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Exploring the Baltic

 18th May 2022 | 14 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2213
L2213-amended-banner-ticket

from: £2139pp

BMB Host and Team
All of our Bridge Cruises have a Bernard Magee Bridge host and a team of helpers.
Daily Bridge
There is a daily session of bridge available as well as seminars on days at sea. All the bridge sessions are optional.
Partners & Parties
We have many single players on board and guarantee everybody a partner. We also have drinks parties to help players meet and mingle and create a nice atmosphere on board.
About this Cruise

Itinerary Change Notice: please see updated itinerary for full details.

Discover classic cities in the Baltic, including a collection of captivating capitals, and experience their beauty, diverse cultures and unique histories. In Sweden, experience daytime scenic cruising between the craggy islands and islets of the sprawling Stockholm Archipelago, and discover the sights of Stockholm. See the Swedish capital’s architectural highlights, such as the Royal Palace; visit the many museums; and perhaps take a boat trip on the picturesque canals. There’s also a visit to the beautiful island of Gotland for a glimpse into Sweden’s Hanseatic heritage in historic Visby. After Visby, there’s a memorable visit to Oslo; enjoy a momentous sailing past the Olsen family home on the Oslofjord, and then seek-out the attractions of Norway’s capital from the Opera House and the National Gallery – home of Edvard Munch’s The Scream – to Vigeland Sculpture Park.

In Denmark, another attraction-packed Scandinavian capital awaits your exploration. Balmoral will dock close to the centre of Copenhagen, so you can simply step foot off the gangway and wander off to find the sights of the Nyhavn district, Tivoli Gardens, the famous Little Mermaid and more. Perhaps visit the impressive Christiansborg and Amalienborg palaces to learn Danish Royal heritage. There are also visits to the Latvian capital of Riga, where the symbolic Freedom Movement and the Old Town are not-to-be-missed, and Tallinn – Estonia’s fairytale-esque capital, where you’re sure to be enchanted by the preserved Old Town and centuries-old wonders such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Toompea Castle. Enjoy a taste of Finnish culture in Helsinki too; you’ll get to appreciate the art and architecture of this pretty city and sample some of traditional cuisine, while you could even relax like a local at a sauna spa.

Your Host
Bernard Magee

Bernard Magee is the UK’s best-known bridge teacher and host, and has built up a tremendous following from his regular and highly popular articles in Bridge magazine. He is the author of best-selling interactive tutorial software and DVDs on Acol Bridge available from Bernard Magee Bridge: https://bernardmageebridge.com/shop/

Bernard has published numerous bridge books, including The Mr Bridge Quiz and Puzzle Book published by Foulsham, The Collins Bridge Quiz Book published by HarperCollins, Better Hand Evaluation published by Mr Bridge and Bernard Magee’s Tips for Better Bridge published by Mr Bridge.

Itinerary
Accommodation
What's Included

What's included?

  • Comfortable, stylish cabins and suites equipped with a Smart TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and individually controlled air conditioning
  • A tempting choice of cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five-course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets, late-night snacks and much more
  • Unlimited, self-service tea and coffee available 24hrs at selected venues, complimentary afternoon tea* with sandwiches and cakes, and in-room sandwiches and snacks
  • A full programme of evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, comedy, dancing and live music
  • Full use of on board leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and gym
  • A wide choice of engaging on board activities and lectures throughout the day
  • All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
  • Luggage porterage between your cabin and the drop-off/pick-up point
    • Formal welcome and/or Captain’s Drinks Party and Gala Buffet

Chargeable extras
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours. *Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea not included. Upgrade to All Inclusive Drinks Package is available as a chargeable optional extra and can be added to your booking up to six days prior to your cruise departing.

Great value offers
Great value offers on selected fares and cabin grades available on this cruise. Please contact our Reservations team for further details.

About Your Ship
Balmoral
Carrying up to 1,350 guests is 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.

Exploring the Baltic

 18th May 2022 | 14 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2213
Cabin Prices
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
Interior Cabin
160 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£2139pp

Ocean View Cabin
165 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£2469pp

Superior Ocean View
165 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£2949pp

Balcony Room
180 square feet
Balcony
Smart TV & Fridge

£3899pp

Superior Balcony
190 square feet
Balcony
Smart TV & Fridge

£4469pp

Balcony Suite
Up to 430 square feet
Balcony
Smart TV & Fridge

£4749pp

Single Interior
160 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£3329

Single Ocean View
165 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£4159

Exploring the Baltic

18th May 2022 | 14 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2213
L2213-amended-itinerary-map
Depart: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
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 beautiful gardens and is the home of the Danish crown jewels. The Little Mermaid sculpture at Langelinje Pier is a must-visit attraction too.

