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FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES · SHIP GUIDE
Balmoral
Our smallest ship , Balmoral , is a classic gem, offering an intimate cruising experience. She has wonderful facilities - five beautiful restaurants, seven bars and lounges, two pools and lovely wide open decks which are perfect for when Balmoral is scenic cruising. Thanks to her smaller size, Balmoral is perfectly suited to sailing narrow waterways and docking closer to the heart of destinations that larger ships can’t reach. She can navigate Norway’s scenic Åkrafjord, sailing beneath a low-hanging cable that blocks bigger vessels, and reach Langfoss – widely regarded as one of Norway’s most spectacular waterfalls. In France, Balmoral can journey along the scenic River Seine, winding past picturesque countryside and charming villages en route to the beautiful town of Rouen in Normandy. She’s also able to sail the Kiel Canal – passing through its lock and gliding beneath low bridges (with her mast lowered), while larger ships must divert north of Denmark to access the Baltic. Balmoral 's crest proudly replicates the British royal family's Scottish residence Balmoral Castle, with a nod to Fred. Olsen's historic links with Scotland and where the family still have an estate today.
Find sailings on BalmoralON BOARD
At a glance
Tonnage (GRT)43,537
Guests (standard occupancy)1,275
Crew590
Cabins710
Restaurants4
Bars & Lounges9
Show Lounges1
Swimming Pools2
Jacuzzis4
Fitness Centre✔
Atlantis Spa✔
Thermal Suite-
Shops3
Flower Shop✔
Golf Nets✔
Library✔
Card Room✔
Laundry Room✔
The Olsen Art Studio✔
The Earth Room✔
The Botanical Room✔
The Auditorium-
Room Service✔
Wi-Fi✔
Ship information from Fred. Olsen’s published ship profile, checked 2026-10-22. Facilities and layouts can change.
FIND YOUR SPACE
Cabins & suites
owners suite (OW)
The spacious and tastefully decorated Owner's Suites on Balmoral are approximately 1181 square feet in size and are situated on Highland Deck 10. These suites feature all the amenities guests may need, with plenty of room, and a full length balcony, plus a few extra touches for a comfortable and memorable stay. Deck: Highland Deck 10 Size: 1181 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Separate sitting area Separate dining area Bathroom with bath and step-in shower Walk in wardrobe Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers Large floor-to-ceiling windows Access to your mini bar and food & drink cooler Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package virtual tour
- Deck: Highland Deck 10
- Size: 1181 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Bathroom with bath and step-in shower
Premier Suite (PS)
The spacious, elegantly-styled Premier Suites on Balmoral are approximately 601 square feet in size and situated high on the ship on Highland Deck 10. These suites feature all the amenities guests need, plus a few extra touches for an even more comfortable, restful and memorable stay. Deck: Highland Deck 10 Size: 601 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Separate sitting area Bathroom with bath/step-in shower Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers Large floor-to-ceiling windows Access to your mini bar and food & drink cooler Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package virtual tour
- Deck: Highland Deck 10
- Size: 601 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath/step-in shower
- Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers
Marquee suite (MS)
At approximately 472 square feet in size, Balmoral's Marquee Suites provide guests with ample space in which to relax, and feature all of the amenities – as well as a few extra benefits – that are needed for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience. Deck: Highland Deck 10 (forward) Size: 472 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with large double bed Separate sitting area Bathroom with bath/step-in shower Private balcony with sun loungers Large floor-to-ceiling windows Access to your mini bar and food & drink cooler Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package virtual tour
- Deck: Highland Deck 10 (forward)
- Size: 472 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with large double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath/step-in shower
- Private balcony with sun loungers
Superior Suite (SS)
Balmoral's Superior Suites, at approximately 341 square feet in size, provide guests with plenty of space in which to relax and enjoy their time on board. Each suite features all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay, as well as a few additional benefits. Deck: Highland Deck 10 & Bridge Deck 9 (midship) Size: 341 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Separate sitting area Bathroom with bath/step-in shower Private balcony with sun loungers Large floor-to-ceiling windows Access to your mini bar and food & drink cooler Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package virtual tour
- Deck: Highland Deck 10 & Bridge Deck 9 (midship)
- Size: 341 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Separate sitting area
- Bathroom with bath/step-in shower
- Private balcony with sun loungers
Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)
A welcoming, comfortable space in which to enjoy a relaxing, restful stay, Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have all the amenities that guests need during their time on board, plus a private balcony for soaking up sunshine and scenery outside. Deck: Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8 Size: 279 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Sitting area Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Private balcony Large windows Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package Please note, cabins 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are wheelchair accessible cabins virtual tour
