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  • Fred. Olsen MS Balmoral - Christmas Markets of Germany & Denmark
GettyImages 717170797 Germany, Bremen, Christmas Market

Embark on a magical cruise to Germany and Denmark and experience the fun, festivity and flavours of some of Europe’s very best Christmas markets. In eight nights you’ll visit three charming cities, each offering an enchanting experience at the most wonderful time of the year.

Balmoral at sea, tender.

Itinerary

View full itinerary

Depart from Southampton in late afternoon.

Note: In the event of adverse weather/sea conditions that prevent the ship from calling at one of the scheduled ports, alternative arrangements will be made where possible.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS Dinner included

Relax and enjoy all the facilities on offer on Balmoral.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

Early in the morning, we arrive at Bremen. The key maritime role played by the city of Bremen, which straddles the Weser River in northwest Germany, is underlined by its impressive Hanseatic buildings. Bremen’s Hanseatic Gothic architecture in the Marktplatz and narrow timber buildings in the Schnoor Quarter are the standout highlights in the oldest part of the city. The ornate Gothic Town Hall, originally built between 1405 and 1410, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has within its walls a restaurant with original Hanseatic era décor and the Bremer Ratskeller, a public house in the basement.

The Town Hall is also home to a number of large model ships in its upper hall and 12 of the oldest wines in the world. Nearby is the Roland Statue, a giant stone figure that symbolises freedom of trade. In contrast, Überseestadt - the former docklands - offers a completely different experience and is a fine example of modern Bremen. Here, a selection of trendy bars, stylish cafes and fine restaurants can be found, as well as a beautiful harbour and yacht-filled marina.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

Connecting the North Sea, at the mouth of the Elbe River, to the Baltic Sea at Holtenau, the Kiel Canal is one of the world’s busiest and most important shipping routes. Slicing a man-made path through the German countryside, this 61-mile-long marvel of engineering allows vessels to avoid 250 nautical miles of sea sailing on average, ensuring a faster and safer passage through Europe.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

With its vibrant atmosphere, modern culture and beautiful architecture, Copenhagen is the essence of Scandinavian cool. One of Europe's oldest and most popular cities, Copenhagen is also one of the cleanest and most cosmopolitan. Its narrow streets are always busy with welcoming locals and are lined with colourful cafes, bars, shops and places to eat. Its bridges ring with cycling commuters and the pristine waterways make visiting this city a wonderful experience.

The historic centre of Denmark’s capital, an 18th-century rococo district, is home to the Royal Family’s Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle, surrounded by gardens and home to the crown jewels. The Little Mermaid sculpture at Langelinje Pier is a must-visit attraction too.

Nyhavn – Copenhagen’s 17th century waterfront and canal – is home to a number of wooden ships and many brightly coloured 17th and 18th century townhouses that have been converted into bars and restaurants.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

As picturesque as it is important, the Kiel Canal is a popular route for ‘pleasure’ crafts and smaller-sized cruise ships such as those in the Fred. Olsen fleet. Sailing slowly along the canal presents an opportunity to take in gorgeous scenes of lush-green countryside and a collection of interesting villages and towns flanking the still waters, and marvel at several impressive bridges. Maritime enthusiasts will delight at the various shapes, sizes and sheer volume of the ships and vessels navigating this busy waterway too.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

Located on the River Elbe, Hamburg is the country’s largest port and regarded as Germany’s gateway to the world. A vibrant, historic city boasting an impressive Hanseatic League heritage that harks back over 700 years, Hamburg’s maritime soul permeates the city. From its architecture to its cuisine, water is ever present in Germany's principal port. The city is crossed by hundreds of canals and spanned by 1,000 bridges. Near its centre, the charming Inner Alster Lake is dotted with boats and surrounded by divine cafes.

Hamburg is awash with historic buildings and monuments typical of Hanseatic culture. The steeple of St. Nikolai – a church almost destroyed in World War II, the 17th century Zollenbrücke Bridge and Hamburg Rathaus are must-visit sites. The central Jungfernstieg Boulevard connects the Neustadt (new town) with the Altstadt (old town), home to the impressive 18th century St. Michael’s Church.

In the city centre, the amazing Miniatur Wunderland museum is highly recommended, as is the ocean-liner-shaped Chilehaus, the crowning glory of the UNESCO-listed Kontorhaus District. The flourishing swathe of stylish shops, excellent restaurants and legendary nightlife – a celebration of cosmopolitan Hamburg – add more exciting dimensions to this city. Hamburg's waterfront district also offers much to enjoy. Visit the popular Fischmarkt, discover an array of lively bars and restaurants at the harbour, watch Europe's second largest port in action or head to Hafen City, a newly developed urban quarter.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

After all the sightseeing of the past week, we can relax on board Balmoral as she cruises back to Southampton.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS All meals included

Early morning arrival into Southampton. After breakfast, disembark Balmoral.

