French Rivers & Channel Harbours

Bringing the Olsen family's appreciation of art to life, The Olsen Art Studio on board Borealis is a light and airy space filled with arts and crafts materials for a variety of projects. For those guests who love to paint or draw at home and would like to refine their skills whilst at sea, or who perhaps used to enjoy art in the past and wish to take it up again, or have a particular craftring interest, then this is the perfect place to hone your skills.

The studio will host classes and activities guided by different instructors, as well as providing an open space for guests to work on their own particular projects.

We're often joined on board our ships by port experts and guest speakers to talk our guests through a range of subjects and topics, such as history, geography, aviation, wine tasting and foods of the world.

On all cruises our informative Port Talks will be available for our guests to enjoy in preparation for arrival into each port. Our knowledgable lecturers share information to help guests make the most of their time ashore, while on some sailings, there are lectures that delve deeper into specific destinations on the itinerary too.

On board Bolette and Borealis, our expert chefs and teams from the Galley host cooking demonstrations to showcase their culinary craft and provide a taste of the skill and passion that goes into every meal served at our dining venues.

Guests can take a seat at the spacious Auditorium to watch, listen and learn how to make some of their favourite Fred. Olsen dishes, as the chefs take them through each step of their creation, from preparation to plate.

For many of our guests, the time spent on the dance-floor is one of the highlights of their days on board our smaller ships. So its no wonder that our Dance Classes – hosted by our wonderful Entertainment teams – always prove popular.Show less

Our instructors teach a variety of dancing styles, from line dancing to ballroom and sequence dancing, helping guests to learn and perfect their steps and moves before they head for their ship's lounges in the evening to dance the night away. 

Hosted by our Sommeliers, Tasting Sessions* on board our smaller ships offer a fascinating insight into the production processes, scents and flavours of some of the world's finest tipples.Show less

The Tasting Sessions on your cruise could include opportunities to sample everything from delicious wines and Champagne to whiskey and a range of spirits, while occasionally our experts will also teach you the art of pairing food and drink to create combinations that perfectly blend the nuances of their flavour.

*To join our Tasting Sessions, there is an additional charge and this can vary on the type tastings on offer, full details can be found in your Daily Times once on board. 

Unlike other cruise companies who sail the same routes year after year, we are constantly researching and hand-crafting new itineraries. On every cruise we run a programme designed to inspire travel, where you can find out about the development of our new itineraries. Don't worry, these are not sales talks or "exit through the gift shop" ruses - just an opportunity for travel enthusiasts to daydream about what is yet to come.

With ample time and space to relax, many of our Guests make the most of the opportunity to get stuck in to a good book during your cruise holiday. This is why to enhance reading enrichment further, we have introduced the Fred. Olsen Book Club on selected sailings, a chance to talk all things ‘bookish’ with like-minded people. Hosted by the Entertainment Managers and their Team, the Book Club provides a welcoming, social space in which you can openly and informally discuss thoughts and views on bestselling lighter reads, crime-thrillers and traditional or contemporary classics.

With ample time and space to relax, many of our Guests make the most of the opportunity to get stuck in to a good book during a cruise holiday on board one of Fred. Olsen’s smaller, friendlier ships. This is why to enhance reading enrichment further, we have introduced the Fred. Olsen Book Club on selected sailings, a chance to talk all things ‘bookish’ with like-minded people.

Hosted by the Entertainment Managers and their Team, the Book Club provides a welcoming, social space in which you can openly and informally discuss thoughts and views on bestselling lighter reads, crime-thrillers and traditional or contemporary classics. Specific categories and titles to discuss at the Book Club on each cruise are chosen in advance and listed below, allowing you time to purchase and read the books before you set sail. These books will also be available from your ship’s Port Shop, should you wish to wait until you’re on board to join in the fun.

So, if you love a good book while discovering the world with Fred. Olsen, what better way to indulge your passion than joining your friends and fellow guests at the Book Club?

We look forward to welcoming you!

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour and discover the hidden secrets and challenges of running a cruise ship. You'll gain special access to areas usually off-limits to guests, offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of our vessel. Venture into the Galley to see how our chefs prepare your delicious meals, learn what it takes to manage the stores and laundry room, and enjoy visits to the Engine Control Room and the Bridge. Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to meet and speak with our dedicated crew members, gaining insights into life on board and hearing their stories first-hand. You will also receive a keepsake lanyard and a professional photo to commemorate your adventure. To ensure the most enjoyable, immersive experience, we have limited this tour to just 12 spaces.

Approx. 2 hours | £49pp

New for 2023, Borealis’ Earth Room is a peaceful lounge, designed to inspire and ignite a passion to find out more about the world we live in and how we can lessen our impact on the environment.

