I was truly fortunate to get the opportunity to visit the Fred. Olsen Borealis Ship for the first time! The day started off with travelling down to Southampton and completing all security checks before embarking on the ship.
When boarding, we were instantly greeted with courteous staff and warm smiles. Throughout the ship, the crew addressed us with such a welcoming tone and body language that we felt at ease. Staff members were extremely accommodating and ready to help at any time. Borealis is consistently sign posted and there are maps of the decks with the facilities and cabins on the walls, ensuring that you can easily find what you are looking for.
Facilities:
Starting off, we were seated in the Observatory and indulged in some tasty pastries along with a hot beverage of our choice (of course for me it was a lovely cuppa!). The Observatory has stunning views. You can relax in this area with some afternoon tea, enjoy live music, or even experience some Karaoke if your singing is good!
There are many facilities on board that can enhance your stay, including the Atlantis Spa where you can choose from a selection of services, the tranquil Thermal Suite to relax, and a fitness centre for any gym enthusiasts. Borealis also has an open deck with a swimming pool and two Jacuzzis, alongside a retractable roof depending on your next destination.
Food and Beverages:
For any food lovers, the Borealis has you covered. From the main buffet restaurant to speciality dining, you can experience a variety of cuisines throughout your stay. The assortment of restaurants onboard allows you to get a taste of different cuisines every day. Borealis offers the main dining room where you can experience a 5-course meal, The View for casual dining, The Arctic Room for intimate dining, and Colours and Tastes where you can eat from either an Italian, Asian, or grill menu (from just £20pp when booked in advance!).
I was fortunate to experience a 3-course meal in the main dining room. The service was wonderful; the waiters came to the tables and bought the food and drinks straight to you. Before ordering, the waiters asked if anyone had any allergies and dietary requirements so that they could notify the chefs. When I mentioned that I am vegetarian, I was informed of the options that could be ordered which was really reassuring knowing that there was a selection to choose from.
For starters, I chose the watermelon, rocket and feta salad (vegetarian and gluten-free), for the main, the beetroot, pumpkin and chestnut wellington (vegan and gluten-free), and lastly, for the dessert, the sticky toffee pudding (vegetarian). This 3-course meal was very delectable with lovely portion sizes. My favourite was the pudding as it left you wanting more!
Regarding beverages, there are a range of lounges onboard where you can sit back and relax. Each lounge has their own theme with their own personal experience to digest. The Serenity Tea Room offers afternoon tea as well as a variety of speciality tea, such as green tea and herbal infusions, and even tea cocktails! This room offered a stylish and classy ambience which is why this one was my favourite. Not your cup of tea? Then the Bookmark Café has a selection of hot beverages to add extra comfort while onboard. You can enjoy seven drinks of your choice and a bag of truffles for just £25!
Next up was the Earth Room and Botanical Room; both rooms have a very cosy yet adventurous atmosphere. They also have books available to get absorbed into whilst cruising to your next destination. Fancy experiencing a British pub onboard? Then the Morning Light Pub & Lounge is the place to be with a bar that has a selection of beers and ciders, along with a comfortable seating area that resembles a British Pub. In this lounge, the Fred. Olsen quiz is held, as well as singers and musicians showcasing their talents in the evenings. Other facilities that are available on the ship are the Piano Bar, Ocean Bar, and Lido Bar, with each location offering a unique experience.
Overall, I had such a wonderful time on the ship! If you are interested in cruising with Fred. Olsen, then why not contact me or visit me at our Nailsworth shop to enquire more. I would be happy to help!