  • Accommodation 3 * Balmoral
  • MEALS Breakfast included

Balmoral

Although the largest of Fred. Olsen’s ocean-going cruise ships, Balmoral is still small enough to navigate size-restricted waterways, providing fantastic scenic cruising opportunities, and retains the warm, intimate and friendly atmosphere that the Fred. Olsen fleet is renowned for. Balmoral is named after the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, and the Scottish theme runs throughout the main dining venues where guests can enjoy tantalising menus prepared by expert chefs.

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Cruising Balmoral

Balmoral is the largest of Fred. Olsen's smaller, friendly ocean-going cruise ships – with capacity for up to 1350 guests – yet it's still small enough to navigate narrow waterways such as Kiel Canal and bring inspirational sights and experiences closer to you. Like the rest of the fleet, Balmoral retains a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation and lounges, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.

Facilities on-board

On board you’ll find a superb selection of restaurants, bars and lounges offering sumptuous cuisine, a wide range of beers, wines and spirits and fantastic entertainment. One of the focal points is a beautiful, five-deck high Atrium leading to Palms Café, Coral Club and the Thistle Restaurant, while the cascading decks at the stern enhance the ship’s elegant profile and offer stunning vistas no matter which deck you’re on.

Accommodation

Single Interior
These rooms are approximately 130 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Marina Deck 3 or Bridge Deck 9 (depending on grade of cabin chosen). All rooms include a bathroom with a shower.

Single Ocean View
This room is approximately 140 square feet in size and can be found on Marina Deck 3. It has a porthole and a bathroom with a shower.

Single Superior Ocean View
This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8. It has a picture window and a bathroom with a bath and/or shower. Facilities include air conditioning, a TV, mini fridge, telephone, safe and hairdryer.

All rooms are non-smoking, have 24 hour room service and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

Ready to book?

VIEW DATES & PRICES

What's included:

  • Inside cabin
  • Welcome drink and information meeting
  • Entertainment on-board
  • Porterage and Port Taxes
  • Accompanying Solos Tour Leader (with groups of 8 & over)
  • Full Board: Breakfast, lunch & dinner, Afternoon teas and late night snacks, Self-service tea & coffee
    All-inclusive drinks package including wine, beer and house spirits and 50% off premium and branded drinks and spirits
  • Port Parking
  • £50 On Board Credit

What's Extra:

  • Cabin upgrades
  • Gratuities
  • Shore excursions
  • Insurance see here

Useful Information

Passport
Absolutely. It is a condition of carriage that all guests embarking on a cruise holiday, even those visiting the British Isles, must hold a full and valid passport that conforms to the entry requirements of each destination visited, and is valid for at least 6 months after the date of return to the UK. It is your responsibility to ensure you hold a valid passport. If you need to renew your passport, please allow at least one month for your application to be processed - and more time during peak holiday periods. As you will be denied boarding if unable to present your passport at check-in, please ensure your passport is kept in your hand luggage.

Visas
Visa and health requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you check with a professionally qualified source and comply with such requirements. UK passport holders will need visas for certain Fred. Olsen cruise holidays and will advised at the time of booking. Your cruise booking information will also detail any requirements applicable to your holiday.

It is the responsibility of all non-British passport holders to ensure that they are in possession of a valid passport and, where necessary, entry visas or permits for their chosen cruise. If you are unsure as to whether you are requires to obtain such documents, you must contact the relevant Embassy or Consulate. Failure to comply with this request may result in refusal of carriage, or the imposition of individual fines by local immigration authorities.

Payment on Board
You will be asked to register your credit or debit card at the start of the cruise. Anything you buy can then be charged to your room account and, when your cruise is over, your bill is automatically charged back to your card for your convenience. You can see your room account balance at anytime via the TV in your room, or Guest Services can provide you with a printed copy of your balance at any point during your cruise. Fred. Olsen accept most credit cards - Eurocard, Mastercard and Visa. (We regret we are unable to accept American Express cards.) They cannot accept Maestro, Solo, Electron, Diners Club or travel agent debit cards or pre-paid currency or travellers cheque cards. Please note: If you plan to settle your on board account in cash the currency on board is Sterling.

What's the dress code on board?
Packing for your cruise holiday with Fred. Olsen is simple. The dress code is designed to ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable during your days and evenings on board, as well as your time ashore. This handy guide will help you decide what to pack for your cruise holiday.

Evening wear
Evening wear is simple on a Fred. Olsen cruise. Most evenings are smart casual with a few formal nights providing the chance to dress up. And just to add some fun to the cruise, there may also be some optional theme nights on longer sailings.

Formal evenings
Depending on the length of your cruise holiday there will be one or more formal evenings whilst you are on board for cruise durations longer than six nights. This is your chance to ‘dress to impress’ and add glitz and glamour to your dining experience. Most men opt to wear either a dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie. Ladies are often seen looking fabulous in anything from a cocktail-style dress to a full-length ball gown.

