Belgium & the Netherlands at Christmas
On board spend offer: On Board Spend amounts vary per cruise. On Board Spend is non-transferrable. No refunds will be given for the credit amount shown. No cash alternative will be given for unused spend. Complimentary or chargeable cabin upgrades, where applicable, will not alter the on board spend value. On board spend is applicable for a maximum of two guests per cabin.
Save up to £250 per person: applicable to August to December 2021 sailings only; amounts vary per cruise – check availability to see applicable offers on selected fares and grades. Savings amount is per person and not applicable to 3rd/4th guest in cabin.
On board spend and savings offers are not combinable with any other offer, unless stated; offers are capacity controlled and subject to availability.
Immersive European city discovery, scenic river exploration, and a taste of small ship cruising with Fred. Olsen all combines to create an immensely rewarding and relaxing pre-Christmas getaway. Leave the festive stress behind and head to Belgium, to sail the picturesque Western Scheldt River into charming Antwerp. With Balmoral docking in the heart of the city, you’ll be perfectly placed seek-out elaborate architectural highlights such as Grote Markt and the Cathedral of our Lady; discover traditional Belgian chocolate shops; and explore the legendary Diamond District, where you could not only see some of the world’s finest jewels, but help to polish a rough diamond too.
In the Netherlands, there’s a memorable overnight stay in Amsterdam. You’ll arrive here in the evening, when the Dutch capital’s Christmas markets feel their most vibrant, with locals and visitors from around the world making the most of the festive food, drink and activities on offer. Then you’ve a day to take in many world-famous attractions; you could take advantage of the opportunity to visit Anne Frank House, immerse yourself in this effervescent city’s arts and culture at the Museum Quarter, and see the grand mansions of the UNESCO-listed Canal Ring. You’re sure to be tempted to take to Amsterdam’s iconic canals too – a boat tour of the city, passing underneath low bridges and through charming districts, is an unforgettable way to see the sights.
Your Itinerary
- A rewarding and relaxing pre-Christmas escape
- Sail into the heart of Antwerp, where much awaits
- Revel in the world-famous attractions of Amsterdam
Southampton, England
Dec 17 | Depart - late afternoon
Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dec 18 - 19 | Arrive - early evening | Depart - late afternoon
Golden Age canals lined with elegant merchant homes is the familiar backdrop for the Netherlands' historic capital, Amsterdam. Established in the 17th century with the construction of the River Amstel dam, this celebrated port offers everything from treasure-packed museums and antiquarian bookshops to chic boutiques and convivial cafés. Equally, art is never far away in this hub of uber-creative design. One noticeable thing about the city is that, some 150 years after its industrial heyday, Amsterdam is once again awash with producers.
Amsterdam has some 40 museums, and the Museum Quarter boasts three of the most famous: the Rijksmuseum has paintings from Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals; the Van Gogh Museum; and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, displays work from Manet to Picasso. The Anne Frankhuis where Anne Frank and her family hid from German troops during the World War II, is an experience many visitors seek.
Whether on boat or bike - there are more bikes than permanent residents - exploration of the city is relatively straightforward, and a tour of the Canal Ring district, an UNESCO World Heritage site, is not to be missed. Seemingly unchanged since the 17th century, the district has been recognised for its unique cultural and historical values, and is home to many exclusive gabled facades and their celebrity owners.
Antwerp, Belgium
Dec 20 - 21 | Arrive - early afternoon | Depart - early afternoon
Belgium’s charming, medieval city of Antwerp is the country’s biggest port and often recognised as its capital of cool. It has proved an alluring city for centuries, attracting lovers of art, fashion and, of course, diamonds – over 80% of the world's rough diamonds pass through the city's famous diamond district at some point or other. Renowned for its charm and sparkle, Antwerp was one of Europe’s principle cities in the mid-16th century and has maintained the essence of its medieval past, despite severe bombing during World War II.
A riverside fortress and numerous intriguing cobbled streets are overshadowed by the 123m high tower of the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady, the biggest church in Benelux. Its construction started in 1352 on the site of a 10th century chapel, but like many medieval religious buildings, it took several centuries to complete. The cathedral interior has four altarpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, a legendary artist from the Baroque era. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to Rubens and houses many of his finest works, along with those of other Flemish masters.
There are more than 20 other museums in the city, while the abundant attractions of this cultural gem also include a vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, a robust café culture, excellent shops and delightful parks and gardens. Fine dining is also on the menu, and one of Antwerp's most popular restaurants, The Jane, brings it all together with a slice of rock and roll.
Southampton, England
Dec 22 | Arrive - early morning
Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.
Pricing & cabins
* Prices correct as of 08:00 24/07/2021, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call 0800 035 5130 for live availability & prices.
Suite
From £1,099 per person
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
This suite is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 and Lido Deck 8.
This suite has a bedroom with a sitting area and a balcony. There is an en-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Please note, rooms 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.
MS - Marquee Suite
This suite is approximately 390 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
This suite has a bedroom with a large double bed and a sitting area, a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
PS - Premier Suite
This suite is approximately 430 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
This suite has a sitting room, balcony and a bedroom with large double bed and bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
SS - Superior Suite
This style of suite is approximately 275 square feet in size, and can be found on Highland Deck 10 and Bridge Deck 9.
