In Search of the Northern Lights
On-board spend/Tips covered offer: applicable to new bookings, made from 16/08/21 onwards, on sailings of up to 19 nights in duration, departing from the UK, between January 2022 and May 2023, excluding cruises L22SN, T2212, & M2223; cruises over 20 nights & Fly-cruises including M2233 are excluded. Free On Board Spend amount is per person (pp), up to two guests per cabin, amount varies per cruise up to £100 pp. E&OE.
From glorious snow-smothered landscapes to enchanting native wildlife, you’ll encounter Northern Norway’s wonders at their most dramatic in just eight nights after departing the northerly port of Newcastle. This winter adventure will be full of unforgettable experiences, with chances to witness the astounding Aurora Borealis the icing on the cake. When darkness descends, you might be lucky enough to see Mother Nature’s spectacular Northern Lights illuminating the night sky with dancing ribbons of colour as you breathe in the Arctic’s cool, crisp air, all whilst wrapped up warm out on Balmoral’s classic open decks.
There are many magical memories to create during time ashore too. You could uncover a wonderland of wintery scenes on an exhilarating husky ride, with a chance to ‘take the reins’ as a Musher and experience the thrill of guiding your team into the unspoilt wilderness, during a visit to Tromsø. At Bodø, situated on the beautiful Kystriksveien Coastal Route, immerse yourself in the town’s rugged scenery and fishing heritage, and listen out for soaring Sea Eagles overhead; and perhaps head to the top of Mount Aksla in Ålesund, for postcard-perfect panoramas. And, as if all that wasn’t enough, you’ll get to marvel at the magnificence of the unique Torghatten ‘mountain with a hole’ and striking Seven Sisters from the comfort of your smaller ship too.
Your Itinerary
- Experience Arctic Norway at its most dramatic
- A chance to see ribbons of colour across the night sky
- Ashore, you can explore breathtaking coastal scenery
Newcastle, England
Mar 15 | Depart - late afternoon
Renowed for it's diverse range of cultures, impressive architecture, welcoming atmosphere and exciting attractions, Newcastle is an increasingly popular tourist destination and when you see the stunning bridges that cross the River Tyne, take advantage of the fantastic shopping on offer and sample the famous Geordie spirit, you'll quickly understand why.
With so much to see and do, there's plenty to keep you occupied both within the city centre and a little further afield. Be sure to head down to the riverside to see the world-famous Tyne Bridge and cross the magnificent Millenium Bridge, visit the Metrocentre - Europe's largest indoor shopping and leisure centre - to indulge in a little retail therapy and wander along the city's famous Grey Street - once voted Britain's best street - before heading out into the Northumbrian countryside in search of renowned monuments including the Angel of the North and Hadrian's Wall.
Ålesund, Norway
Mar 17 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early afternoon
Ålesund is Norway’s popular, art-nouveau epic of towers and turrets, ornaments and balconies, steeples and spires. The city’s delightful pedestrianised streets, offer a diverse mix of art galleries, shops and lively cafés, and lead to the 418 steps that climb Mount Aksla. The Fjellstua restaurant and café at the summit is the perfect place to sit and soak up panoramic views of this attractive city, the archipelago, and the Sunnmore Alps.
Virtually destroyed by fire in 1904, Ålesund was rebuilt within three years and is regarded widely as one of Europe’s true visual experiences. The port is home to the Jugendstilsenteret – The National Art Nouveau Centre –, which has a well-preserved art nouveau interior and regularly features exhibitions and displays.
Gateway to the fjords of Northern Norway
Ålesund is the gateway to the iconic northwestern fjords and this seaport is the home base for Norway's largest cod-fishing fleet, which, unsurprisingly, provides the city's visitors with some superb seafood to try.
Tromsø, Norway
Mar 19 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening
The island city of Tromsø is one of northern Norway’s true delights. Rich with neo-classical architecture, the city known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’ contains the largest number of wooden houses in Northern Norway, and its old world charm makes it a joy to explore.
A major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is famed as a viewing point for the colourful Northern Lights that often light up the night sky. The city’s most recognisable landmark is the must-visit Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965, the cathedral’s distinctive iceberg-shaped design was inspired by the landscapes of Northern Norway and features a beautiful glass mosaic.
