When I sailed on Fred, Olsen’s Bolette, I quickly realised, is a ship that feels very different from the mega-cruise liners out there today.
With her smaller size, classic style, and warm atmosphere, she’s perfect for travellers who prefer a relaxed, traditional cruising experience.
I stayed in an Oceanview cabin and absolutely loved it — but during my trip (and after plenty of chats with fellow guests), I also learned that not every cabin suits every traveller.
Choosing the right one can really shape your holiday. Get it wrong, and you might find yourself dealing with noise, lack of privacy, or simply not enjoying your view as much as you’d hoped.
That’s why I’ve put this guide together. Here, I’ll take you through all of Bolette’s cabin types, explain the differences between them, and highlight which ones seasoned cruisers recommend avoiding.
That way, whether you’re planning your first Fred. Olsen sailing or coming back for another, you’ll be able to book with confidence.
What Kinds of Cabins Are Available on Bolette?
Even though Bolette only carries around 690 cabins (much fewer than today’s mega-ships with several thousand), there’s still a lot of variety.
In fact, you’ve got 18 different cabin and suite categories to choose from.
That means you can go as simple or as extravagant as you like, depending on your budget and style of cruising.
Here’s a breakdown of all the accommodation options on board:
| Stateroom | Type | Category | Decks | Guests Capacity | Average Size (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Interior | Inside | N | 1 | 1 | 182 |
| Interior | Inside | H, I | 1–3 | 2–4 | 182 |
| Single Superior Interior | Inside | M | 2, 7 | 1 | 182 |
| Superior Interior | Inside | G | 2, 3, 6 | 2 | 182 |
| Ocean View (Porthole) | Ocean View | F | 1, 2 | 2 | 214 |
| Ocean View Adapted (Porthole) | Ocean View | FD | 1 | 2 | 214 |
| Single Ocean View (Picture Window) | Ocean View | K | 1–3 | 1 | 214 |
| Ocean View (Picture Window) | Ocean View | D, E | 1, 2 | 2 | 214 |
| Superior Ocean View | Ocean View | B, C | 3, 6 | 2 | 190–214 |
| Superior Ocean View Adapted | Ocean View | BD | 3, 6 | 2 | 214 |
| Superior Ocean View Fully Restricted | Ocean View | CO | 3 | 2 | 214 |
| Terrace Cabin | Balcony | TC | 3 | 2 | 218 |
| Single Balcony Suite | Suite | JB | 6 | 1 | 244 |
| Balcony Junior Suite | Suite | BJ | 6 | 2 | 244 |
| Balcony Suite | Suite | BS | 6 | 2 | 292–337 |
| Premier Suite | Suite | PS | 7 | 2 | 568–644 |
| Premier Adapted Suite | Suite | PSD | 7 | 2 | 568–644 |
| Olsen Suite | Suite | OW | 7 | 2 | 1,181 |
When I first looked at this list, I was surprised at how much choice there actually is.
From simple inside cabins for budget-conscious cruisers to the elegant Olsen Suite, which feels more like an apartment at sea, Bolette caters to very different types of guests.
Tips for Picking the Best Cabin on Bolette
Picking a cruise cabin is a bit like choosing a hotel room, except you’ll be living in it for days at sea rather than just a quick overnight stay.
Things like location, layout, and design quirks matter so much more on a ship — because once you’re onboard, you can’t just swap to another hotel down the street!
Here are a few universal tips I always keep in mind (and these work not just for Bolette, but for almost any ship):
- Check the deck plan carefully – Rooms above noisy venues like theatres or below pool decks can make or break your sleep.
- Think about motion – If you’re prone to seasickness, mid-ship cabins on lower decks are usually the most stable.
- Don’t underestimate natural light – Even a small window can make a world of difference compared to an inside cabin.
- Consider your habits – If you love privacy, a shared promenade-style cabin (like Terrace Cabins) may not be for you.
Bolette has a wide range of choices, from compact single rooms for solo travelers to luxurious suites with all the trimmings.
Room Sizes and Layouts
Now, let’s talk about size. Bolette’s rooms aren’t the biggest in the cruise world, but they’re designed with comfort in mind.
Most categories are a standard size — though you’ll notice that some suites (like the Balcony Suites or Premier Suites) fall within a range.
That’s because even within the same category, some rooms are slightly bigger depending on their position on the deck.
One of my best tips is to study the deck plan carefully before you book. Fred. Olsen’s official deck plans are drawn to scale, so if a cabin looks bigger on paper, it really is bigger in real life.
That little bit of extra space can make a big difference on a longer voyage.
For example:
- Inside Cabins average about 182 sq. ft. — fairly generous compared to other cruise lines.
- Ocean View Cabins give you around 214 sq. ft., with either portholes or picture windows, depending on the deck.
- Suites range dramatically — from 244 sq. ft. in Single Balcony Suites to a whopping 1,181 sq. ft. in the Olsen Suite.
When I cruised on Bolette, I found my Ocean View cabin surprisingly roomy. It didn’t feel cramped at all, even with luggage tucked away.
But I did meet guests who said their Terrace Cabins felt less private, while others raved about the Olsen Suites.
