Experience the Traditions of Spain & Portugal
The destinations on your cruise have been selected for their ability to showcase the cultural and culinary traditions of Spain and Portugal.
You will be able to taste authentic food and drink in its place of origin, including Pasteis de Nata in Lisbon; paella in Valencia; tapas and Jerez sherry in Cádiz; port wine in Oporto; and olive oil in Málaga.
Many cultural highlights await your discovery too, including chances to visit Pablo Picasso’s house in his birthplace, Málaga, and learn the art of flamenco with a local Bailaora (dancer) from Cádiz. You can also admire architectural delights such as Moorish buildings in Andalusia and decorative Azulejo tiles in Portugal.
Your Itinerary
Rosyth (Edinburgh), Scotland
Jul 02 | Depart - late afternoon
Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital, is one of the UK’s finest cities, combining beautiful architecture, fascinating cultures and extensive heritage. Some of Scotland’s most famous sites are here, such as the historic Old Town quarter, home to the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, located at the top of the Royal Mile on Castle Rock; the famous Holyrood Royal residence, the parliament building and St Giles’ Cathedral; all framed by Arthur’s Seat and the Pentland Hills.
Leixões (for Oporto), Portugal
Jul 06 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
A short journey from Leixões takes you into the heart of Oporto, with its fortress-like Cathedral – offering stunning views across the city, and the Baroque Church of Clérigos. Head to the historic Ribeira District, where the narrow, cobbled lanes wind their way down to the Douro River, or visit one of the many wine cellars for a taste of the rich and smooth fortified wine named after the city, Port.
Málaga, Spain
Jul 08 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening
Malaga is a city that is rich in history and culture – located on the shores of the Mediterranean, it is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and his childhood spent here is reflected in many of the recurring themes of his paintings, including flamenco and bulls. Known as the olive capital of the world, the Andalusian region accounts for 35% of the olives produced in the EU and are closely monitored by officials from the regional government.
Cartagena, Spain
Jul 09 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
The fascinating city of Cartagena, with over 3,000 years of history, has been the scene of some of history's most incredible passages. Prized since Carthaginian times, there are layers upon layers of the past in this ancient coastal city - you can find the remnants of Roman, Cartheginian and Muslim civilizations almost on top of one another. Every corner, street and square of the city leaves traces of the many cultures who have all left their mark on the city’s heritage. Originally constructed in 223 BC by the Carthaginians, the old town of Cartagena was Hannibal's capital city on the Iberian peninsula. The city’s natural harbour and prolific silver mines meant this area was of great importance. It was taken by the Romans in 209 BC and became a major Roman outpost.
Valencia, Spain
Jul 10 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
Synonymous with Spain, the delicious paella rice dish originated in Valencia and was originally known as arroz a la Valencia, which takes its name from the pan it is cooked in, typically large, round and shallow. Believed to have been created in the 15th century for Valencian farmers working in the rice fields using ingredients local to their surroundings; nowadays it is popular with chicken or seafood. Close by is Albufera Natural Park – an important stopover for migratory birds.
Mahon (Menorca), Spain
Jul 11 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early afternoon
Located on the east coast of Menorca, Mahón is the largest city on the island and has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian architecture, including buildings with sash windows and balconies. The city has a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves, which are home to the protected Mediterranean pillow coral.
Cádiz, Spain
Jul 13 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cádiz is known for its palm trees, ancient buildings and maritime history. The Old Town is home to the striking 18th century Cádiz Cathedral and over 100 watchtowers, as well as traditional Tapas bars. Tapa derives from ‘cover’, where one legend has it that bartenders would cover drinks with a saucer to keep out the dust created by the breeze in the city, and would add little treats of olives and ham to entice customers to visit again. Tapas are best served with a glass of Spanish wine from Jerez de la Frontera.
