Family-owned, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines proudly boasts a Norwegian heritage of seamanship and a fleet of small ships that offer an intimate cruising experience. While the fleet doesn't consist of new vessels, all were well constructed and have been refitted since 2001. Two sister-ships from the defunct luxury Royal Viking Line, Royal Viking Star and Royal Viking Sky, have reunited under the Fred. Olsen house flag and now sail as Black Watch and Boudicca.

Shipboard ambiance is friendly, relaxed, and unabashedly British. As Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines expands, the line takes pride in maintaining the consistency their passengers expect, both on board and ashore. Activities and entertainment are traditional cruise- ship fare with a laid-back tempo. Ballroom dancers outnumber the late-night disco set, and shows are more cabaret than Vegas. Particular favorites with most passengers are theme nights and the crew show.

While the line is destination-focused -- itineraries are seldom repeated within any cruise season -- itinerary planning is versatile. Cruises range from four-night "mini-breaks" to lengthier seven- to 78-night sailings. British pounds are used for all transactions on board.

Food

Attractively presented and above-average in quality, a wide variety of menu options are available in the dining rooms and buffets. Vegetarian selections are always available, and other special dietary considerations can be fulfilled with three to four weeks' advance notice. A fairly extensive wine list enhances the cuisine.

Fitness & Recreation

Spas, beauty salons, and fitness centers are featured throughout the fleet. There is no fee to use fitness equipment in the gyms, but there is a charge for some specialized exercise classes, like yoga and kick-boxing. Golfers can sign up for tee times for rounds ashore with the resident PGA pro, who freely offers tips and advice during play.

Your Shipmates

Mature British passengers who enjoy a traditional shipboard environment with a formal style make up the majority on board.

Dress Code

Requested attire is appropriately casual during the day and consists of three types of evening dress -- formal, informal, and casual.

Service

The mostly-Filipino staff provides good service with warmth and friendliness, but not a lot of polish.

Tipping

Recommended gratuities are £2 passenger per day for your cabin steward and the same amount for your dining room waiter.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
Phone: 01473/742-424
www.fredolsencruises.com