Australian & African Exploration

Bringing to life the Olsen family's appreciation of art, The Olsen Art Studio on board Bolette is an impressive, light and airy space filled with arts and crafts materials for a variety of projects.

It's a place for those who love to paint or draw at home and would like to refine their skills whilst at sea. And it's a place for those guests who perhaps used to enjoy art many years ago but have not yet had the opportunity to take it up again.

The studio will host classes and activities guided by different instructors, as well as providing an open space for guests to visit and work on their own particular arts and craft projects.

We're often joined on board our ships by port experts and guest speakers to talk our guests through a range of subjects and topics, such as history, geography, aviation, wine tasting and foods of the world.

On all cruises our informative Port Talks will be available for our guests to enjoy in preparation for arrival into each port. Our knowledgable lecturers share information to help guests make the most of their time ashore, while on some sailings, there are lectures that delve deeper into specific destinations on the itinerary too.

On board Bolette and Borealis, our expert chefs and teams from the Galley host cooking demonstrations to showcase their culinary craft and provide a taste of the skill and passion that goes into every meal served at our dining venues.

Guests can take a seat at the spacious Auditorium to watch, listen and learn how to make some of their favourite Fred. Olsen dishes, as the chefs take them through each step of their creation, from preparation to plate.

For many of our guests, the time spent on the dance-floor is one of the highlights of their days on board our smaller ships. So its no wonder that our Dance Classes – hosted by our wonderful Entertainment teams – always prove popular.Show less

Our instructors teach a variety of dancing styles, from line dancing to ballroom and sequence dancing, helping guests to learn and perfect their steps and moves before they head for their ship's lounges in the evening to dance the night away. 

Hosted by our Sommeliers, Tasting Sessions* on board our smaller ships offer a fascinating insight into the production processes, scents and flavours of some of the world's finest tipples.Show less

The Tasting Sessions on your cruise could include opportunities to sample everything from delicious wines and Champagne to whiskey and a range of spirits, while occasionally our experts will also teach you the art of pairing food and drink to create combinations that perfectly blend the nuances of their flavour.

*To join our Tasting Sessions, there is an additional charge and this can vary on the type tastings on offer, full details can be found in your Daily Times once on board. 

Unlike other cruise companies who sail the same routes year after year, we are constantly researching and hand-crafting new itineraries. On every cruise we run a programme designed to inspire travel, where you can find out about the development of our new itineraries. Don't worry, these are not sales talks or "exit through the gift shop" ruses - just an opportunity for travel enthusiasts to daydream about what is yet to come.

With ample time and space to relax, many of our Guests make the most of the opportunity to get stuck in to a good book during your cruise holiday. This is why to enhance reading enrichment further, we have introduced the Fred. Olsen Book Club on selected sailings, a chance to talk all things ‘bookish’ with like-minded people. Hosted by the Entertainment Managers and their Team, the Book Club provides a welcoming, social space in which you can openly and informally discuss thoughts and views on bestselling lighter reads, crime-thrillers and traditional or contemporary classics.

With ample time and space to relax, many of our Guests make the most of the opportunity to get stuck in to a good book during a cruise holiday on board one of Fred. Olsen’s smaller, friendlier ships. This is why to enhance reading enrichment further, we have introduced the Fred. Olsen Book Club on selected sailings, a chance to talk all things ‘bookish’ with like-minded people.

Hosted by the Entertainment Managers and their Team, the Book Club provides a welcoming, social space in which you can openly and informally discuss thoughts and views on bestselling lighter reads, crime-thrillers and traditional or contemporary classics. Specific categories and titles to discuss at the Book Club on each cruise are chosen in advance and listed below, allowing you time to purchase and read the books before you set sail. These books will also be available from your ship’s Port Shop, should you wish to wait until you’re on board to join in the fun.

So, if you love a good book while discovering the world with Fred. Olsen, what better way to indulge your passion than joining your friends and fellow guests at the Book Club?

We look forward to welcoming you!

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour and discover the hidden secrets and challenges of running a cruise ship. You'll gain special access to areas usually off-limits to guests, offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of our vessel. Venture into the Galley to see how our chefs prepare your delicious meals, learn what it takes to manage the stores and laundry room, and enjoy visits to the Engine Control Room and the Bridge. Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to meet and speak with our dedicated crew members, gaining insights into life on board and hearing their stories first-hand. You will also receive a keepsake lanyard and a professional photo to commemorate your adventure. To ensure the most enjoyable, immersive experience, we have limited this tour to just 12 spaces.

Approx. 2 hours | £49pp

The panoramic views from the Observatory are outstanding, making the perfect backdrop for enjoying our Scenic Discoveries Signature Experience, where you’ll receive commentary from our on board teams to complement the intriguing fjords, islands and waterways you’ll observe from this perfect vantage point. We also hold our popular Navigational chart and map reading sessions here. As we move into evening, the Observatory comes to life with music and singing from our resident live bands, so you can choose from a selection of Champagne, sparkling cocktails and mocktails to add that extra touch to your on board experience.