Single Balcony Suite (JB)
A welcoming, comfortable space in which to enjoy a relaxing, restful stay, Balmoral's Single Balcony Suites have all the amenities that guests need during their time on board, plus a private balcony for soaking up sunshine and scenery outside. Deck: Bridge Deck 9 Size: 270 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with single bed Sitting area Bathroom with bath/step-in shower Private balcony Large windows Guests benefit from complimentary Suite Dreams package *Please note that some of the JB grades have 2 beds, but are sold as Single Balcony Suites. virtual tour
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9
- Size: 270 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with single bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath/step-in shower
- Private balcony
OUR SUITE DREAMS PACKAGE
Offered with our compliments in all our Suites, our Suite Dreams package includes a few little luxuries to make your time on board Balmoral even more special. Priority check-in on cruises from the UK and a bottle of sparkling wine will ensure you're perfectly relaxed when you are first welcomed into your suite. Daily canapés and a fruit basket are also available, as are comfortable bathrobes and slippers. Binoculars are on hand, along with a world atlas, for you to use - ideal for our Scenic Discoveries, where you'll marvel at the beautiful islands, lochs and seascapes Balmoral will cruise past What's included Suite Dreams Package × Suite Dreams Package With our compliments on selected Suite grades. ✔ Dedicated check-in on cruises departing from the UK ✔ A welcome bottle of sparkling wine ✔ Fruit basket (topped up on request throughout your cruise) ✔ Flowers or plant in your Suite ✔ Bathrobe and slippers ✔ Luxury towels ✔ Free pressing service for formal wear ✔ Binoculars in your Suite ✔ World atlas and country guide for your reference ✔ Afternoon canapé service ✔ Daily newsletter, featuring national and international news ✔ Pair of compact umbrellas for use ashore ✔ Laundry service discount vouchers ✔ Carafe of water, replenished daily *Facilities (including cabin layout) vary by Suite type; please check when making your booking. Suite Dreams benefits are available on all cruises of three nights and above duration. Suite Dreams benefits apply to guests staying in all Suite grades.
Balcony Cabins
Balcony Cabin (BA) Situated on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9, Balmoral's Balcony Cabins feature a private balcony on which guests can enjoy the sunshine and scenery in their own outdoor space. Inside, the cabins are spacious and welcoming, and feature all the amenities needed for comfortable stay. Deck: Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9 Size: 248 - 260 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Sitting area Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Private balcony Large windows Balcony Cabin (BA) Situated on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9, Balmoral's Balcony Cabins feature a private balcony on which guests can enjoy the sunshine and scenery in their own outdoor space. Inside, the cabins are spacious and welcoming, and feature all the amenities needed for comfortable stay. Deck: Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9 Size: 248 - 260 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Sitting area Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Private balcony Large windows Single Balcony Cabin (J) Situated higher on the ship, on Lido Deck 8, and featuring a balcony, Balmoral's J Grade Single Balcony cabins offer guests wonderful views, as well as ample space and all the amenities needed to rest, relax and enjoy their stay. Deck: Lido Deck 8 Size: 218 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with double bed and a chair Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Balcony Please note: Cabins 8061 and 8072 have a small corner balcony (with a restricted view). Single Balcony Cabin (J) Situated higher on the ship, on Lido Deck 8, and featuring a balcony, Balmoral's J Grade Single Balcony cabins offer guests wonderful views, as well as ample space and all the amenities needed to rest, relax and enjoy their stay. Deck: Lido Deck 8 Size: 218 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with double bed and a c
- Deck: Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9
- Size: 248 - 260 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Sitting area
- Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower
- Private balcony
Picture Window Cabins
Superior Ocean View (A) Situated on Coral Deck 4, Atlantic Deck 5 and Lido Deck 8, these cabins feature large picture windows, Balmoral's A Grade Superior Ocean View rooms benefit from plenty of natural light and allow guests to enjoy scenic views in comfort from their own private space. Deck: Coral Deck 4, Atlantic Deck 5 & Lido Deck 8 Size: 165-200 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Large picture window Superior Ocean View (A) Situated higher on the ship, on Lido Deck 8, and featuring large picture windows, Balmoral's A Grade Superior Ocean View rooms benefit from plenty of natural light and allow guests to enjoy scenic views in comfort from their own private space. Deck: Lido Deck 8 Size: 200 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed Sitting area Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Large picture window Superior Ocean View (B) Balmoral's B Grade Superior Ocean View cabins, in addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, restful stay, feature a picture window that provides guests with plenty of natural light and fantastic ocean views. Deck: Lido Deck 8 & Main Deck 6 Size: 165 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Large picture window *Cabins 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on Lido Deck 8 are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted window. Superior Ocean View (B) Balmoral's B Grade Superior Ocean View cabins, in addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, restful stay, feature a picture window that provides guests with plenty of natural light and fantastic ocean views. Deck: Lido Deck 8 & Main Deck 6 Size: 165 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair Bathroom with b
