I was lucky to be invited by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for a day trip visit to their beautiful ship “Borealis”. After a quick embarkation, we went to the Observatory which has binoculars that you can get great views through the floor-ceiling windows. We were spoilt with pastries, tea and coffee which was the perfect way to start our day exploring.
The artwork around the ship was scenic and a lot of thought has been put into designing its aesthetic. It hosts fantastic spa and gym facilities. The outdoor pool has a retractable roof, so bad weather shouldn’t stop discourage you from going for a swim, and then having a lounge by the pool with a beverage in hand.
I was able to explore most of the cabins on board; their interior cabin, ocean view cabin, premier cabin, balcony cabin and the “Olsen Suite”. I was very impressed with the spacious cabin sizes, and all of them had a sitting area that wasn’t too small. They also offer a unique terrace cabin, with a sliding door leading straight to the “Olsen” promenade deck, which I thought was a brilliant idea. You can reserve sun loungers outside your sliding door – Perfect to sit and watch the world go by.
The Borealis hosts a diverse selection of restaurants to choose from. Their poolside restaurant is suitable for those who prefer a late breakfast, and a lunch for those who would like to dine al fresco. “The View” is their main buffet, where you are allocated a set table for all meals, so you don't have to worry about finding one while dining!
Also, there are 2 Asian speciality restaurants on board which can be pre-booked for £10pp before you embark, or £15pp if you book onboard. “Vasco” offers a taste of Indian cuisine, while seated in an intimate setting surrounded by Goan inspired decor.
“Colours & Taste” serves a flavoursome range of signature and fusion dishes from Japan, Thailand, China and Philippines, with a choice of succulent grilled meats, Bao buns or sushi.
The “Aurora & Borealis Restaurant” is Fred. Olsen’s main a la carte restaurant which serves, breakfast, lunch and dinner. I was invited to dine here with a 3-course lunch to which I thought the food and service was fantastic! They offer a 2 sitting table for dinner from a set time between 6pm to 8pm to encourage guests to attend their Neptune Lounge venue.
This the Borealis’ two-tiered theatre where all entertainment shows are held. There are other bars to visit including “The Morning light Pub & Lounge”, the “Ocean Bar” and the “Piano Bar”. They also offer a card room on Deck 5 for hosts to engage in.
Fred. Olsen has recently announced that from 1st January 2026 the Borealis will be adults only, so if you’re looking for an escape this cruise may be perfect for you.
Overall, I had a lovely day on board the Borealis. One day however isn’t long enough to thoroughly enjoy what this extravagant ship has to offer. If you want to learn more about what Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has to offer, then pop in and have a chat with our lovely staff at our Chepstow branch or email us at [email protected] to enquire further!
