Three-quarters of the Fred. Olsen fleet is set for major upgrades in the coming months as the line reveals plans for a number of improvements and refurbishments. Boudicca, Braemar and Balmoral are all readied for new additions to their on-board offerings, dry docking in Hamburg, Germany.
These upgrades follow Fred. Olsen’s longest-serving ship, Black Watch, receiving similar refurbs at the end of 2016 – and will complete a process of modernising the entire fleet.
Braemar will be the first to enter into dry dock for an upgrade. Amongst the additions will be a brand-new buffet area – providing a contemporary place for couples and families to meet and socialise every day of their cruise. The ship will leave dry dock, complete with new upgrades in December this year, set to undertake the 16-night Caribbean voyage from Southampton.
Next up is Balmoral who will receive a selection of new restaurants and a gelato bar. The foodie-focus of the upgrades demonstrates where the cruise market trend is heading, with many of the major lines making significant moves to ensure their culinary offerings are of the highest standards. Upon completion of the planned refurbishment, Balmoral will undertake a 16-night itinerary around the Canary Islands on 21 December.
And this gourmet bias continues into the third ship due for an upgrade. Boudicca will receive a brand-new dining room, along with significant upgrades to many of the cabins and the public spaces. The final ship to complete its refurbishment, the new-look Boudicca won’t be setting sail again until 29 March 2018 – in time for a five-night mystery voyage.
The Fred. Olsen team will be careful not to compromise the unique identity of the line. The quintessentially British aesthetic and ambience of the ships, as well as the smaller size, often sets the fleet apart from the competition. Much of Fred. Olsen’s loyal fan base will be aghast if their beloved ships take on the appearance and stylings of the larger megaships which dominate the market.
Mike Rodwell, Managing Director of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, explains this sentiment: “We are very proud of our smaller, classic cruise ships and we recognise the importance of investing in ongoing upgrades to ensure that our guests can continue to enjoy them at their best.”
It is anticipated that some of the suites and public spaces will receive similar upgrades to those found on Black Watch – which now boasts interactive televisions, refreshed furniture and upholstery, and an amazing 3D movie screen. And it comes at a time when the line is announcing an ever-growing roster of itineraries and experiences for guests – including the ‘Brand New for 2019’ Islands of the Mediterranean sailing.
If you’re keen to be amongst the first guests to enjoy the refurbished and refreshed Fred. Olsen cruise ships, head over to our dedicated page, here, for a great selection of deals. Alternatively, if you’d like some help finding your perfect itinerary, give our friendly sales team a call on 0808 2746 777.
Images sourced from Fred. Olsen Image Library.