- Deck: Coral Deck 4, Atlantic Deck 5 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 165-200 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed
- Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower
- Large picture window
- Deck: Lido Deck 8
Porthole Cabins
Ocean View (F) In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the two porthole windows in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views. Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3 Size: 165 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin beds and a chair Bathroom with a step-in shower Two porthole windows Ocean View (F) In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the two porthole windows in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views. Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3 Size: 165 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin beds and a chair Bathroom with a step-in shower Two porthole windows Single Ocean View (L) In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the porthole window in Balmoral's L Grade Single Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views. Deck: Marina Deck 3 Size: 140 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with bed and a chair Bathroom with a step-in shower Single porthole window Single Ocean View (L) In addition to all the amenities needed for a comfortable, relaxing stay, the porthole window in Balmoral's L Grade Single Ocean View cabins also provide guests with plenty of soothing natural light and fantastic ocean views. Deck: Marina Deck 3 Size: 140 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with bed and a chair Bathroom with a step-in shower Single porthole window
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3
- Size: 165 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin beds and a chair
- Bathroom with a step-in shower
- Two porthole windows
- Deck: Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3
Inside Cabins
Superior Interior Cabin (G) Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned close to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, G Grade Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board. Deck: Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8 Size: 160 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Please note: cabins 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck 9 are wheelchair accessible with a wetroom style en-suite. Superior Interior Cabin (G) Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned close to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, G Grade Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board. Deck: Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8 Size: 160 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Please note: cabins 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck 9 are wheelchair accessible with a wetroom style en-suite. Single Superior Interior (M) Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, M Grade Single Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board. Deck: Bridge Deck 9 Size: 160 square feet (approx.) Bedroom with a bed and a chair Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower Single Superior Interior (M) Featuring all the amenities and comforts guests need, and positioned closed to stairs and lifts providing easy access to the ship's other decks and public areas, M Grade Single Superior Interior cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing stay on board. Deck: Bridge Dec
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
- Bedroom with twin or double bed and a chair
- Bathroom with bath and/or step-in shower
- Deck: Bridge Deck 9 & Lido Deck 8
- Size: 160 square feet (approx.)
LIFE ON BOARD
Public areas
Main Dining
BALLINDALLOCH RESTAURANT
Balmoral’s Ballindalloch restaurant offers a fantastic selection of expertly prepared delicious dishes to enjoy. Our delicious five-course á la carte menu changes each evening and is served to you by our attentive and friendly waiting teams. Choose from mouthwatering steaks, perfectly cooked seafood and freshly made soups; all accompanied by bread baked on board each day. Take the chance to sample our featured Treats of the Region dishes, created in line with some of the destinations you are visiting on your Fred. Olsen cruise. Sample Evening menu Example Dinner menu × Example dinner menu
SPEY & AVON RESTAURANTS
The Spey and Avon restaurants have been carefully designed to really make the most of the large windows providing natural light and ever-changing views as you enjoy the same delicious five-course á la carte menus that are on offer at the main Ballindalloch restaurant. Freshly cooked breads and soups are on offer, along with succulent steaks, pasta dishes and melt-in-the-mouth desserts. There'll also be treats of the region dishes available for you to try, which are influenced by the destinations you're visiting.