Cabins to Avoid on Bolette
Even though Fred. Olsen’s Bolette is a charming, well-loved ship; not every cabin will be the right fit for every traveler.
Some cabins come with quirks that may affect your cruise experience depending on what you value most — whether that’s privacy, peace and quiet, or uninterrupted sea views.
Below, I’ll share the cabins you might want to think twice about, based on both my own experiences and feedback from fellow passengers.
1. Porthole Cabins
What You’ll Find in These Rooms
Many of the Ocean View cabins on Decks 1 and 2 come with traditional round portholes instead of picture windows.
Depending on the exact room, you might get one or two portholes, but either way, they don’t let in as much light as a full-sized window.
Guest Feedback and My Observations
When I chatted with passengers who stayed in these cabins, their verdict was pretty clear: the portholes are fine if all you want is some daylight, but don’t expect much of a view.
Since the cabins are lower on the ship, the angle of the view isn’t the best either — you often find yourself looking directly at waves splashing against the hull.
Why They’re Still an Option
That said, porthole cabins tend to be cheaper than picture window cabins, which makes them appealing for budget-conscious travelers.
If you don’t care about sitting in your room gazing out at the horizon, they’re a decent option.
But if sea views are part of the magic for you, I’d recommend skipping these.
2. Terrace Cabins
Why They Seem Attractive
At first glance, the Terrace Cabins on Deck 3 sound amazing.
You get sliding doors that open directly onto the Promenade Deck, and right outside your cabin are two loungers reserved just for you.
It feels almost like you’ve bagged yourself a balcony for a lower price.
The Reality of the Experience
But here’s the catch: this deck is shared by everyone onboard.
Instead of stepping out onto your private balcony, you’ll be stepping onto a walkway that hundreds of passengers use throughout the day.
Sure, the windows are one-way glass, so no one can peer into your cabin, but you’ll definitely notice people strolling by when you’re sitting outside.
I’ve spoken to guests who didn’t mind at all, even enjoying the social aspect.
But if you’re someone who wants to sip your morning coffee in peace, or watch the sunset without a steady stream of walkers passing behind your loungers, this setup may feel more exposed than cozy.
The Bottom Line
If privacy is important to you, you’ll likely prefer a balcony suite higher up.
Terrace Cabins can be a decent budget-friendly option for those who don’t mind the shared promenade, but for most travelers, the trade-off isn’t worth it.
3. Premier Suites Below the Pool Deck
What Makes These Cabins Tricky
Some of the Premier Suites on Deck 7 (notably cabins 7007 to 7017) sit directly beneath the pool deck.
At night, they’re blissfully quiet — Fred. Olsen ships don’t usually attract late-night partiers. But come early morning, you may notice a different issue.
The Problem With Loungers
Guests told me about hearing the sound of deck chairs being scraped across the wooden floor above them as early risers reserved their sunbathing spots.
It’s not constant and it’s not deafening, but if you’re someone who values a long, lazy sleep-in on holiday, it could be irritating.
Should You Still Book One?
If you’re an early bird yourself, this won’t matter — you’ll probably be up before the loungers are being shuffled around anyway.
But for light sleepers who treasure a peaceful morning, it might be worth booking a suite further aft or on a lower deck.
4. Part-Accessible Cabins
What the Website Shows vs. Reality
Bolette lists certain cabins as “adapted,” but what the website doesn’t make obvious is that there are two categories: fully adapted (designed with wider doorways and extra space for wheelchairs) and part-adapted (standard-size cabins with an accessible bathroom only).
Why It Matters
If you rely on a wheelchair or scooter, booking a part-adapted cabin will be frustrating — there simply isn’t enough space to move around easily.
The adapted bathrooms help, but without extra floor space, it’s not a practical option.
Which Cabins Are Part-Adapted
Some examples of part-adapted cabins on Bolette include 1806, 1807, 1955, 1964, 2500, 2700, 2702, 3393, 3394, 3428, and 3433.
These are fine for guests who just need grab bars or a fold-down shower seat, but not suitable for full-time wheelchair users.
5. Higher Deck Cabins
The Trade-Off
Bolette isn’t a massive modern ship, so while she’s perfectly stable, she doesn’t have the latest stabilising technology.
If you book a cabin towards the front or back of the ship on a higher deck, you’ll likely notice more motion when the seas are rough.
A Phrase That Sums It Up
I once heard a fellow passenger sum it up perfectly: “The more you pay, the more you sway.”
In other words, the fancier the cabin, the higher up it tends to be, and the more rocking you’ll feel.
Best Choice for Seasick Guests
If you’re prone to seasickness, stick to mid-ship cabins on lower decks. You’ll feel far less movement, and you’ll still enjoy a comfortable stay.
That said, if fresh air helps you, a Terrace Cabin might actually be useful — despite its lack of privacy — since you can step outside and focus on the horizon.
6. Connecting Cabins
How They Work
Bolette, like many cruise ships, has connecting cabins designed for families or groups traveling together.
These cabins feature an internal door that can be unlocked when both sides are booked by the same party.
The Potential Issue
If you don’t need a connecting cabin, you may want to avoid them.
