic sight of Mount Teide, whose peak can be reached by cable car for stunning views across the surrounding landscape and neighbouring islands. From Arrecife, you are perfectly placed to explore Timanfaya National Park, with its spouting geysers and spectacular volcanic terrain, while La Gomera is home to a green paradise of laurisilva trees, crowning the centre of this beautiful island.
Life On Board
Introducing Borealis
Sister ship to Bolette, Borealis is perfectly suited for enjoying scenic cruising of the world's lesser-known waterways. From cruising past remarkable landscapes and historical sites to capturing the beauty of the natural world.
Borealis
Sister-ship to Bolette, Borealis is perfectly suited for taking guests on a journey around the globe, enabling more exploration in more exciting ports. Her smaller size, spacious public areas, open deck spaces and impressive array of restaurants make her perfect for longer voyages, and shorter journeys alike.
Sample Shore Tours
At each port of call on your cruise, we carefully research and hand pick Shore Tour options for you, designed for you see as many of the world's best destinations as possible.
Below, you will find some sample Shore Tours which will give you an example of what to expect on your cruise. Your Shore Tours will be available to book approximately 8-13 weeks prior to departure via your My Cruises account.
Cabo Girão
Explore Funchal's scenic landscape from top viewpoints and visit the village that inspired Sir Winston Churchill's paintings. Begin at Pico dos Barcelos for stunning city views, then head to Europe's highest sea cliff, Cabo Girão. Visit Câmara de Lobos, where Churchill painted, and enjoy a taste of Madeira wine.
££££
Funchal
Flowers of Funchal
Begin with a scenic drive to Palheiro Gardens to explore the beautiful garden before continuing to the family-owned Quinta Jardins do Lago, where Pedro, a local botanical enthusiast, will conduct an insightful orchid workshop.
££££
Funchal
Local Wines of La Palma
Head to Fuencaliente, one of the best wine-growing regions on the island. Visit the San Antonio volcanic park before stepping inside one of the island’s famous wine cellars to learn about the winemaking process and sample some wines.
££££
Santa Cruz de La Palma
Whale Watching from La Palma
Enjoy a tour sailing along the coastal waters of La Palma spotting for marine life.
££££
Santa Cruz de La Palma
Eco Tour of Hotel Jardín Tecina
Visit Hotel Jardín Tecina and see a variety of tropical flowers and plants from all over the world before continuing to Eco Finca of the Hotel. Explore the organic garden and finish with some traditional tapas on the beach.
££££
San Sebastian de la Gomera
Mount Teide Cable Car
Journey up Spain’s highest volcano, Mount Teide, via cable car to La Rambleta, 3,555 metres above sea level, affording fabulous views not only of the crater but of Tenerife and the other islands of the archipelago.
££££
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The Fire Mountains
Discover the fiery mountains of Timanfaya and witness the rustic nature of this otherworldly volcanic landscape caused by the eruptions that affected the southern part of the island.
££££
Arrecife
Your Guest Speakers
We’ve arranged for some wonderful guest speakers to join us for this cruise. They will be delivering a programme of insightful talks and activities to deepen your cultural, artistic and historical understanding of the destinations we will be exploring, well as helping you to enjoy the natural beauty of the places we visit.
Alan Oliver
Alan was university lecturer and havs given talks on cruise ships for over 15 years. Join him for a series of talks on the geology of the Canaries, including his own personal experiences having visiting them many times.
Dr Steve Head
Steve Head studied Zoology and Geology at Cambridge University. A Natural Historian and gardening enthusiast, Steve will be joining us on board to speak about the beautiful landscapes and gardens you will find on this cruise.
Martin Whipp - Go Stargazing
Go Stargazing is formed of a group of astronomers, all of whom are keen to encourage public interest in astronomy to as wide an audience as possible. On your cruise, expect to find them out on the top deck in the evenings conducting stargazing sessions.
Mike Eyley
Mike was raised bilingual in Spain and has built a diverse career, excelling in the leisure industry, education, and acquiring extensive knowledge in Spanish history, culture, food, and wine. He will be joining us on board to deliver a series of engaging talks about Spanish culture.
Treats & Pastimes
In addition to our Signature Experiences, we have a selection of lovely Treats & Pastimes for you to enjoy when on board. Just check your Daily Times each day for full details.
Cabins, Prices & Offers
Cabin Options On Your Cruise
* Prices correct as of 23:00 06/05/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.
* Prices correct as of 23:00 06/05/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.
Cabin Grades
Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)
Borealis' Balcony Junior Suites have a private balcony and sitting/bedroom area.
| Freedom Fare | From £3,499 pp |
|---|
360°
Terrace Cabin (TC)
Borealis' Terrace Cabins offer access to the Promenade Deck via sliding doors.
| Freedom Fare | From £2,599 pp |
|---|
360°
Ocean View (F)
Borealis' F Grade Ocean View cabins have two portholes and are on decks 1 & 2.
| Freedom Fare | From £1,799 pp |
|---|
360°
Interior Cabin (I)
Located on decks 1, 2 & 3, I Grade Interior cabins on Borealis have a bathroom with shower.
| Freedom Fare | From £1,499 pp |
|---|
360°
Single Interior Cabin (N)
Borealis' N Grade Single Interior cabins are situated on decks 1 & 2.
| Freedom Fare | From £2,699 pp |
|---|
360°
Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)
Borealis' Balcony Junior Suites have a private balcony and sitting/bedroom area.
| Freedom Fare | From £5,248.50 |
|---|
360°
Terrace Cabin (TC)
Borealis' Terrace Cabins offer access to the Promenade Deck via sliding doors.
| Freedom Fare | From £4,548.25 |
|---|
360°
Superior Ocean Fully Obstructed View (CO)
CO Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a fully obstructed picture view window.
| Freedom Fare | From £3,148.50 |
|---|
Interior Cabin (H)
H Grade Interior cabins on Borealis are located on decks 1 & 2.
| Freedom Fare | From £2,798.25 |
|---|
360°
Single Interior Cabin (N)
Borealis' N Grade Single Interior cabins are situated on decks 1 & 2.
| Freedom Fare | From £2,699 |
|---|
360°
What's Included
SO MUCH ALREADY INCLUDED
As well as our Signature Experiences, there are a host of other treats to enjoy on board our ships.
Dining & Lounges
- À la carte breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Daily buffet dining options
- Late night Supper Club
- Afternoon tea
- Self-service tea & coffee
- In-cabin dining & snacks
Treats & Pastimes
- Evening shows
- Live music & dancing
- Dance classes
- Lectures & talks
- Cookery demonstrations
- Traditional deck games
- Daily games & quizzes
Relaxation & Fitness
- Swimming Pools
- Jacuzzis
- Fitness Centre
- Fitness Classes
Enhance your cruise
Each of our cruises has been carefully designed for you to get the very best out of your time on board; and now you can enhance your cruise to make it even more special.
Need Some Help?
Take a look at our FAQs
The handy checklist below has been created to assist in making sure you remember all the important things to pack for your cruise.
Visa and health requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you check with a professionally qualified source and comply with such requirements. UK passport holders will need visas for certain Fred. Olsen cruise holidays and will advised at the time of booking. Your cruise booking information will also detail any requirements applicable to your holiday.
On certain sailings we offer two types of cruise fares; Freedom and Saver Fares.
Our single guests feel right at home on board our ships; Fred. Olsen have the reputation of sailing the friendliest fleet afloat.
Disembarking when your ship's at anchor is a very different experience to when it's docked portside. Getting ashore in this instance often involves the use of the ship's tender, which is accessed via the steps of a secure gangway.