Thistle Restaurant
The Thistle Restaurant is designed with a light and airy feel, offering guests a more informal and relaxed dining experience, boasting a fresh layout, with stylish soft furnishings. The casual, self-serve dining experience with table-service drinks is perfect for those who prefer not to dine at a set time in the Ballindalloch, Spey and Avon restaurants, or those looking to indulge in a late night snack. You can expect to find an abundance of indulgent dishes, expertly prepared by our on board chefs, with various breakfast, lunch and dinner options, and a tasty selection of complimentary afternoon teas with sandwiches, scones and tempting cakes. There will also be the opportunity to try various dishes in our Treats of the Region section, which are local to the destinations you're visiting on your Fred. Olsen cruise.
SPECIALITY DINING *
What are the dining times / restaurant opening hours?
Our on board restaurants provide a wide range of delicious and freshly cooked meals, so we offer a selection of dining options throughout the day to suit you. Breakfast : Normally served between 7.30 and 10.30am in the main restaurants and casual dining venues. Lunch : Normally served between 12.00 and 2.00pm in the main restaurants and casual dining venues. Afternoon Tea: Each day, complimentary afternoon tea is served between 3.45 and 4.45pm in the self-service restaurant, with sandwiches, savouries, scones and cakes, along with fresh tea and coffee.* *Please note this is not the Traditional Premium Afternoon Tea service, which is available on selected sea days in the Observatory, for just £13 per person. For any new cruises booked after 5th January 2027, the price will be £15pp. Dinner : Please request either the first or second seating when you make your booking. You can also request your preferred table, but we can’t always guarantee this. Dining times are as follows: First sitting 6.00pm Second sitting 8.00pm Second sitting dining time in the main restaurants on embarkation day and on formal evenings will be at 8.15pm . Your restaurant seating card will be in your room when you board, which confirms your table number and dining time. This will be your allocated table for the duration of your cruise. Please note that evening dining times may vary on our One Night Cruises. Casual Dining: A casual, self-serve dining experience is available in the Thistle Restaurant ( Balmoral) The View and The Poolside ( Bolette and Borealis ) for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For those guests requiring a more casual dinner option, the View and Thistle restaurants will be open from 6.00pm to 9.00pm. Dining at the Poolside ( Bolette and Borealis ) is available throughout the day be
What style of dining should I expect on board?
Each of our ships feature a selection of stylish dining venues, all serving a range of indulgent, expertly-prepared dishes. At breakfast, lunch and dinner, you’ll always find delicious treats that will tempt your taste buds. And, as all food is included on your cruise, you can indulge as much or as little as you like. Start the day with eggs made to order; a hearty full English, or a lighter breakfast from the casual dining restaurants if you prefer. Lunchtime offers a select á la carte menu alongside a tempting self-serve dining option for you to indulge in up to three courses. Experience evening dining just how it should be in the spacious restaurants on board, serving up a sumptuous five-course á la carte menu each evening. You can request a table size at the time you make your booking, although this cannot be guaranteed. Alternatively you can opt to dine at our casual self-serve dining restaurant. As each evening winds down, our casual dining restaurants are open for late-night snacks if you’re still feeling peckish. Of course, you can also order room service up until 11pm every day ( except on embarkation and disembarkation days ). While the main restaurants are always popular, during your cruise you may be tempted to try something different for an evening or two. When you’re in the mood for something extra special, each ship in our fleet features speciality dining (a supplement applies) - Colours & Tastes will offer its blend of Asian, Grill and Italian menus on a rotation basis. What's the food like on board? More dining information Conversations at sea - Food on board ×
The Observatory
The Observatory has spectacular panoramic views and is a wonderful lounge to enjoy a drink in as you take a seat in one of the comfortable chairs by the lounge's large windows - ideal for our scenic cruising of points of interest, tiny islands and iconic sights that you'll observe from this perfect viewpoint. As we head into the evening, the Observatory comes to life with music and singing from our resident live bands, and you'll have the choice of a selection of champagnes, sparkling cocktails or mocktails to add an extra touch of glamour to your on board experience.
