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European River Cities & Christmas Markets

L2436

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The Great market square in Antwerp, Belgium The Great market square in Antwerp, Belgium

16 Dec 2024

Southampton

6 nights

Balmoral

The cruise at a glance

The Olsen Way Highlights

Our Journey Planners have crafted your cruise to coincide with Christmas Markets in two European cities, which are reached via historically important rivers. You can soak up the cosy atmosphere while browsing the stalls for traditional handicrafts and sipping on warming mulled wine. In Antwerp, there will be chances to view art nouveau architecture, unearth the works of Rembrandt, sample Belgian chocolate and explore the diamond district – the largest of its kind in the world. Rouen’s medieval streets, half-timbered buildings and links to Joan of Arc are yours to discover before Balmoral sails the picturesque River Seine via the French countryside – a journey only possible on smaller ships.

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Highlights

Chocolate chef decorating Belgian pralines or chocolates with nuts, Brussels

Belgian chocolate

The history of Belgian chocolate dates back to the 17th century, when explorers brought cocoa beans from South America and introduced them to the Belgian community. It was first used as a tonic by pharmacists; but then in 1840, Belgian chocolate maker Berwaerts sold the first pressed chocolate tablets, pastilles and figurines. In 1912, chocolatier Jean Neuhaus Jr, grandson of a Brussels-based Swiss pharmacist, replaced the tablet inside the chocolate with a tasty filling of creamy ganache and thus praline was invented. After many years of perfecting their trades, the ‘Belgian Chocolate Code’ was developed to ensure Belgian chocolate actually comes from Belgium, and it is the main trader of chocolate worldwide.

Christmas decorations on the market

Christmas Markets

This cruise has been perfectly timed for guests to experience festive Christmas Markets that are held in the cities being visited. Browse rows of stalls offering handcrafted gifts and delicious wintertime treats, see charming festivals and intricate light displays; before exploring Art Nouveau Antwerp and Medieval Rouen in greater depth.

River Seine, France

River Seine

Extending for 485 miles from close to Dijon, the River Seine ends in the English Channel near Le Havre, and has been a river of historical and transport importance since the Middle Ages. During the Iron Age, the river was used to transport tin from Cornwall to Europe; the Romans used it to increase trade; before the Vikings included Paris on the waterway, thus connecting it to the British Isles. In the past 20 years, tons of sand, palm trees and beach chairs are brought to parts of France bordering the river in the summer months, where locals enjoy spending time at the manmade beaches – or Paris Plages.

Itinerary

Cruise Itinerary

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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
Fred. Olsen ship Balmoral sailing at dawn

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.

710 cabins
1,325 guests
551 crew
43,537 GT
16kts max speed
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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.

Itinerary Insights

We have carefully curated a programme of events to give you a deeper understanding of each of the destinations you will be visiting

Scenic Discoveries

Our Scenic Discoveries are designed to allow you to enjoy seeing the world from the unique perspective of our ships

The Ship and the Sea

Maritime is in our DNA - our history in shipping goes back almost 200 years

The Sky at Sea

There’s very little in the natural world more beautiful than a clear night sky, sunrise or sunset seen at sea

Treats of the Region

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

* Prices correct as of 00:00 29/09/2023, 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 00:00 29/09/2023, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

Cabin Grades

Standard Pricing Solo Pricing
Suite

Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)

Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have a large cabin area and private balcony

Freedom Fare From £1,699 pp
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Suite

Marquee Suite (MS)

Situated on deck 10, Marquee Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £2,299 pp
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Suite

Owner's Suite (OW)

Exclusive Suite - please call for more details

Freedom Fare From £2,999 pp
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Suite

Premier Suite (PS)

Located on deck 10, Premier Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £2,499 pp
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Suite

Superior Suite (SS)

Located on decks 9 & 10, Superior Suites have a balcony and large cabin area

Freedom Fare From £1,799 pp
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Cruise Offers

Enjoy FREE drinks   Saver Fare
Freedom Fare

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.

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.

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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.

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