Here, you will find a hand-selected range of around 350 rare books, by eminent writers – chosen by Fred. Olsen, along with podcasts and videos to watch on the iPads provided. These resources, and occasional guest speakers, are particularly focused on sharing ways that we can all make small changes in our lives to positively impact climate change. 

The tranquil atmosphere of The Observatory makes it the perfect spot from which to enjoy our Signature Experiences - Scenic Discoveries, where commentary supplied by our on board team will enhance your cruise journey; or our fantastic Ship and the Sea experience – learning to read navigational maps and charts with our officers. With panoramic windows and located directly above the Bridge, you'll have the same vantage point as the Captain, enjoying views of expansive oceans or coastlines we're sailing past. Later on, join our live bands for singing and dancing, accompanied by a selection of Champagne and sparkling cocktails or mocktails, designed to add an extra special touch to your cruise experience.

Named after one of the largest sailing ships owned by the Olsen family, the Morning Light Pub & Lounge has a welcoming atmosphere featuring plenty of comfortable seating and is designed to resemble a British pub. The well-stocked bar has a collection of beers and cider, including British and international classics, and a selection from independent breweries close to our office in Ipswich.

Each evening we feature our talented resident singers and guitarists, showcasing their talents; and the popular Fred. Olsen quiz is also held here, creating a cheerful atmosphere as friendly debates are held over the answers taking place each evening; or perhaps enjoy a congenial game of Shuffleboard with friends or family. 

The Bookmark Café is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy your choice of speciality coffee or tea. Perhaps an Earl Grey or warming latte in the morning, or a delicious hot chocolate, topped with cream and chocolate after a busy day ashore; accompanied by a mouth-watering selection of handmade chocolates and freshly baked cakes and treats. Take advantage of our fantastic Bookmark Bestseller card, which you can either pre-order - and it will be added to your cabin account - or buy once on board. For just £20, you can choose from a selection of hot drinks, including coffees, teas from the Rare Tea Tasting company, or a luxury hot chocolate, accompanied by a bag of delicious truffles. Close to the library, there's an extensive range of both fiction and non-fiction books for you to select and enjoy with your daily coffee. 

The Oriental Tea Room has been designed using exotic décor and stylish furnishings - including beautifully hand-painted murals adorning the walls - offering a menu of the finest quality teas and herbal infusions for guests in relaxing and peaceful surroundings. Enjoy a selection of oolong, black, green and white teas from China, Japan and Taiwan, as well as a few favourite blends, such as Earl Grey and English Chamomile. There’s also the opportunity to participate in one of our tea-tasting experiences, where you’ll learn more about their origins. Join us to discover our range of tea-inspired cocktails, including a Royal Tea or Mint Julep, and selection of deliciously cold Japanese, Sinagaporean and Thai beers. We also offer two non-alcoholic cocktails, based on Sri Lankan and Chinese teas.

The stylish Piano Bar is the perfect venue to relax and enjoy your time on board, particularly when Borealis is at sea - inspired by cocktail bars, folk and jazz music fills the air as our resident musicians take their seat at the piano. Take a seat here before dinner and settle into your evening with a cocktail or mocktail, expertly prepared by our trained bar team; or visit this spacious venue after your evening show to wind down with a drink on the rocks, and enjoy interesting conversation with your fellow guests. We even make our own brand of Aquavit on board, why not give it a try?

The inviting, spacious and sociable Ocean Bar is a great place to celebrate the joy of music and dance in the very best of company. Choose from a premium selection of gins and perfectly paired tonics, or a delicious martini cocktail at our Martini Experience evenings - shaken, not stirred of course! We have a wide selection of wine, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic options too. After the evening show, the resident band or DJ will ensure you're having a great time on the dancefloor.

Take a seat in Borealis's elegant, two-tiered Neptune Lounge, and join our superb Show Company as they put on a show to remember. We'll also feature guest comedians, singers and magicians, who’ll delight and entertain you, and do join us for our Captain’s Welcome and Farewell parties. During the day, the Neptune Lounge is used for our Signature Experiences, where our guest speakers will share their vast knowledge delivering fascinating talks and activities, designed to give you a deeper understanding of the destinations you’ll be visiting. The Neptune Lounge is also the perfect place to attend our 'Audience with...'sessions, where you can learn about how much work goes into our Shows, or learn about life as a ship's Captain.

Borealis's Auditorium is where guests can enjoy a host of exciting, educational and interactive events, as well as the entertainment and interesting talks held in the Neptune Lounge. Perfectly designed to host cooking demonstrations and presentations, this spacious venue has plenty of comfortable seating, carefully positioned to offer great views of the stage area, so that guests are able to experience events such as our Treats of the Region - ideal for watching our talented chefs create delicious dishes that you'll also be able to sample and learn to cook at home.

