Exploring European Cities
Visiting at a time of year with fewer tourists around, you get to explore three beautiful cities in France, Belgium and the Netherlands by day and by night, at a more relaxing and rewarding pace. Balmoral is small enough to sail the River Seine and take you closer to Rouen, where a two-day stay allows ample time to see the city at its uncrowded best. Uncover the historic highlights at your leisure, such as Place du Vieux Marché, Gros Horloge and the spectacular Cathédrale de Notre Dame to name just a few. Alternatively, you could tour to Claude Monet’s beautiful House and Gardens; or even Paris, for a romantic evening in the French capital.
With Balmoral also docking in the heart of Antwerp for another overnight stay, you can explore this Belgian gem with ease, as and when you wish. Amongst the city’s cobbled streets, unmissable attractions including the mighty Cathedral of Our Lady and the Royal Museum of Fine Arts await, while you could get your hands on– and help polish – a precious gem at the Diamond District, and sample authentic Belgian chocolates too. Finally, for the perfect end to your enriching city discovery, Amsterdam awaits. Perhaps take in the sights by bicycle, or visit the city’s many museums. When night falls, it’s the perfect time to take a boat tour of the iconic canals to see world-famous landmarks in their illuminated evening splendour.
Your Itinerary
- Experience beautiful European cities at their uncrowded best
- Discover Antwerp’s highlights, such as the Diamond District
- Your small ship sails the Seine all the way to Rouen
Southampton, England
Feb 07 | Depart - late afternoon
Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.
Rouen, France
Feb 08 - 09 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late evening
The ‘City of a Hundred Bells’, Rouen, is capital of the French region of Normandy. This 2,000-year-old port city on the River Seine, important in Roman times and the Middle Ages, is a unique city rich with monuments and museums.
Rouen’s narrow pedestrianised streets lined with tall, half-timber houses and a statue marking the spot where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, is a pointer to the city’s dark history. Devastated by fire, the plague and bombs in the past, modern Rouen is now a vibrant cultural centre, and one of Normandy’s most engaging destinations.
The skyline is dominated by the spires of Cathédrale Notre-Dame, much-painted by Claude Monet. The Gothic churches of Saint-Maclou and Saint-Ouen are also must-see attractions, two of the best examples of gothic architecture in France and a important part of Rouen’s history.
The city's beautiful botanical garden – Jardin de Plantes de Rouen, is also worth a visit. Its 600 different plant species and various gardens, including a rock garden, rose garden and a garden full of medicinal plants, are a joy to wander through.
Antwerp, Belgium
Feb 11 - 12 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early afternoon
Belgium’s charming, medieval city of Antwerp is the country’s biggest port and often recognised as its capital of cool. It has proved an alluring city for centuries, attracting lovers of art, fashion and, of course, diamonds – over 80% of the world's rough diamonds pass through the city's famous diamond district at some point or other. Renowned for its charm and sparkle, Antwerp was one of Europe’s principle cities in the mid-16th century and has maintained the essence of its medieval past, despite severe bombing during World War II.
A riverside fortress and numerous intriguing cobbled streets are overshadowed by the 123m high tower of the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady, the biggest church in Benelux. Its construction started in 1352 on the site of a 10th century chapel, but like many medieval religious buildings, it took several centuries to complete. The cathedral interior has four altarpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, a legendary artist from the Baroque era. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to Rubens and houses many of his finest works, along with those of other Flemish masters.
There are more than 20 other museums in the city, while the abundant attractions of this cultural gem also include a vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, a robust café culture, excellent shops and delightful parks and gardens. Fine dining is also on the menu, and one of Antwerp's most popular restaurants, The Jane, brings it all together with a slice of rock and roll.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Feb 13 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late night
Golden Age canals lined with elegant merchant homes is the familiar backdrop for the Netherlands' historic capital, Amsterdam. Established in the 17th century with the construction of the River Amstel dam, this celebrated port offers everything from treasure-packed museums and antiquarian bookshops to chic boutiques and convivial cafés. Equally, art is never far away in this hub of uber-creative design. One noticeable thing about the city is that, some 150 years after its industrial heyday, Amsterdam is once again awash with producers.
Amsterdam has some 40 museums, and the Museum Quarter boasts three of the most famous: the Rijksmuseum has paintings from Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals; the Van Gogh Museum; and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, displays work from Manet to Picasso. The Anne Frankhuis where Anne Frank and her family hid from German troops during the World War II, is an experience many visitors seek.
Whether on boat or bike - there are more bikes than permanent residents - exploration of the city is relatively straightforward, and a tour of the Canal Ring district, an UNESCO World Heritage site, is not to be missed. Seemingly unchanged since the 17th century, the district has been recognised for its unique cultural and historical values, and is home to many exclusive gabled facades and their celebrity owners.
Southampton, England
Feb 15 | Arrive - late night
Considered the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year, including a number of Fred. Olsen sailings on our smaller sized ships. But beyond being the starting poing for many cruise adventures, you can be assure that this historic city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right.
Whether you enjoy a call at Southampton as part of your cruise itinerary, or choose to spend time exploring either before of after your cruise from the city, you'll find there are plenty of attractions, highlights and sights to discover, showcasing fascinating history and local culture. Perhaps see the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, including the beautiful Tudor House and Gardens, and visit the Sea City Museum to learn of Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials, the former White Star Line HQ and the Grapes Pub - wander the 'Titanic Trail' to take them in.
There are art galleries and museums aplenty too, as well as an abundance of places to shop, and a number of trendy bars, restaurants and cafés where you can always stop for something delicious. Alternatively, you might opt to explore nature trails and wetlands near to the city, or simply stroll through one of the green spaces or pretty parks.
Pricing & cabins
* Prices correct as of 00:00 18/01/2022, 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 £1,399 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.
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.
OW - Owner's Suite
Exclusive suite - please call for more details.
Please call for latest prices
PS - Premier Suite
This suite is approximately 601 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.
SS - Superior Suite
This style of suite is approximately 341 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
From £1,449 per person
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
These rooms are approximately 248 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
Slightly larger than a BC grade, these rooms have a balcony, 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.
BC - Balcony Cabin
This room is approximately 260 square feet in size, and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
It has a balcony, 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). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Ocean
From £839 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).
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 £699 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 00:00 18/01/2022, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call 0800 035 5130 for live availability & prices.
Suite
From £2,799
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.
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.
OW - Owner's Suite
Exclusive suite - please call for more details.
Please call for latest prices
PS - Premier Suite
This suite is approximately 601 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.
SS - Superior Suite
This style of suite is approximately 341 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
From £2,898
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
These rooms are approximately 248 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
Slightly larger than a BC grade, these rooms have a balcony, 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.
BC - Balcony Cabin
This room is approximately 260 square feet in size, and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
It has a balcony, 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). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
Ocean
From £1,249
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).
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 £1,319
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 £1,349
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.
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.
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.
The Olsen Way
In recent years, we have seen a new era emerging in cruising.
There is a trend for everything to get bigger and busier, and for a cruise to be seen as an alternative to a large luxury resort, with a limitless flurry of activity. But this is not for us. Find out more
We are free to do things a different way because we are family-run. Of course some people enjoy the bigger, busier cruises, but it is not for everyone, and it is not for us. We prefer to do things, 'The Olsen Way'.
We have fewer guests, so the atmosphere on board our ships is always warm and civilised. Our smaller ships allow us to visit the more interesting places that the world has to offer.
We pride ourselves on putting our all into the Fred. Olsen cruise experience. Our itineraries are created from scratch every year, our service is genuinely personal and each and every area of our ships is designed by hand.