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Fred. OlsenIf you’ve ever been on a cruise, you’ll know that they’re full of magical moments. From gaining a new perspective on some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes to the unique sense of freedom you get at sea, there are many reasons why cruises are seen as once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

With 175 years of experience, Fred. Olsen is one of the world’s most exclusive cruise lines. Smaller, sleeker ships mean guests feel closer to the sea and can reach more remote places, while hand-crafted itineraries take you along the most imaginative and inspiring routes. You can cruise effortlessly through the narrowest Norwegian fjords, and weave nimbly past icebergs in the glacial Arctic…

These are just a few reasons why Fred. Olsen cruises are so special. It’s also the small magical moments experienced on board that make the trips so exceptional. Dancing the afternoon away on deck as you cruise out of port; the warm, attentive waiters remembering your name and favourite drink; feeling at home with the crew; and forming lasting friendships with the other guests.

But, of course, many of the most memorable moments come from the destinations themselves. So, to get you inspired, and show you the diversity of some of Fred. Olsen’s most popular itineraries, we’ve put together a list of some of the most special moments you can experience on a cruise.

1. Watching the Northern Lights from the sea

Watching the Northern Lights from the sea

Witnessing the Northern Lights is one of the world’s top bucket list activities. Seeing those ethereal green lights dance across the sky is an unforgettable experience, and Fred. Olsen’s 10-night Northern Norway Northern Lights cruise has been designed to make it even more magical. While you can see these elusive lights from land, there’s something extra special about seeing them from the sea.

Not only does the dark ocean sky mean conditions are perfect for seeing the lights, but you’ll also have the ability to sail past any cloud cover obstructing the display. Standing on deck, wrapped up warm, as the aurora borealis flickers overhead is a true ‘pinch me’ moment. There are chances to see the lights from land, too, as you’ll drive along the iconic Atlantic Ocean Road and visit the town of Tromsø.

  • Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines In Search of the Northern Lights*

    Crossing the Arctic Circle - Seven Sisters mountain range - Torghatten - Ålesund - Molde - Narvik - Tromsø

    Norway | 10 nights

    Departs on 13 Mar 2026 from Newcastle on the ship Balmoral. Solo guests FREE On Board Spend and SAVE. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,399pp

  • Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines In Search of the Northern Lights*

    Seven Sisters mountain range - Tjeldsundet Strait - Torghatten - Tromsø - Molde - Alta - Crossing the Arctic Circle - Ålesund

    Norway | 10 nights

    Departs on 23 Mar 2026 from Newcastle on the ship Balmoral. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,399pp

  • Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines In Search of the Northern Lights*

    Kristiansund - Narvik - Crossing the Arctic Circle - Seven Sisters mountain range - Torghatten - Ålesund - Naeroysundet - Tromsø

    Norway | 10 nights

    Departs on 03 Mar 2026 from Newcastle on the ship Balmoral. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,399pp

2. Whale watching in Iceland

Whale watching in Iceland

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, there’s a good chance you’ve already dreamed of going to Iceland. While it may be most famous for its otherworldly scenery, it also has fascinating wildlife, and is one of the world’s top whale watching destinations. Fred. Olsen’s 12-night Iceland cruise cruise is specifically timed for you to see humpback and minke whales – and, if you’re lucky, you may spot one breaching from the water.

Observing these intelligent mammals up close can be a profoundly moving experience – but it’s not the only exciting animal encounter on this cruise. From the deck of your ship, you’re perfectly placed to spot Atlantic puffins as they nest in coastal cliffs, and can even enjoy a closer look by taking a boat trip to the sea caves. In the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, where you can go hiking, you may also spot Arctic foxes.

