Balmoral

Ballindalloch Restaurant

The stylish Ballindalloch is Balmoral’s main restaurant and offers a fantastic selection of expertly prepared delicious dishes to enjoy. Located towards the stern of the ship on Main Deck 6, the Ballindalloch features large picture windows providing stunning views and elegant décor which has been refreshed with new soft, comfortable furnishings and lighting.

Dining in the Ballindalloch is a lavish affair from beginning to end, from admiring the fine art on display in the grand corridor leading to the restaurant, to devouring every last morsel of your five-course a la carte meal. And the choice on offer every single night will ensure there is always something to suit your taste.

Spey & Avon Restaurants

Newly refurbished with comfortable new seating and tasteful furnishings, the Spey and Avon restaurants – located port side and starboard toward Balmoral’s stern on Highland Deck – have been carefully designed to make the most of large windows providing soothing natural light and ever-changing views.

Combining the same, five-course á la carte menus on offer at the main Ballindalloch restaurant with incredible scenery and the intimate feel of a smaller venue, dining at the Spey and Avon makes for a unique, memorable experience.

Palms Café

Refreshed and improved with new soft furnishings, carpets and décor, the Palms Café will provide guests with an inviting space in which to enjoy a slightly less formal style of dining for years to come.

The Palms Café offers a relaxed buffet style of service, perfect for guests who prefer not to dine at a set time in the Ballindalloch, Spey and Avon restaurants, or those looking to indulge in a late night snack. While the style of the Palms Café is a lot more relaxed, you can still expect to find an abundance of indulgent dishes, expertly prepared to Fred. Olsen’s renowned high standards.

The Grill

Located portside aft on Lido Deck, featuring large picture windows, elegant décor, comfortable seating and premium dinner menus, Balmoral’s brand new and exclusive The Grill restaurant offers a very special dining option on board.

At The Grill, guests can enjoy a romantic evening in the company of a loved one on an intimate table for two; or perhaps celebrate in style in a group of new-found friends. Whatever the occasion, enjoying the finest cooked-to-order steaks, seafood and much more while taking in tranquil ocean views is always an experience to remember. 

The Poolside

Making the most of the stylish interior space and inviting deck area aft of the Palms Café, Balmoral’s newly installed The Poolside is an exclusive venue for very special indoor and al fresco dining.

Opt for an intimate dinner indoors, or perhaps dine outside in the evening sea breeze at The Poolside and you’re in for an unforgettable experience, with a sublime, themed menu of expertly crafted dishes, all inspired by flavours from your cruising region, to enjoy. 

Room Service

All rooms and Suites have tea and coffee making facilities as standard, so you can enjoy a pick-me-up first thing, and a relaxing drink at the end of the day. For those times when you’d like something more while you’re in your home-from-home at sea you can also order room service up until 11pm every day.

Continental breakfast can be ordered in advance for delivery at your preferred time, while snacks are available from 10am onwards. Should you prefer not to head to the restaurants, short lunch and dinner menus are also available. Whatever the time of day, you’ll never be hungry on a Fred. Olsen cruise.

Afternoon Tea

Each day complimentary afternoon tea is served, with sandwiches, scones and cakes, along with fresh tea and coffee, always a popular choice.

On some days guests can book a very select experience: Traditional Premium Afternoon Tea. Enjoy beautiful views from the stylish Observatory Lounge, with musical accompaniment from our on board pianist and the careful attention of white-gloved waiters.

Your choice from a selection of premium teas by Taylors of Harrogate is served in porcelain teapots, along with elegant finger sandwiches, pastries and warm scones with jam and clotted cream. Such civilised indulgence – and all for only £8.95 per person*.

Neptune Lounge

Benefiting from refreshed carpets, curtains, décor and new, more comfortable seating, thanks to a thorough refurbishment in late 2017, the Neptune Lounge offers guests a chance to enjoy a feast of music, dance, comedy and costume in ample space, comfort and style.

As the main entertainment venue on board Balmoral, the Neptune Lounge hosts the live after dinner shows every evening. Take a seat alongside your friends, loved ones and fellow guests and experience all the ‘glitz and glam’ as our friendly waiters bring you drinks straight from the bar.  

