|
|
Why Go?
|
 Extensive range of itineraries
|
|
Comfortable, clean and well run medium-sized ship
|
|
Friendly service
|
|
Suited to lovers of old-style cruising
|
|
No excessive, loud announcements
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Itineraries and Ports of Call: Asia • Baltics & Northern Europe • Europe - British Isles & Western • Europe - Eastern Mediterranean • South Pacific • Transatlantic • World Cruise
|
|
|
|
Balmoral Review
Balmoral, which mixes contemporary features with traditional rituals, represents a dynamic new approach by the historic Fred. Olsen. Formerly known as Crown Odyssey, and having sailed under flags of Orient Lines and Norwegian Cruise Line, Balmoral, which debuted in 1988, joined the fleet after a massive refurbishment. Indeed, so major was the refit that Fred. Olsen actually lengthened Balmoral by 30 meters, adding an entirely new mid-section. This gave the cruise line room to add a sparkling pool deck, new cabins and suites (many with verandahs), and fresh public spaces, such as the fleet's first-ever British pub.
Larger by some 50 percent than the next-biggest ship in Balmoral's five ship fleet, this vessel offers plenty of features and amenities -- while also managing comfortable and cozy. It's an anachronism that also feels quite modern. For instance, there are many places to sit, relax, read and nap without feeling pressure to buy drinks or merchandise and yet the ship also introduces a high-tech in-cabin interactive television. Numerous cabins (located in the older sections of the ship) feature inflexible bed set-ups (offering either a double or two twins that can't be converted into the reverse) but the spa and fitness facility offer state-of-the-art equipment and services.
There are downsides, to be sure. Even with its new midsection Balmoral itself -- and its power plant, by and large, is still a relatively senior-aged ship and you can observe the occasionally idiosyncratic behaviour of equipment. Since entering service with Fred. Olsen in February 2008, the ship has suffered engine trouble and passengers have been told that toilets in parts of the vessel would be out of action for some hours in the middle of the night. Air conditioning is another candidate for possible trouble in a ship of this age.
Dining is resolutely traditional (there are three main restaurants and all offer set-seating, set tablemates evening scenarios). And even with new bedding, cabins in the older parts of the ship can feel rather dated.
Ultimately, Balmoral's mix of old and new is fresh and satisfying. If you are looking for a well run ship that offers plenty of room to relax in peace and comfort, yet also features a good range of entertainment, friendly service, solid cuisine, interesting itineraries, and competitive rates, Balmoral's a solid middle-of-the-road choice.
Read Complete Balmoral Review
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fred. Olsen Ships: Balmoral • Black Prince • Black Watch • Boudicca • Braemar
|
|
|
|
)
)
)
)
