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Exploring Baltic Capitals

 12th May 2023 | 14 Nights | Southampton | Balmoral | L2311
L2311-banner-ticket

from: £1899pp

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

In their architecture and world-famous landmarks; their cultural and historical highlights; and their scenic, artistic and aesthetic delights, you’ll get to see and fully experience grandeur of captivating Baltic cities on this memorable journey of discovery. St Petersburg is a veritable treasure trove of iconic sites, and you are afforded two days of exploration and sightseeing in this Russian gem to create memories that will last a lifetime. Take in the must-visit sites of the ‘Jewel in the Baltic Crown’ at your leisure; you’ve ample time to marvel at the magnificence of wonders such as Peterhof Palace, the elaborate Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood, Catherine Palace and legendary Hermitage Museum. You could even experience the magic of an evening at the Russian ballet, with a chance to meet the soloist after their performance, too.

Your attraction-packed adventure also takes you to Scandinavia, where you’re in for rewarding explorations of two capital cities. Uncover the many highlights of Copenhagen, including the impressive Christiansborg and Amalienborg palaces, and 17th century Nyhavn waterfront district, with ease as Balmoral docks closer to the heart of the city; wander the historic Gamla Stan District and admire the Royal Palace in Stockholm; and experience scenic cruising through the rugged isles and islets of the beautiful Stockholm Archipelago. Your smaller ship guides you to Estonia too, for a chance to revel in the fairytale-esque charms of medieval castles, cathedrals and churches in Old Town Tallinn and meet one of the local bell ringers; and to Germany, where you’ll get to experience scenic cruising of the Kiel Canal and visit Warnemunde, to discover this seaside town’s many charms, or perhaps even tour to Berlin.

Your Host
Richard and Sue Jones

Richard and Sue have lived in Bedfordshire for over 30 years, where they have brought up their three children. Richard learnt to play bridge at the age of 11 but only set foot in a bridge club after retiring in 2016 and soon became fascinated by the game and has taken every opportunity to improve his knowledge. Richard is an EBU qualified teacher and director and directs regularly F2F and on-line.

Sue is a more recent convert to the game and now enjoys playing at the local club and on-line. Sue has excellent organisational skills and will ensure the sessions run smoothly and everyone feels welcome and involved in all the activities.

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 Baltic Capitals

 12th May 2023 | 14 Nights | Southampton | Balmoral | L2311
Cabin Prices
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
Interior Cabin
160 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£1899pp

Ocean View Cabin
165 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£2279pp

Superior Ocean View
165 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£2659pp

Balcony Room
180 square feet
Balcony
Smart TV & Fridge

£3899pp

Superior Balcony
190 square feet
Balcony
Smart TV & Fridge

SOLD OUT

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

£4089pp

Single Interior
160 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£3299

Single Ocean View
165 square feet
Smart TV
Mini Fridge

£3989

Exploring Baltic Capitals

12th May 2023 | 14 Nights | Southampton | Balmoral | L2311
L2311-itinerary-map
southampton-balmoral-depart
Depart: Sothampton, United Kingdom
kiel-canal-banner
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.

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.
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A delightful seaside town with excellent links to many of Germany’s gems, such as historic Rostock and vibrant Berlin, Warnemünde (Warnemunde) is a wonderfully rewarding destination.

With its wide, sandy beaches, traditional pubs and fantastic restaurants serving delicious, locally caught seafood, it is no wonder that pretty Warnemünde – situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea – is one of Germany’s most popular holiday resorts and busiest cruise ports.

While many visitors to Warnemünde choose not to stray away from the coast here, especially in summer when the beach becomes a haven for sun-worshippers, there are plenty of highlights to uncover elsewhere in the town. Those who opt to explore are rewarded with interesting attractions such as Warnemünde Church, the 19th century Lighthouse, and the quaint cottages and marina of the idyllic Alter Strom old river district, all of which are within easy reach of your ship’s docking location closer to the town centre.

And, thanks to its close proximity to a number of attraction-packed towns and cities, Warnemünde is also a gateway to some of Germany’s most famous sites. Berlin’s iconic monuments, such as the Brandenburg Gate and the remains of the Berlin Wall; the gabled houses and Brick-Gothic structures of UNESCO-listed Wismar; and the Hanseatic-era treasures of Rostock can all be uncover on tours.
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.
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The jewel in the Baltic crown and Russia's most European city, elegant St Petersburg was the imperial capital for two centuries, and Tsar Peter the Great's 'Window on the West'. The sheer grandeur of the city, and its revolutionary spirit, never fail to impress.

Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great – immortalised by the city's iconic Bronze Horseman statue – St Petersburg remains Russia's cultural centre. The Mariinsky Theatre hosts world-class opera and ballet, and the State Russian Museum showcases a wide collection of superb Russian art.

St Petersburg is utterly captivating, with baroque palaces, wide elegant streets, ornate bridges and broad curving canals – the city is built on 40 islands at the mouth of the River Neva. The main street, Nevsky Prospekt, is 5km long and lined with cafés, bars and restaurants mixed in with upmarket hotels and sumptuous shops.

On Neva embankment, the Winter Palace, with over a thousand rooms, is the most magnificent of six buildings that make up the Hermitage Museum. It is one of 125 museums and galleries, including the imposing seafront Peterhof Royal Palace and Park. The city is enchanting during the “White Nights” of midsummer, when a brief twilight blends into dawn, and street entertainment lasts throughout the long days and short, white nights.
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.
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.
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.
southampton-banner-balmoral
Arrive: Southampton, United Kingdom

Accommodation on Balmoral

12th May 2023 | 14 Nights | Southampton | Balmoral | L2311
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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