Situated in a quiet location on Lounge Deck, the Bookmark Café is the perfect spot for some peaceful relaxation. Perhaps start your day with a cup of Earl Grey or breakfast tea, or take a seat in the afternoon and read a book from our on board library, whilst sipping a delicious latte or cappuccino.

Don’t forget to make room to indulge yourself with a selection of our handmade chocolates or freshly baked treats; or perhaps pre-book a Bookmark Bestseller card. Added to your cabin account when you arrive on board, you can enjoy 7 hot drinks (teas, coffees or hot chocolates) and a bag of milk or mixed truffles - priced at just £20.

Named after one of the largest sailing ships owned by the Olsen family back in 1892, The Morning Light Pub & Lounge has a familiar, warm and welcoming feel, with windows adorned with paintings from the Olsen family's collection, showing sea-faring scenes and traditions; comfortable seating and a well-stocked bar with a collection of British and international beer and cider, and a selection from independent breweries close to our office in Ipswich.

Each evening, our resident singers and guitarists showcase their talents, and the popular Fred. Olsen quiz is also held here, with friendly debates over the answers taking place each evening; or perhaps enjoy a friendly game of Shuffleboard.

Our spacious and sociable Ocean Bar is the perfect setting in which to begin your evening - enjoy our Martini Experience, choose from a wide selection of gin and refreshing tonics, mocktails and other bar drinks; and catch up with friends and fellow guests before taking in the live show. After the show, the resident band or DJ will provide music that's sure to have you on the dancefloor until it is time to finally say goodnight. 

The Oriental Tea Room has been designed with quiet beauty and gentle elegance in mind. The colours are pale and powder-soft, and the furnishings are inspired by Chinese silks and rare orchids. During the day, we serve a refreshing menu of unusual loose-leaf teas and herbal infusions from the East, or a rare tea-tasting experience where you can learn about each tea’s story and origin. Join us for a relaxing tea-inspired cocktail, such as the refreshing Lemongrass Mojito or Lime & Mint Mar-tea-ni, or a selection of cold beers including specialities from Japan, Singapore and Thailand. We also offer a non-alcoholic cocktail or two, based on Sri Lankan and Chinese teas.

When you're spending the day relaxing in the sunshine and enjoying a few dips in the pool, or enjoying a good book on one of the sun loungers, the Lido Bar is the ideal place to enjoy a drink if you're in need of something to help you cool off.

Situated close to the pool and Jacuzzis, this bar is open throughout the day and is a bright, open space with comfortable rattan furniture, perfect for enjoying a cold beer, a soft drink or even a fruity, exotic cocktail or mocktail with new found friends.

The Piano Bar is the perfect place to make the most of peaceful moments on board Bolette, especially during time at sea. Settle in, sit back and enjoy a drink whilst enjoying the laidback ambience of the venue and the restful sounds of music provided by a talented pianist.

Head to the Piano Bar before dinner and begin your evening in style with a cocktail, or visit this elegant, spacious venue after the evening show for a cognac or liquer to wind down before retiring to your cabin for another relaxing night's sleep. 

Take a seat in Bolette's two-tiered Neptune Lounge, and join our superb Show Team as they put on a show to remember. Also on the bill are hilarious comedians who’ll keep you chuckling, and of course the Captain’s Welcome and Farewell parties. During the day, the Neptune Lounge is used for our Signature Experiences, where our knowledgeable guest speakers deliver interesting talks and activities, designed to deepen your understanding of the destinations you’ll be visiting. We also hold our interesting Q&A sessions here where you'll learn more about behind the scenes with the Show Team, or life as the Captain of a cruise ship.

Designed to host everything from cooking demonstrations and presentations to cinema evenings, Bolette's Auditorium is where guests can enjoy a host of exciting, educational and interactive events, in addition to the entertainment offered in the main Neptune Lounge.

This stylish, spacious venue has plenty of comfortable seating, which is carefully positioned to offer great views of the stage, so that guests are able to experience events such as our Treats of the Region - perfect for watching our talented chefs create delicious dishes that you'll be able to taste, and recreate once home.

Featuring plenty of card tables and comfortable chairs, the Bolette Card Room provides guests with a quiet, relaxing space to enjoy a competitive hand or two, or simply a bit of fun, perhaps with a delicious coffee or tea from the nearby Bookmark Café.

Bridge is always a popular pursuit on board, so you're sure to find other guests who are up for a challenge. On some cruises, Bridge tuition is on offer to help you develop your skills.

The shops on board Bolette offer everything you may want or need during your time on board, whether you're treating yourself or a loved one to a holiday gift or simply need some basic essentials.

Visit the Boutique Shop for designer handbags, perfumes and much more at Duty Free prices, or pick from the range of casual clothing and evening wear if you need a new outfit; and bring home something special from the Jewellery Shop. At the Port Shop, you'll find everything from sun cream, shampoo and toothpaste to books and tasty snacks too. 

