Even after a short visit on Fred. Olsen’s Bolette, I can totally understand why the ship has the amount or repeat guests it has, I've sold Fred Olsen for over 20 years and had so many customers coming back year after year telling me all about their cruises. So, I was excited to have this opportunity to try it out myself.
After boarding the ship we headed to the Observatory for a glass of bubbles and fresh pastries, we were informed this is where most of the evening entertainment is held and will stay open until the early hours. Unfortunately, weather was not on our side that day but on a clear day the view must be amazing from here especially sailing through the Norwegian Fjords.
Next stop on our ship visit was down to deck 8, here we were heading towards the 'wellness' part of the ship that consists of the gymnasium, Spa and Thermal suite, which can be booked for 1 hour slots, heated ceramic beds face out towards to windows offering panoramic views out to sea, this would be perfect for your sea days. Very impressed with the gymnasium much larger than I expected with all the up do date equipment you would need. Mornings tend to be the busiest part of the day at the gym.
Restaurants on board were very good, we had our lunch in main dining room, the Bloomsbury and one floor above was the Terrace part of the dining room. No shortage of meals to choose from and for all dietary needs, service as always attentive and nothing too much trouble. We looked round the speciality restaurants but of course didn't get chance to sample these, but the menus looked amazing. My favourite was the Asian inspired 'Colours and tastes'.
After looking round the ship the thing that stood out to me the most was how creative each and every room and lounge was, the decor was so lovely and calming. I personally loved the 'Earth Room' if you’re a David Attenborough fan then this is the room you will never leave, full of books about our beautiful planet and natural world.
Chatting to the staff regarding solos travellers, they cater so well for this demographic subtlety recognising their needs. The ship was very elegantly and traditional designed rather than the glitz and gimmicks.
