We take immense pride in our smaller-sized, understated ocean-going cruise ships, which is why we have extensively refreshed and refurbished the fleet to ensure they are at their best for many years to come. Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch may not boast a daunting list of unnecessary gimmicks such as climbing walls, surf simulators and zip wires, but what they do offer is ample space and comfort, a welcoming, home-from-home feel and the style and ambience of a country house hotel. These understated qualities are the essence of Brabant, our dedicated river cruising boat, too.

Sharing your adventures with hundreds – not thousands – of others, you can relax on board and enjoy a memorable cruise experience without feeling overcrowded. In fact, you’ll feel like part of a family as you explore the world with your friends, loved ones and like-minded people that share your interests and attitude to life. Fewer guests also means we are always able to provide the personal, attentive service you deserve from the moment you step on board.

Another advantage of our smaller cruise vessels is that they can take you closer to some of greatest destinations on earth and help you discover towns, cities and scenic wonders that may be out of reach to larger ships and boats.

Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch can sail the world’s oceans to idyllic islands and breathtaking countries, into narrow Norwegian fjords and along size-restricted rivers into the heart of delightful cities such as Seville and Bordeaux where a plethora of highlights await your discovery from the moment you step foot off your ship.

Aboard Brabant you can experience incredible journey’s through the winding valleys of the Rhine, Main and Moselle rivers, taking in fairytale-esque castles, forts and cities along way; sail the Danube all the way to the Danube Delta, stopping in captivating capitals such as Vienna and Budapest en route; and negotiate impressive lock-laden canals and picturesque gorges.

We're taking exploration to the next level on our endlessly rewarding cruise holidays with our exciting on board RIBs.

In keeping with the reputation Fred. Olsen has built for taking guests to breathtaking sights and incredible experiences out of reach to larger ships, our Rigid Inflatable Boats can take you even closer than ever before to spectacular landscapes, magnificent natural wonders, inspirational waterways and much more that regular cruise line guests never see.

All of the Fred. Olsen team have been carefully selected for their warm and welcoming personalities and we receive more positive feedback about our staff than anything else. Every member of the team understands that your enjoyment is paramount, which is why they go out of their way to provide service with a smile and ensure you have a great time on board with us. It’s the little things that matter, so don’t be surprised when we remember your name, favourite tipple and even how you like your eggs at breakfast – it’s what we do.

There’s never been a better time to cruise with Fred. Olsen and we’ll strive to give you the holiday of a lifetime – but don’t just take our word for it. Pleasingly, this has been recognised by Fred. Olsen winning a number of high profile awards over the past few years, including Cruise Critic’s ‘Best for Itineraries’ and 'Best Ocean Cruise Line' at the Silver Travel Awards for three consecutive years, and gaining the highest rating for cruises under £200 per night in the 2018 Which? Cruise Survey.

Most importantly, from over 27,000 independent guest reviews Fred. Olsen has a guest experience rating of over 4 out of 5 – along with being awarded Feefo’s Gold Trusted Merchant status, for the fourth time. Perhaps that’s why people who try us once so often choose to cruise with us again. There’s never been a better time to experience the Fred. Olsen Difference.