The Balmoral cruise ship sails through a tranquil fjord in Norway, surrounded by steep, snow-capped mountains and lush, forested hills beneath a bright blue sky

Balmoral Cruise Ship

Introducing Balmoral

Named after the British Royal Family's Scottish residence, Balmoral provides an exceptional cruising experience. Covering regions as diverse as Northern Europe and Scandinavia to North America and the islands of Cape Verde, there are plenty of enthralling adventures to choose from.

With departures from Dover, Southampton, Newcastle and Rosyth, Balmoral cruises offer the chance to explore some of the world's most spectacular destinations. What's more, despite being one of the largest Fred Olsen ships, Balmoral is small enough to take advantage of the tighter waterways along each route, so guests do not miss out on remarkable sights along the way, such as the Norwegian fjords or Germany's Kiel Canal.

As well as incredible scenery, Balmoral cruises provide the very best in amenities and dining experiences, as well as stylish and comfortable accommodation. With fewer than 1,400 guests, there is ample room for every passenger to enjoy the spacious venues and public areas, while still having plenty of chances to enjoy the company of others. Whether you're travelling around the culture-filled Americas or the Scottish Lochs, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on board Balmoral.

Featured Balmoral cruises

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Bilbao, Spain
Free case of wine
New
Spain and the River Cities of France from Southampton (L2631)
France, Spain
Cruise Northern Spain and France aboard Balmoral, with Seine river views, visits to Rouen, Paris, and Bordeaux, plus enjoy local flavours and wine tours during harvest season.
  • Visit Pauillac (for Bordeaux), France, and explore the world-renowned vineyards during the grape harvest.
  • Discover the charm of Getxo (for Bilbao) and Santander, Spain, with their beautiful coastal views and rich culture.
  • Explore the historic port town of Saint-Malo, France, with its medieval walls and stunning seaside vistas.
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    13 days from £1,549 pp

  • Dates Available

    18 September 2026

  • Duration

    13 days

  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

High angle view of a pebbly beach, the land curving round to the right and has grass and trees in the left forefront, a few hotels and villas and a mountain further down.
Free case of wine
New
Mediterranean Grand Voyage from Southampton (L2632)
Spain, Italy, France, Malta, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, …More
Embark on a grand cruise exploring Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Malta, Morocco, Cyprus, and Portugal, with iconic landmarks, historic cities, and stunning coastlines.
  • Explore iconic Mediterranean destinations like Dubrovnik, Rhodes, and Crete.
  • Sail past breathtaking sights like the Strait of Messina, the Bay of Kotor, and the Temple of Poseidon.
  • Visit cultural gems like Alexandria, Egypt, Istanbul, Turkey, and the historic city of Valletta, Malta.
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    72 days from £8,199 pp

  • Dates Available

    30 September 2026

  • Duration

    72 days

  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Rouen, France
Free case of wine
River Cities of France and Belgium from Southampton (L2533)
France, Belgium
Sail France and Belgium’s scenic rivers with Newmarket Holidays, visiting Rouen and Antwerp’s cultural highlights, only accessible to smaller ships.
  • Sail the scenic River Seine, revealing historic bridges, quaint villages, and idyllic countryside, en route to Rouen
  • Dock in central Antwerp, accessible only to smaller ships, and explore Flemish artwork, Belgian chocolates, and the diamond district
  • Discover Paris from Rouen, immersing yourself in Parisian culture, art, fashion, and French pastries
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    7 days from £599 pp

  • Dates Available

    16 December 2025

  • Duration

    7 days

  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Rotterdam, Netherlands
Free case of wine
Springtime Gardens of Europe from Newcastle (L2611)
France, Netherlands
Explore Europe’s spring gardens with Newmarket Holidays, visiting Monet’s Garden and Keukenhof. Celebrate Dutch King’s Day in Rotterdam!
  • Wander through the vibrant spring blooms of Monet’s Garden and the Netherlands' Keukenhof Gardens
  • Sample local treats like Belgian beer and Dutch stroopwafels, and explore the Netherlands by bike
  • Experience the lively celebrations of King’s Day in Rotterdam, with street markets, music, and festivities
  • Logo

    8 days from £899 pp

  • Dates Available

    23 April 2026

  • Duration

    8 days

  • Depart From

    Newcastle Tyne

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Akureyri, Iceland
Free case of wine
New
Wonders of Iceland with the Solar Eclipse from Rosyth (L2625)
Faroe Islands, Iceland
This special Iceland cruise is timed to align with the path of the Solar Eclipse, offering a unique opportunity to witness this awe-inspiring event, with guidance from Go Stargazing experts on board.
  • Witness the Solar Eclipse from Balmoral’s deck, with expert commentary from Go Stargazing specialists
  • Explore Iceland’s natural wonders, including Strokkur Geyser, lava tunnel, and the waterfalls of Dynjandi, Goðafoss, and Gullfoss
  • Experience Icelandic culture through horseback riding, local folklore, and relaxing in geothermal pools
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    13 days from £2,299 pp

  • Dates Available

    06 August 2026

  • Duration

    13 days

  • Depart From

    Rosyth

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Waterside views of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, Scotland
Free case of wine
New
The Scenic Shores of Scotland and Ireland from Newcastle (L261718)
Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland
Sail from Newcastle on a scenic summer voyage around Ireland and Scotland, where dramatic cliffs, picturesque shorelines, and charming coastal towns await.
  • Sail past iconic sights like Duart Castle, Arranmore, and the Cliffs of Moher from the decks of Balmoral
  • Experience the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway and the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park
  • Immerse yourself in Gaelic culture with traditional Irish music, céilí dancing, and a taste of smooth whiskey
  • Logo

