Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is introducing two new ships to its ocean going fleet as the company looks to strengthen the brand and evolve for cruising on the other side of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The ships, to be named Bolette and Borealis, have been purchased from Holland America Line and previously sailed under the names Amsterdam and Rotterdam, carrying up to 1,380 and 1,404 guests.
They will enter the fleet later this year following time to allow for rebranding work to be undertaken.
Olsen’s current ocean ships – Balmoral, Braemar, Boudicca and Black Watch – are currently in Babcock’s Rosyth Facilities in Scotland, where the two new ships will join them.
Fred. Olsen Junior, Chairman of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We have chosen these vessels as they will fit seamlessly into our existing fleet of small ships, each carrying under 1,500 guests, bringing with them new and larger public areas whilst not compromising on our small ship experience.
“The naming of the vessels is important to us. Bolette and Borealis are both names of ships we have had in years gone by.
“This increase in our capacity demonstrates our confidence in the future. With over 170 years of seafaring history, we have sailed through many difficult periods. With these new additions to the fleet, we will come out of this current situation stronger than ever, ready to deliver the award-winning itineraries that we are famous for.”
Peter Deer, the company’s Managing Director, added: “This is an exciting chapter in the history of our company, and I know that our loyal and returning guests will be looking forward to exploring our new ships as soon as they can.
“Of course, we also hope to attract new guests to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and we look forward to demonstrating the exceptional service that makes us the best UK cruise line for repeat business.”