Call us free on 0800 023 1273

Mobiles / International call 0203 371 7641

abta-logo
CLIA
ATOL

Maritime Traditions of Spain, Portugal & Gibraltar - S2508

4th Apr 2025 | 13 nights | Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines | Borealis

Includes The Enjoyment Promise
Good for traditional cruisers & solo travellers
Classic cruising on smaller ships
Hand-crafted itineraries to lesser-known ports
Warm, attentive and personal service onboard
Gibraltar
Malaga
Cádiz (Seville)
Cruising Tagus River
Lisbon
Cruising by Cristo Rei & Abril 25 Bridge
A Coruña
Cruising by Tower of Hercules Lighthouse
Includes The Enjoyment Promise
Good for traditional cruisers & solo travellers
Classic cruising on smaller ships
Hand-crafted itineraries to lesser-known ports
Warm, attentive and personal service onboard
Show more
Show less
Day
Date
 
Arrival
Departure
 
1
4th Apr 2025 Friday
Newcastle upon Tyne
18:00
2
5th Apr 2025 Saturday
At Sea
06:00
23:00
3
6th Apr 2025 Sunday
At Sea
06:00
23:00
4
7th Apr 2025 Monday
At Sea
5
8th Apr 2025 Tuesday
At Sea
6
9th Apr 2025 Wednesday
Gibraltar
06:00
18:00
6
9th Apr 2025 Wednesday
Cruise by the Strait of Gibraltar
18:00
23:00
7
10th Apr 2025 Thursday
Malaga
06:00
18:00
8
11th Apr 2025 Friday
Cádiz (Seville)
06:00
18:00
9
12th Apr 2025 Saturday
Cruising Tagus River
11:00
11:00
9
12th Apr 2025 Saturday
Cruising by Cristo Rei & Abril 25 Bridge
11:00
11:00
9
12th Apr 2025 Saturday
Lisbon
11:00
18:00
10
13th Apr 2025 Sunday
Leixões (Porto)
06:00
18:00
11
14th Apr 2025 Monday
A Coruña
06:00
13:00
11
14th Apr 2025 Monday
Cruising by Tower of Hercules Lighthouse
18:00
18:00
12
15th Apr 2025 Tuesday
At Sea
06:00
23:00
13
16th Apr 2025 Wednesday
At Sea
06:00
23:00
14
17th Apr 2025 Thursday
Newcastle upon Tyne
06:00

The 1,338-passenger Borealis is one of a pair of near identical ex-Holland America Line ships acquired by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in 2020 in a move that simultaneously marked the retirement of Fred.'s Boudicca and Black Watch. Both with 690 cabins and carrying the same number of passengers and crew, Borealis was launched in 1997 as Rotterdam, the first of HAL's Rotterdam (R) class vessels. Sister ship Amsterdam, now renamed Bolette, was the fourth and last R-class vessel and both were built at Italy's Fincantieri shipyard. Its new name was first carried by an Olsen-owned vessel in the 1940s and inspired by the Aurora Borealis. The latest Fred. ships are the largest in the line's four-strong fleet that offers a traditional style of cruising to mainly mature British passengers. Borealis will sail almost exclusively from Liverpool across the 2022 season. The cabins, which come in 12 categories, are located across five decks and range in size from 140 square feet to 644 square feet in the top Premier Suites. There are more than 50 single cabins, with grades ranging from Inside to Balcony Suite, along with wheelchair accessible staterooms and some cabins with bathtubs. There are also three and four-berth cabins. All cabin categories include tea and coffee making facilities, fridge, TV entertainment system, safe and hair dryer. In common with Bolette, Borealis also has six restaurants and 11 bars and lounges. The main restaurant spans two decks and is a classic and elegant venue with a choice of table sizes and seating options. Meals in this dining room, along with the buffet restaurant, are included in the fare and passengers can also pay a supplement to book tables in the smaller speciality restaurants. The main entertainment venue is the two-tier show lounge and there is also live entertainment, such as music and comedy, in other bars and lounges. The ship also has a culinary theatre which hosts cookery classes and demonstrations. Borealis also has two swimming pools -- one with a retractable roof -- a pair of hot tubs and a spa with nine treatment rooms, a hydro pool and two saunas. Outside there are tennis and basketball courts. There are lifts to all passenger decks, a for-fee laundry service with washing collected and delivered to cabins and a self-service laundry where passengers can purchase tokens to use washing machines and dryers. There is onboard Wi-Fi and a variety of Internet packages can be purchased. Borealis will take on existing itineraries for the retired Black Watch.

On a cruise holiday, Fred. Olsen know that your on board experience is just as important to you as the time you spend ashore. That's why they are dedicated to ensuring their entertainment programme is packed with activities and memorable performances that help to create inspirational days and unforgettable nights.

Borealis features eleven stylish, spacious and comfortable bars and lounges, providing plenty of choice and variety. When the lights go down and you settle into your evening, she'll treat you to a selection of live shows ranging from music and cabaret to quick-fire stand-up comedy, all enjoyed in the space and comfort of our stylish lounges and theatres. And, of course, throughout the ship you can sit, relax and enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple accompanied by the gentle sounds of live acoustic music.

