Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the UK based destination focused cruise line, said it is resuming sailing with Borealis due to depart on its maiden voyage from Liverpool today.

The ship was built in 1996 as Rotterdam for Holland America Line and it was acquired together with sister ship Amsterdam, now renamed Bolette, by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to replace Black Watch and Boudicca, both of which had been built in the early 1970s

Borealis brings a number of new venues and facilities to the fleet, including a grand, two-tier theatre and main restaurant, an all-weather pool with retractable roof, a large spa and thermal suite and new venue The Auditorium offering culinary demonstrations and more, the company said in a statement.

“Guests will also have the chance to savour new flavours in Borealis’ new specialty dining restaurants. Vasco, named after the famous explorer Vasco Da Gama, who was the first European to reach India by sea, offers a fresh and modern take on Indian food. Meanwhile Colours & Tastes offers modern Asian Fusion dishes. The décor is colourful, the mood cheerful and the food offers a stimulating set of new taste experiences,” the company said.

Photo: Artist's impression of the ship in FOCL livery