The many museums and galleries in the city include the Perspektivet Museum – set in a neo-classical building built in 1838 that has exhibits from Tromsø’s past, plus the Art Museum of Northern Norway and the Mack Brewery. Tromsø is also home to Polaria, an Arctic aquarium that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The aquarium’s tanks are full of Arctic fish species, and the friendly bearded seals always delight the visiting crowds.
Tromsø, and the stunning landscapes that surround it, are best viewed from the top of the Storsteinen Mountain, which stands 420 metres above sea level. Accessible via cable car, the peak is easy to reach and one of the most popular spots on the edge of the city.
Narvik, Norway
Mar 20 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening
Founded in 1903, Narvik is a relatively new city but still offers a fascinating history. Located north of the Arctic Circle, the city's harbour is surprisingly ice-free, however, there are still a number of stunning Arctic sights to see, including the Narvikfjellet Mountain.
Although over 400km north of the Arctic Circle, Narvik’s harbour is ice-free and in use all year as a port for iron ore exports. Although inhabited since prehistoric times, the town was not established until 1903 when the Ofoten Railway was
completed. The line is a tourist attraction in itself, running 42km through magnificent scenery to the Swedish border. A cable car ride from the centre of town to the viewpoint on the Narvikfjellet Mountain gives fabulous views over the Ofotfjord and surrounding area.
Close to the town centre is the Ofoten Museum, with displays of local history including 5,000-year-old rock carvings. The Nordland Red Cross War Memorial Museum commemorates the occupation of Narvik in the Second World War. Narvik Church is a fine example of Scandinavian architecture, with a painted altar piece by Eilif Pettersen, while the northernmost animal park, Polar Park, is worth a look.
Bodø, Norway
Mar 21 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
The charming town of Bodø is the northernmost point on the stunning Kystriksveien Coastal Route and home to the world's strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen. The port represents the northern terminus of Norway's railway system, and is ideal for year round bird spotting as it boasts the world’s densest population of sea eagles.
The curious experience of the midnight sun from the summit of Mount Ronvikfjellet is a sight to behold, while strolling along Bodø’s chalk-white beach, or enjoying some shopping in the bustling town centre, are popular pastimes.
The majestic stained-glass windows and delicate tapestries within Bodø Cathedral make for a particularly worthwhile trip. Bodø’s historic past can be uncovered by visiting one of the town’s museums, and the Aviation Museum offers a glimpse into Norway’s aviation history. Exhibits include famous aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire, Tiger Moth and F-86 Sabre.
Newcastle, England
Mar 24 | Arrive - early morning
Renowed for it's diverse range of cultures, impressive architecture, welcoming atmosphere and exciting attractions, Newcastle is an increasingly popular tourist destination and when you see the stunning bridges that cross the River Tyne, take advantage of the fantastic shopping on offer and sample the famous Geordie spirit, you'll quickly understand why.
With so much to see and do, there's plenty to keep you occupied both within the city centre and a little further afield. Be sure to head down to the riverside to see the world-famous Tyne Bridge and cross the magnificent Millenium Bridge, visit the Metrocentre - Europe's largest indoor shopping and leisure centre - to indulge in a little retail therapy and wander along the city's famous Grey Street - once voted Britain's best street - before heading out into the Northumbrian countryside in search of renowned monuments including the Angel of the North and Hadrian's Wall.
Pricing & cabins
* Prices correct as of 06:00 26/09/2021, 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 £3,299 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.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
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.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
OW - Owner's Suite
Exclusive suite - please call for more details.
Please call for latest prices
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.
Please call for latest prices
360° ViewSS - 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
Please Call
Ocean
From £1,499 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).
Please call for latest prices
360° View
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 £1,349 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 06:00 26/09/2021, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call 0800 035 5130 for live availability & prices.
Suite
From £6,598
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.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
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.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
OW - Owner's Suite
Exclusive suite - please call for more details.
Please call for latest prices
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.
Please call for latest prices
360° ViewSS - 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
Please Call
Ocean
From £2,623.25
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).
Please call for latest prices
360° View
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 £2,448.25
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 £2,199
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.
Please call for latest prices
360° View
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.
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.