    10 days from £1,249 pp

  • Dates Available

    09 June 2026

  • Duration

    10 days

  • Depart From

    Newcastle Tyne

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Olden, Norway
Free case of wine
New
Summertime Norwegian Fjords from Rosyth (L2622)
Norway
Discover Norway’s stunning fjordland landscapes as Balmoral navigates scenic waterways like Hjørundfjord, framed by the dramatic Sunnmøre Alps, and Lustrafjord, home to the beautiful Feige Waterfall.
  • Sail through Norway’s stunning fjordlands, including Hjørundfjord with the dramatic Sunnmøre Alps & Lustrafjord, home to the Feige Waterfall
  • Embrace friluftsliv with activities like hiking Mount Aksla, kayaking on Nordfjord, and cycling scenic routes
  • Experience Skjolden’s Romantic Road, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage
  • Logo

    8 days from £1,099 pp

  • Dates Available

    14 July 2026

  • Duration

    8 days

  • Depart From

    Rosyth

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Stavanger, Norway
Free case of wine
Scenic Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights from Newcastle (L2612)
Norway
Join Norway's stunning fjords on a five-night cruise with Newmarket Holidays, capturing majestic waterfalls and the enchanting Lysefjord aboard Balmoral.
  • Capture the stunning Fureberg Waterfall at its peak flow on a scenic detour along Maurangerfjord
  • Sail the enchanting Lysefjord and Hardangerfjord, accessible only to smaller ships like Balmoral
  • Embrace friluftsliv in Ulvik with outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and foraging
  • Logo

    6 days from £749 pp

  • Dates Available

    30 April 2026

  • Duration

    6 days

  • Depart From

    Newcastle Tyne

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Ship facilities

Tonnage (GT) 43,537 | Length 218m | Passengers 1,325 (standard occupancy) |  Cabins 710 | Crew 510 | Decks: 10 | Cruising speed: 22.5 knots

Restaurants

Savor a truly exceptional dining experience aboard Balmoral, where every meal is crafted to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re craving bold international cuisine, comforting British favorites, or indulgent gourmet creations, Balmoral’s diverse dining venues are designed to satisfy every culinary desire.

From sophisticated formal dining rooms to more relaxed, informal settings, each venue offers a unique atmosphere and menu that ensures dining is always a highlight of your cruise. Enjoy beautifully prepared dishes and impeccable service that will transform each meal into an unforgettable experience, adding an extra touch of luxury to your voyage.

Leisure

Leisure facilities aboard Balmoral are designed to offer both relaxation and entertainment, with something for every guest. Take a dip in the heated pools, unwind in the Jacuzzis, or perfect your swing at the golf net. Indoors, the ship offers a cozy card room and a well-stocked library for a quiet retreat, while outdoor deck games like shuffleboard and quoits provide a classic cruise experience.

For those looking to get creative, arts and crafts workshops offer a chance to explore new hobbies, and the onboard cinema is perfect for catching a film. 

Entertainment

Prepare for an unforgettable entertainment experience aboard Balmoral, where excitement and enjoyment await at every turn. Whether you're in the mood for show-stopping live performances, intimate musical sets, or interactive activities, 

From dazzling stage productions and vibrant musical acts to thought-provoking lectures and lively themed events, there's always something happening on board to keep you entertained. No matter your mood or interests, the diverse entertainment options will leave you engaged, delighted, and eager for more with every moment of your journey.

Wellness

Discover the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation experience aboard Balmoral, where wellness is a top priority. Whether you’re looking to unwind, refresh your senses, or maintain your fitness routine, you'll find a range of luxurious treatments and state-of-the-art facilities to elevate your well-being throughout your cruise.

Indulge in blissful spa treatments, restore your energy in the tranquil thermal suite, or keep active in the modern fitness center. From rejuvenating massages to invigorating fitness classes, it's the perfect setting to nourish both body and mind, leaving you feeling completely renewed. Embark on the wellness journey you deserve!

Bars & lounges

Immerse yourself in luxury and sophistication aboard Balmoral, where the diverse lounges offer a perfect retreat for every mood and occasion. Whether you crave a peaceful haven to relax in or an energetic spot for lively entertainment, you’ll find the ideal setting on this ship.

Relish in expertly crafted cocktails while gazing at stunning ocean vistas, unwind with the soothing melodies of live piano music, or join the vibrant social scene in our elegant bars. Each lounge is thoughtfully designed to provide a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, ensuring that every moment you spend aboard is both delightful and distinctive. Explore our array of lounges and discover the perfect ambiance to enhance your cruise experience!

Accommodation

Discover the epitome of relaxation and sophistication aboard Balmoral, where the accommodations are designed to provide an exquisite retreat throughout your journey. With a selection of elegantly appointed cabins to suit every preference and budget, you’re sure to find a space that feels just right.

From opulent suites featuring private balconies and sweeping ocean views to intimate interior cabins that exude cosy charm, each room is meticulously designed for your comfort. Enjoy modern conveniences, stylish décor, and a welcoming ambiance that transforms your cabin into a serene sanctuary. No matter your choice, Balmoral delivers a memorable stay where comfort and elegance come together to enhance your cruising experience.

Please note: Some ports may be at anchor, only accessible by launch or tender. Please call for details.

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