This suite has a sitting area with a balcony and a bedroom with a twin or double bed. The bathroom has a bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Balcony
From £949 per person
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
These rooms are approximately 190 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
Slightly larger than a BC grade, these rooms have a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
BC - Balcony Cabin
This room is approximately 180 square feet in size, and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
It has a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Ocean
From £599 per person
A - Superior Ocean View
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
B - Superior Ocean View
Approx. 165 square feet in size, these rooms are located on the Lido Deck 8 and Main Deck 6.
Fitted with everything you need for your stay, there’s a picture window too.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted view.
C - Superior Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5.
It has a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
D - Ocean View
These rooms are approximately 165 square feet in size, and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5 and Coral Deck 4.
They have a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
E - Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.
It has a picture window and a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
F - Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3.
It has 2 portholes, bathroom with a shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Interior
From £549 per person
G - Superior Interior Cabin
Our Superior Interior Rooms are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
These rooms have a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.
H - Interior Cabin
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Atlantic Deck 5.
It has a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
I - Interior Cabin
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 and Marina Deck 3.
It has a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
* Prices correct as of 08:00 24/07/2021, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call 0800 035 5130 for live availability & prices.
Suite
From £2,298
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
This suite is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 and Lido Deck 8.
This suite has a bedroom with a sitting area and a balcony. There is an en-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Please note, rooms 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.
MS - Marquee Suite
This suite is approximately 390 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
This suite has a bedroom with a large double bed and a sitting area, a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
PS - Premier Suite
This suite is approximately 430 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
This suite has a sitting room, balcony and a bedroom with large double bed and bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
SS - Superior Suite
This style of suite is approximately 275 square feet in size, and can be found on Highland Deck 10 and Bridge Deck 9.
This suite has a sitting area with a balcony and a bedroom with a twin or double bed. The bathroom has a bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Balcony
From £1,998
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
These rooms are approximately 190 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
Slightly larger than a BC grade, these rooms have a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
BC - Balcony Cabin
This room is approximately 180 square feet in size, and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
It has a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Ocean
From £948.50
A - Superior Ocean View
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
B - Superior Ocean View
Approx. 165 square feet in size, these rooms are located on the Lido Deck 8 and Main Deck 6.
Fitted with everything you need for your stay, there’s a picture window too.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted view.
C - Superior Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5.
It has a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
D - Ocean View
These rooms are approximately 165 square feet in size, and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5 and Coral Deck 4.
They have a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
E - Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.
It has a picture window and a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
F - Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3.
It has 2 portholes, bathroom with a shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Interior
From £1,035.75
G - Superior Interior Cabin
Our Superior Interior Rooms are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
These rooms have a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.
H - Interior Cabin
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Atlantic Deck 5.
It has a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
I - Interior Cabin
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 and Marina Deck 3.
It has a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Single
From £899
J - Single Superior Ocean View
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8.
It has a picture window, a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Please note rooms 8061 and 8072 have a small balcony.
JB - Single Balcony Suite
This suite is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
This suite has a bedroom with sitting area and a balcony. The bathroom has a bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
*Please note that some of the JB grades have 2 beds, but are sold as Single Balcony Suites.
K - Single Ocean View
This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.
It has a picture window and a bathroom with a shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
L - Single Ocean View
This room is approximately 140 square feet in size and can be found on Marina Deck 3.
It has a porthole and a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Please call for latest prices
360° View
M - Single Interior Cabin
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
It has a bath and/or shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
N - Single Interior Cabin
These rooms are approximately 130 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Marina Deck 3.
They have a bathroom with shower.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
What's Included?
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours. *Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea not included.
Upgrade to All Inclusive Drinks Package is available as a chargeable optional extra and can be added to your booking up to six days prior to your cruise departing.
Great value offers on selected fares and cabin grades available on this cruise. Prices shown may vary – please contact our Reservations team for further details.
The Fred. Olsen Difference
Our size advantage means we can take you to places that some of the larger cruise vessels simply can’t. We dock close to the heart of some of the world’s most beautiful cities and can take you on scenic cruising adventures showcasing inspirational landscapes. Our itineraries are expertly crafted to make the most of this advantage.
Aboard our smaller, friendlier ships you'll find there's plenty of room to stretch out by the pool, enjoy a drink and great conversation with like-minded guests, and make the most of your time away. Sailing with hundreds, not thousands, of others allows you to get ashore faster too, and make the most of each destination.
Each member of the Fred. Olsen team has been carefully selected for their warm and welcoming personalities. The quality of our people, supported by training and development, ensures they will give you a great holiday. In fact, 97% of guests rated Fred. Olsen’s friendly, attentive staff ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’.
About Your Ship
Balmoral, carrying up to 1,350 guests is small enough to navigate narrow waterways such as Kiel Canal and bring inspirational sights and experiences closer to you.
Like the rest of the fleet, Balmoral retains a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation and lounges, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.