All Fred. Olsen cruise ships feature a casual dining experience for those guests who do not wish to join the formal evenings. Dress code for these restaurants is smart casual every evening.

Smart casual evenings
Most evenings during your cruise holiday will be smart casual evenings so you can feel relaxed and comfortable whilst enjoying your dinner. For men, a pair of trousers, chinos or smart white or dark jeans, coupled with a polo shirt or shirt is perfectly acceptable. Some guests prefer to wear a jacket or tie which is also fine. The choice is yours. Ladies’ dress can often range from tailored trouser suits and stylish dresses to casual separates and summer dresses.

Please note: trainers, T-shirts, shorts and tracksuits are not allowed in the restaurants for evening dining. We reserve the right to decline entry to those who refuse to show this courtesy to their fellow guests.

British Night  Most cruises of over 5 nights duration have a British Night, so dress in your best red, white and blue outfit, wave your Union Jack and sing-a-long as we celebrate Britain in style. With a feast of British-themed food, music and entertainment to enjoy, this special evening is sure to be a highlight of your holiday.

Day wear on board
Whether enjoying the sea views from the deck, or participating in the many activities available, we want you to feel at ease. Casual wear is perfectly acceptable for your days on board with many guests opting for shorts and a T-shirt or polo shirt while cruising in sunny climes, and a pair of light-weight trousers and a sweater or jacket for cooler daytime temperatures.

Whilst on deck, bathing suits are a must to ensure you can make the most of the pools and Jacuzzis on board. A pair of flip flops or sandals are advisable as the decks can sometimes get very warm (please take care, as the decks can be slippery too). A T-shirt and casual shorts is often preferred for lounging by the pool. Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses and sun cream, as the sun can be a lot stronger at sea.

Dress is smart casual during lunch time and as a courtesy to their fellow cruisers, guests are asked not to wear bathing suits or vests in the restaurants. However, smart shorts and a T-shirt are perfectly acceptable.

Day wear ashore 
The weather can vary greatly depending on your destination and the time of year you cruise. For warm weather destinations like the Canaries, Mediterranean and the Caribbean, typical summertime wear such as T-shirts, shorts or swimwear are fine. For Shore Tours that include visits to churches, museums or cathedrals, it is advisable to dress a little more conservatively.

For cruises to cooler destinations, a pair of trousers, a jumper or jacket and a raincoat are recommended, as the weather can be changeable.

Whichever type of cruise you choose to embark on, a pair of comfortable walking shoes is strongly recommended to explore some of the fabulous destinations you will be visiting in comfort.

Formal Nights
What should I wear on formal night?
Depending on the length of your cruise holiday there will be one or more formal evenings whilst you are on board. This is your chance to ‘dress to impress’ and add glitz and glamour to your dining experience.

Most men opt to wear either a dinner jacket, or dark suit and tie. Ladies are often seen looking fabulous in anything from a cocktail-style dress to a full-length ball gown.

All Fred. Olsen cruise ships feature a casual dining experience for those guests who do not wish to join the formal evenings. Dress code for these restaurants is smart casual every evening. One of our most popular evenings is British Night, where guests choose to dress in red, white and blue.

The exact number of formal nights, including any theme nights will be highlighted on your cruise ticket. Below is a guide to the number of formal nights you can expect to enjoy on cruises of various durations.

3 nights or less -Smart casual throughout

3 - 5 nights- Captain's Welcome Party, but no formal nights

6 nights -Captain's Welcome Party + 1 x formal night

7- 12 nights - Captain's Welcome Party + 2 x formal nights

13- 20 nights - Captain's Welcome Party + 3 x formal nights

Ready to book?

VIEW DATES & PRICES

Choose a cruise holiday with confidence. A Solos Tour Leader will accompany groups of 8 and over, and all our cruises will operate as shown - irrespective of the number of bookings taken and subject to the Cruise company’s schedule. If necessary our itineraries may be subject to change, and in the event of adverse weather/sea conditions that prevent the ship from calling at one of the scheduled ports, alternative arrangements will be made where possible. All cruises that include a flight will be ATOL protected.

 

Depart Return Nights Age Group Price From COMMENTS  

What's included:

  • Inside cabin
  • Welcome drink and information meeting
  • Entertainment on-board
  • Porterage and Port Taxes
  • Accompanying Solos Tour Leader (with groups of 8 & over)
  • Full Board: Breakfast, lunch & dinner, Afternoon teas and late night snacks, Self-service tea & coffee
    All-inclusive drinks package including wine, beer and house spirits and 50% off premium and branded drinks and spirits
  • Port Parking
  • £50 On Board Credit

What's Extra:

  • Cabin upgrades
  • Gratuities
  • Shore excursions
  • Insurance see here

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