Your cruise at a glance
Hand-crafted highlights
This week-long sailing showcases some of Britain’s most awe-inspiring nature, with visits to the capital of Northern Ireland and two remote Scottish isles. Belfast is your gateway to uncovering the volcanic emergence of the Giant’s Causeway, while in Lerwick and Stornoway, you can immerse yourself in traditions that are synonymous with Scotland, from tweed weaving to crofting. There’s even a chance to meet some inquisitive Shetland ponies. Borealis will take you on a Scenic Discovery past Sumburgh Head - this haven for wildlife will afford you the opportunity to spot marine life in the surrounding waters and birdlife, such as puffins, gannets and guillemots circling the cliffs.
Explore the ItineraryHighlights
Explore Scenic Islands & Coastlines
Our Journey Planners have designed this cruise to allow you to explore the scenic islands and coastlines of the Scottish Isles. When in Lerwick, you will also have the opportunity to discover Sumburgh Head at a closer distance and explore the steep cliffs that meet the North Sea, or embark on an idllyic cruise around the Island of Mousa. Meanwhile, in Belfast, you can explore one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, Giant’s Causeway. You can also head out on deck to enjoy scenic cruise commentary as we sail past Sumburgh Head and Troup Head.
Traditions of Island Life
As we sail through the Scottish Isles, immerse yourself in traditional island life. Stornoway is your gateway to the Isle of Harris Distillery, where you can discover the development and production of the whisky and enjoy trying the delicious final dram. Immerse yourself in local life by watching and participating in Gaelic song, hear stories of local folklore and enjoy hearing local musicians. You will be joined on this cruise by Isle of Harris local and Gaelic speaker, Catriona MacLennan, who will be sharing her experiences about the the way of life on the isles and Gaelic traditions.
The Legend Behind the Landmarks
Many of the landmarks that lie in Northern Ireland and the Scottish Isles have various folklore theories about how they appeared. When in Belfast, you are perfectly placed to explore Giant’s Causeway, a collection of striking stones that are said to have been built by the mythical giant, Finn McCool, and in Stornoway you can discover the mysterious Stones of Callanish, and the Dun Carloway Pictish Broch, that’s said to have been built by the Picts.
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
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.
Giant’s Causeway
Explore one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, Giant’s Causeway. Begin at the innovative Visitor’s Centre that showcases theories surrounding the Causeway’s origins and its links to the mythological giant, Finn McCool. As you explore the Causeway, discover remnants of the legend, including ‘The Giant’s Boot.’
££££
Belfast
Culture & Crofting Traditions of Lewis
Journey to North Lewis to discover the local culture and history of crofting. The local museum houses two exhibition galleries and a local history archive, and reflects various aspects of island life including crofting, fishing and local industries.
££££
Stornoway
A Taste of Lewis
Visit the Clan MacQuarrie Community Centre to taste local produce cooked by a Niseach Chef who will demonstrate how to cook these delicacies and teach you about their significance to the island.
££££
Stornoway
Isle of Harris Distillery Experience
Visit the Isle of Harris Distillery to learn about the stages of making the Hearach Dram. Visit the production room and blending hall, and enjoy tastings whilst learning the distillery’s history.
££££
Stornoway
Sumburgh Head Bird Cliffs & Lighthouse
Embark on a scenic drive across Shetland to Sumburgh Head, where a local expert offers a guided tour. Explore the RSPB Nature Reserve, observing nesting seabirds like guillemots and fulmars, and keep an eye out for passing cetaceans. Visit the Sumburgh Head Visitor Centre to delve into the area's history and natural heritage.
££££
Lerwick
Western Shetland - Meet the Locals
Delve into the significance of Shetland's fishing industry with insights from a local fisherman. Journey through Tingwall Valley, encountering Shetland ponies and learning from a breeder. Explore Girlsta and Weisdale before visiting the Shetland Jewellery Workshop to witness craftsmanship and perhaps acquire a unique piece.
££££
Lerwick
Jarlshof & Southern Shores
Journey to Jarlshof, an archaeological site home to stone structures, including late Neolithic houses, a Bronze-Age village, an Iron-Age broch and wheelhouses, several Norse longhouses, a Medieval farmstead, and a 16th-century laird’s house. Upon arrival, visit the remains of these village settlements. On your return journey, your guide will provide an insight into these islands whilst looking out for Shetland ponies.
££££
Lerwick
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.
Angela Young
Angela’s great-grandmother, Noel Rothes, was one of the survivors of the Titanic. On your cruise, she will share the story of Noel Rothes and Thomas Jones, an able Seaman who was put in charge of one of the lifeboats.
Catriona MacLennan
Catriona was borned and raised in Harris and will be joining us to share the Gaelic language, culture and day-to-day life in the islands.
OWE (Ocean Wildlife Encounters)
Ocean Wildlife Encounters (OWE) are a group of highly experienced wildlife speakers. Join them for an insightful talk or out on deck to search the seas for wildlife.
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 19:00 25/04/2024, 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 19:00 25/04/2024, 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)
Borealis' Balcony Junior Suites have a private balcony and sitting/bedroom area.
| Saver Fare | From £1,849 pp |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £2,099 pp |
360°
Terrace Cabin (TC)
Borealis' Terrace Cabins offer access to the Promenade Deck via sliding doors.
| Saver Fare | From £1,449 pp |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £1,699 pp |
360°
Ocean View (F)
Borealis' F Grade Ocean View cabins have two portholes and are on decks 1 & 2.
| Saver Fare | From £899 pp |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £1,149 pp |
360°
Interior Cabin (H)
H Grade Interior cabins on Borealis are located on decks 1 & 2.
| Saver Fare | From £799 pp |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £1,049 pp |
360°
Single Interior Cabin (N)
Borealis' N Grade Single Interior cabins are situated on decks 1 & 2.
| Freedom Fare | From £1,549 pp |
|---|
360°
Balcony Suite (BS)
Located on decks 6 & 7, Borealis' Balcony Suites have a private balcony.
| Saver Fare | from £2,798.50 |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £3,298.50 |
360°
Terrace Cabin (TC)
Borealis' Terrace Cabins offer access to the Promenade Deck via sliding doors.
| Saver Fare | from £2,199 |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £3,228.10 |
360°
Superior Ocean Fully Obstructed View (CO)
CO Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a fully obstructed picture view window.
| Saver Fare | from £1,448.50 |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £1,948.50 |
Interior Cabin (H)
H Grade Interior cabins on Borealis are located on decks 1 & 2.
| Saver Fare | from £1,335.75 |
|---|---|
| Freedom Fare | From £1,835.75 |
360°
Single Interior Cabin (N)
Borealis' N Grade Single Interior cabins are situated on decks 1 & 2.
| Freedom Fare | From £1,549 |
|---|
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.