What does Borealis offer a younger traveller?

Who says cruising is for the older generation? This popular misconception is very much on the decline as the average age of cruise passengers falls once again this year to 54, according to industry experts CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association.) As well as getting younger, there are actually more people now enjoying this type of holiday for the first time too, with 31% of passengers over the past two years being 'new to cruising'. As these new, younger travellers bring the average age down, one of our younger members of staff, Olivia – Trainee Travel Consultant in our Norwich Jarrolds branch – experienced her very first cruise to find out what Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines can offer a younger generation of passengers:

“I was initially worried about travelling by myself, as I had never done it before, but the journey was seamless and far easier than I expected! I took the train from Norwich to Stratford, then transferred for a connection to Dover, where Borealis was docked. The check-in process was super easy; my top tip as a younger traveller is not to be too afraid to ask for help at any stage - the staff are there for a reason: to help you embrace your trip and make it all run smoothly.

When I first got onboard, I was quite overwhelmed! This was my first cruise, and the ship was stunning – very clean and classy, and the public spaces were not overcrowded, which was lovely. We took a ship tour on the first day which helped me orientate myself. I can’t imagine what it’s like on a bigger cruise ship! Once I had my bearings, I loved the fact that Fred. Olsen ships are smaller, as it gives an intimate experience where you can really relax and feel at home. My cabin was stunning - I stayed in a Balcony Junior Suite on Deck 6, and every afternoon I enjoyed canapes sent to the room, which was a lovely touch. During our tour I had a peek at the different grades of cabin and how they all differ from each other, which is really helpful when advising my customers what they may enjoy.

I will admit that I was under the impression that Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines would be primarily geared towards older guests, and I was concerned that the activities on offer might not appeal to me whilst on board…..my opinion has completely changed! There were so many activities on board designed for all ages, and the staff were incredibly enthusiastic and always eager to keep everyone amused and engaged.

The fitness classes were great fun, and I loved how the instructors pushed you to keep going in the best possible way! I tried a Pilates class, which was not only enjoyable but also made easier thanks to the instructor’s fantastic sense of humour. I really enjoyed time in the pool and hot tubs, getting to know my fellow passengers, and no matter what time of day it was, there was never a fight for sunbeds or space around the pool. The spa was relaxing; I treated myself to a pedicure, which I highly recommend. I really enjoyed spending some down time in my cabin and taking in the breath-taking views, and I also enjoyed the Botanical Room, filled with accents of nature.

The evening theatre shows were incredible, and the entertainment team truly deserve a 10/10 for their energy and talent. During my time onboard I saw different dance shows, a magician, and of course I attended the Captain’s Welcome Party for a cocktail, canapes and some amusing speeches.

For small additional charges I took part in a Wine and Cheese Tasting, a Cocktail Making experience, and enjoyed Afternoon Tea, served beautifully in the Observatory, with huge windows for gorgeous sea views.

During my time onboard Borealis, I really enjoyed sampling the variety of foods and trying things I wouldn’t usually eat. We ate in the main dining room, the buffet restaurant and also the two la carte restaurants – Colours & Tastes and Vasco. If I had to choose a favourite it would be everything that I ate at Colours & Tastes - it was Asian cuisine and the food was amazing!

Our cruise was heading to Iceland, and we called at Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands and Reykjavik. Tórshavn is the capital city of the Danish Faroe Islands and has a quaint old town called Tinganes, with traditional wooden turf-roofed buildings. In Reykjavik we had the opportunity to visit the Blue Lagoon which is a geothermal saltwater spa, where the waters are enriched with silica, algae, and minerals – meant to be very good for you! Visiting here was a once in a lifetime opportunity and it was stunning, I really enjoyed it.

Sailing with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines was an incredible experience that I would wholeheartedly recommend. The staff were outstanding, words can’t describe how lovely they all are, they really do care about your experience on board. The food and drinks were delicious, and the onboard shows were truly breathtaking. It’s an experience I will cherish and remember for a lifetime.”

You speak to Olivia at Jarrolds, Norwich, or find your local shop here.

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