First time cruiser

I've been on a number of ship visits with various companies, whilst their ships docked in Southampton, to sample what they offer but have never actually cruised as a guest before, so when the opportunity presented itself from Fred Olsen, I thought it high time I tried it out. Fred Olsen have a small fleet of ships and I was aboard Borealis. She has a capacity of 1353 guests but doesn't always sail full. The biggest cruise ship capacity is 6988 with Royal Caribbean, P&O's biggest is 5200 so this gives you a general idea. Small ship cruising lends itself to a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, (the staff actually get to learn your name after a few days). You have stops at smaller ports with less tourism, public spaces feel more relaxed and you can get to know other passengers.

I was blown away by how much I enjoyed it. Fred Olsen are a family owned company that have been in operation for 175 years, they certainly know their stuff. They are family run and they pride themselves on service and the fact that when you are on-board you are part of the Fred family. You certainly feel this with the staff knowing your name in no time at all and welcoming you back on-board after a day in port exploring, it's a feeling like returning home.

The cruise I went on was part of the Fleet in Funchal, where the 3 sister ships; Borealis, Balmoral and Bolette were all in port together, we had a day of celebrations with fireworks to celebrate before we all sailed off in different directions.

The food was plentiful and amazing, especially at the speciality restaurants (It's only a £10 supplement to pre-book and well worth it). Evening canapes were delivered nightly to my cabin which was a nice bonus. There is so much to do that I don't imagine you'd ever get bored. I took part in cocktail making masterclass which was fun, had afternoon tea on the observation deck, spent an afternoon in the thermal spa, took Yoga and Pilates classes, the gym had all the equipment you'd expect (so you could literally run on the treadmill over oceans), you can walk a mile (3 rounds of the Promenade deck whilst looking out for dolphins/whales). You can take singing, dancing, Ukelele, or Kurling classes. There are cooking workshops, a book club, bridge classes and an area dedicated to making Lego. The silent disco and entertainment onboard was so much fun. If you don't want to take part in anything there are quiet spaces (Oriental tea room my favourite) that you can read and watch the ocean slip by in peace.

Cruising is an amazing way of travelling, where you only un-pack once, get all your meals put in front of you and discover the world whilst practically planning very little or even getting on a plane.

If you're still not certain it's for you, give me a call and I'll probably change your mind. There is a cruise for everyone!