Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines do their utmost to ensure their cruise holidays are not just hugely enjoyable, but great value too. The benefits included in each cruise package are listed below and, as you'll see, there's a lot - so you can just relax and get on with having a good time!

What's Included:

• Comfortable en suite room accommodation, including TV, hairdryer, individual air conditioning, and in-room safe (or use of free safety deposit boxes).
• Fine dining, informal buffets and late-night snacks throughout the day and early evening.
• Complimentary tea and coffee during the day and early evening at selected venues.
• Morning coffee with biscuits, and afternoon sandwiches and cakes.
• In-room sandwiches and snacks.
• All evening entertainment, including cabarets and dancing.
• Captain's cocktail party and gala buffet.
• On board leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and use of gym equipment.
• Daily on board activities and free lectures.
• All port taxes for UK ports, Scottish ports of call and UK airport departure taxes (where collectable in advance).
• Flights, as confirmed as part of a fly-cruise holiday.
• And everything on board is priced in Sterling.

What's Not Included:

• Travel to/from your port or airports.
• All drinks on board.
• Shore Tours.
• Hairdressing, health, beauty treatments, and selected fitness classes.
• Personal laundry and dry cleaning.
• Passports and Visa costs.
• Holiday insurance.
• Government levies or taxes (advised at time of travel).
• Discretionary gratuities to the crew, drivers, guides, etc on board and ashore.

Suite Dreams

If you are looking to make your cruise holiday even more special, and have booked a suite, you will also be eligible for a complimentary 'Suite Dreams' package.

The Suite Dreams package includes a welcome bottle of sparkling wine, afternoon canape service and complimentary shuttle coach vouchers, among other benefits. For full details of 'Suite Dreams', see Smaller Ship Cruise Info.

Cruises from UK ports offer a generous 90kgs of luggage.

On fly-cruises, however, your allowance will be subject to the conditions imposed by the air carrier and will vary from airline to airline.

Full details of your luggage allowance will be provided on your booking confirmation and your flight tickets. (This is subject to change at any time.)

A deposit of the price of your cruise holiday must be paid at the time you make your booking. The amount payable is dependent on the type of cruise booked, and will be confirmed by your reservations consultant at the time you make your booking. Please note that other payments may also be due at the time you make your booking.

The balance of your cruise will need to be paid no later than 90 days before the departure date. Any cruise holidays booked after this date require you to pay the full price, and this must be paid at the time you make your cruise booking. However, special payment conditions may apply to special or discounted prices.

For those cruise guests travelling on their own, there are a number of single occupancy rooms on each cruise ship. Alternatively (or if the single rooms are sold out) you can occupy a twin room. All twin rooms have a single supplement charge. However, occasionally there are some great offers on Twin Rooms for sole occupancy, so please call Reservations on 0800 500 180 for supplement charges, as they vary.

Passport, visa and health requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you check with a professionally qualified source and comply with such requirements.

It is the responsibility of all non-British passport holders to ensure that they are in possession of a valid passport and where necessary entry visas or permits for their chosen cruise. If you are unsure as to whether you are required to obtain such documents you must contact the relevant Embassy or Consulate. Failure to comply with this request may result in refusal of carriage or the imposition of individual fines by the local immigration authorities.

Please note: When going ashore independently in certain ports of call (i.e. St Petersburg, Russia) it may be necessary for you to arrange a visitor's visa. Please see your confirmation invoice for further details of how to do this. In St Petersburg, when participating in shore excursions arranged by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, all passport holders will be covered on a group visa.

This is dependent on the type of cruise holiday that you have booked, and you will be advised at the time you make your booking whether you will know what your room number is.

If booked on a Freedom Fare, your room and number can be chosen at the time of booking.

If booked on an Anchor Fare, your room grade and number will be allocated at the point you receive your tickets. Any specific rooms features displayed at the time of booking may therefore change.

You will need to consider the following in your holiday budget:

• Travel to/from your ports or airports.
• All drinks on board.
• Internet usage or telephone calls.
• Shore excursions.
• Salon treatments and fitness classes.
• Laundry services.
• Photographs.
• Duty free or items purchased from the shops on board.
• Gratuities.
• Medical expenses.
• Holiday Insurance.
• Passports or visa costs.

Extras on board are charged in sterling. Payment is required at the end of your cruise holiday and if you have pre registered your credit card, your bill will be settled swiftly and without queuing.

On peak holiday cruises, a variety of children’s activities will be arranged, for children aged between 5 and 11. These activities will include arts and crafts, discos, treasure hunts and similar events, and are run by a team of friendly hosts and hostesses. All of the events will be advertised in the ‘mini’ version of the Daily Times on board. Separate family pool times will also be advertised.

Children under the age of 5 are welcome, but parents must provide supervision at all times.

Unfortunately, this isn't currently available on our website. However, please contact our Reservations team on 0800 500 180 who will be happy to help you select your preferred room.

Children less than 6 months old and women who will be more than 24 weeks pregnant at the end of the holiday are not permitted to travel. It is recommended that medical advice is sought prior to booking for children aged between 6 - 12 months.

