BOREALIS CRUISE REVIEW ONBOARD FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES

Discovering Iceland and the Shetland Islands Aboard Borealis: A Journey to Remember with Fred. Olsen Cruises

Exploring the rugged beauty of Iceland and the captivating charm of the Shetland Islands is a dream for many travellers. I was fortunate enough to experience this unforgettable journey with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines aboard the Borealis, a ship that combines the best of classic cruising with modern comforts. So lets get started on my Borealis cruise review!

This was my first cruise, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. From the friendly and attentive crew to the beautifully designed ship and well-planned itinerary, everything exceeded my expectations. The journey around Iceland and the Shetland Islands was truly unforgettable, and I’m so glad I got to experience it with Fred. Olsen Cruises. I’m already looking forward to my next voyage!

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Aboard Borealis

The Borealis, part of Fred. Olsen’s renowned fleet quickly became a home away from home. Its classic design, paired with modern amenities, provided the perfect setting for our adventure. From the moment I boarded, the warm and welcoming atmosphere set the tone for the entire trip.

Fred. Olsen Cruises is known for its personalised service, and the crew on the Borealis lived up to this reputation. They attended to every detail, from the cosy rooms with stunning sea views to the wide variety of dining options that catered to every palate. Other ships in the Fred. Olsen fleet include sister ship Bolette and Balmoral.

Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice

Our first stop was Iceland, a country celebrated for its dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. The Borealis docked at several key ports, each offering a unique glimpse of Iceland’s wild beauty.

Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital, was a highlight with its blend of modern culture and historical sites. Although I missed much of Reykjavik, having joined the cruise halfway through, the brief time I spent there was enough to appreciate the city’s charm.

My visit to Heimaey, the largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, was particularly memorable. The day began with an exhilarating quad biking tour across the island’s volcanic terrain, where I sped past craters and peaks shaped by past eruptions. The knowledgeable guide enhanced the experience, and I was fortunate enough to spot orcas swimming nearby. After an incredible day, I returned to the Borealis, where a hot cup of cocoa awaited me—a perfect way to warm up while waiting for the tender back to the ship.

The Shetland Islands: A Step Back in Time

After the stunning landscapes of Iceland, the Borealis sailed towards the Shetland Islands, a place steeped in history and natural beauty. The Shetlands are famed for their rugged coastlines, ancient archaeological sites, and the iconic Shetland ponies.

During my walking tour around the Shetland Islands, I visited the Up Helly Aa Exhibition in Lerwick, which provided a fascinating insight into the region’s Viking history. The exhibition highlighted how the Vikings arrived in Shetland around the 9th century, and how, over time, they settled and left a lasting impact on the local culture.

The exhibition also explored the origins of the Up Helly Aa festival, a modern celebration rooted in Viking traditions. Held annually on the last Tuesday of January, the festival features a torchlit procession where participants dressed as Vikings march through Lerwick, culminating in the burning of a replica Viking longship. This event honours the Viking past and remains a significant cultural tradition in Shetland.

Exploring the exhibition gave me a deeper understanding of the island’s Viking heritage and how it continues to shape the community today.

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The Fred. Olsen Experience

What made this cruise particularly memorable was the close and friendly atmosphere that Fred. Olsen Cruises is known for; the staff onboard couldn’t have done more to make my cruise better. The smaller size of the Borealis allowed us to visit ports that larger ships cannot reach, providing a more personal and immersive experience at each destination.

Food onboard Borealis

The food on board the Borealis was exceptional, with a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste. One of the highlights of the trip was dining at the speciality restaurant Colours and Tastes, which offers exquisite Asian Fusion cuisine. I had the best Pad Thai there – perfectly balanced flavours and beautifully presented. The attention to detail in both the food and service made it an unforgettable dining experience, adding a special touch to an already fantastic cruise.

Enrichment onboard Borealis

The onboard enrichment programmes were another highlight, making the sea days just as enjoyable as the port visits. On a sea day aboard the Borealis, I thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing and engaging activities on offer. I had fun taking part in a lively quiz and spent time playing shuffleboard on the deck, enjoying the fresh sea air. I also played other board games with fellow passengers, adding a touch of friendly competition to the day. Whether it was attending a cooking demonstration or finding a quiet spot to read, the day was a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment, making the most of the time at sea.

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Borealis cruise review summary

Cruising around Iceland and the Shetland Islands on the Borealis was more than just a holiday; it was an adventure filled with discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Fred. Olsen Cruises offered the perfect mix of comfort, culture, and exploration, making this trip one I’ll treasure for years to come. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or seeking a unique getaway, this cruise provides an experience like no other, where each day brings new sights and remarkable experiences.

If you would like more information about Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or the Borealis, please contact us or give us a call.

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