Fred Olsen’s Bolette: A Return to Service After Drydock Refurbishment in Falmouth, UK

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ flagship, the Bolette, is back in service following a significant 16-day drydock refurbishment at the APCL A&P shipyard in Falmouth, UK. The ship returned to the water on January 18, 2026, after undergoing a series of planned maintenance tasks, technical inspections, and enhancements aimed at improving passenger experience.

The refurbishment involved extensive interior upgrades across key public areas. Notable improvements included the refurbishment of The Observatory and The Ocean Bar, as well as the installation of new carpeting in the main dining room. Upgrades were made to corridors, stairwells, and over fifty bathrooms in guest cabins. A full transformation of the specialty restaurant is also underway, which will feature new designs and a rotating menu influenced by global cuisines beginning this year. The Neptune Lounge received a modern upgrade, complete with an LED wall and new structures for aerial performances to enhance evening entertainment offerings.

Beyond passenger amenities, the drydock also focused on vital technical work to ensure the ship’s operational efficiency. The tasks undertaken during this period included repainting the hull, cleaning tanks, and modernizing tender platforms. The installation of new, more efficient propeller blades was an essential part of the improvements, supporting the operator’s performance and environmental targets. Approximately 350 workers, including over 40 apprentices, collaborated on the vessel’s refurbishment.

With the completion of the drydock, Bolette set sail on a 32-day roundtrip voyage to the Caribbean, departing from Liverpool. This refurbishment marks the ship’s second visit to APCL A&P Falmouth for maintenance, which is part of an ongoing strategy by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to enhance their fleet.

For further details on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and the Bolette, you may visit Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and Bolette’s deck plans.

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