Lido Bar & Lounge

The Lido Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring ashore, or while away some time at sea. Take a seat at the bar and chat with the friendly staff and your fellow guests, or perhaps grab a table and appreciate the talent of the resident musicians with a glass of your favourite drink in hand. A newly installed, 75 inch widescreen TV – complete with immersive Bose surround sound system – shows various channels, keeping you up to date with news, sports and maybe a few of your favourite programmes, too.

Located on Lido Deck 8, the Lido Bar overlooks the aft pool on Lounge Deck 7 and offers superb, unspoilt views from the stern of the ship whether you’re at sea or docked alongside in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Marquee Bar

With it’s large windows, spectacular glass roof and beautiful new décor and furnishings, fitted as part of Balmoral’s extensive refurbishment in late 2017, the resplendent Marquee Bar provides guests with the perfect place to take a break from sunbathing on Marquee Deck.

Grab a quick bite to eat, or perhaps a refreshing glass of your favourite drink. Along with a great selection of beers, wines and expertly-created exotic cocktails, the Marquee Bar also offers you a chance to enjoy tempting tipples from our premium gin menu.

Morning Light Pub

Decorated to resemble a British pub or inn, the Morning Light Pub has a welcoming atmosphere and charming traditional style. Open throughout the day and the evening, it’s the ideal place to relax and socialise with friends both old and new.

You could enjoy a quick pint or a glass of wine at lunch before spending the afternoon ashore; stop by for a pre-dinner drink; or settle into a comfortable seat and relax long into the night while enjoying performances from live bands and comedians.

Observatory Lounge

Located on Marquee Deck at the very top of Balmoral, the Observatory Lounge boasts the most spectacular panoramic views and is a wonderful place to enjoy a pre-dinner drink. Sit by the bar, or perhaps take a seat in one of the new, comfortable chairs by the lounge’s large windows and lose yourself in the stunning sights while listening to the twinkling sounds of a grand piano.

The Observatory Lounge is also the venue for our premium Traditional Afternoon Tea service, which offers guests a selection of delicious sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones accompanied by premium teas and unforgettable views. 

The Bookmark Café

Life on the ocean waves doesn’t mean having to sacrifice the regular ‘caffeine fix’ at your favourite coffee shop. The Bookmark Café serves a selection of delicious

speciality coffees – espresso, cappuccino, mocha, iced lattes and more – along with quality tea blends.

Enjoy a quiet moment with a good book or share the experience with good conversation. You’re sure to be tempted by our heavenly fresh chocolates too. From pralines to Champagne truffles, these melt-in-the-mouth treats are too good to miss.

Atlantis Spa and Salon

Refresh the mind and revive the body at the Balmoral’s haven of relaxation. The soothing surroundings of the Atlantis Spa is where you can really treat yourself.

Situated on Highland Deck toward the bow of the ship, this luxurious spa offers a wide range of beauty and relaxation treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and hairdressing, accompanied by stunning views provided by large picture windows. Perhaps try out a new style for your holiday; get set for a formal evening or special occasion; or simply unwind after a busy day of exploring ashore. The Atlantis Spa is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Fitness Centre

Whether you start your day with a relaxing stroll in the sea breeze, catch some sunshine on an afternoon meander, or end the night under the stars, there’s nothing quite like enjoying an invigorating walk around the open promenade. Relaxing by the large, heated pools or in the bubbling jacuzzis on Balmoral’s Lounge and Marquee decks is the perfect way to make the most of your lazy days at sea too.

To help guests work-off some energy and their holiday indulgences, or simply stay in shape as they explore the world, Balmoral’s Fitness Centre is fully equipped with all the modern facilities and equipment you expect to find in your gym back home. We also offer a variety of fitness classes run by our fully qualified Fitness Instructors, including yoga, aerobics and Pilates, that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. 

Pools & Jacuzzis

Keep fit by swimming a few lengths, or cool down after relaxing in the sunshine on deck in either of Balmoral’s large, heated saltwater pools. Located in the centre of Marquee Deck and at the stern of the ship on Lounge Deck, both pools have bubbling Jacuzzis close by, perfect for whiling away some time on sea days, or unwinding after an exciting exploration ashore.

By each pool you’ll find plenty of comfortable sun loungers and ample open deck space too, providing somewhere to simply relax and enjoy the scenery and sea air as the friendly, attentive staff bring you your choice of refreshment throughout the day. 