Take a wander through pretty Nyhavn – Copenhagen’s 17th century waterfront and canal district – and you'll revel postcard-perfect scenes of historic wooden ships set to a backdrop of brightly coloured 17th and 18th century townhouses, many of which have been converted into bars and restaurants.
Eight hundred years have shaped the unique appearance and rich traditions of Latvia’s capital, Riga. The Gothic spires that dominate its skyline imply a sombre heart, but the rich Art Nouveau spirit of this diverse city, the largest of all three Baltic capitals, is a delight to discover.

Set at the mouth of the River Daugava, the cultural centre of Riga has been an important centre for trade and finance over the centuries, and boasts fine examples of architecture, museums and concert halls. The city’s modern urban structures blend seamlessly with medieval castles, churches and the wooden buildings of its medieval Old Town. The pedestrian-only Old Town – now a UNESCO World Heritage – has many shops and restaurants and is home to the bustling Livu Square.
Tallinn, Estonia’s capital on the Baltic Sea, is unquestionably one of Europe's most magical capitals. This ancient Hanseatic city is justifiably proud of its beautiful churches, solid limestone houses and well-preserved cobbled streets.

Toompea Hill, with its medieval houses and alleyways, is the oldest part, and at its foot substantial remains of the city wall can still be seen, surrounded by well-maintained parks. The medieval town hall is one of the best preserved in northern Europe, and the weathercock, Gamle Toomas, is an enduring symbol of Tallinn.

The astonishing, ornate, 19th century Alexander Nevskij Cathedral was built when Estonia was part of Tsarist Russia. Kadriorg’s Castle was built by an earlier Tsar, Peter the Great, and now houses part of the Estonian Museum of Art. The “Peek into the Kitchen” tower has an exhibition of Tallinn’s military history.
Finland's capital since 1812, built on a peninsula amid a cluster of islands, stately Helsinki is The Daughter of the Baltic.This striking seaside port is surrounded by uplifting natural landscapes that are easily accessible from each area of the city. The opportunities to get out and about includes boating around the archipelago islands, hiking Helsinki’s forests or strolling its beaches, smart parks and gardens.

The port also boasts a UNESCO-listed sea fortress just a short distance from the shore, which is worth the short ferry journey to explore its historic walls and gates.

Senate Square, one of Finland’s most photographed places, is home to fine examples of neoclassical architecture, including unique designs from renowned architect, Carl Ludvig Engel. Other architectural delights include the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, the imposing concert hall, Musiikkitalo, and the Temppeliaukio, an astonishing rock-carved church. Helsinki's stunning train station built in 1919, also demands discovery.

Finnish cuisine can be found across the city, from the historic kauppahalli (covered market) to popular, creative bistros. Locally-sourced reindeer, elk, bear, Arctic char and snow grouse, often find their way onto the menu.
stockholm-archipelago
A cruise through the mesmerising Stockholm Archipelago is always a memorable experience. En route to Stockholm you'll pass by and between some 30,000 beautiful islands and islets, taking in unforgettable views from the decks of your smaller cruise ship. Each rocky isle is unique; some are inhabited and feature ancient villages and colourful wooden houses, others are untouched and boast rugged woodland, craggy cliffs and sandy beaches. This ensures that there's always something new to see, whichever way you look.
stockholm-banner
Sweden’s beautiful capital owes much of its appeal to its unique location. Spread across 14 islands at the head of a vast archipelago that stretches out into the Baltic, Stockholm’s swathe of parks, gardens and canals are a joy to discover via the city’s large network of bridges.

Founded over 700 years ago, the city’s harbour is the epitome of elegance and Stockholm’s history is writ large across its wide boulevards. Gamla Stan, Stockholm's charming Old Town district, is home to historic, ochre-coloured buildings and monuments. Dating back to the 13th century, the island is surrounded by water and offers beautiful waterfront views. Along its divine cobbled streets, the 13th century Storkyrkan Cathedral, the gorgeous Riddarholm Church and the Nobel Prize Museum can all be found and appreciated.

The choice of museums is extensive and includes the Vasa Maritime Museum, the unique Skansen Open Air Museum and of course, the ABBA Museum. The stunning Royal Palace and the Drottningholm Palace are also well worth seeing.

The vibrant Norrmalm and Östermalm districts in the city centre are ideal for those looking for a more modern cultural experience. Here, an array of upmarket shops sell goods from globally-known brands, and there are trendy cafes next to the Science and Technology Museum. Stockholm’s beauty and fashion sense are legendary, and its no-fuss functional, minimalistic approach to style provides the city with an unmistakable look.

Given its bountiful seas and farmland, Stockholm is a city of foodies and food trends. From açai breakfast bowls to truffle cheeseburgers, trying the cuisine is an exploration all of its own. Traditional Swedish cooking still holds its own, though: fried herring, meatballs and toast skagen remain menu classics.
visby-banner
Located on the Swedish island of Gotland, the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Visby is one of the most remarkable in Scandinavia. Known for its incredible scenic beauty and stunning historic sites, this former Hanseatic City has to be seen to be truly appreciated.