The fine dining experience enjoyed in in the elegant restaurants and dining venues on board their ships is a high point of every Fred. Olsen cruise. There are deliciously-tempting, expertly prepared dishes, from perfectly cooked breakfasts to sumptuous five course á la carte dinners, on offer throughout the day, presented with the personal touch of Fred. Olsen's famously attentive service.

There's an undoubted sense of occasion to dining in Borealis' main restaurant, a grand two-tiered venue featuring classical, elegant décor and a variety of seating options and table sizes, perfect for both intimate and large group dining. Guests can choose to dine in one of the smaller supplementary dining venues too, or perhaps at the more relaxed buffet restaurant.

The dress code in all restaurants is casual during the day, while the evenings are usually smart-casual, apart from on Fred. Olsen's fantastic Formal Nights.

Best for...

Mature, budget-minded Brits who don't need brand-new ships to keep them happy.

Not the best for...

Party animals, anyone looking for cruising's latest and greatest high-energy activities.

Who goes on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines cruise ships?

Fred. Olsen appeals mainly to Brits over 65, with entertainment and activities geared to this demographic. A smattering of North Americans can also be found onboard, and in summer, multigenerational families are encouraged to join cruises operating in the school holidays. Cruisers who choose Fred. Olsen want comfort rather than glitz and are not over fussed about fripperies like balcony cabins, butler service and multiple dining choices. The friendly atmosphere onboard also means a lot of solo travellers are attracted to the line.


Do I have to dress up on a Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines cruise?

Yes, there is a dress code. Most evenings are smart-casual, which means collared shirts and chinos or smart jeans for men and dresses or separates for ladies -- just no shorts, sleeveless T-shirts or tracksuits. Formal nights -- usually one per cruise -- require black tie or black suit and tie for men (and the tie rule is enforced in the dining room!) and cocktail or long dresses for ladies. There are also occasional theme nights, like a red, white and blue British night.


Is everything included on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines cruises?

No. Drinks, crew tips, spa treatments, some exercise classes, specialty restaurants, the formal afternoon tea and excursions cost extra.


What are Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines's most popular activities?

Passengers on Fred. Olsen tend to be traditional, so classic cruise activities, including quizzes and lectures, bridge lessons and tournaments, and arts and crafts sessions, are, by far, the most popular. Dancing is also in demand, with gentlemen dance hosts onboard and regular ballroom and Latin American sessions.


  • Comfortable rooms and suites with tv, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and individually controlled air conditioning
  • Tempting cuisine every day throughout your cruise - with five course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets and late-night snacks
  • Self-service tea and coffee at selected venues, morning coffee with biscuits, and afternoon sandwiches and cakes
  • In-room sandwiches and snacks
  • All evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, live music and dancing
  • Captain's Drinks Party and Gala Buffet (Gala Buffet not available on cruises of four nights or less)
  • Use of leisure facilities, including complimentary fitness classes, swimming pools, Jacuzzis and use of our fitness centre
  • A wide choice of on board activities and lectures throughout the day
  • All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
  • Luggage porterage between your room and the drop-off/pick-up point
  • Flights, as confirmed as part of a fly-cruise holiday
  • And everything on board is priced in Sterling - so you don't have any worries about currency fluctuations

Warm Weather Cruises with Fred. Olsen

Warm Weather Cruises

If you often find yourself dreaming of an escape to sun-kissed destinations to enjoy their balmy climate, explore beautiful landscapes, discover their highlights and perhaps relax on their gorgeous, inviting beaches, you're sure to be tempted by the selection of Fred. Olsen's Warmer Cruises.

These expertly crafted sailings have been designed to offer you sights and experiences that feel a world away from home, by taking in spectacular islands, such as those classic Caribbean destinations, the Canaries or islands in the Indian Ocean, which are renowned for their year-round warmth, natural wonders and cultural charms; iconic cities and coastal gems in regions including the Mediterranean, Arabia and Africa; and much more.

Whether you're a sun-worshipper seeking somewhere to feel some warmth on your skin, a nature lover who wishes to explore floral gardens and volcanic landscapes, or looking to delve deep into rich culture and history, you'll find there is so much choice.

Fred. Olsen Fares Explained

What's the difference between Fred. Olsen's Freedom & Saver Fares?

Freedom Fares

Freedom Fares are designed so that you can benefit from the best choice of cabins and relax knowing your holiday is planned out. They offer the best choice, benefits and flexibility, including being able to choose your cabin number.

