Visit two wonderful Scandinavian cities over the Easter weekend on this five-night springtime cruise on board Balmoral, a small ship perfect for navigating Europe's most picturesque waterways.
You'll begin with a scenic journey along Oslofjord, a beautiful stretch of water lined with dense forests and dotted with pretty islands where locals love to relax on the beaches. It's a haven for birdwatchers, who can spot various species resting on the shores or flying high above the fjord.
The Fred. Olsen cruise company originated in 1848 in the small town of Hvitsten, located on the shores of Oslofjord, and you'll spot the Olsen family home, Lysedal Mansion, overlooking the waters.
The Norwegian capital, Oslo, is packed with things to see and do, from museums and Viking burial grounds to artistic wonders like the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Munch Museum. There's a chance to visit the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower to discover more about Norway's national sport.
You'll then sail to Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, known for its tree-lined boulevards and Dutch-style canals. Balmoral's small size means it can dock in central Gothenburg, close to the city's peaceful parks and gardens.
Particularly inviting is the colourful Trädgårdsföreningen - or Garden Society of Gothenburg - one of Europe's best kept 19th-century parks where you'll find pristine lawns, woodlands, a rose garden, and a historic palm house filled with exotic tropical plants.
Your days at sea can be spent enjoying the facilities onboard Balmoral, including six restaurants, seven bars and lounges, two pools and lovely open decks for soaking in the views.
Today you'll board Balmoral, your floating home for the next few days. Settle into your cabin and get to know the extensive facilities, including swimming pools with jacuzzis, a fitness centre, six restaurants and several stylish bars.
Today you'll spend the whole day at sea, sailing towards Norway. Some of the best moments of cruising are the days at sea where you can relax and enjoy the onboard facilities and wonderful programme of events and activities on your ship.
On Balmoral there are evening shows, live music, dance classes, lectures, traditional deck games and quizzes to get involved with, along with plenty of time to relax in the pool or on deck, soaking in the views over a drink.
You'll sail into the beautiful Oslofjord today, a spectacular body of water flanked by dense forests and dotted with pretty islands whose beaches are hugely popular with locals
On the shores of Oslofjord, situated amongst the picturesque scenery of Hvitsten, you'll spot Lysedal Mansion, the historic home of the Olsen family. The fjord is a haven for birdwatchers, and various species can be seen resting on the shores or flying high above the fjord.
You'll sail into Norway's capital city, Oslo, which has been an important maritime destination for centuries, and is home to many maritime-related companies, including ship-owners and brokers. The city has many cultural and historical structures; including the impressive Vigeland Park, and is also home to the National Museum, where Edvard Munch's The Scream is hung.
Today you'll sail into Gothenburg, where Balmoral's small size will allow you to dock in the centre, close to the city's pretty parks and gardens.
Located on the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg is a compact and accessible city, with wide streets and canals. Originally influenced by the Dutch, the city was constructed with a network of canals, similar to those in Amsterdam, and trams are a major mode of transport for locals.
You can explore the world-renowned Trädgårdsföreningen, the Garden Society of Gothenburg, which features manicured lawns, colourful flower beds, lush woodlands and a Palm House with exotic plants. It's one of Europe's best-kept 19th-century parks.
Spend another day at sea on Balmoral today, making the most of the ship's excellent facilities and packed schedule of entertainment.
Today Balmoral will dock back in Newcastle and you'll disembark as your Scandinavian journey comes to an end.
Fred. Olsen’s Balmoral carries up to 1,350 guests, and is small enough to navigate narrow waterways and bring inspirational sights and experiences closer to you. Like the rest of the fleet, Balmoral has a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation and lounges, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space. Your meals will be included on board and there’s a lively schedule of evening entertainment to enjoy while sailing, as well as dance classes, cookery demonstrations and daily games and quizzes.
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