3 minute read
CHOCS FROM SOUTHAMPTON (T&C'S APPLY)
Queen Anne Maiden Season
Queen Anne’s breathtaking interiors take inspiration from our past to define a striking new design direction for our future. Come on board to discover a ship that is modern, yet timeless. A ship that offers both exciting, novel experiences, as well as our much-loved signature venues.
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On a Queen Anne voyage feel inspired by the blend of classic and contemporary. Enjoy the freedom to do as little or as much as you choose and indulge in everything that makes a Cunard ship so special. With luxurious flourishes enhanced by stylish decor, every day on Queen Anne offers a chance to sail the world in unparalleled comfort.
Let tension dissipate in the tranquillity that awaits at the Mareel Spa, delight in the ceremony of our signature Afternoon Tea, and enjoy that extra special feeling as you descend into the Grand Lobby in your Gala Evening finery. Above all, rest easy in the knowledge that the finer details have been taken care of.
Winter Sun in the Canaries
Queen Anne
3rd November 2023
14 Nights
Southampton
Inside fr £1099pp
Balcony fr £1439pp
Single fr £1654
Terms & Conditions:
Atlantic Coast Adventure
Queen Anne
17th November 2023
14 Nights
Southampton
Inside fr £1055pp
Balcony fr £1247pp
Single fr £1582
Cunard Early Saver. Stateroom grade has been secured & stateroom number either in the grade secured or in a higher grade will be given before departure. Early Saver prices receive second priority for dining however dining preferences are captured nearer to sailing and Cunard do their best to accommodate it, subject to availability. Ocean World Travel discount is applied to these prices and subject to availability on the selected sailing. For further details regarding your terms and conditions, please visit www.cunard.com/ourfares
Why Choose Fred. Olsen - From a New to Cruise Perspective
As a newcomer to the Travel Industry, especially cruising, I wasn’t sure what to expect during my first ship visit! Having already spotted Balmoral coming into Portsmouth, stepping off the shuttle bus I was in awe of her size – for a ship I’d expected to be small, I was taken aback by her imposing presence. Upon entry, however, I was surprised by how intimate the entry deck was - we were greeted by every staff member; a personal service you might not expect when boarding such an impressive ship!
From here, we were taken to the Observatory and served a selection of pastries & beverages, accompanied by music from the onboard Balmoral Trio. Admiring the panoramic views from our plush seats, even the Portsmouth Naval base was framed as a special sight. We were lucky enough to receive a tour of the Bridge with 3rd Officer Sidney, who gave us an in-depth understanding of how the ship was controlled, and the various systems they had that ensured the safe and comforatable passage Balmoral made.
Split into groups, we explored Balmoral in more detail, including the various grades of cabin available across the ship. The quality of Fred’s product was outstanding, as each cabin felt welcoming no matter where it was located – the inside cabins in particular were not at all what I had expected, as they were still spacious, bright and airy. I had an expectation also that obstructed view cabins would affect being able to admire the scenery during a sailing – this was not the case. Of the several we saw, all still retained external sightlines, so there was only a very slight impedance on what you could see.
Between cabins, we got to explore the common areas of Balmoral – this was where she came into her own. Whatever preconceptions I had about being aboard a cruise ship were dashed. There was a very classic feel across the ship, evoking a very glamorous vibe with colourful carpets and plenty of gold reflective surfaces. There was a variety of shops, one of the most intriguing being a florist! As well as shops, there was games rooms, a library, spa & gym - no shortage of options to keep yourself entertained on your voyage.
By this time, lunch was calling us! There are six restaurants aboard Balmoral, and we went to one of the largest, the Ballindalloch. The expansive space can be divided into smaller rooms, which was how our lunch was conducted. Each table had its own serving duo who were attentive from the second we sat down, offering water and a choice of wines and soft drinks. The atmosphere felt like being in a fine dining restaurant, and again, nothing was too much trouble for our waiters, who kept an eye on the table without ever feeling intrusive. The menu was exquisite; I chose the sesame goats cheese to start, fillet steak main and raspberry mille-feuille to finish. There are not enough adjectives to express just how wonderful the food was; perfectly cooked, presented and served in a timely manner that never felt rushed.
Unfortunately, the day had to end, and we disembarked as guests on the next voyage began boarding. I wasn't sure what to expect when I arrived that morning, but any expectations from my first few months in the industry were shattered. Fred. Olsen treat their guests like family from the second you step on board, and in spite of their smaller sized vessels, the amount of amenities on offer would contribute to a truly memorable voyage. I look forward to being able to explore more of the Fred. Olsen fleet, and immerse myself as part of their family.