Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

The Fred Olsen history runs as deep as the ocean, with the line’s Norwegian heritage dating back to 1848. Originating from the town of Oslofjord, brothers Fredrik Christian, Petter and Andreas began their international shipping company many years ago, with the purchase of three ships. From these humble roots, Fred Olsen has grown into one of Britain’s favourite cruise lines, its elegant ships and imaginative itineraries setting it apart.

Mid-Sized Ships & Themed Cruises

Fred Olsen place destination at the forefront of all they do and are unique in the manner that they offer itineraries to their guests; while many cruise lines are classed as either sea cruising or river cruising, Fred Olsen’s mid-sized ships allow them able to break boundaries and combine the two. Travelling on board a Fred Olsen ship, passengers can traverse the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, sail Mediterranean seas and even negotiate the narrow passages of the Guadalquivir River and some of Europe’s most beautiful waterways. Those who are looking for something a little different will almost certainly find it at Fred Olsen; the cruise line does themed cruises better than most, with murder mysteries, exotic garden tours and Viking expeditions to mention but a handful.

Offering unrivalled choice and flexibility, combined with a reputation for the friendliest and most welcoming service on the seas, Fred Olsen is the cruise line of choice for those who seek a holiday filled with new experiences and undiscovered lands.

Set Sail from the UK…

Fred Olsen is a UK based cruise line, so there are a huge number of exciting voyages setting sail from the UK on a regular basis. Recent expansion sees Fred Olsen operate from a massive 10 ports around the UK: Belfast; Bristol; Dover; Edinburgh; Glasgow; Harwich; Liverpool; Newcastle; Southampton and Tilbury. This expansion places 90% of the UK population within just 90 minutes of a Fred Olsen cruise and puts the cruise line’s diverse itineraries at your fingertips. Rather than focusing attentions on innovative facilities on board, Fred Olsen are making strides with their inspirational itineraries and opening the door to the world; all while sailing directly from the UK.

For those who dislike flying, or who simply prefer their holiday to begin the moment they leave the house, Fred Olsen’s UK departures are ideal. Take time to leisurely explore historical port towns close to home, before setting sail on explorations of more distant shores. Itineraries sailing from the UK include Baltic, European, Norwegian Fjords, the Caribbean and even World Cruises.

…Or Enjoy a Flying Start

Fly cruises are a great way to see maximum destinations in minimum time. Fred Olsen currently visits over 240 ports around the world, and an exotic fly cruise itinerary will place you straight in the centre of the explorations. Once you have met with your ship, your holiday will begin immediately; island-hopping around the Caribbean, lazing on the world’s most secluded beaches, glimpsing life in tiny riverside villages and along the world’s most beautiful canals. Visit Dalian, one of China’s most fascinating holiday destinations, walk the fort walls of Galle in Sri Lanka, or gaze out over the Red Sea from Aqaba; Fred Olsen offer an encyclopaedia of destinations around the world.

Family Friendly Cruising

Fred Olsen’s incredible itineraries and family-friendly ships mean all ages can experience amazing destinations in fantastic style. Fred Olsen welcomes people of all ages and the crowd is often a mixed one. Guests sailing during school holidays, or on a mini cruise, will find exciting kid’s clubs in operation on each of the four ships, keeping 5 to 11 year olds well entertained throughout the voyage. Arts and crafts tables get creative juices flowing, whilst older kids are challenged to ship-wide scavenger hunts and even their own fitness classes.

Dinner times are something for the whole family to look forward to; a delicious kid’s menu will tempt even the fussiest taste buds and high chairs are provided too. Those travelling without children can enjoy intimate dinners for two or join larger tables and build friendships to last long beyond debarkation.

The white swallow-tail flag was first flown by the second Fred Olsen on his racing yacht in the 1890’s, yet today it remains as recognisable as ever, symbolising a cruise line where tradition and adventure combine to great effect.