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Clare, Branch Manager at our Ferndown shop, and Ellie, Travel Consultant at Worthing, both enjoyed a journey full of Mediterranean flavours as they cruised from Valencia down the gorgeous Amalfi coast. They sailed onboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral, which was the perfect way to see these charming ports, as Clare explains, “The itinerary was amazing, and as Balmoral is a small ship, we were docked right in the heart of the places we visited, with no tenders needed.”
Flying into Valencia to join the ship, Clare and Ellie had a smooth 30-minute air-conditioned transfer to the port. Valencia is synonymous with Spain, and home to two very famous Spanish favourites - the traditional rice dish paella, which was created here in the 15th century, and Valencian oranges. “We joined an excursion to an Orange Plantation where we were met by a lovely guide who showed us around the groves and explained the process of producing the fruit.” explains Ellie. “It was fantastic to see them on the trees, soaking up the late Spanish autumn sun that gives them their well-known juiciness and flavour.”
The next port of call was Mahón, the largest city on Menorca, situated on the east coast of the island with a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves. The city is a maze of narrow streets lined with stunning Georgian architecture to explore. Here Clare and Ellie continued their voyage of gourmet discovery, “We took an excursion called The Taste of Menorca, which started at a dairy farm where we met the cows and learned the process of making cheese. We tried making our own mayonnaise and sampled all the different flavours with some local bread.” Ellie continues. “Then we headed to Mahon itself for a walking tour where we learned all about the city and its’ history, finishing our trip at the Mahon Gin Distillery, where we got to try all the flavours of local gin.”
Leaving Spanish waters, Clare sailed on to Propiano on the south-west coast of Corsica. Although it’s actually French, the island has a real Italian feel - the town has a charming harbour and marina area with 19th century architecture and Roman and Greek remains. “Here we took a speed boat tour of the island,” says Clare. “It was amazing, with lunch on board and two swim stops in the beautiful clear waters around Corsica.” Ellie agrees, “The speed boat tour was my favourite excursion out of them all - I loved the thrill of the boat, and it was a fantastic day out with our guide Luca, who was great fun.”
The charming Italian city of La Spezia was their last port of call. Located on the Ligurian coast of Italy, the tranquil bay is known as the “Gulf of Poets” and has inspired writers including Lord Byron and Mary & Percy Shelley, as well as contrastingly being a naval base of strategic maritime importance over the years, still producing warships for the Italian Navy today. La Spezia is also gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre which is a string of five centuries-old seaside villages perched on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. These beautifully coloured villages feature harbours filled with fishing boats and seafood trattorias and the region’s famous pesto. Hiking trails link the villages with sweeping sea vistas, or there are train and ferries for those who prefer a less vigorous option!
Balmoral was a relaxing home from home for the duration, “Being a smaller ship, the attention to detail on Balmoral is outstanding,” says Clare. “The staff were very friendly and professional, greeting us like old friends. All the public spaces and pool areas seemed very spacious and there were always enough sun beds and seats for all, even though the cruise was nearly full. There is nowhere better to spend a bit of downtime after a day exploring, than with a cocktail on the Marquee Deck by the pool.”
“One of my favourite areas onboard was the Oriental Tearoom,” says Ellie, “It was so pretty with the seating area and surrounding artwork. There were so many lovely places to sit and relax and it never felt busy. I loved the choice of bars, restaurants and lounges.”
The culinary exploration didn’t end at the ship’s gangway either, onboard were a host of tantalising experiences to sip and savour, “I enjoyed a Limoncello tasting session, as we were in Italy, and there is a cocktail master class session for a small fee.” says Clare. “There was a Spanish Deck Party too,” adds Ellie, “With a buffet offering a selection of local Spanish food and lots of live music.”
“In addition to the excellent included dining options onboard, my absolute favourite meal was in ‘Colours & Tastes’ specialty restaurant, which is an Asian fusion dining experience, available for a small additional charge.” says Clare. Ellie agrees, “The best meal I had was here too - I had the crispy chicken bao bun to start, the crispy chilli beef with a side of edamame for my main course and rum and raisin ice cream for dessert.”
“I also loved the traditional Afternoon Tea, served at the top of the ship in the Observatory,” says Ellie, “We enjoyed sandwiches, cakes and scones whilst listening to live music, this is an additional cost onboard but well worth it.”
Clare and Ellie reluctantly disembarked at this point, and Balmoral sailed on to Naples, Sorrento & Civitavecchia for the rest of the 10-night itinerary. “From the amazing staff, the delicious food and the fabulous entertainment onboard, everything was top class.” summarises Ellie. “The activities both onboard and at each port offer brilliant choice and there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
“I knew that cruising with Fred. Olsen would be excellent from the feedback that my customers have given over the years,” agrees Clare, “The attention to detail and friendly staff and fellow passengers made this trip very special, and of course the beautiful destinations that we travelled to.”
