When I got to know about a fantastic deal for the first leg of a world cruise aboard Fred. Olsen’s Borealis, I didn’t hesitate.
I’d always been curious about this traditional British cruise line, and this short journey — from Liverpool to Southampton — seemed like the perfect way to test the waters.
Even more exciting? It would be my first solo cruise. Usually, I sail with my kids in tow, but this time I left them behind.
Not only did I crave a peaceful getaway, but I had a hunch this particular ship wasn’t exactly built for energetic little ones. Turns out, I was right — but in the best way possible.
Boarding in Liverpool: In and Onboard in Under 5 Minutes
If you’ve ever spent an hour weaving through check-in lines, you’ll understand how refreshing it was to breeze through Liverpool Cruise Terminal in under five minutes. No queues, no fuss — just a friendly welcome and straight onto the ship.
Now, let me set the stage here: I’m used to the giants of the sea — those massive mega-ships packed during school holidays. In comparison, Borealis felt positively petite — about a quarter the size of those floating cities.
And because this particular voyage wasn’t heavily booked, the ship was running at just 25% capacity. Talk about spacious.
One delightful surprise? As I stepped onboard, I was greeted by none other than the captain himself — something that never happens on those bigger ships, where the captain is more legend than human.
My Cabin: Budget-Friendly But Brilliant
It wasn’t even lunchtime yet, but my cabin was already ready and waiting. Located on Deck 1, I expected something cramped or windowless.
Not the case. My ocean-view room came with a full-sized window and felt incredibly roomy, especially considering it was the cheapest cabin option.
Though Borealis originally launched in 1997 (she previously sailed as Rotterdam for Holland America Line), the cabin felt surprisingly fresh.
The decor had clearly been updated during Fred. Olsen’s 2020 refurbishment, and nothing felt worn or dated.
Best of all? The shower was enormous — easily double the size of a standard cruise ship shower.
And storage? I could’ve packed for the entire 80-day world cruise and still had space left in the army of wardrobes lining the wall. For a short two-night stay, it felt borderline luxurious.
Stress-Free Cruising, the Fred. Olsen Way
Fred. Olsen caters largely to a retired crowd, and everything about the cruise reflected that relaxed, thoughtful approach.
No apps, no frantic tech — just good old-fashioned paper guides and personal touches.
In my room, I found a printed dinner assignment — complete with the time, restaurant, table number, and even a map of where to sit.
That alone saved me the awkward “where do I go?” moment most cruisers have on night one.
There was also a thorough manual answering practically every guest question imaginable — a small touch that prevents people from queuing at guest services.
And in a nostalgic twist, the room came stocked with postcards, so I happily scribbled notes to my kids back home. No app notifications, no screen time — just peaceful, unplugged cruising. I genuinely loved it.
Lunch at the Buffet: Small Ship, Big Flavor
After settling in, I headed up to the buffet — curious to see what a smaller ship had to offer food-wise. Spoiler: it was fantastic.
I started with a fresh salad bar plate and followed it up with a fiery pasta dish from the live station (pro tip: go for the chillies if you’re into spice).
The buffet had way more variety than I expected, proving that smaller ships don’t skimp on culinary options.
I also treated myself to a glass of wine, and the prices were so reasonable that I didn’t even consider a drinks package.
If you’re debating one, I’d definitely suggest checking out reviews or doing the math — you might not need it.
Where Did the Pool Go?
After lunch, I explored the ship and stumbled upon a quirky surprise. On the aft deck, there’s an oddly shaped garden space where the Holland America pool once lived. When Fred.
Olsen refurbished the ship; they apparently removed the pool, but you can still kind of see the outline where it used to be.
Stranger still, a couple of the flower beds look suspiciously like they were once hot tubs, and in the middle, there’s a playful fake stream with koi fish painted on the bottom. Cute? Absolutely. Useful? Not really — but it added character.
A Surprisingly Spacious Ship
Everywhere I turned, Borealis felt open and unhurried. With so few passengers onboard, there was no competition for sun loungers or bar seats.