All guests relying on wheelchairs for mobility are welcome on board Fred. Olsen cruise ships, but we do ask that you advise us of your mobility needs at the time of booking in order to meet health & safety requirements.

General Mobility Information Guide

Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines warmly welcomes guests dependent on the use of a wheelchair/scooter for mobility on all vessels within their fleet. However, with the very different nature of a holiday at sea when compared to one on land, it is strongly recommended that you are accompanied by an able-bodied companion who is responsible for providing any assistance that you may require both on board and ashore. On board, Fred. Olsen are unable to offer any sustained or long term assistance. If you opt to travel alone but it transpires that you are unable to cope on board, you will be required to meet with a senior officer to discuss the situation, and in extreme circumstances asked to disembark the vessel at your own expense. If in any doubt prior to departure as to whether Fred. Olsen can safely accept the guest for passage, they reserve the right to insist a guest is accompanied by an able-bodied companion.'.

The number of guests either reliant upon the use of a wheelchair/scooter, or with reduced mobility, that Fred. Olsen can accept, is governed by the number of crew assigned to assist disabled/mobility impaired guests in the unlikely event of an emergency. This is in accordance with the International Maritime Organisation's convention on ' Safety of Life at Sea ' (SOLAS), governing the safe evacuation of a vessel within 30 minutes of the emergency alarm being sounded. This regulation is not superseded by the EU Passenger Bill of Rights Regulation 1177/2010, effective 18 December 2012, concerning the rights of guests when travelling by sea or inland waterways.'.

Other guests who request to bring a wheelchair/scooter solely to assist them in covering significant distances ashore will therefore be restricted from using their wheelchair when the vessel is at sea. These chairs will be stored safely in the vicinity of the gangway by the Security Officers. Owing to limited storage space the number of wheelchairs/scooters that can accept for this purpose is strictly limited.'.

*Please see section 'Embarkation/Disembarkation'.

Adapted Rooms

A limited number of rooms on each ship have been adapted to facilitate more comfortable occupation for such guests. ( 4 on Black Watch, Boudicca, Braemar and 9 on Balmoral). Only these rooms have wide thresholds to facilitate the acceptance of a wheelchair/scooter.

However, we must stress that these rooms have been modified based on original specifications as opposed to purpose built, and consequently may still pose difficulties to those guests fully reliant upon a wheelchair.

For example, bathrooms on Black Watch have a small ' ridge' to negotiate in the shower area which retains the shower water. This can hinder the manoeuvrability of a wheelchair. On Braemar we would not recommend the adapted rooms to any wheelchair bound guest, owing to the very limited turning circle within the room, restricting easy access to the ramped bathroom entrance.

For all adapted rooms, there are no handrails in the main room area, only in the shower/WC. A rail is provided to assist with use of the WC and a fixed seat is provided in the shower. In effect the entire floor of your bathroom acts as the shower tray. Your dedicated Stewardess will naturally clean and dry the floor as required. Bed and toilet heights are relatively low, however, an additional mattress and/or raised toilet seat can be requested. All rooms have a telephone link with both the ship's Guest Services and Medical Centre.

Guests are welcome to bring or privately hire additional equipment, such as hoists if required. With prior approval from FOCL the delivery/collection and safe use of such equipment will be entirely the responsibility of the individual.

In our opinion, Boudicca is the most wheelchair friendly vessel in the fleet owing to the very generous room dimensions and layout.

Wheelchair/Scooter specification

In all cases guests must supply their own wheelchair/scooter. On safety grounds such devices weighing in excess of 25kgs unladen, cannot be carried ashore at any ports of call, unless easily dismantled with each part weighing no more than 25 kilos. Again, in line with SOLAS regulations, wheelchairs must not be left unattended at anytime in public areas and/or corridors.

General

In general, and particularly on guest accommodation decks, wheelchair users will encounter shallow gradient ramps and shallow risers as a result of the vessel's construction and location of fire and water tight doors. Similarly, public areas and Promenade Decks are accessed via shallow ramps or a gradual slope. Subject to the vessels superstructure, not all doors leading on to open deck areas will be suitable for wheelchair users. Staff will be happy to offer advice on the most practical exit/entrance for you. While all ships have public lifts to all guest decks, excluding Sun Deck, these do have restricted space for wheelchairs, particularly for the larger motorised type. Please bear in mind that most doors leading to outside decks are non-automated and to serve their purpose are very heavy and could not be negotiated by a wheelchair/scooter user unless accompanied by an able-bodied companion.

Embarkation/Disembarkation

Regrettably, owing to the non-availability of either an overhead air-bridge or sloped gangway in the UK ports of of Avonmouth, Liverpool and Rosyth, Fred. Olsen are physically restricted from getting guests fully confined to their wheelchair on board. In these ports the guest must be able to manage a stepped gangway with the minimal of assistance of either a crew member or their suitably able bodied travelling companion. The angle of gangway is subject to the tidal conditions. In general regional port facilities fall short of those found in the major cruise hubs. Also unless the overseas ports have an overhead air-bridge facility, Fred. Olsen may not be able to disembark wheelchair confined guests.

