This was our 3rd Fred Olsen cruise. First time on Bolette but from experience of the other 2 ships we knew what to expect. We’ve sailed all sizes of ships from the massive to small and really do prefer these small to midsized ships.

From parking up in Newcastle, we were onboard and at our cabin in under half an hour and went for a delicious lunch as the poolside café before departure. What can I say – while the heavily patterned carpets are a bit harsh on the eyes, the ship is very well maintained and all of the public areas are clean and comfortable.

During a ten night cruise to Iceland we ate everywhere apart from the buffet. The main dining room (second sitting) was always good. The food was hot and varied and there was always something to choose. Vascoe speciality restaurant and the afternoon teas are well worth paying a little extra for. Book these in advance of the cruise to enjoy a reduced rate. I enjoyed all the in house entertainment and an excellent guest singer – but the magician and comedian were not to my taste. Read more