Your cruise at a glance
Hand-crafted highlights
Remarkable landscapes, intriguing folklore and fascinating wildlife await your discovery on this journey to Iceland. Reykjavik is well-placed for discovering geothermal areas, volcanic vistas and thundering waterfalls, while Ísafjörður is ideal for delving into the local way of life in one of the country’s most remote areas. You can join a whale-watching tour in Akureyri, while also having the chance to spot cetaceans from Balmoral with the help of representatives from wildlife charity ORCA; or join astronomers from Go Stargazing out on deck to look out planets and constellations in the night sky. There will be plenty of Scenic Discoveries too, including cruising past the Hornbjarg cliffs in the remote Westfjörds region – timed to coincide with sunset – and the Borgarfjörður Eystri, home to elves, according to local legend.
Explore the ItineraryHighlights
Discover Rugged Landscapes
Our journey planners have crafted this cruise to enable you to experience the beauty of the contrasting landscapes of Iceland, such as volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, waterfalls and fjords. From Reykjavik, explore the Golden Circle, with visits to Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir Geothermal Area. As Balmoral docks in Ísafjörður, join us on a tour to see the magnificent Dynjandi Falls, known as the 'Jewel of the Westfjords'. You'll be joined on this cruise by Environmental Science expert Stuart Kirk, who will speak about the beginnings of Iceland through its rugged landscapes.
Embracing Icelandic Life
As Balmoral sails to the remarkable landscapes of Iceland, you'll discover more about how the country's unique blend of nature and culture has shaped life here. Embrace a connection with nature by enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or fishing, or relax in the geothermal pools of the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon, from Reykjavik. Learn stories of trolls and elves, and sample local foods including Skyr, or Hakarl - Iceland's national dish. Reykjavik local, Sólveig Dagmar Þórisdóttir, will join you on board to speak about the way of life in Iceland.
Seeking out marine life with ORCA
We have timed this cruise to Iceland for you to have the best possible opportunity to identify various species of marine life from the decks of Balmoral, accompanied by expert conservationists from ORCA. From Reykjavik, join us as we go in search of the Atlantic puffin on the islands of Akurey or Lundey; or enjoy whale watching in Akureryi with a marine biologist, who will help you to spot humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoise.
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.
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.
Golden Circle
Witness Iceland’s spectacular natural wonders. Drive over the moorlands of Mosfellsheiði en route to Þingvellir National Park. Visit Goðafoss Waterfall and watch the water from the Hvítá River thunder before visiting the Geysir geothermal area.
££££
Reykjavík
Sea Angling
This sea angling adventure offers the fantastic experience of catching wild fish straight from the ocean in the beautiful surroundings of Faxaflói Bay. The most commonly caught fish in these waters are cod, haddock, pollock and catfish. Your Captain will share their extensive knowledge of the area, spot the best place to fish, and answer any questions you may have.
££££
Reykjavík
Dynjandi Falls
Visit the magnificent Dynjandi Waterfall. Located in the beautiful Arnarfjörður, this magnificent 100m tall waterfall cascades down the mountainside, spreading out like a bridal veil. You will have plenty of time here to explore, take pictures and enjoy the spectacular views.
££££
Ísafjörður
Secluded Valley Life
Explore rural life in the Westfjords with a visit to Holt Farm in Onundarfjordur. Meet local farmers, discover the historic farm church, and savor Icelandic treats at Holt Inn. Learn about farming practices and meet the sheep. Hear tales of the legendary cow Sæun before returning to your ship.
££££
Ísafjörður
A Taste of Ísafjörður's Fishing Life
Embark on a walking tour led by Kári, the friendly fish store owner in Ísafjörður. Explore the store's back area, learning about local fish species and enjoying a sushi tasting. Visit Dokkan microbrewery for beer sampling, then savor seafood soup at Tjöruhúsið, housed in one of Ísafjörður's oldest buildings.
££££
Ísafjörður
Whale Watching
This adventure through Eyjafjörður will give you spectacular 360-degree views of the stunning mountain ranges as you sail the tranquil waters in search of the gentle and curious giants who live here.
££££
Akureyri
Whale Watching with a Marine Biologist
Embark on a picturesque drive along Eyjafjörður to Húsavík, then board a boat for a voyage with a Marine Biologist across Skjálfandi Bay. Keep watch for humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises. After returning, savor a delightful meal and explore the Whale Museum.
££££
Akureyri
Waterfall Tour of the North
Witness some of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls and landscapes on this scenic tour. Visit Lake Mývatn, the fourth-largest lake in Iceland and Dettifoss Waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The highlight of this tour is a visit to the magnificent Goðafoss Waterfall, also known as the ‘Waterfall of the Gods.’
££££
Akureyri
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.
Dr. Fred Stevenson - 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 Dr. Fred Stevenson out on the top deck in the evenings conducting stargazing sessions.
Orca
Founded in 2001, ORCA is a group of Ocean Conservationists. Join them out on deck to search the seas for marine life.
Stuart Kirk
Environmental Scientist, Stuart Kirk with over 30 years of experience of the natural environment and sustainability will be speaking about the making of Iceland, it's use of geothermal power and unique landscapes.
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 12:00 24/04/2024, 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 12:00 24/04/2024, 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)
Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have a large cabin area and private balcony
| Freedom Fare | From £3,099 pp |
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360°
Balcony Cabin (BA)
Located on Deck 8 & 9, Balcony Cabins have a private balcony and spacious cabin area
| Freedom Fare | From £2,899 pp |
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Ocean View (F)
Two portholes in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins offer ocean views
| Freedom Fare | From £1,499 pp |
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360°
Interior Cabin (I)
I Grade Inside cabins on Balmoral offer everything you need on a cruise.
| Freedom Fare | From £1,299 pp |
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Single Interior Cabin (N)
N Grade Single Interior cabins are located on decks 3 & 6
| Freedom Fare | From £2,299 pp |
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Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)
Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have a large cabin area and private balcony
| Freedom Fare | From £5,888.10 |
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360°
Balcony Cabin (BA)
Located on Deck 8 & 9, Balcony Cabins have a private balcony and spacious cabin area
| Freedom Fare | From £5,508.10 |
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360°
Ocean View (F)
Two portholes in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins offer ocean views
| Freedom Fare | From £2,623.25 |
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360°
Interior Cabin (H)
Balmoral’s H Grade Interior cabins offer all the features you need on a cruise
| Freedom Fare | From £2,448.25 |
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Single Interior Cabin (N)
N Grade Single Interior cabins are located on decks 3 & 6
| Freedom Fare | From £2,299 |
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360°
Cruise Offers
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.