31 Aug 2023
Liverpool
9 nights
Borealis
Your cruise at a glance
The Olsen Way Highlights
Some of Iceland’s greatest natural wonders are within reach of the destinations on this cruise. The Strokkur geyser showcases the country’s powerful geothermal activity, while a collection of impressive waterfalls are great examples of how Mother Nature has shaped these lands. Akureyri is well-placed for going in search of whales in their natural habitat, while in Isafjörður and Seyðisfjörður you can discover life in the more remote areas of Iceland. Borealis will also cruise past the Borgarfjörður Eystri – home to elves, according to local folklore.
Explore the ItineraryHighlights
The Natural Wonders of Iceland
Iceland is a volcanic land powered by geothermal activity, which is showcased by the impressive Strokkur geyser, spurting boiling water some 30 metres into the air every few moments. It erupted frequently during the 19th century, until a huge earthquake blocked its water channels; so in 1963 locals cleared the channels and it began to erupt once more – and to this day - at a rate of around 37 miles per hour. Strokkur also features as one of the attractions on the not-to-be-missed Golden Circle tour, along with Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall
Astonishing waterfalls
Iceland is well known for its abundance of waterfalls, where it is said there are close to 10,000, created from the glaciers and mountains surrounding its lands. Some of the most well-known include the horseshoe-shaped Godafoss, with multiple streams of water flowing into the river below; the quite simply breath-taking Gullfoss, which translates as Golden Falls, and is part of the Golden Circle tour; and the most powerful waterfall in Iceland – Dettifoss, renowned for its sheer force and raw beauty.
Folkloric tales of elves
On this cruise, Borealis will cruise by Borgarsfjordur eystri, where the ‘hidden people’ are said to live in the rocks surrounding the quiet village of Bakkagerði, and are revered by many of the local residents. Famous in Icelandic folklore, the neighbouring large rocky hill called Álfaborg is known as the ‘City of Elves’, while the fjord itself derives its name from being the home of the Icelandic Elf Queen, Borghildur. The country’s landscapes make it easy to believe the elves are real, as the jagged green mountains seem to move in and out of the mist, adding to their mystery.
Life On Board
Introducing Borealis
Sister-ship to Bolette, Borealis is perfectly suited for enjoying scenic cruising of the world's lesser-known waterways. From cruising past remarkable landscapes and historical sites to capturing the beauty of the natural world.
Borealis
Sister-ship to Bolette, Borealis is perfectly suited for taking guests on a journey around the globe, enabling more exploration in more exciting ports. Her smaller size, spacious public areas, open deck spaces and impressive array of restaurants make her perfect for longer voyages, and shorter journeys alike.
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
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
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
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.