Fred Olsen’s Balmoral Set to Sail Again After Major Multi-Million Pound Drydock Refurbishment

Fred Olsen’s MS Balmoral has resumed operations after a significant refurbishment, following a two-week drydock at A&P Falmouth. This multi-million-pound project involved over 700 workers and included technical, aesthetic, and sustainability improvements throughout the ship.

One of the major changes includes the transformation of the Palms Cafe into the Thistle Restaurant, which received a complete redesign with new seating and upgraded buffet and drinks stations. Additionally, the Neptune Lounge theater has been technologically enhanced, and certain cabins and bathrooms have been upgraded. WiFi capabilities have also been improved for a better guest experience.

Externally, the refurbishment focused on maintenance and operational efficiency. This involved high-pressure water blasting of the underwater hull, applying silicone paint that reduces fuel consumption, and installing new propellers and bow thrusters. These changes are aimed at enhancing the ship’s sustainability while adhering to regulations that require vessels to undergo dry dock inspections every five years.

CEO Samantha Stimpson of Fred Olsen emphasized the program’s success in marrying maintenance needs with guest enhancements. The экологическая side of the upgrades, particularly the antifouling silicone paint application, is intended to increase the ship’s operational efficiency. The commitment to supporting the UK economy through the use of local shipyards and creating apprenticeship opportunities was also highlighted.

David McGinley, CEO of APCL Group, praised the strong partnership with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, noting the economic and workforce benefits from their repeated collaborations.

With her drydock complete, Balmoral is scheduled to embark on multiple sailings, starting with a 13-night "Discovery Spain and North Africa" cruise on January 5th, 2025. Following this will be a 15-night "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise on January 18th, 2025, and a 13-night "Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands" cruise on February 2nd, 2025. The season will conclude with a 45-night voyage, "Tropical Islands and Verdant Rainforests of the Caribbean and Central America," departing on February 15th, 2025. Prices for these cruises begin at GBP 1,199 per person.

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