Fred. Olsen – Wintertime Landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords – January 2026
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The harbour at Kirkwall ©VisitScotland, Paul Tomkins
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Balmoral in Dover ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Colours & Tastes Restaurant on Balmoral ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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The Book Mark Café on Balmoral ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Explore Ersfjorden in Explorer Boats ©Tor Farstad, Hurtigruten
Sails from Southampton
Balmoral takes you on a discovery of scenic sights and wildlife found close to home, yet off the beaten track, amongst the rugged and remote isles and lochs of Scotland. Some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery will come into view as you sail Scottish waters; see the wild, unspoilt landscapes of the Small Isles and Loch Hourn, as well as the remarkable rock formations of Dutchman’s Cap and Fingal’s Cave. At each of these sea stacks and cliffs, look out for large colonies of seabirds in their natural habitat.
When you get to head ashore, seabird havens await discovery in Orkney and Shetland, with their craggy interiors and coastlines. RSPB Sumburgh Head in Shetland, where fulmars, puffins and various other bird species live and breed, is a particular highlight. Capture the coastal scenes of Northmavine, Shetland’s northernmost point, too; and take in Orkney’s historic highlights, such as Neolithic Skara Brae. You’ll also get to experience what life is like on the remote Isle of Lewis, as you explore its rugged landscapes and charming towns such as Stornoway, while Invergordon is your gateway to the Highlands’ beautiful scenes, famous Loch Ness and famous landmarks such as Cawdor Castle.
Dates
Tuesday 20 January - Friday 30 January 2026
Cruise Itinerary
Tuesday 20 January 2026
Departure from Southampton, United Kingdom
Board the ship mid-afternoon before you set sail.
Wednesday 21 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Thursday 22 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Friday 23 January 2026
STAVANGER, Norway
Behind the bustle of prosperous, cosmopolitan Stavanger lies 900 years of seafaring tradition. This vibrant Norwegian city oozes charm and was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture in 2008. The city’s wealth and thriving oil industry have prompted its tag as Norway’s oil capital, but Stavanger remains as charming as ever. The old town, Gamle Stavanger, has narrow winding streets and ancient wooden houses, gathered around a historic fresh fish and vegetable market. Beyond the town, The Swords in Rock monument commemorates the 9th-century battle where Harald Hårfagre became the first King of Norway.
Saturday 24 January 2026
CRUISING ÅKRAFJORD & LANGFOSS WATERFALL, Norway
Enjoy an incredible scenic cruise along the Åkrafjord past the mighty Langfoss Waterfall, where it’s almost possible to feel the spray of this magnificent natural wonder. Widely regarded as one of Norway’s best waterfalls – in fact, CNN once voted as it as one of the top ten in the world – the Langfoss is a truly unforgettable sight.
Sunday 25 January 2026
OLDEN, Norway
Located at the eastern end of the Nordfjord where it divides into three arms beneath the glaciers of the Jostedalsbreen, the charming village of Olden sits among green meadows, towering cliff faces, and sparkling glacial waters. In the centre of the village is the Old Church; and just a short journey away is the Briksdal Glacier, formed thousands of years ago, while still breath-taking, has retreated some 859m in the last century, a stark reminder of the effects of climate change.
Sunday 25 January 2026
CRUISING NORDFJORD & INNVIKFJORD, Norway
Stretching over 66 nautical miles from the westernmost point in Norway, overlooking the Sunnmøre Alps, to Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in mainland Europe, picturesque Nordfjord has postcard-perfect icy-blue waters framed by towering peaks covered in lush greenery. As your ship navigates into Innvikfjord, a narrow branch of Nordfjord, the landscape becomes fairytale-like, with forested hillsides leading down to tranquil waters, cascading waterfalls, and remote villages and farms dotted along the fjord edge.
Monday 26 January 2026
HAUGESUND, Norway
The birthplace of Norway, Haugesund dates back to the Viking Age, where it’s said that the first Viking King of Norway – Harald Hårfagre, is buried. The town has developed into a thriving commercial area, while still retaining its small-town charm. Home to an eclectic mix of Jugend, Neogothic, and Neoclassical architecture, the Haraldshaugen Monument, dedicated to King Harald Hårfagre, is located just north of the town centre.
Tuesday 27 January 2026
LERWICK, Scotland
Capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning coastlines. Close by are the soaring cliffs of Sumburgh Head, which are perfect for spotting various examples of marine life, such as minke whales, orcas and dolphins; and as an RSPB nature reserve — guillemots, shags and fulmars. In the town, the Arts Centre celebrates the Gaelic heritage of this fascinating seaport.
Wednesday 28 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Thursday 29 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Friday 30 January 2026
Arrival at Southampton, United Kingdom
After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.
Balmoral Ship Information
Balmoral is the largest of Fred Olsen’s cruise ships, on board there are nine decks two of which are for the sole purpose of leisure and relaxation.
The ship’s facilities include swimming pools & Jacuzzis, Fitness centre, Sundeck & golf nets, Atlantic Spa & Salon, library and card room. There are also boutiques, fine jewellery and Port shop. A selection of soft drinks, wines and beers are included and provided by a wide range of restaurants, cafés, grill and lounges on board.
During the day several talks, lectures and classes take place, while in the evening fantastic live performances including cabaret, stand-up comedy and concerts will keep you entertained throughout the duration of your cruise.
All of the 710 rooms are equipped with private facilities which include an en-suite shower (some may have a bathtub also), a desk, telephone, interactive television, hairdryer, air conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities. According to your needs you can choose between different room types: single, interior, ocean view, balcony rooms and suites.
| Date | Arrival | Departure | Port of Call |
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Tue 20 Jan 2026 |
Late PM | Southampton, United Kingdom | |
| Wed 21 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Thu 22 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Fri 23 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | Stavanger, Norway |
| Sat 24 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late AM | Cruising Åkrafjord & Langfoss Waterfall, Norway |
| Sun 25 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | Olden, Norway |
| Sun 25 Jan 2026 | Late PM | Late PM | Cruising Nordfjord & Innvikfjord, Norway |
| Mon 26 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | Haugesund, Norway |
| Tue 27 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | Lerwick, Scotland |
| Wed 28 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Thu 29 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Fri 30 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Southampton, United Kingdom |