Arts and Crafts Room

The Arts & Crafts Room onboard your cruise ship is the perfect space to explore your ideas and designs with arts and crafts lecturers. So, for the creatives amongst you, there will be plenty to keep you entertained throughout your cruise holiday, and perhaps leave you with your own self-crafted souvenir to take home.

Art Gallery

Paintings from the Olsen family’s private art collection hang on the walls around your cruise ship. A number of pieces form a mini-gallery on the way into the Ballindalloch Restaurant.

Lectures

On selected cruises, a range of Vistas speakers who can’t wait to share their passion with you, and make your cruise really memorable to educate you on a range of topics. From Lars Tharp the admired historian, lecturer and a long-running expert on the Antiques Roadshow; food and wine expert Jilly Goolden and gardener Charlie Dimmock.

Library

Located in the Bookmark Café on Lounge Deck, Balmoral’s well-appointed library provides a wide variety of books and publications, including some large print books, to delve into, accompanied by speciality coffees, teas and tempting chocolates served at this quiet, comfortable space.

As well as losing themselves in a good book as the world drifts by, guests can stop-by the Library for a traditional board games such as chess and drafts, or have a go at large, challenging jigsaw puzzles available too. 

Gaming Tables

Try your hand at Blackjack or Roulette at Balmoral’s Gaming Tables, located starboard aft on Lido Deck. Perhaps attend one of our daytime teaching sessions to improve your game and learn how to win big, then put your skills into practice in the evenings against our friendly croupiers, your new-found friends and fellow guests.

Please note: games of chance may not be charged back to your on board account.

Card Room

Featuring plenty of card tables and comfortable chairs, the Card Room on board Balmoral provides guests with a quiet, relaxing space to enjoy a competitive hand or two, or simply a bit of fun. Bridge is always a popular pursuit on board, so you’re sure to find players up for a challenge. On some cruises, Bridge tuition is on offer to help you develop your skills.

If you prefer, asides from playing cards, there are jigsaws and board games for you to have a go at too.

Laundry Room

One of the treats of being on board your cruise ship is to leave behind the routine chores. And of course, there is a comprehensive on board laundry service which your stewardess will be pleased to arrange for you. Full details and prices for this service can be found in your Welcome Pack waiting in your room.

However, we do appreciate that occasionally there may be items you wish to deal with yourself, and the self-service Laundry Rooms, located on Bridge Deck and Marina Deck, are fully equipped with washing machines, tumble dryers and ironing facilities. A particularly useful facility for those guests enjoying a longer cruise holiday.

Boutique & Port Shop

The Balmoral Boutique features a wide range of luxury gifts for yourself and your loved ones. It offers a wide range of fragrance, cosmetics, bags, clothing & fashion accessories from designer brands such as Dior, Estee Lauder, Leighton Denny, Radley & Fiorelli, all at duty-free prices.

The Port Shop onboard stocks all the holiday essentials that you may have forgotten to pack from toiletries to sun hats or even a good book. You’ll also find a wide range of sweet treats and savoury snacks – perfect for whilst onboard or as gifts to take home. 

24 hour reception

In the heart of the ship, a member of staff is on hand 24 hours a day to deal with any query you may have.

Dress Code

When it comes to evenings onboard your cruise ship, dressing for dinner is traditional. Generally the style is smart casual, with gentlemen wearing a jacket/or shirt and tie and ladies smartly dressed. Chino type trousers∘ or smart dark jeans are acceptable, but no trainers.
During the day the restaurants require cruise guests to adhere to an appropriate dress code, i.e. no swimwear.

Dietary Requirements

Individual needs are as catered for as possible. So, vegetarian, low fat, dairy-free, lactose-free and gluten-free food are all on the menu.
Please make any special requests when you make your cruise∘ booking, and Fred. Olsen will do their best to source exact products, or provide certain foods, such as diabetic desserts. They may not be able to source specific brands given our location or the availability at local ports.

E-cigarette Policy

Electronic cigarettes, not emitting a vapour may be used in cabins or on cabin balconies but, are not permitted in any non-smoking public area. They can easily be mistaken for a real cigarette and result in potential∘ confrontation and necessitate staff intervention.