Featuring an abundance of card tables and comfortable chairs, the Card Room on board Borealis provides guests with a quiet space to enjoy a competitive hand or two, or simply for a bit of fun, perhaps with a delicious coffee or tea from the nearby Bookmark Café. Bridge is a popular pursuit on board, so you'll be sure to find other guests who are up for a challenge. On some cruises, we'll have experts in Bridge tuition who are on hand to help you develop your skills.

The shops on board Borealis offer all you may need during your time on board, for either basic essentials or for that occasion when you feel like treating yourself or a loved one to a holiday gift. Visit our Boutique Shop for perfumes and after shaves, bags or make up at Duty Free prices, or pick from the range of daytime clothing and evening wear; and perhaps choose something special from the Jewellery Shop. At the Port Shop, you'll find sun creams, shampoos and toothpaste, books and tasty snacks too. 

You can also visit the Boutique Shop for some superb Fred. Olsen branded items, including a great selection of garments, such as t-shirts, gilets, and jackets, water bottles, and prints

Add a special touch of colour and fragrance to your cabin, or perhaps treat someone special, with a beautiful bouquet from the Flower Shop? With a choice of beautiful year-round and also seasonal flowers, create a personalised bouquet, or simply select from the delightfully crafted ready-made arrangements. You will also have the opportunity to select single stems to provide the finishing touch to your Formal Night.

Our Atlantis Spa provides the perfect setting for our guests relaxation and enjoyment. Large picture windows are perfect for offering scenic cruising points or ocean views, so indulge in the ultimate relaxation for the mind, body and soul in our tranquil setting as our Spa team on board Borealis pamper you. With a wide range of luxurious treatments on offer, including massages, manicures, pedicures, relaxation treatments and hairdressing; you'll leave feeling completely energised and revitalised. 

Our Thermal Suite is a relaxation centre with the ambience of a Turkish bath, and our steam rooms are filled with aromatherapy vapours which are the perfect way to unwind and de-stress; while our heated ceramic relaxation beds are designed to match the curvature of your spine and melt away muscle tension.

Our mineral bath is heated to body temperature, gently embracing you with warmth to alleviate sore joints and soothe away your aches, and so providing wonderful relief for tired muscles. This is the perfect experience for poor circulation and just right after a long day exploring ashore. 

If you enjoy working out, our fully equipped Fitness Centre has a wide selection of running machines, cross trainers, bikes and both free weights and weights machines available. On board Borealis and across our fleet of ships, we also run a variety of complimentary yoga, pilates or stretching classes in the Fitness Centre, which are suitable for everyone from beginners to regular gym-goers. Join us for an invigorating Walk a Mile session or a relaxing sunrise pilates or yoga class out on deck. We also have circuits fitball or legs, bums & tums sessions. Details of classes can be found in your Daily Times each day.

Or, treat yourself to Personal Training sessions with our fully qualified, friendly trainers, where you can receive a one-to-one programme tailored just to you.

Borealis' all-weather pool is perfect for taking a dip - no matter where you are in the world, either docked in a beautiful destination or on a day at sea, as the retractable roof will be open or closed, dependent on where you are cruising to. The pool is surrounded by open deck space and plenty of loungers, so is the ideal spot for soaking up the sunshine or losing yourself in a good book; and the al fresco Poolside Café and Lido Bar are close by when you’re after a bite to eat or something to drink. For blissful relaxation, head for the Jacuzzi and let the warm, bubbling water soak any cares away, while you chat with fellow guests.

On Fred. Olsen’s peak holiday season cruises, it is our pleasure to welcome your ‘Little Skippers’ aboard our ships and into our fun, friendly and engaging kids club.

Run by professional hosts, the Little Skippers Club is designed to ensure children aged between 5 and 11, and their parents or grandparents, get the most from their holiday. Leave your children with us and we’ll keep them entertained with a variety of creative and exciting activities and events, such as arts and crafts sessions, deck games, treasure hunts, quizzes, cookie and pizza making and much more.

All activities, plus timings for children-only pool sessions, are advertised in the Little Skippers Club’s ‘mini’ version of the Daily Times, which is available in Guest Services each day. So, you can plan your time relaxing by the pool, in your favourite bar or even the soothing Atlantis Spa, safe in the knowledge that your children are enjoying their time on board too.

*Please note Little Skippers is run subject to numbers.

The 'Little Skippers Daily Times' will be available to collect from Guest Services each day and will detail a variety of fun activities for our Little Skippers! Exact activities will vary from cruise to cruise, but we've listed some example activities below:

• Treasure hunts
• Table Tennis
• Bean Bag Toss
• Dolphin Racing
• Arts & crafts
• Deck Quoits
• Silent disco
• Competitions
• Games night/Movie nights
• Cookie Baking & Decorating
• Swimming

Parents/Guardians: Under 5’s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is over 18. If there are no children within 30 minutes of a session’s start time the Little Skippers Club will not run for that session.