Fred Olsen’s new approach to cruising

With the launch of their new Summer 2026 sailings, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has announced some important business updates starting from 5th November 2024. From the new Freedom Fare Price Promise to gratuities changes and Borealis becoming an adults-only ship, there are many exciting changes to be aware of. Here, we discuss the latest Fred Olsen business updates and how they could impact you. 

The Fred. Olsen Freedom Price Promise has been created with customers in mind. If you book a Freedom Fare on one of the new Summer 2026 sailings within the first four weeks of the cruise going on sale, you will not get better value for money. If, closer to departure, the price of an equivalent cabin on your cruise is reduced, guests will be eligible to receive a free cabin upgrade (subject to availability) or credit to spend on board. Solo passengers can also take advantage of the other benefits of the Freedom Fare Price Promise. 

While the new Freedom Fare Price Promise is launching simultaneously with the Summer 2026 itineraries, Fred Olsen has announced that the Price Promise is here to stay. This means it will be available on the new Summer 2026 itineraries and all cruises departing from 27th May 2026—subject to a few exclusions. It’s important to note that the new Freedom Fare Price Promise only applies to new bookings. For the Summer 2026 launch, this will only be for bookings made from 5th November 2024 to 5th December 2024 for cruises departing between 27th May 2026 and 28th August 2026. 

Gratuities will be included in the price of a Fred. Olsen cruise fare for all sailings unveiled as part of the Summer 2026 itineraries launch and any new cruises to be released after that period. This will be for Bolette and Borealis cruises from 27th May 2026 and on Balmoral from 28th May 2026. It is not possible to have this removed from the cruise fare, and there will be no expectation or obligation for customers to leave any further tips for the crew whilst onboard. 

After conducting feedback, Fred. Olsen found that whilst there are plenty of guests who enjoy multi-generational travel aboard the fleet, there are also many guests who prefer an adult-only experience. With this in mind, Fred Olsen has allocated one of its ships to be adults-only. From 4th January 2026, all sailings on Borealis will now be exclusively adults-only. Children will still be welcome on board Borealis for any sailings departing before this time. Families will still be able to enjoy holidays together aboard Bolette and Balmoral. 

The current amenities aboard Bolette and Balmoral will remain the same. Fred. Olsen will continue to offer the Little Skippers clubs during peak periods and look forward to welcoming multi-generational groups aboard these ships.