There’s also an indoor pool with a retractable roof and some lovely hot tubs, which I’d have happily lounged in for hours.
Add in a handful of cozy bars and lounges (with a decent cocktail menu), and it felt like the perfect escape.
My favorite find was the hidden observation lounge at the very front of the ship — barely signposted, yet offering panoramic views and peaceful seating.
I grabbed a strawberry daiquiri, watched the sunset, and let the day melt away.
Dinner in the Main Dining Room: Vegan-Friendly and Flavorful
At dinner, I was pleasantly surprised by the plant-based options. While the starter menu didn’t offer any vegan dishes, there were two vegan mains, so I tried both.
The celeriac steak was wonderfully seasoned, and the vegetable curry was full of flavor without being too spicy.
Dessert was supposed to be a simple sorbet, but my friendly waiter added a surprise poached pear to the mix, just because he thought I’d enjoy it. And he was right!
Evening Entertainment: Surprisingly Fun and Engaging
The after-dinner show took me by surprise. It was themed around world cultures, with energetic performances and beautiful costumes.
I’ve seen a lot of cruise entertainment, and honestly? This one held my attention the entire time — no zoning out or checking the time.
Afterward, I drifted into a lounge to enjoy some live music, then called it a night to rest up for my final day onboard.
Morning Breakfast & A Surprise Chocolate Bowl
Breakfast the next day was served in the main dining room, where I scored a window seat and some excellent waiter service.
I started with something from the “healthy options” menu — a mysterious “chocolate bowl” that turned out to be… a bit odd. Sweet, rich, and not really my thing. But hey, I gave it a shot.
I followed that with a delicious vegan cooked breakfast, and even got to inspect the packaging on the Flora Plant Butter, a vegan favorite. The staff really went out of their way to make sure everything was right.
They even invited me to preview the next meal’s menu in case I wanted to pre-order something special — an appreciated touch.
Crafting, Relaxing & a Lucky Bingo Win
Post-breakfast, I took a solo dip in the indoor pool and melted away in the hot tub — without another person in sight. It felt like my own private spa.
Later, I signed up for a craft class at the art studio and made two pairs of earrings for just £5. Not bad for a creative little souvenir!
Lunch was casual — a hearty bean stew, salad, and a few chips from the buffet. Then I stretched my legs on the promenade deck, which wraps around Deck 3.
It’s sheltered enough to use even in bad weather and perfect for a world cruise. Three and a half laps equals a mile, in case you’re counting.
I ended the afternoon with a relaxing stretch class in the gym, followed by a free smoothie (a fun little reward).
Then it was time for bingo — and I won! Granted, my prize only netted me £3 more than the ticket cost, but still — a win’s a win.
Final Night: Bond Vibes & Fine Dining
For the last evening, I dressed up and hit the lounge for a James Bond-themed night.
There was an ice sculpture, themed martinis, and singers crooning classics from the franchise. I ordered an appletini and soaked in the atmosphere.
Dinner was a hit. I’d pre-ordered, so the chef whipped up a vegan version of a Stilton and walnut salad, followed by a vegetable hot pot and more sorbet for dessert.
A waiter came by offering top-shelf brandy, including one priced at £475 a glass. I smiled, said no thanks, and moved on to catch a surprisingly funny stand-up comedy show before heading to bed.
Final Thoughts: A Peaceful and Pleasant Surprise
This cruise was worlds apart from my usual family adventures aboard mega-ships — and in a very good way.
Fred. Olsen’s Borealis is a ship designed for travelers who appreciate quiet elegance, thoughtful service, and a slower pace.
I was likely one of the youngest guests onboard, but everyone — from crew to fellow cruisers — was genuinely warm and welcoming.
Staff remembered names, room numbers, and even drink preferences. That level of attention stuck with me.
And though I sailed solo this time, I wouldn’t hesitate to book again — maybe even bring the kids next time during the holidays when Fred. Olsen offers their Little Skippers Club.
For a relaxing, no-fuss escape with a touch of British charm, Borealis was the perfect getaway.
