After a care free embarkation at Southampton and a prompt delivery of our cases to our cabin we were prepared for another excellent cruise with Fred Olsen, having sailed on the Boudicca and the Black Prince and never disappointed. The cabin size is good on the Balmoral and there is more than enough cupboard and draw space to allow for a 19 day cruise. Stewardess was lovely and couldn't be more helpful. The ship is well laid out with easy access to all areas except for decks 11 and 3. For some reason the forward lift is the only one which accesses these 2 decks. This means that if you are midships our forward you had quit a long walk to the lifts. 11 is the sun deck and 3 has the Medical centre on it.
The itinerary was very good as it included the Verde Islands, a one-off visit is recommended.
The £10 all-inclusive charge is well worth it if you drink more than 2 glasses of wine each day.