I was invited to spend the day on board Fred. Olsen's Borealis whilst it was docked in Southampton. Borealis is a small ship with approximately 1300 guests and 600+ staff, so customers sailing on board can get into the heart of the destinations they visit by going to smaller ports that the larger ships simply can't get to.
Our day started with refreshments in The Observatory on deck 9, which given by the name is the perfect place for taking in the views. After some delicious fresh pastries, teas and coffees, it was time to start the tour of the ship, starting with the cabins. We started with the leading cabin type, the Interior Cabin. They were very spacious and all featured a walk-in shower. The Oceanview cabins were next and were just as spacious as the interiors, with either a porthole window or picture window. From this grade of cabin and above, the bathrooms contain either a bath or walk-in shower.
The next cabin is one is very unique to Fred. Olsen, the Terrace Cabin. Located on deck 3, these cabins have direct access to the promenade (which can be accessed by all guests on the ship). Each cabin has their own private sun loungers. The best part about these cabins is that they feature privacy glass windows, so guests using the promenade are unable to see into your cabin but you are able to see out. Next up was the Balcony Cabin, perfect for scenic cruises as guests can enjoy the views with a cuppa on their own private balcony. The final cabins we saw were the Suites. Guests staying in Suites can enjoy priority check-in and a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, plus daily canapes and fresh fruit. All cabins have a TV, hairdryer, phone, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities as standard. Adapted cabins are also available in all cabin types.
After viewing the cabins, it was time to see the public areas on board. Guests are spoilt for choice with the facilities available. I was really impressed with how spacious each are and the attention to detail throughout the ship was outstanding. There are many cafes, bars and lounges on board for guests to enjoy, my favourite was the Oriental Tea Room. Beautifully decorated pink and inspired by Chinese silks and orchids, this is a popular place serving loose tea-leaf drinks in the day and tea inspired cocktails in the evening. If you hadn't had enough cups of tea by now, you can also have afternoon tea in the Observatory on sea days for just £13 per person.
There are two specialty dining restaurants on board, Colours & Tastes and Vasco. Both can be pre booked for a small supplement of £10 per person or £15 per person once on board. Whilst on board we were treated to a three-course dinner in the Main Dining restaurant. The chefs on board are very good at catering to any dietary requirements and the food was fabulous. The staff were a delight and provided a warm, personal service to everyone on board.
Another area I loved was the spa. A tranquil area where guests can unwind after a day of exploring. Guests can immerse themselves in the thermal suites or aromatherapy steam rooms and maybe treat themselves to a massage or a manicure. For a small charge of just £25 per couple, the whole spa can be rented out for one hour, ensuring maximum relaxation and privacy. There is also a fitness area which boasts spectacular views being located right at the front of the ship.
If guests fancy a swim, there is a swimming pool with two hot tubs underneath a retractable roof so swimming can be enjoyed in all types of weather. In the evening, guests can enjoy the superb entertainment in the two-tiered Neptune Lounge. There are 2 shows every evening displaying amazing talent from the show team. During the day, the Neptune lounge is used for signature experiences, where guest speakers deliver interesting talks about the destinations you will visit.
If you are looking for a small ship with imaginative itineraries, warm service and ample on-board facilities, then this is the cruise for you!