The connecting doors don’t block sound nearly as well as a solid wall, which means you could end up hearing your neighbors more than you’d like — whether it’s conversation, TV noise, or even loud snoring.
Who Should Avoid Them
Fred. Olsen’s guests are generally quiet, so this isn’t a huge issue.
But if you’re a light sleeper or very sensitive to noise, it’s better to avoid these rooms and choose a non-connecting cabin for peace of mind.
The Best Cabins on Bolette
While some cabins on Fred. Olsen’s Bolette comes with quirks; there are also plenty of gems.
These are the cabins that past guests rave about and the ones I’d recommend if you want your stay to feel extra comfortable and memorable.
From spacious suites to practical single rooms, let’s look at the best picks onboard.
Single Cabins – Perfect for Solo Travelers
Why Solo Cruisers Love Them
Solo cruising is something Fred. Olsen has always done well, and Bolette offers some of the best single cabin options at sea.
Unlike many cruise lines, where solo passengers either have to pay a hefty single supplement or make do with a tiny room, Fred. Olsen treats solo travelers with more respect.
What Makes Them Unique
What’s great about Bolette’s single cabins is that they’re the same size as standard two-person cabins.
In many cases, solo travelers are even given a double or twin cabin for themselves, making the whole experience feel much more comfortable and spacious.
A Real Benefit for Independent Travelers
On my own sailing, I met several solo passengers who said these cabins were one of the main reasons they chose Bolette.
One woman told me she’d been given a twin cabin despite paying the solo rate, and she loved having the extra space.
Plus, with Fred. Olsen’s welcoming atmosphere, you’ll never feel out of place cruising alone.
Olsen Suites – The Ultimate in Space and Comfort
Why They Stand Out
If you’re looking for the very best accommodation on Bolette, the Olsen Suites are the top-tier choice.
There are only two of them, and each one is enormous — almost 1,200 square feet of space, which is roughly six times larger than the smallest cabins on the ship.
What You’ll Enjoy Inside
These suites aren’t just about size, though. The space is cleverly designed with separate areas for dining, lounging, and dressing, so it feels more like a stylish apartment at sea than a cruise ship cabin.
You’ll have a huge bathroom complete with an oversized bathtub, a separate shower, and premium finishes.
Then, step outside onto your private balcony with loungers, perfect for watching sailaways or just enjoying the serenity of the open ocean.
Extra Perks Included
Staying in an Olsen Suite also comes with the Suite Dreams package, which makes the experience even more special.
You’ll be greeted with priority check-in, a welcome bottle of sparkling wine, and a fruit basket refreshed throughout your cruise.
There’s also free pressing for your formal wear, an afternoon canapé service, and little extras like binoculars, an atlas, bathrobes, and slippers waiting in your suite.
If you want your holiday to feel luxurious from the very start, this is absolutely the way to do it — as long as you don’t mind the bold décor (yes, the infamous orange carpets and sofas are still there!).
Cabins With Bathtubs – A Small Luxury at Sea
Why They’re Worth Seeking Out
For some passengers, a bathtub on a cruise ship feels like a luxury, especially if you like to unwind with a long soak after a busy day ashore.
On Bolette, certain cabins include bathtubs rather than just walk-in showers, and the best part? It doesn’t cost any extra to book one.
How to Spot Them
If you look at the Bolette deck plans, you’ll notice that cabins marked with a little triangle symbol are the ones with bathtubs.
These still include a shower-over-bath, so you get both options.
Who They’re Best For
If you’re someone who values relaxation at the end of the day, or if you’re traveling with little ones who prefer baths over showers, these cabins can make a real difference to your comfort onboard.
On the other hand, if stepping into a tub is tricky for you, you’ll want to stick with a shower-only cabin instead.
The Best Deck on Bolette – Why Deck 7 Wins
Location, Location, Location
If you’re wondering where to stay for the most convenience, Deck 7 is generally considered the best deck on Bolette.
Here, you’ll find some of the top-tier cabins, including the Olsen Suites and Premier Suites, as well as a handful of Single Interior and Ocean View rooms.
Why Guests Prefer It
Being on Deck 7 puts you close to the action without being right in the middle of it.
You’re just a short walk from the pool and sports decks, and also not too far from the restaurants. And unlike on some larger cruise ships, noise is rarely a concern here.
A Balance of Comfort and Accessibility
It’s the perfect deck for anyone who wants to be near the best facilities while also enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.
Many frequent Fred. Olsen cruisers specifically request Deck 7 when booking their cabins.
The Best Overall Room on Bolette
My Top Recommendation
If I had to pick just one “best cabin” on Bolette, it would be the Olsen Suite.
The combination of size, comfort, private balcony, and included perks makes it the ultimate way to enjoy this charming ship.
Other Strong Contenders
That said, the Premier Suites are also excellent for those who want more space but don’t quite need the extravagance of the Olsen Suites.
And for solo travelers, the single cabins and solo suites are some of the best-value options at sea.
Which to Avoid
By contrast, the least popular rooms remain the Terrace Cabins, which open directly onto the Promenade Deck.
They’re fine for some, but if privacy matters to you, they’re best avoided.
