06 Apr 2023
Southampton
5 nights
Balmoral
The cruise at a glance
The Olsen Way Highlights
Balmoral will spend Easter Sunday sailing the winding River Seine, passing French villages and scenic countryside after visiting Rouen – a feat only possible on smaller ships. An extended stay in the Normandy capital gives you time to explore in more depth. You will find streets lined by half-timbered architecture and sites connected to Joan of Arc. Alternatively, you can see the famous landmarks of romantic Paris by both day and night on a tour. Falmouth – where only smaller ships can dock – is the gateway to the Cornish attractions of the Eden Project and St Michael’s Mount.
Explore the ItineraryHighlights
Explore Monet’s House & Gardens
Visit the house and gardens of one of the most famous painters in the world on this cultural tour. It is believed Monet moved here to develop his three passions; painting, gardening and photography. His iconic pink and green house, impressive flowers and Japanese gardens served as inspiration for multiple pieces of his work.
River Seine Scenic Discovery
Cutting through the French countryside, the River Seine winds its way from Le Harve, through to Normandy, Burgundy and Paris for 420 nautical miles. As we sail along this stretch of river, you can take in sights of rolling landscapes showcasing diverse flora and fauna, as well as historical sites such as the Museum of Victor Hugo, the white towers of the Jumièges Abbey, one of the oldest and most important Benedictine monasteries in Normandy. We will also pass under the Pont De Normandie, which was once the longest cable-stayed bridge in France, as well as the impressive Bridge of Tancarville.
Life On Board
Introducing Balmoral
Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral retains a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open deck space.
Balmoral
Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral offers a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.
Our Signature Experiences
To make your experience even more special, our Journey Planners have designed a unique programme of Signature Experiences which will allow you to discover real insights about the culture and nature of the places we are visiting, so you can arrive in each destination fully prepared to get the most out of your visit.
We have carefully curated a programme of events to give you a deeper understanding of each of the destinations you will be visiting
Our Scenic Discoveries are designed to allow you to enjoy seeing the world from the unique perspective of our ships
Maritime is in our DNA - our history in shipping goes back almost 200 years
There’s very little in the natural world more beautiful than a clear night sky, sunrise or sunset seen at sea
We love to bring a taste of the region's food, drink, local tastes and culinary traditions to life on board
Cabins, Prices & Offers
Cabin Options On Your Cruise
Please call our Reservations Team for latest pricing and availability.
What's Included
SO MUCH ALREADY INCLUDED
As well as our Signature Experiences, there is 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
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.
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 FAQ's
What do I pack for a cruise?
The handy checklist below has been created to assist in making sure you remember all the important things to pack for your cruise.
Are there any visa requirements I need to be aware of?
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.
What's the difference between Freedom and Saver fares?
On certain sailings we offer two types of cruise fares; Freedom and Saver Fares.
I'm travelling alone, how will I get to meet people?
Our single guests feel right at home on board our ships; Fred. Olsen have the reputation of sailing the friendliest fleet afloat.
How do I get off the ship if we're at anchor?
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.