  • Akureyri - Pass Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Duncansby Sea Stacks - Eyjafjörður - Elliðaey Island - The Needle - Borgarfjörður Eystri - Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar - Old Man of Hoy - Norðfjarðarhorn & Gerpir and 4 more

    Iceland, Faroe Islands, Scotland & 1 more | 12 nights

    Departs on 17 Jul 2025 from Dover on the ship Borealis. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,599pp

3. Experience Greenland's glaciers

Experience Greenland's glaciers

Greenland is one of the world’s most inhospitable yet desolately beautiful places. Because 75% of the country is covered by a permanent ice sheet, exploring by ship is recommended, and, as you cruise, you’ll witness this destination’s startlingly rugged beauty. Sail past glimmering glaciers and blue-tinted icebergs, some of which will be so close, it’ll seem you can reach out and touch their glistening surfaces.

Fred Olsen’s 15-night Greenland & Iceland cruise takes you past jagged mountains along the strait of Prins Christiansund, and through the scenic Tasermiut and Tunulliarfik fjords. As you weave past floating icebergs, you may spot whales swimming alongside you, and catch a glimpse of the tiny Inuit village of Igaliku. Plus, you’ll learn about Greenland’s culture, from its Viking history to Qajaq (kayaking) traditions.

  • Tunulliarfik Fjord - Akureyri - Narsarsuaq - Ísafjörður - Prins Christian Sund - Nanortalik - Reykjavík - Einarsfjord - Qaqortoq - Eyjafjörður

    Iceland & Greenland | 15 nights

    Departs on 07 Aug 2025 from Liverpool on the ship Bolette.

    From £3,599pp

Moments that last seconds, Moments that last a lifetime

Spectacular moments that you’ll remember for a lifetime, together with the smaller, more personal moments that make all the difference. All brought to you by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

Create more moments to remember with up to £330pp FREE On-Board Spend on over 100 sailings. Plus savings of up to £220pp on selected cruises.

Explore cruises

4. Appreciating the beauty of Britain’s South Coast

Appreciating the beauty of Britain’s South Coast

You don’t need to travel thousands of miles to enjoy magical moments at sea. Why not gain a new perspective on our own island, and explore the rugged coastlines and picturesque islands of Southern England? Fred. Olsen’s five-night UK South Coast cruise takes you to some of Britain’s most idyllic islands, from St. Mary’s in the Scilly Isles to the charming Channel Islands, just off the coast of Northern France.

It’s easy to overlook the beauty of Britain, but this cruise will open your eyes to the staggering scenery on our doorstep. The subtropical climate and azure waters of the Isles of Scilly may have you thinking you’ve accidentally cruised to the Caribbean, while on the Cornish mainland, you can enjoy traditional treats like cream teas. In the Channel Islands, discover a unique fusion of French and British influences.

5. Marvelling at the colourful coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast

Marvelling at the colourful coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of the most spectacularly beautiful parts of the Med – and Fred. Olsen’s 10-night Amalfi Coast cruise is designed to take you to the very best of these colourful cliff-edge towns. From your ship, the views of the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre are truly stunning. The pastel-coloured houses are perched precariously over the turquoise sea, appearing to cascade right down the cliffside.

Wander through the old cobblestone streets of towns like La Spezia, Sorrento, and Salerno, and indulge in ‘la dolce vita’ as you treat yourself to gelato, pizza, pasta, and limoncello. This cruise also takes you to Naples and Capri, and there are opportunities to explore ancient Roman sites like Pompeii. You’ll also visit the French island of Capri and Spain’s Ibiza and Valencia, so this is the ultimate Mediterranean jaunt.

  • Mahon - Naples - Benirras Beach at sunrise - Amalfi Coast & Capri - Salerno - La Spezia - Propriano - Sorrento - Valencia - Civitavecchia (for Rome)

    Spain, France & Italy | 10 nights | Flights & Transfers Included

    Departs on 27 Sep 2025 from Fly Cruise (non-UK) on the ship Balmoral. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,799pp

6. Circumventing the Land of Fire & Ice

Circumventing the Land of Fire & Ice

Iceland, ‘the Land of Fire and Ice’, boasts bubbling geysers, thundering waterfalls, rocky lava fields, and smoking volcanoes. On Fred. Olsen’s 12-night Iceland cruise, you’ll see the most impressive sights, sailing from the ancient, towering cliffs of the east coast to the volcanic black sand beaches of the south shore. With the icy breath of glaciers on your face, the views of this unique land seem even more special.