Cruise Mouth of River Tagus, Portugal
Jul 14 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late morning
Sailing into, and departing from, the beautiful Portuguese capital of Lisbon is always a memorable experience on a Fred. Olsen cruise, as the journey sees your smaller ship glide along the waters of the mouth of the beautiful River Tagus.
Where the Tagus – the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula – meets the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is spread along the shores of both river banks, and connected by the magnificent and iconic Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, which is a sight to behold as you sail underneath. Spotting a number of famous sites from your ship, such as Torre de Belém and Jerónimos Monastery, during a sail into Lisbon is always an exciting experience too, offering a glimpse of the types of treasures that await you during exploration ashore.
Lisbon, Portugal
Jul 14 | Arrive - late morning | Depart - late afternoon
Overlooking the River Tagus, Portugal’s capital city offers an abundance of maritime highlights, including the iconic Ponte de Abril suspension bridge, and the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, which served as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Vasco de Gama and other Portuguese explorers. The delicious pastéis de nata are also not to be missed when visiting Lisbon, particularly when sampled at the original bakery, which opened in 1837.
Vigo, Spain
Jul 15 | Arrive - early afternoon | Depart - early evening
An important maritime city for centuries, Vigo is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and has one of the best natural ports in the world. The port area was heavily influenced by the sea, and has many old fishing houses and markets selling locally caught seafood. A neoclassical Cathedral, the Collegiate Church of Santa Marta is built on the site of a gothic church that was burnt down by Francis Drake; and there is an impressive statue dedicated to literary author Jules Verne.
Rosyth (Edinburgh), Scotland
Jul 19 | Arrive - early morning
Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital, is one of the UK’s finest cities, combining beautiful architecture, fascinating cultures and extensive heritage. Some of Scotland’s most famous sites are here, such as the historic Old Town quarter, home to the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, located at the top of the Royal Mile on Castle Rock; the famous Holyrood Royal residence, the parliament building and St Giles’ Cathedral; all framed by Arthur’s Seat and the Pentland Hills.
Pricing & cabins
* Prices correct as of 09:35 28/11/2022, 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 £5,799 per person
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
A welcoming, comfortable space in which to enjoy a relaxing, restful stay, Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have all the amenities that guests need during their time on board, plus a private balcony for soaking up sunshine and scenery outside.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 279 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Private balcony
- Large windows
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
Please note, cabins 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.
MS - Marquee Suite
At approximately 472 square feet in size, Balmoral's Marquee Suites provide guests with ample space in which to relax, and feature all of the amenities – as well as a few extra benefits – that are needed for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10 (forward)
- Size: 472 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with large double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and shower
- Private balcony with sun loungers
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows
- Access to mini bar and fridge
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
PS - Premier Suite
The spacious, elegantly-styled Premier Suites on Balmoral are approximately 601 square feet in size and situated high on the ship on Highland Deck 10. These suites feature all the amenities guests need, plus a few extra touches for an even more comfortable, restful and memorable stay.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10
- Size: 601 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and shower
- Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows
- Access to mini bar and fridge
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
SS - Superior Suite
Balmoral's Superior Suites, at approximately 341 square feet in size, provide guests with plenty of space in which to relax and enjoy their time on board. Each suite features all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay, as well as a few additional benefits.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10 & Bridge Deck 9 (midship)
- Size: 341 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Private balcony with sun loungers
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows
- Access to mini bar and fridge
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
Balcony
From £5,499 per person
BA - Balcony Cabin
Situated on Lido Deck 8 & Bridge Deck 9, Balmoral's Balcony Cabins feature a private balcony on which guests can enjoy the sunshine and scenery in their own outdoor space. Inside, the cabins are spacious and welcoming, and feature all the amenities needed for comfortable stay.
- Deck: Lido Deck 8 & Bridge Deck 9
- Size: 260 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and / or shower
- Private balcony
- Large windows
Ocean
From £2,999 per person
A - Superior Ocean View
- Deck: Lido Deck 8
- Size: 200 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Large picture window
B - Superior Ocean View
Balmoral's B Grade Superior Ocean View cabins, in addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, restful stay, feature a picture window that provides guests with plenty of natural light and fantastic ocean views.
