Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has proudly announced the grand relaunch of its iconic Balmoral ship following a transformative multi-million-pound refurbishment. The company’s smallest and most intimate vessel has undergone a meticulous dry dock project at A&P Falmouth, setting new standards in comfort, efficiency, and sustainability for the cruise line’s fleet.

A Comprehensive Revitalization

Balmoral entered the shipyard on December 1, 2024, embarking on a two-week journey of extensive upgrades. The overhaul included technical enhancements and luxurious updates to enrich the onboard experience for guests.

Enhanced Interiors

The ship’s flagship entertainment venue, The Neptune Lounge, received a complete technical refurbishment, ensuring an elevated theatrical experience. Additionally, numerous cabins and bathrooms were renovated to meet modern luxury standards.

A standout feature of the refurbishment is the transformation of the buffet venue, now reborn as the elegant Thistle Restaurant. Formerly known as the Palms Café, the restaurant boasts a contemporary layout, refreshed seating areas, and state-of-the-art buffet and drinks stations. This marks the most significant internal upgrade during the project, setting a new benchmark for dining at sea.

Exterior Innovations

Outside, Balmoral underwent several advancements to improve aesthetics and functionality. Key upgrades included:

• Fuel Efficiency Enhancements: The underwater hull received an ultra-high-pressure water blast, followed by cutting-edge silicone paint, significantly reducing drag and fuel consumption.
• Propulsion System Upgrades: New propellers and bow thrusters were installed, improving the ship’s energy efficiency and maneuverability.
• Wi-Fi Modernization: Upgrades to the ship’s Wi-Fi infrastructure ensure seamless connectivity for guests, meeting the demands of modern travellers.

These advancements align with Fred. Olsen’s commitment to sustainable cruising combines eco-friendly innovations with exceptional guest experiences.

A Collaborative Triumph

The ambitious project involved a workforce of over 700 individuals, including 350 Fred. Olsen crew members and 30 apprentices from A&P Falmouth. Their collective expertise and dedication were instrumental in completing the extensive upgrades within a tight timeframe.

Samantha Stimpson, CEO of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines expressed her enthusiasm for the successful project:

“This has been an incredibly successful dry dock programme, allowing us to not only conduct important maintenance but also make some exciting enhancements for our guests – most notably our beautiful new buffet restaurant.”

Stimpson also highlighted the ship’s sustainability advancements:

“The application of antifouling silicone paint to Balmoral’s hull will enable us to use less fuel. Teamed with other improvements, including the upgraded propeller and stabilizers, we’ll sail more efficiently and sustainably while continuing to offer a comfortable and enjoyable onboard experience.”

Strengthening Local Ties

The project marked Fred. Olsen’s continued commitment to utilizing UK shipyards, fostering local economic growth, and providing valuable training opportunities for apprentices.

David McGinley, CEO of A&P Falmouth’s parent company APCL Group, commended the collaboration:

“APCL is proud of its ongoing relationship with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. This is the fifth dry docking at our facilities, and the knowledge we’re developing with each project helps minimize the downtime of the Fred. Olsen fleet. Contracts like these contribute significantly to the UK’s economic prosperity and support our workforce and apprenticeship programmes.”

Charting New Adventures

With her enhancements complete, Balmoral is set to embark on a series of remarkable voyages that promise unforgettable experiences for travellers. Highlights include:

Discovery Spain and North Africa

• Duration: 13 Nights
• Departure: January 5, 2025
• Highlights: Explore Tangier’s bustling souks, savour Spanish tapas, and immerse yourself in Morocco’s tea culture.
• Price: From £1,199 per person
• Itinerary: Southampton, UK – Cádiz, Spain – Gibraltar – Tangier, Morocco – Southampton, UK

In Search of the Northern Lights

• Duration: 15 Nights
• Departure: January 18, 2025
• Highlights: Cross the Arctic Circle, witness Norway’s pristine landscapes, and chase the magical Aurora Borealis.
• Price: From £1,199 per person
• Itinerary: Southampton, UK – Ålesund, Norway – Alta, Norway (overnight stay) – Tromsø, Norway – Southampton, UK

Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands

• Duration: 13 Nights
• Departure: February 2, 2025
• Highlights: Discover the volcanic beauty of the Canary Islands, stroll through Madeira’s lush flora, and enjoy local delicacies.
• Price: From £1,499 per person
• Itinerary: Southampton, UK – Funchal, Madeira – Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain – Southampton, UK

Tropical Islands and Verdant Rainforests

• Duration: 45 Nights
• Departure: February 15, 2025
• Highlights: Experience the Caribbean’s laid-back charm, explore lush rainforests, and connect with exotic wildlife.
• Price: From £3,299 per person
• Itinerary: Southampton, UK – Cadiz, Spain – Caribbean Islands – Central America – Southampton, UK

Discover More

For further details about Balmoral’s itineraries and bookings, visit Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

 

 

 

Written by: My Thanh Pham

 

 

 

 

 

=======================================