Add a touch of floral colour and fragrance to your cabin, or perhaps treat someone special, with a delightful bouquet from the Flower Shop.

With a choice of both stunning year-round and seasonal flowers, create a personalised bouquet to suit your style, or simply select from the beautifully crafted ready-made arrangements. You will also have the opportunity to select single stems to provide the finishing touch to your Formal Night.

Throughout your time on board, our expert photographers will be on hand to capture some of the most magical and memorable experiences enjoyed during your cruise holiday.

At the Photo Gallery, our friendly team will be ready to help you view your photos and purchase your favourites - whether you choose to take home individual shots or a photo package. 

Situated next to the Oriental Tea Room, the peaceful surroundings of the Botanical Room are dedicated to celebrating the beauty and brilliance of our natural Earth. Added to Bolette in 2023, its designed in lush greens and vibrant yellows to inspire our green-fingered guests to leaf through the magazines and books on gardening, flowers, plant care and the various species of flora across our planet.

Our superb therapists are on hand to ensure your time spent on board Bolette is relaxing and luxurious, so let our expert team in the Atlantis Spa take care of you. With a wide range of treatments on offer, including massages, manicures, pedicures, relaxation treatments and hairdressing; you'll leave feeling energised and revitalised.

With large picture windows offering beautiful views of the ocean or small islands and archipelagos you are sailing past, your time spent at the Atlantis Spa will be soothing and refreshing, whether it's with a new hair style, freshly painted nails or completely relaxed after a massage.

Our Thermal Suite is a relaxation centre with the ambience of a Turkish bath, where our steam rooms are filled with aromatherapy vapours which are the perfect way to unwind and de-stress, and our heated ceramic relaxation beds are designed to match the curvature of your spine and melt away muscle tension.

Our mineral bath, heated to body temperature, gently embraces you with warmth to alleviate sore joints and soothe away your aches, providing wonderful relief for tired muscles. You can book the Thermal Suite for some lovely relaxing alone time, in a couple, or the ultimate pamper package.

If you enjoy working out, our fully equipped Fitness Centre has a wide selection of running machines, cross trainers, bikes and weights available.

On board Bolette, and across our fleet of ships, we also run a variety of complimentary yoga, pilates or stretching classes here which are suitable for everyone from beginners to regular gym-goers. Join us for a relaxing sunrise pilates or yoga class out on deck, or an invigorating Walk a Mile session. Also available are spin, fitball or abdominals sessions.

Treat yourself to Personal Training sessions with our fully qualified, friendly trainers, where you can receive a one-to-one programme tailored just to you.

When you're taking time out to relax on Bolette's spacious Lido Deck, whether on a sea day or after enjoying exploration ashore, the all-weather swimming pool is perfect for taking a cooling dip, or simply swimming a few lengths. For blissful relaxation, head for a Jacuzzi; and as the retractable roof is either open or shut depending on the weather in the region you're visiting, the pool area is perfect for year round use with plenty of open deck space and comfortable loungers. Nearby, the Poolside Café offers delicious dishes for you to enjoy all day at your leisure.

Whilst a Fred. Olsen cruise is about relaxing and enjoying some time away from daily life, we understand that many of our guests like to continue their fitness routine even when they're on board our smaller ships.

This is why our ships feature fully-equipped Fitness Centres, and we offer a wide range of complimentary fitness classes - perfect for beginners and experience gym-goers alike - too. Guests can join our instructors for Pilates, Yoga, Fitball and much more, and all at no extra cost.

On Fred. Olsen’s peak holiday season cruises, it is our pleasure to welcome your ‘Little Skippers’ aboard our ships and into our fun, friendly and engaging kids club.

Run by professional hosts, the Little Skippers Club is designed to ensure children aged between 5 and 11, and their parents or grandparents, get the most from their holiday. Leave your children with us and we’ll keep them entertained with a variety of creative and exciting activities and events, such as arts and crafts sessions, deck games, treasure hunts, quizzes, cookie and pizza making and much more.

All activities, plus timings for children-only pool sessions, are advertised in the Little Skippers Club’s ‘mini’ version of the Daily Times, which is available in Guest Services each day. So, you can plan your time relaxing by the pool, in your favourite bar or even the soothing Atlantis Spa, safe in the knowledge that your children are enjoying their time on board too.

*Please note Little Skippers is run subject to numbers.

The 'Little Skippers Daily Times' will be available to collect from Guest Services each day and will detail a variety of fun activities for our Little Skippers! Exact activities will vary from cruise to cruise, but we've listed some example activities below:

• Treasure hunts
• Table Tennis
• Bean Bag Toss
• Dolphin Racing
• Arts & crafts
• Deck Quoits
• Silent disco
• Competitions
• Games night/Movie nights
• Cookie Baking & Decorating
• Swimming

Parents/Guardians: Under 5’s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is over 18. If there are no children within 30 minutes of a session’s start time the Little Skippers Club will not run for that session.