- Deck: Lido Deck 8 & Main Deck 6
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Large picture window
*Cabins 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on Lido Deck 8 are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted window.
C - Superior Ocean View
For a light, airy feel, and to provide guests with fantastic ocean views, Balmoral's C Grade Superior Ocean View cabins feature a picture window, in addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay on board.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Picture window
CO - Superior Ocean Fully Obstructed View
Approx. 165 square feet in size, these cabins are located on Lido Deck 8.
CO Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a fully obstructed picture view window. Fitted with everything you need for your stay.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
D - Ocean View
In a D Grade Ocean View cabin on Balmoral, guests will benefit from ample space in which to relax, all the amenities they need during their stay, plus plenty of natural light and scenic views provided by the cabin's picture window.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5 & Coral Deck 4
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Picture window
E - Ocean View
In an E Grade Ocean View cabin on Balmoral, guests will benefit from ample space in which to relax, all the amenities they need during their stay, plus plenty of natural light and scenic views provided by the cabin's picture window.
- Deck: Coral Deck 4
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
- Picture window
F - Ocean View
In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the two porthole windows in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
- Two porthole windows
Interior
From £2,499 per person
G - Superior Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, G Grade Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
Please note: cabins 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck 9 are wheelchair accessible with a wetroom style en-suite.
H - Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, H Grade Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Main Deck 6 & Atlantic Deck 5
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
I - Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, I Grade Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
* Prices correct as of 09:35 28/11/2022, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call 0800 035 5130 for live availability & prices.
Suite
From £11,598
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
A welcoming, comfortable space in which to enjoy a relaxing, restful stay, Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have all the amenities that guests need during their time on board, plus a private balcony for soaking up sunshine and scenery outside.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 279 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Private balcony
- Large windows
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
Please note, cabins 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.
MS - Marquee Suite
At approximately 472 square feet in size, Balmoral's Marquee Suites provide guests with ample space in which to relax, and feature all of the amenities – as well as a few extra benefits – that are needed for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10 (forward)
- Size: 472 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with large double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and shower
- Private balcony with sun loungers
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows
- Access to mini bar and fridge
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
PS - Premier Suite
The spacious, elegantly-styled Premier Suites on Balmoral are approximately 601 square feet in size and situated high on the ship on Highland Deck 10. These suites feature all the amenities guests need, plus a few extra touches for an even more comfortable, restful and memorable stay.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10
- Size: 601 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and shower
- Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows
- Access to mini bar and fridge
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
SS - Superior Suite
Balmoral's Superior Suites, at approximately 341 square feet in size, provide guests with plenty of space in which to relax and enjoy their time on board. Each suite features all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay, as well as a few additional benefits.
- Deck: Highland Deck 10 & Bridge Deck 9 (midship)
- Size: 341 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Private balcony with sun loungers
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows
- Access to mini bar and fridge
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
Balcony
From £10,998
BA - Balcony Cabin
Situated on Lido Deck 8 & Bridge Deck 9, Balmoral's Balcony Cabins feature a private balcony on which guests can enjoy the sunshine and scenery in their own outdoor space. Inside, the cabins are spacious and welcoming, and feature all the amenities needed for comfortable stay.
- Deck: Lido Deck 8 & Bridge Deck 9
- Size: 260 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and / or shower
- Private balcony
- Large windows
Ocean
From £5,248.25
A - Superior Ocean View
- Deck: Lido Deck 8
- Size: 200 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Large picture window
B - Superior Ocean View
Balmoral's B Grade Superior Ocean View cabins, in addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, restful stay, feature a picture window that provides guests with plenty of natural light and fantastic ocean views.
- Deck: Lido Deck 8 & Main Deck 6
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Large picture window
*Cabins 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on Lido Deck 8 are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted window.