Electronic cigarettes emitting any vapour, even if only a water vapour, may only be smoked in designated external smoking areas.

All Inclusive Package

Upgrade to the special All Inclusive Package and you can relax, knowing almost everything is covered. You’ll enjoy selected beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks all day.

Disabled facilities

Fred. Olsen welcomes all guests relying on wheelchairs∘ for mobility onboard cruise ships, but they do ask that you advise them of your mobility needs at the time of booking in order to meet their health & safety requirements.

Environment

At Fred. Olsen we are committed to reducing the impact we have on the environment around us.

With our ships sailing to the four corners of the earth, we want to minimise the impact we make on all the beautiful places we visit∘ and ensure that they are protected for future generations. As a company, we strive to comply with all environmental requirements and take steps to exceed them whenever possible.

Continuing our ongoing efforts to help alleviate plastic pollution and its global environmental impact, single use plastic water bottles∘ are no longer available to purchase throughout our fleet, for guests or crew, and glass carafes, which are replenished daily, are in use in all cabins.

Guests can bring their own refillable water bottles, or purchase on board in the ship’s Port Shop; these can be filled in any of our bars, and we are in the process of installing water stations across the fleet.

Little changes can make a big difference

✔ We have removed all single-use coffee cups, plastic cutlery and plastic straws

✔ Plastic jam and butter portions have been replaced with refillable options

✔ New linen bags have replaced plastic laundry bags

✔ The consumption of cling film in The Galley has been reduced

✔ Ropes are now used to secure items during rough seas rather than plastic

✔ Wooden pencils are provided in cabins, instead of plastic pens

✔ All printed marketing communication is on responsibly sourced FSC approved paper

Refill your water bottle!

We are excited to be supporting the Refill Campaign, run by environmental campaigning organisation City to Sea, to raise awareness of the impact of single-use plastic water bottles on the environment, and encourage people to use refillable water bottles instead.

A million plastic bottles are bought around the world every minute and it’s predicted that figure will rise by another 20% by 2021.

Find out more about how you could save money, stay hydrated and help prevent plastic pollution at source with Refill.

Download the Refill app to find your nearest station today and become a ‘Refill Champion’.

Fuel

Fred. Olsen comply with all international policies∘ and take steps to exceed them whenever possible.

Our ocean-going ships use a mix of Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (LSFO) and Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). As we approach port of calls and sail through special emission control areas, the LSFO – which has a sulphur content of just 0.1% – is used. Outside of these areas, we switch to the use of HFO, which contains a sulphur content of 1-2%. Both fuels are currently below the existing global sulphur limit.

From 1st January 2020, the limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships operating outside designated emission control areas will be reduced to 0.50%. We have already started to take steps to switch our ships to lower emission fuel where possible.

Waste Recycling

All waste created on board is taken to a dedicated waste and recycling sorting area on the vessel.

It is then separated into glass, metal cans, paper/cardboard, plastic, food waste and general waste. Once sorted, these materials∘ are compacted and stored ready to be offloaded at the next available port. Cooking oil is also offloaded in port, so that it can be repurposed.

Food waste is, on some occasions, pulped and then discharged into the sea in accordance with Marpol regulations, as food waste can be eaten by fish. In addition, some items are incinerated∘ on board, again in accordance with all environmental and safety regulations.

Other Details

Children: Kids allowed

Childrens Facilities: Available

Nursery: None

Smoking: Some

Celebrity Ties:

Gratuities: Gratuities for our dedicated service team are not included in the cost of your holiday. While tipping is entirely at your discretion, we pride ourselves on the service offered to our guests, and are confident that you’ll wish to reward staff on board for the attention you receive. Typically, gratuities are charged at £5.00 per person, per day for guests aged 12 and over. This amount is split equally between your stewardess and restaurant waiter, and will be automatically added to your on board account. While very much appreciated, these gratuities are voluntary, and therefore can be adjusted or removed completely at Guest Services on board the ship if you wish; and you are welcome to tip personally if you prefer. For your convenience, you can also pre-pay gratuities before your cruise. We’ll check with you at the time of booking if you’d like to pay prior to your cruise. Pre-payment can be made anytime up to 5 days before departure by simply calling our Guest Services team on 0800 0355 145 or e-mail [email protected]

Wheelchair Cabins: 9 available