As you cruise along the deep blue waters of Borgarfjörður Eystri, you can spot the large puffin colony at Hafnarhólmi, and observe the birds gliding over the water, or nesting on the steep cliffs. In summer, the tranquil waters of Eyjafjörður become a breeding ground for humpback and minke whales, so you’re perfectly placed to search for marine life while admiring the seemingly never-ending mountain views.

  • Akureyri - Pass Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Duncansby Sea Stacks - Eyjafjörður - Elliðaey Island - The Needle - Borgarfjörður Eystri - Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar - Old Man of Hoy - Norðfjarðarhorn & Gerpir and 4 more

    Iceland, Faroe Islands, Scotland & 1 more | 12 nights

    Departs on 17 Jul 2025 from Dover on the ship Borealis. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,599pp

Moments that last seconds, Moments that last a lifetime

Spectacular moments that you’ll remember for a lifetime, together with the smaller, more personal moments that make all the difference. All brought to you by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

Create more moments to remember with up to £330pp FREE On-Board Spend on over 100 sailings. Plus savings of up to £220pp on selected cruises.

Explore cruises

7. Exploring the Norwegian Fjords

Exploring the Norwegian Fjords

Norway is widely regarded as one of the most dramatically beautiful countries in the world. Home to snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, and colourful coastal towns, the fjordlands are particularly spectacular. Exploring from the water allows you to enjoy unrivalled views of this stunning region, and Fred. Olsen’s five-night Scenic Norwegian Fjords cruise visits the most picturesque locations.

As you cruise, you’ll pass some of Norway’s most awe-inspiring landmarks – from the towering mountain pass of Trollstigen to the glittering Jostedalsbreen Glacier. Once your ship navigates into Innvikfjord, the landscape begins to change, with forested hills and tumbling waterfalls leading to serene, mirror-like waters. You can also spot remote villages, tranquil farms, and vibrant orchards from your ship’s deck.

8. Admire the wild landscape of the Scottish Isles

Admire the wild landscape of the Scottish Isles

If you’re keen to explore Britain but are more drawn to the north than the south, Fred. Olsen’s Scottish Isles cruise may be for you. This is a chance to see Scotland like never before. Cruise past the Hebridian Isles of Skye, Harris, and Lewis, as well as the Small Isles, Eigg, Rum, Canna, and Muck. Marvel at diverse, dramatic scenery, including volcanic peaks, sweeping beaches, and craggy basalt cliffs.

Unique cultures and traditions are also prevalent here; delve into Gaelic history, sip local whisky, and try crofting and weaving. Plus, cruise past the iconic Fingal’s cave, a basalt sea cave around 60 million years old. Known for its distinctive columns and symmetry, it’s difficult to believe that it’s nature’s work. Its ledges are home to many seabirds, too, including puffins, so it’s also great for bird watching.

  • Kirkwall - Fingal's Cave - Dutchman's Cap (Bac Mòr) - The Small Isles - Stornoway

    Scotland & United Kingdom | 5 nights

    Departs on 22 Aug 2025 from Liverpool on the ship Bolette. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £849pp

  • Fingal's Cave - Tórshavn - Stornoway - The Small Isles - Dutchman's Cap (Bac Mòr)

    Faroe Islands & Scotland | 5 nights

    Departs on 24 May 2025 from Liverpool on the ship Bolette. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £749pp

  • Stornoway - Portree Isle of Skye - Fingal's Cave - Dutchman's Cap (Bac Mòr) - The Small Isles

    Scotland & United Kingdom | 5 nights

    Departs on 02 May 2025 from Liverpool on the ship Bolette. FREE On Board Spend and SAVE.