C - Superior Ocean View
For a light, airy feel, and to provide guests with fantastic ocean views, Balmoral's C Grade Superior Ocean View cabins feature a picture window, in addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay on board.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Picture window
CO - Superior Ocean Fully Obstructed View
Approx. 165 square feet in size, these cabins are located on Lido Deck 8.
CO Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a fully obstructed picture view window. Fitted with everything you need for your stay.
Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
D - Ocean View
In a D Grade Ocean View cabin on Balmoral, guests will benefit from ample space in which to relax, all the amenities they need during their stay, plus plenty of natural light and scenic views provided by the cabin's picture window.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5 & Coral Deck 4
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Picture window
E - Ocean View
In an E Grade Ocean View cabin on Balmoral, guests will benefit from ample space in which to relax, all the amenities they need during their stay, plus plenty of natural light and scenic views provided by the cabin's picture window.
- Deck: Coral Deck 4
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
- Picture window
F - Ocean View
In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the two porthole windows in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
- Two porthole windows
Interior
From £4,723.25
G - Superior Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, G Grade Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
Please note: cabins 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck 9 are wheelchair accessible with a wetroom style en-suite.
H - Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, H Grade Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Main Deck 6 & Atlantic Deck 5
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
I - Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, I Grade Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
Single Cabin
From £4,499
J - Single Superior Ocean View
Situated higher on the ship, on Lido Deck 8, and featuring a picture window, Balmoral's J Grade Superior Ocean View cabins offer guests wonderful views, as well as ample space and all the amenities needed to rest, relax and enjoy their stay.
- Deck: Lido Deck 8
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
- Picture window
Please note: 8061 and 8072 have a small corner balcony (with a restricted view).
Please call for latest prices
360° View
JB - Single Balcony Suite
A welcoming, comfortable space in which to enjoy a relaxing, restful stay, Balmoral's Single Balcony Suites have all the amenities that guests need during their time on board, plus a private balcony for soaking up sunshine and scenery outside.
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9
- Size: 274 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with single bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and shower
- Private balcony
- Large windows
- Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package
*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
In a K Grade Ocean View cabin on Balmoral, guests will benefit from ample space in which to relax, all the amenities they need during their stay, plus plenty of natural light and scenic views provided by the cabin's picture window.
- Deck: Coral Deck 4
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
- Picture window
Please note that some of the K grades have 2 beds, but are sold as a Single Ocean View cabin.
L - Single Ocean View
In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the porthole window in Balmoral's L Grade Single Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views.
- Deck: Marina Deck 3
- Size: 140 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
- Single porthole window
Please call for latest prices
360° View
M - Single Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, M Grade Single Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with a bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or shower
N - Single Interior Cabin
Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, N Grade Single Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board.
- Deck: Main Deck 6 & Marina Deck 3
- Size: 130 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with a bed and a chair
- Bathroom with a shower
What's Included?
In addition to what's included in the cost of your cruise, we also offer chargeable extras that have been designed to help you get even more from your cruise experience, aboard and ashore.
Enjoy a Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea perhaps, join our expert Sommeliers for Drink Tasting Sessions, or treat yourself to sumptuous Speciality Dining. Create the perfect workout routine with a Personal Trainer, or simply indluge yourself with a treatment or two at the Spa.
Please note: Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours.
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.
About Your Ship
Balmoral, carrying up to 1,350 guests is small enough to navigate narrow waterways such as the Kiel Canal, and bring inspirational sights and experiences closer to you.
Like the rest of the fleet, Balmoral conveys a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation and lounges, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.
FAQs
- Is there WiFi on board?
- What's included in the All Inclusive Drinks Upgrade?
- What is the difference between Freedom and Saver fares?
- When can I view and book my Shore Tours?
- What do I pack for a cruise?
- What do I wear on formal night?
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Reviews
Interested in booking one of our cruises? Why not have a look at our latest Feefo trusted reviews for cruises on Balmoral and see what other guests have said about their experience.