Fred. Olsen Makeovers

Three of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ ocean ships will be undergoing a multi-million-pound refit this winter in preparation for the start of the 2020/21 cruise season. The three ships – Braemar, Balmoral and Black Watch – will be undergoing various engineering works, general maintenance and refurbishment during their dry docks at the Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg, as well as the creation of several new public areas and cabin enhancements.

Peter Deer, Managing Director of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said, “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 very best. Our refreshed and renewed fleet has been very well-received by both new and existing guests following the last round of improvements at Blohm+Voss in 2017 and 2018, and we are keen to showcase the latest enhancements to our guests before Christmas - the ideal surroundings in which to enjoy the festive season!”

As well as extensive refurbishment of the accommodation on board both Braemar and Balmoral, a number of cabins on Black Watch will receive bathroom upgrades. Balmoral will have a number of added enhancements including the creation of a new ‘Oriental Room' where exotic teas and Far Eastern-themed cocktails and drinks will be served. A new Photo Gallery will be added mid-ship portside, and a new Flower Shop will be installed where guests can select an expertly-crafted, ready-made arrangement. 

The fourth ship in the Fred. Olsen ocean fleet, 880-guest Boudicca, will receive its own refit in autumn 2020, having undergone a dramatic transformation at Blohm+Voss in spring 2018.