THE MARQUEE BAR
With its large windows, spectacular glass roof and beautiful décor and furnishings, the Marquee Bar provides guests with the perfect place to relax or meet up with new found friends. With a selection of beers, wines and expertly-created cocktails available, it's the perfect venue for a pre or post-dinner drink, or for joining your fellow guests after enjoying a day ashore.
LIDO BAR AND LOUNGE
Our spacious and sociable Lido Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing drink and chat with our friendly staff and your fellow guests. Popular both before and after dinner, the bar has large panoramic windows overlooking the aft pool, allowing natural light to flow through; while the lounge is perfect for enjoying music from our resident musicians, or enjoying some of our fantastic Signature Experiences.
NEPTUNE LOUNGE
Join our talented artists in the Neptune Lounge for evenings filled with memorable performances. Alongside our own performers, guest comedians, singers and magicians will take to the stage to delight and entertain you. You’ll also be warmly invited to our ever-popular Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Parties, wonderful occasions to celebrate your cruise in true Fred. Olsen style. During the day, the Neptune Lounge becomes a centre for discovery and learning. Our guest speakers share their knowledge and passion through fascinating talks and engaging activities, all designed to enrich your understanding of the destinations you’ll explore. It’s also the perfect setting for our ‘Audience with...’ sessions, where you can learn about the creativity and dedication that go into our shows, or hear first-hand what life is like for our Captains and Officers at sea.
POOLS & JACUZZIS
Keep fit by swimming a few lengths, or cool down after relaxing in the sunshine on deck in either of Balmoral’s large, heated saltwater pools. Located in the centre of Marquee Deck and at the stern of the ship on Lounge Deck, both pools are surrounded by open deck space and plenty of loungers, so are perfect for soaking up the sunshine or losing yourself in a good book. For blissful relaxation, head for the Jacuzzi and let the warm, bubbling water soak any cares away, while you chat with fellow guests.
Shopping
The shops on board Balmoral offer everything you may want or need during your time on board, whether you're treating yourself or a loved one to a holiday gift or simply needing some basic essentials. Visit the Boutique Shop for perfumes, colognes and much more at Duty Free prices, or visit the Sea Cove to view our superb range of Fred. Olsen branded merchandise, including casual tshirts, jackets and gilets, tote bags and rucksacks, travel mugs for perhaps taking your coffee from the Bookmark Café ashore, or lanyards for your all-important cabin card. If you need essentials, you'll find everything from sun cream, shampoo and toothpaste to books and snacks too, and you could also bring home something special from the Jewellery Shop.
FITNESS CENTRE
If you enjoy working out, Balmoral's Fitness Centre is fully equipped with all the modern facilities and equipment you'd expect to find in your gym back home, including running machines, bikes, cross trainers, weight machines and free weights. On board Balmoral and across our fleet of ships, we 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, run by our fully qualified Fitness Instructors. 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 your needs. Find out More Fitness Centre × Personal Training & Fitness Classes Personal training | 60 mins | £50 or 30 min | £25 Pilates | 45 mins | Complimentary This low-impact exercise emphasises the use of your abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and thighs to help improve flexibility, build muscular strength and enhance movement. Yoga | 45 mins | Complimentary This class focuses on the core elements of flexibility, strength, power, and balance. You will be taken through a series of different poses to give your entire body a complete flexibility and toning workout. Fitball | 45 mins | Complimentary This core strengthening class is designed to improve your range of motion, strength, stability co-ordination and balance. Fitball provides a thorough workout which helps to develop a stronger core, correct posture and improve body alignment. Dyna-Band | 45 mins | Complimentary Resistance bands a
PERSONAL ADVICE
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