Included with Freedom Fares:

  • Your choice of restaurant is confirmed at time of booking (subject to availability)
  • Your choice of dining time is confirmed at time of booking (subject to availability)
  • Your table size at dinner can be requested (but not guaranteed)
  • Cabin grade can be chosen at time of booking
  • Cabin number can be chosen at time of booking
  • 15% deposit on bookings before 90 days of departure
  • Standard cancellation fee
  • Oceans Discount - as applicable, based on membership level (subject to Oceans Club terms and conditions)
  • Booking transferable to another cruise (once only per booking)
  • Priority booking for pre-booked Shore Tours (subject to availability)
  • Oceans benefits on board (subject to availability)
  • Priority for cabin upgrades (complimentary or charged, when available, subject to availability)
  • Free shuttle bus to local centre (where operating)
  • Priority debarkation at end of cruise (available on request, but not guaranteed)

Saver Fares

Saver Fares have been designed to offer promotional fares with a simplified pricing structure.

As Saver Fares offer guests specially reduced prices, the following terms and conditions are applicable:

  • Full payment is required at the time of booking
  • 100% cancellation charges apply
  • No refunds are permitted
  • Non-transferrable to any other cruise once booked
  • No cabin number and / or cabin grade is provided at the time of booking (cabin number will be advised on the cruise ticket)
  • Oceans Cruise Club discounts are not combinable with Saver Fares. Oceans points will be earned however.
  • Dining sitting will be allocated at Fred. Olsen's discretion and will be advised within the cruise ticket. Saver Fare guests can choose to book a specific dining sitting at the time of booking for a supplement of £2.00 per person per night.
  • Table sizes cannot be requested when booking on a Saver Fare.

Saver Fare Plus

All of the above Saver Fare terms and conditions apply however you will receive your grade of cabin at time of booking.
Cabin upgrades are subject to availability and may be complimentary or payable. Free shuttle bus is to the local centre and is not offered where the local centre is within walking distance.

Regional Departures

Fred. Olsen's Regional Departures

Simply unforgettable experiences and some of the world’s most sought-after destinations are within your reach on Fred. Olsen's regional departures. If you're north or south, east or west, Fred. Olsen have a departure point to suit you.

Sail from Dover, Liverpool, Portsmouth, Newcastle or Rosyth (Edinburgh), with such an extensive and diverse selection of sailings to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect Fred. Olsen cruise for you.

What's included with Fred. Olsen
  • Comfortable rooms and suites with tv, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and individually controlled air conditioning
  • Tempting cuisine every day throughout your cruise - with five course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets and late-night snacks
  • Self-service tea and coffee at selected venues, morning coffee with biscuits, and afternoon sandwiches and cakes
  • In-room sandwiches and snacks
  • All evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, live music and dancing
  • Captain's Drinks Party and Gala Buffet (Gala Buffet not available on cruises of four nights or less)
  • Use of leisure facilities, including complimentary fitness classes, swimming pools, Jacuzzis and use of our fitness centre
  • A wide choice of on board activities and lectures throughout the day
  • All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
  • Luggage porterage between your room and the drop-off/pick-up point
  • Flights, as confirmed as part of a fly-cruise holiday
  • And everything on board is priced in Sterling - so you don't have any worries about currency fluctuations
Prices based on:

Ocean View Cabin with Porthole
Ocean View Cabin with Porthole

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • En-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 140-160sq ft
  • Located on Coral Deck 2 and Marina Deck 1

Picture Window Ocean View Cabin
Picture Window Ocean View Cabin

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • En-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 214sq ft
  • Located on Coral Deck 2 and Marina Deck 1 (E Grade)
  • Located on Coral Deck 2 and Marina Deck 1 (D Grade)

Superior Ocean View Fully Restricted
AWAITING IMAGE

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • Large picture window with fully obstructed view
  • En-suite bathroom with shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 214sq ft
  • Located on Promenade Deck 3

Superior Ocean View Cabin
Superior Ocean View Cabin

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • Large picture window
  • En-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 214sq ft
  • Located on Promenade Deck 3 (B Grade)
  • Located on Coral Deck 2 (C Grade)

Terrace Cabin
Terrace Cabin

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • Private bathroom with bath and/or shower
  • Sitting area
  • Sliding glass doors with access to Promenade
  • Two designated sun loungers
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 218 sq ft
  • Located on Promenade Deck 3

Balcony Junior Suite
Balcony Junior Suite

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • Sitting area
  • Private balcony
  • Private bathroom with bath and/or shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 244 sq ft
  • Located on Bridge Deck 7 and Highland Deck 6

Balcony Suite
Balcony Suite

  • Twin beds convertible into a queen-size bed
  • Sitting area
  • Private balcony
  • Private bathroom with bath and/or shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 283 sq ft
  • Located on Bridge Deck 7 and Highland Deck 6

Premier Suite
Premier Suite

  • King-size bed
  • Sitting and dressing areas
  • Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers
  • Private bathroom with bath and shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Approximate size 568-644 sq ft
  • Located on Bridge Deck 7

Olsen Suite
Olsen Suite

  • Bedroom with king-size bed
  • Separate sitting, dining and dressing areas
  • Private balcony with large table, chairs and sun loungers
  • Bathroom with oversize bath and separate shower
  • Climate control, interactive smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities
  • Access to pantry and mini bar
  • Approximate size 1,181 sq ft
  • Located on Bridge Deck 7

Fetching latest prices and availability...
Book with confidence