    From £1,099pp

9. See Magellan penguins in the Chilean Fjords

See Magellan penguins in the Chilean Fjords

Another trip that’s ideally suited to wildlife enthusiasts is Fred. Olsen’s South America & the Antarctic cruise. This epic 76-night adventure takes you to some of the most remote and unspoiled parts of the world, from the icy straits of the Antarctic Peninsula to the snow-capped mountains of the Chilean Fjords. You’ll even have the chance to join a once-in-a-lifetime tour of the Galápagos Islands.

Cruising along the Chilean coast, you can spot Magellan penguins sunbathing on the rocks, dolphins and seals swimming in the icy waters, and even Andean condors, one of the largest birds in the world, soaring through the sky. As you sail, the sheer volume of icebergs and glaciers, the majesty of the towering peaks, and the power of the thundering falls may, quite literally, take your breath away.

  • La Coruña - Ilhabela - Punta Arenas - Arica - Puerto Limón - St. John's - Rio de Janeiro - Antarctic Peninsula - Iquique - Panama Canal Transit and 18 more

    Spain, Portugal, Argentina & 15 more | 76 nights

    Departs on 28 Jan 2026 from Southampton on the ship Borealis. On Board Spend up to £500pp.

    From £12,999pp

Moments that last seconds, Moments that last a lifetime

Spectacular moments that you’ll remember for a lifetime, together with the smaller, more personal moments that make all the difference. All brought to you by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

Create more moments to remember with up to £330pp FREE On-Board Spend on over 100 sailings. Plus savings of up to £220pp on selected cruises.

Explore cruises

10. Sail through the idyllic Caribbean islands

Sail through the idyllic Caribbean islands

Few destinations are as synonymous with paradise as the Caribbean. Touring via ship doesn’t only mean you get to visit more islands, it also allows you to experience the magic of sailing through this stunning region. On Fred. Olsen’s 45-night Caribbean & Central America cruise, you’ll drift along warm turquoise waters, cruise past white-sand beaches with swaying palms, and anchor in characterful colonial towns.

There’s plenty of land-based exploration, too. Dance to reggae in Jamaica, unearth Mayan history in Belize, sample fresh seafood in the British Virgin Islands, and stroll the colonial streets of the Dominican Republic. You’ll also visit Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Honduras, and Bermuda – yet some of the best moments will be spent at sea, enjoying the sense of freedom that comes from sailing the Caribbean.

  • Arrecife - Cartagena de Indias - Port Royal - Cádiz - Santo Domingo - Roatan Island - Road Town, Tortola - Belize City - Philipsburg - Cozumel and 4 more

    Spain, Portugal, Mexico & 10 more | 45 nights

    Departs on 15 Feb 2025 from Southampton on the ship Balmoral. Solo traveller offer available. FREE On Board Spend up to £300pp.

    From £3,299pp

Final thoughts…

Cruises are wonderful ways to see more of the world, and visit places that may otherwise be too remote. When you’re not off exploring, you can relax on your ship, sunbathing on the deck, being pampered in the spa, reading in the elegant lounges, or admiring panoramic views from the observatory.

Fred. Olsen cruises are full of moments. There are spectacular, dramatic moments you’ll remember for the rest of your life – moments like seeing the northern lights, watching whales breach by the ship, and cruising past vast, sparkling icebergs.

But there are also smaller moments that you’ll treasure: stargazing from the deck, feasting on delicious food, talking and laughing with the crew, and learning new skills from experts. This is what’s known as ‘the Fred. magic’…the sprinkling of small-but-special moments that make you smile, and, in turn, make your cruise so special.

Have you been on a cruise before – or are you tempted by any of these itineraries? We’d love to hear about your travel plans and experiences in the comments below.