Fred. Olsen River Cruises
For guests who want to reach the heart of a destination without changing ship, Fred. Olsen river cruises combine classic cruising with journeys along some of Europe’s most historic waterways. Sailing onboard the elegant Balmoral, small enough to navigate rivers that larger ships cannot reach, guests can explore a city destination one morning and admire rolling countryside from their cabin balcony the next.
Why Sail with Fred. Olsen on a River Cruise?
When they choose Fred. Olsen, guests can expect a high level of service that has been perfected over the last 175 years. The cruise line excels at making its fleet of ships feel like home, utilising its high-end facilities and diligent crew to meet expectations, accommodate preferences and elevate a good cruise into an unforgettable one.
What sets these cruises apart is Balmoral’s size. Compact enough to sail along the River Seine and dock right in the centre of Bordeaux, the ship reaches places that larger ocean ships simply cannot, all while guests continue to enjoy the restaurants, bars and entertainment they would find on any Fred. Olsen voyage.
This combination of intimate river scenery and dependable onboard comfort makes Fred. Olsen river cruises such a distinctive way to see Europe.
What Are the Best Fred. Olsen River Cruise Destinations?
Fred. Olsen river cruises open up a side of Europe that ocean voyages can’t. Here are some of the top ports that guests can discover on a Fred. Olsen river cruise:
Bordeaux
Sailing along the Garonne, Balmoral docks right in the centre of Bordeaux, a port inaccessible to larger ships. From here, guests can wander the elegant, honey-stoned streets of this UNESCO World Heritage city, sample the local wine at a nearby vineyard or relax at a riverside café.
Rouen
As Balmoral cruises the River Seine, Rouen offers a fascinating stop full of Normandy history. Guests can explore the half-timbered old town, visit the Gothic cathedral immortalised by Monet or use Rouen as a gateway to Paris
Honfleur
This pretty Normandy fishing port has long been a favourite among artists, and it is easy to see why. Its harbour of tall, slate-fronted houses, cobbled lanes and seafood restaurants make Honfleur a delight to explore on foot.
Paris (via Rouen)
While Balmoral cannot sail all the way into the French capital, its stop in Rouen puts Paris within easy reach. Guests can spend the day admiring the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the café culture that makes Paris one of
the world’s most loved cities.
St. Malo
Often paired with Fred. Olsen river cruises along the Seine and Garonne, the walled port of St. Malo adds a dose of Breton charm to any itinerary. Guests can walk the ramparts that encircle the old town or enjoy a plate of fresh oysters overlooking the harbour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Balmoral is the ship guests will sail on for these itineraries, as its size allows it to navigate narrower waterways and dock in the centre of cities such as Bordeaux, something the cruise line’s larger ships are unable to do.
Guests can currently sail with Fred. Olsen along the River Seine in Normandy and the Garonne in southwest France, often paired with coastal French ports such as St. Malo and Honfleur on the same itinerary.
Yes, guests can join a Fred. Olsen river cruise from ports across the UK, including Southampton and Newcastle.
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Experience a Mini Cruise with Fred. Olsen Cruises
You don’t need a lot of time to set sail on a holiday you’ll never forget. With Fred. Olsen’s mini cruises, you can embark on a voyage that’s short and sweet, visiting some of the world’s best destinations in just a matter of days. Transform any long weekend into a memorable holiday with Fred. Olsen itineraries range from 1 to 5 nights.