Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the UK based destination focused cruise line, said it has launched eight itineraries for Balmoral including a number of regional departures from Portsmouth.

This follows the release of some itineraries of Bolette and Borealis, the latest ships of the company, in the past few weeks.

The 45,357 gross ton Balmoral has cruised extensively from Newcastle in the past few years. Portsmouth has previously been served e.g. by Cruise & Maritime Voyages, which went out of business earlier tis year.

Clare Ward, Director of Product and Services for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We’re so pleased to be unveiling further new cruises this week, and just as excited to be returning to Portsmouth for four of our eight new sailings.”

“On board our elegant, smaller ship Balmoral, guests will be able to sail down the Seine, seek out the Northern Lights, chase the sun in Madeira and the Canaries or visit German Christmas markets for a bit of festive shopping,” she said in a statement.

Ian Diaper, Head of Operations for Portsmouth International Port, said: "Like guests, we can’t wait to see cruises start again, so we’re delighted to welcome Fred. Olsen’s prestigious Balmoral for turnaround cruises from the city next October. Guests will have the most enviable start to their holiday as they sail from our dramatic harbour, on a long overdue cruise. This marks a new cruise era for Portsmouth and we’re looking forward to working with Fred. Olsen on this exciting journey.”

 

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Highlights of Balmoral’s new itineraries include:

The 14-night L2103B ‘Canary Islands & Madeira Winter Warmth’ cruise, departing from Southampton on 2nd February 2021. Prices start from £1,599 per person. Prices start from £1,599 per person. Enjoy a FREE drinks package and your tips covered on this sailing when booked by 31st October 2020.

The sunshine and scenery of these beautiful islands awaits you on this relaxing and rejuvenating late winter escape. You’ll have chances to unwind on Gran Canaria’s golden sands; marvel at the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife and Lanzarote; explore the verdant lands of La Palma and stimulate your senses with Madeira’s fragrant gardens. Meanwhile, the cities of Lisbon and La Coruña boast an abundance of architectural, historical and cultural delights.

Ports of call: Southampton, England – Lisbon, Portugal – Funchal, Madeira – Santa Cruz, La Palma – Santa Cruz, Tenerife – Las Palmas, Gran Canaria – Arrecife, Lanzarote – La Coruña, Spain – Southampton, England

The 13-night L2135 ‘Arctic Norway & Northern Lights’ cruise, departing from Portsmouth on 4th November 2021. Prices start from £1,599 per person. Enjoy a FREE drinks package and your tips covered on this sailing when booked by 31st October 2020.

Revel in the early winter wonders of Northern Norway. In Narvik, embark on a thrilling husky-sled ride or witness Arctic wildlife at the Polar Park, while Tromsø’s attractions include Mount Storsteinen and the Arctic Cathedral. This sailing brings with it the chance to witness the wonder of the Aurora Borealis illuminating the night sky.

Ports of call: Portsmouth England – Molde, Norway – Narvik, Norway – Alta, Norway (overnight stay) – Tromsø, Norway – Ålesund, Norway – Portsmouth, England

The 6-night L2137 ‘German Christmas Markets’ cruise, departing from Portsmouth on 30th November 2021. Prices start from £699 per person. Enjoy a FREE drinks package and your tips covered on this sailing when booked by 31st October 2020.

Immerse yourself in the famous yuletide spirit of Germany with visits to two enchanting cities, Bremen and Hamburg. Experience the magic of the German Christmas markets, draped in twinkling lights and decorations, with plenty of traditional gifts and fare on offer. Visit Bremen’s historic, UNESCO-listed centre and Hamburg’s impressive architectural landmarks, beautiful Alster Lake and the unique Miniatur Wunderland.

Ports of call: Portsmouth, England – Bremen, Germany – Hamburg, Germany (overnight stay)  – Portsmouth, England.