The “City of Roses and Ruins” is like a living museum, and is renowned for its well-preserved medieval wall and defensive towers. Uncovering the 12th century Gunpowder Tower, Love Gate and Långa Lisa – the wall’s tallest tower, is highly recommended. Visby’s wonderful Old Town is home to 15 of Visby’s 17 medieval churches, and the Burmeister House – the town’s oldest merchant house – St. Mary’s Cathedral, and a beautiful botanical garden can also be found within its ancient walls. The main square, Stora Torget, has cobblestone streets lined with charming cafés and restaurants.
As you sail the glassy waters of Oslofjord on board your smaller-sized ship, you can catch a glimpse of Lysedal Mansion – the historic home of the Olsen family – situated amongst the picturesque scenery of Hvitsten, a charming village synonymous with our company’s founders.

Be on the lookout for Hvitsten’s old wooden church, gifted to the village by Bolette Olsen in 1903, through your binoculars too.
Sailing the length of the 100 Kilometre-long Oslofjord, your smaller ship's route to Oslo, offers you a chance to admire the waterway's wonderful scenery on a cruise taking in Norway's fantastic capital city.

While Oslofjord doesn't boast landscapes quite as dramatic as other Norwegian fjords which may feature on your itinerary, there's still plenty to see as you glide along the glassy waters, including a number of pretty islands, fishing villages and bays. The Oslofjord is also a haven for birdwatchers too and various species can be seen resting on the shores or flying high above the fjord.
Oslo, the capital and largest city of Norway, is one of Scandinavia’s most historic, interesting and welcoming destinations. Surrounded by mountains and its own fjord, this compact and cultured city is both easy and fun to explore on foot.

Oslo’s two most famous sons, Edvard Munch and Henrik Ibsen, are celebrated across the city – all part of the contemporary cultural experience. The National Gallery is home to Edvard Munch’s iconic ‘The Scream’, along with works by other European artists from Manet to Picasso, and the Munchmuseet contains over 5,000 works that Munch left to the city of Oslo.

Exploring one of Oslo’s many museums, uncovering its booming art scene at any number of its commercial galleries or simply marvelling at the extraordinary architecture that fills the skyline are all highlights of this fine city. The fabulous Viking Ship Museum has three ships recovered from royal burial mounds in the Oslofjord, while the medieval Akershus Castle that dominates the harbour front is well worth visiting. Vigelandsparken Sculpture Park – one of Oslo’s must-visit attractions, is a Norwegian institution and home to more than 200 bronze, granite and wrought iron sculptures from Gustav Vigeland.

Oslo is an overwhelmingly green city. It was awarded European Green Capital for 2019, and boasts one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. The city has excellent public transport, and the city planning has put pedestrians first. Most noticeable in the city, is Oslo’s commitment to sustainable food production and green space. From hotdogs to Michelin-starred restaurants, the dining is always of a high-quality, as is the city nightlife.

Outside of the city centre, the stunning natural landscapes of the Oslomarka and Oslofjord await discovery. The Oslomarka – the vast forests around Oslo, has lush green valleys and diverse fauna such as lynx, beaver, Eurasian elk and deer, while the impressive, photogenic Oslofjord stretches over 120 kilometres.
Arrive: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom

Accommodation on Balmoral

18th May 2022 | 14 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2213
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
  • This suite is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 and Lido Deck 8.
  • This suite has a bedroom with a sitting area and a balcony. There is an en-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.

Please note, rooms 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.

PS - Premier Suite
  • This suite is approximately 430 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
  • This suite has a sitting room, balcony and a bedroom with large double bed and bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
OW - Owner's Suite
  • Exclusive suite - please call for more details.
SS - Superior Suite
  • This style of suite is approximately 275 square feet in size, and can be found on Highland Deck 10 and Bridge Deck 9.
  • This suite has a sitting area with a balcony and a bedroom with a twin or double bed. The bathroom has a bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
MS - Marquee Suite
  • This suite is approximately 390 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
  • This suite has a bedroom with a large double bed and a sitting area, a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
  • These rooms are approximately 190 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
  • Slightly larger than a BC grade, these rooms have a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
BC - Balcony Cabin
  • This room is approximately 180 square feet in size, and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
  • It has a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
A - Superior Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8.
  • It has a picture window, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
B - Superior Ocean View
  • Approx. 165 square feet in size, these rooms are located on the Lido Deck 8 and Main Deck 6.
  • Fitted with everything you need for your stay, there’s a picture window too.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted view.

C - Superior Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5.
  • It has a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
D - Ocean View
  • These rooms are approximately 165 square feet in size, and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5 and Coral Deck 4.
  • They have a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
E - Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.
  • It has a picture window and a bathroom with shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
F - Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3.
  • It has 2 portholes, bathroom with a shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
G - Superior Interior Cabin
  • Our Superior Interior Rooms are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
  • These rooms have a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

*Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.

H - Interior Cabin
  • This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Atlantic Deck 5.
  • It has a bathroom with shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
I - Interior Cabin
  • This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 and Marina Deck 3.
  • It has a bathroom with shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
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