The first passengers have set sail aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines', following a multi-million pound dry-dock maintenance program.
The cruise line's smallest ship, the Balmoral, entered the A&P Falmouth shipyard on December 1 for a two-week maintenance program.
The work carried out on board includes a technical renovation of the Neptune Lounge theater, the refurbishment of several cabins and bathrooms, and a complete renovation of the ship's buffet restaurant, now called the Thistle Restaurant (formerly the Palms Café). The new restaurant features a new layout, updated seating areas, and refreshed buffet and beverage stations, making it the largest internal project.
Work has also been done to improve the ship's WiFi capabilities and extensive maintenance has been carried out in the exterior areas. A team of more than 700 people helped complete the busy program, including 350 crew members from Fred. Olsen and 30 trainees from A&P Falmouth.
Samantha Stimpson, CEO of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:
“This has been an incredibly successful drydock program, which has allowed us not only to carry out important maintenance work, but also to make some exciting improvements for our guests, especially our beautiful new buffet restaurant.
“The application of silicone antifouling paint to Balmoral’s hull will allow us to use less fuel, and combined with other improvements we have made, including the upgrade of our propellers and stabilizers, will allow us to sail more efficiently and sustainably, while continuing to offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience on board.
“This is our third work program completed by the A&P Falmouth team, and it continues our commitment to using UK shipyards, supporting the local economy and supply chain, and providing valuable experience to the workforce and their apprentices.”
Balmoral's first outings following its dry-dock program include:
- The 13-night 'Discovery Spain and North Africa' cruise, departing from Southampton on January 5, 2025.
- The 15-night 'In Search of the Northern Lights' cruise, departing from Southampton on January 18, 2025.
- The 13-night cruise 'Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands', departing from Southampton on February 2, 2025.
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The 45-night cruise 'Tropical Islands and Verdant Rainforests of the Caribbean and Central America', departing from Southampton on February 15, 2025.
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