German Christmas Markets
German cities really come to life at ‘the most wonderful time of year’, and in Bremen and Hamburg you’ll have opportunities to fully immerse yourself in the country’s famous yuletide spirit. These cities are dazzling at Christmas, and you can experience the magic of their dreamland-esque Christmas markets, alive with the twinkling of lights and decorations, the buzz of people searching traditional wooden huts for a variety of gifts and treats, and the tempting scents and sweet-spiced flavours of authentic glühwein and lebkuchen.[ReadMoreMob]
Aside from the festive treasures, there’s also time to pack in plenty of other highlights during your memorable German city discovery. With Balmoral docking close to Bremen’s historic, UNESCO-listed centre, it’s easy to embark on a walking tour to take in the city’s gothic architecture and attractions such as the Schnoor medieval district and the trendy dockland area. Meanwhile an overnight stay in Hamburg is your chance to savour Hanseatic architecture, impressive landmarks, visit the unique Miniatur Wunderland, and take a scenic boat tour of the beautiful Alster Lake too.
Your Itinerary
- Immerse yourself in the famous yuletide spirit of Germany
- Experience the magic of German Christmas markets
- Seek out Hamburg’s impressive architectural landmarks
Portsmouth, England
Nov 30 | Depart - early evening
As one of the Royal Navy's most significant ports and the birthplace of Charles Dickens and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Portsmouth has an extensive heritage and boasts an abundance of unique attractions, most of which are found at the vibrant waterfront. There's plenty to discover, explore and enjoy in this often overlooked city.
The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard boasts over 800 years of maritime history and its exhibts include the Mary Rose, HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. Stunning views of the city and the Isle of Wight from the top of the iconic Spinnaker Tower - often called 'Britain's greatest viewing tower' - are not to be missed, while the Round Tower - one of the city's oldest permanent fortifications - and Southsea Castle are well worth a look too. The stylish Gunwharf Quays shopping outlet is home to over 100 premium stores and restaurants - perfect for a little retail therapy.
Bremen, Germany
Dec 02 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late evening
The key maritime role played by the city of Bremen, which straddles the Weser River in northwest Germany, is underlined by its impressive Hanseatic buildings. Bremen’s Hanseatic Gothic architecture in the Marktplatz and narrow timber buildings in the Schnoor Quarter are the standout highlights in the oldest part of the city. The ornate Gothic Town Hall, originally built between 1405 and 1410, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features a restaurant with original Hanseatic era décor, as well as the Bremer Ratskeller, a public house in the basement.
The Town Hall is also home to a number of large model ships in its upper hall and 12 of the oldest wines in the world. Nearby is the Roland Statue, a giant stone figure that symbolises freedom of trade.
In contrast, Überseestadt – the former docklands – offers a completely different experience and is a fine example of modern Bremen. Here, a selection of trendy bars, stylish cafes and fine restaurants can be found, as well as a beautiful harbour and yacht-filled marina.
Hamburg, Germany
Dec 03 - 04 | Arrive - early afternoon | Depart - early evening
Located on the River Elbe, Hamburg is the country’s largest port and regarded as Germany’s gateway to the world.
A vibrant, historic city boasting an impressive Hanseatic League heritage that harks back over 700 years, Hamburg’s maritime soul permeates the city. From its architecture to its cuisine, water is ever present in Germany's principal port. The city is crossed by hundreds of canals, and spanned by 1,000 bridges. Near its centre, the charming Inner Alster Lake is dotted with boats and surrounded by divine cafes.
Hamburg is awash with historic buildings and monuments typical of Hanseatic culture. The steeple of St. Nikolai – a church almost destroyed in World War II, the 17th century Zollenbrücke Bridge and Hamburg Rathaus are must-visit sites. The central Jungfernstieg Boulevard connects the Neustadt (new town) with the Altstadt (old town), home to the impressive 18th century St. Michael’s Church.
In the city centre, the amazing Miniatur Wunderland museum is highly recommended, as is the ocean-liner-shaped Chilehaus, the crowning glory of the UNESCO-listed Kontorhaus District. The flourishing swathe of stylish shops, excellent restaurants and legendary nightlife – a celebration of cosmopolitan Hamburg – add more exciting dimensions to this city.
Hamburg's waterfront district offers much to enjoy. Visit the popular Fischmarkt, discover an array of lively bars and restaurants at the harbour, watch Europe's second largest port in action or head to Hafen City, a newly developed urban quarter.
Portsmouth, England
Dec 06 | Arrive - early morning
As one of the Royal Navy's most significant ports and the birthplace of Charles Dickens and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Portsmouth has an extensive heritage and boasts an abundance of unique attractions, most of which are found at the vibrant waterfront. There's plenty to discover, explore and enjoy in this often overlooked city.
The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard boasts over 800 years of maritime history and its exhibts include the Mary Rose, HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. Stunning views of the city and the Isle of Wight from the top of the iconic Spinnaker Tower - often called 'Britain's greatest viewing tower' - are not to be missed, while the Round Tower - one of the city's oldest permanent fortifications - and Southsea Castle are well worth a look too. The stylish Gunwharf Quays shopping outlet is home to over 100 premium stores and restaurants - perfect for a little retail therapy.
Pricing & cabins
* Prices correct as of 00:00 21/09/2021, 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 £1,399 per person
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
This suite is approximately 279 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 472 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on cabin balconies.
PS - Premier Suite
This suite is approximately 600 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on cabin 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 £1,249 per person
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
These rooms are approximately 248 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 260 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 £849 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 cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Interior
From £699 per person
G - Superior Interior Cabin
Our Superior Interior Cabins are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
These cabins 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 cabins 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 cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
I - Interior Cabin
This cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
* Prices correct as of 00:00 21/09/2021, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call 0800 035 5130 for live availability & prices.
Suite
From £2,798
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
This suite is approximately 279 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 472 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on cabin balconies.
PS - Premier Suite
This suite is approximately 600 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on cabin 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 £2,498
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
These rooms are approximately 248 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 260 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 £1,273.50
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 cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Interior
From £1,310.75
G - Superior Interior Cabin
Our Superior Interior Cabins are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
These cabins 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 cabins 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 cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
I - Interior Cabin
This cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
Single
From £1,199
J - Single Superior Ocean View
This cabin 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 cabins 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 274 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on cabin balconies.
*Please note that some of the JB grades have 2 beds, but are sold as Single Balcony Suites.
K - Single Ocean View
This cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
L - Single Ocean View
This cabin 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 cabins 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 cabin 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 cabins are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
N - Single Interior Cabin
These cabins 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 cabins 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.
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.