HAVE you been put off going on holidays by the airport chaos, cancelled flights, lost luggage and the misery of massive security queues?
Don’t fancy your chances at making it to your ferry on time as you join thousands stuck in traffic at besieged Dover and other ports?
Well here’s the great news. You can easily get away with no hassles or stresses by jumping on a cruise ship straight from SCOTLAND.
Yup you can visit some of Europe’s top destinations literally from your doorstep when you board a Fred. Olsen ship at the port of Rosyth in Fife.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the tranquillity and outstanding natural beauty in Norway’s famous Fjords, or find fascinating culture and rich history in Spain and Portugal, there’s a perfect Fred. Olsen cruise deal from Scotland for you.
Step on board to discover castles, palaces and world-famous landmarks in Northern Europe, sip on the best French wines on a river cruise in Bordeaux or take in the Medieval Baltic capitals, including Tallin, Riga, Stockholm and Copenhagen.


You can also visit Germany’s famous cities during the Keil Week Regatta, visit the land of the midnight sun in the Arctic Circle or simply re-acquaint yourself with Scotland’s own beauty on a cruise around our coasts and isles.
And you will do it all on board the Balmoral – named after the Queen’s Royal Deeside estate.
She’s small compared to other cruise ships but this is a case of smaller if better, just 710 guest cabins, you’re guaranteed a much more personal experience.
And thanks to her smaller size, Balmoral is able to navigate some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways, including the Kiel Canal and River Seine, and exudes the warm, intimate and friendly atmosphere the Fred. Olsen fleet is renowned for.
Onboard there’s plenty of space to relax in, with elegant comfortable lounges, bars and public areas, including the Marquee Bar with its comfortable rattan sofas and open promenade.
Boasting two separate swimming pool decks, Balmoral is perfect for scenic cruising. Imagine passing icebergs whilst having a dip in a jacuzzi?
Take in fabulous views from the Spey and Avon restaurants at the top of ship while you dine on ever changing menus, created by an army of chefs.
The Ballindalloch is the main restaurant for evening meals and if you fancy something a bit less formal then the Palm Cafe buffet is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The top deck Observatory Lounge comes to life at sunset where you can watch the world go by, sipping a cocktail or two and there’s plenty of entertainment when the lights go down and the ship’s show stars tread the boards in the Neptune Lounge.
And when it comes to sleeping, there’s a huge choice of cabins to suit all tastes – and pockets. Solo sailors are in for a treat. The single cabins- from insides to outsides – are surprisingly large, with plenty of room to feel at home.
Porthole, window and ocean-view cabins come in singles, doubles and twins. The balcony cabins are great for taking in the views from your own little private piece of paradise while enjoying room service breakfast, coffee or late night tipple.
Splash out on a suite on Balmoral and you won’t be disappointed. From single balcony suites, through to superior suites and right up to the Premier suite it’s all about space and comfort – both of which come in bucketloads.


There’s still time to book a cruise from Rosyth this month, with three more sailings scheduled.
But don’t worry if you miss out this year, Balmoral will be sailing back underneath the famous Forth bridges in June next year to take Scots on more adventures at sea.
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