Three of Fred Olsen cruise ships will be given a multi-million-pound makeover in the run-up to Christmas.
Braemar, Balmoral and Black Watch will undergo various engineering works, general maintenance and refurbishment during their dry docks at the Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany, as well as the creation of several new public areas and cabin enhancements.
Fred Olsen’s long-established partnership with Blohm+Voss spans nearly 50 years and several generations.
Peter Deer, managing director of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are very proud of our smaller, classic cruise ships and we recognise the importance of investing in ongoing upgrades to ensure that our guests can continue to enjoy them at their very best.
“Our refreshed and renewed fleet has been very well-received by both new and existing guests following the last round of improvements at Blohm+Voss in 2017 and 2018, and we are keen to showcase the latest enhancements to our guests before Christmas…the ideal surroundings in which to enjoy the festive season.”
As well as extensive refurbishment of the accommodation on board both Braemar, top of page, and Balmoral, a number of cabins on Black Watch will be receiving new bathroom upgrades.
Enhancements on Balmoral’s Main Deck 6 will include brand new Oriental Room in the forward area, where exotic teas and Far Eastern-themed cocktails and drinks will be served. A new Photo Gallery and Flower Shop will also be installed.
Braemar entered Blohm+Voss on 14 November and will be ready for a nine-night French, Belgian & Spanish City Overnights cruise from Southampton on the 24th.
Balmoral will be entering the yard on 10 December and will depart on a two-night French Escape mini-break from Southampton on the 20th, calling at picturesque Honfleur.
Work will begin on Black Watch on 11 December after which she will host a one-night Christmas Party Night in Southampton on the 21st.
The fourth ship in the fleet, the 880-guest Boudicca, will receive its own refit in Autumn 2020, having undergone a dramatic transformation at Blohm+Voss in Spring 2018.
www.fredolsencruises.com