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Cruising the Norwegian Fjords with Fred. Olsen: A Pleasant Surprise!






Fred Olson Cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, cruising on The Bolette, departing from Newcastle Upon Tyne.

 


Ahoy, fellow adventurers! Strap yourselves in as I take you on a journey through the stunning Norwegian Fjords aboard the magnificent Bolette cruise ship by Fred. Olsen. Now, I must confess, my partner and I were a tad skeptical at first. We had heard whispers that Fred. Olsen cruises were predominantly for the older generation. But oh boy, were we in for a delightful surprise! Join me as I share my honest and lighthearted account of our unforgettable experience.

 

Embarkation: From Taxi to Ship in a Whisker!

Living in Newcastle, the convenience of sailing from our hometown was an unexpected treat. A quick 40-minute taxi ride later, we found ourselves stepping onto the Bolette, ready to set sail on our grand adventure. It was a promising start, to say the least.


 

Cabin Comforts: Cozy Quarters with a View

Our outside cabin, located at the bottom of the ship, welcomed us with a small window and an abundance of clean and spacious surroundings. The storage space was a pleasant surprise, and all the standard amenities like tea, coffee, fridge, and TV were there to keep us comfortable throughout the journey. We were off to a good start indeed!

Friendly and Attentive Staff: Always There to Brighten Your Day

The Bolette staff was a ray of sunshine throughout our voyage. Whether they were lending a helping hand or simply greeting us with a warm hello, their attentiveness and friendliness added that extra touch of warmth to our cruise. It's these little interactions that make all the difference.


 

Dining Delights: A Feast for the Senses

Ah, the dining experience aboard the Bolette was a treat for food enthusiasts like us. We had the pleasure of savoring delicious meals at the Vasco and Colour and Tastes restaurants. The elegant surroundings and delectable dishes in the main restaurant created a truly exquisite ambiance. And let's not forget the buffet! It offered a more laid-back atmosphere while still delivering an impressive variety of mouthwatering options. The live cooking stations were a particular highlight, with skilled chefs whipping up dishes to order.


 

All-Inclusive Drinks Package: Worth the Extra Splash

Opting for the all-inclusive drinks package was a wise decision on our part. Although it incurred an additional cost, the convenience and excellent service made it worth every penny. No more hunting for waiters to take our drink orders; a dedicated staff member was always circling around, ready to attend to our beverage desires. Although I must admit, it would have been nice to have specialty tea and coffee from the onboard barista cafe included, as well as a complimentary bottle of water in our cabin.



 



Spectacular Scenery and Memorable Excursions

Now, let's talk about the real star of the show—the Norwegian Fjords themselves! Cruising through these majestic natural wonders was a dream come true. Along the way, we had the pleasure of experiencing some incredible excursions.

Our stop at Eidfjord introduced us to a fascinating Viking museum, where we not only received an informative talk but also had the chance to touch and feel the exhibits. However, the nearby fiddle museum was a bit of a letdown, with only four fiddles and a lack of information. The wood carvings, though overpriced, were hard to resist.


In Flam, we embarked on a train ride that left us slightly underwhelmed. A round trip with just one stop didn't quite justify the cost, as we could have easily arranged it ourselves at a fraction of the price. Nevertheless, the stop at Olden to see the mighty Briksdal Glacier made up for it. Riding up the mountain in troll cars, witnessing the glacier lake and the breathtaking glacier up close—it was an experience that will forever hold a special place in my heart.



Unforgettable Bergen: Funiculars, Cable Cars, and Harry Potter Vibes

Our day in Bergen was nothing short of magical. We hopped on the funicular, ascending to the heights with anticipation building. The cable car ride treated us to stunning vistas that didn't disappoint. As we explored the charming shopping alleys, (bit like Harry Potters Diagon Alley) we couldn't help but get lost in the enchanting atmosphere of this beautiful city.



Entertainment Galore: Quizzes, Cooking Demonstrations, and More!

The entertainment aboard the Bolette was as diverse as it was enjoyable. From engaging quizzes that tested our knowledge to captivating cooking demonstrations that left our taste buds tingling, there was always something happening to keep us entertained. The entertainment team and the cabaret acts brought their A-game, ensuring there was never a dull moment on the ship.

 

Conclusion: Breaking Stereotypes and Making Memories

As our journey through the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Bolette came to an end, I couldn't help but reflect on how wrong the stereotypes had been. Yes, there were passengers from various age groups, and while it's true that the ship wasn't teeming with children (which, let's be honest, was a relief for many), it was far from exclusively catering to the older generation. We all shared a love for exploration, relaxation, and the joy of cruising through awe-inspiring landscapes.


 

So, if you're hesitant about embarking on a Fred. Olsen cruise, let me assure you that you're in for a pleasant surprise. The Bolette cruise ship, with its comfortable cabins, delightful dining experiences, breathtaking scenery, and a plethora of entertainment options, has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, set sail, and be prepared to create memories that will stay with you long after the voyage is over. Bon voyage!

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