Tender Service

At times where a physical berth cannot be allocated in a port, Fred. Olsen may have to Drop anchor and utilise a ship to shore tender service. Fred. Olsen regret that, on safety grounds, wheelchair confined guests will be unable to go ashore. Please note that on these occasions there may be up to 24 steps down to the tender platform. Fully collapsible wheelchairs can be carried on board a tender, but the guest in question must be able to board the tender with the minimum of assistance. Whereas tender ports are generally known in advance of arrival and are detailed on both ours and Fred. Olsen’s website, unforeseen circumstances on the day may necessitate such a service should the original berth become unavailable for whatever reason.

Shore Tour Programme

Unless able to climb the steps of a coach, it will not be possible to participate in the programme of organised shore excursions offered for sale on board. This includes tours with minimal walking involved at destination. Easy wheelchair access cannot aurs, or access to shuttle buses provided by the local port authority.

Please however contact the Shore Tours Department at Fred. Olsen on shore.tours@fredolsen.co.uk should you wish to explore private tour arrangements with suitable transport.

Deaf and visually impaired Guests

As with mobility impaired guests we would strongly recommend guests are accompanied by an able-bodied companion to assist them both on board and ashore.

Whereas infra-red hearing loops are fitted on all vessels, with headsets available from Guest Services, for use in the main 'Show Lounge', please note that this headset system is not suitable for people who wear permanently inserted hearing devices; and none of the rooms feature any additional emergency equipment such as flashing lights or 'bed shakers' that can be used in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency, specifically trained and assigned crew will come directly to your room. However, please let us have advance notice of any serious hearing impairment, and we will pass this on to Fred. Olsen.

Room upgrades on board are subject to availability. Please contact our Reservations team on 0800 500 180 or email enquiries@cruiseconnections.co.nz. to enquire about the possibility of upgrading your room.

You may cancel your cruise holiday, subject to notice to Cruise Abroad/Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in writing and payment of a cancellation fee in accordance with the following scale:

91 days or more 15%
90-57 days 60%
56-42 days 75%
41-16 days 85%
15 to 0 days 100%

The effective date of cancellation is the date of receipt by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines of written notice to cancel.

For full details of our cancellation policy please see our terms and conditions.

On board Chefs will do their best to accommodate most dietary requests on board. Currently catered for are:

• Vegetarian
• Low fat
• Dairy free
• Lactose free
• Gluten free
• Wheat free

All special requests must be specified at the time of making your cruise booking.

If you are unable to see your cruise within 'Manage My Cruises', please contact our Reservations team on 0800 500 180 who will be able to assist with your enquiry.

If you are experiencing problems with completing the online booking information, and have checked through and cannot see what is missing, please contact our Reservations team on 0800 500 180, and we will be happy to assist you.

A variety of shore tours are offered in nearly every port of call. As these tours are very popular it is strongly recommended that you prebook in advance of your cruise holiday to avoid disappointment - Shore Tours are available to book online 6 weeks prior to cruise departure.

Most shore tours are accompanied by experienced and knowledgeable tour guides and are an excellent way of exploring the main attractions of each port of call. Please note that tours are subject to minimum and maximum participating numbers and to local weather conditions. Guests cruising on Balmoral and Braemar can preview and book tours available during their cruise holiday, by visiting FOi (Interactive TV) under the 'Shore Tours' menu.

A full colour programme, including booking form, detailing all our tours will be despatched directly to you between 4 and 6 weeks weeks prior to sailing.

For disabled Guests it is regrettable that it cannot be guaranteed that assistance by qualified persons will be available at all ports of call. Unless able to board a vehicle unassisted it will not usually be possible for wheelchair users to participate in organised shore tours.

Regrettably, on health and safety grounds it is not possible to convey any Guests ashore via a tender service if confined to a wheelchair. Similarly, it is only possible to convey collapsible wheelchairs on a tender where the user needs the minimum of assistance to board and alight the tender. This will be at the discretion of security staff on the day.

Chargeable room upgrades on board are subject to availability. Please contact our Reservations team on 0800 500 180 or email enquiries@cruiseconnections.co.nz. to enquire about the possibility of upgrading your room.

This is dependent on your cruise itinerary and which countries you are visiting. The currency on board Fred. Olsen cruise ships is Sterling.

Once you've provided your essential travel information on the Guest Information Form, we can send you your cruise tickets. We'll send the tickets to you by email (so we will need an email address for you).

Please note that we cannot send your cruise tickets to you without the completed Guest Information Form, so please ensure you have completed all the required information, as you may not be able to board your cruise ship otherwise.

This is dependent on your chosen cruise holiday itinerary, and depending on the ports of call on your cruise, you may require certain vaccinations. If there is a mandatory requirement, you will be advised at time you make your cruise booking and/or it will be detailed on your confirmation invoice.

However, due to ever-changing health regulations, we suggest that you contact your local GP approximately 12 weeks prior to departure for the most up-to-date information.

Please note that passport, visa and health requirements can change at any time. Once you have booked a cruise holiday, it is your own responsibility to ensure that you comply with such requirements.

If you are celebrating a special occasion whilst on your cruise holiday, there is a range of Cruise Extras to make the day even more special for you or loved ones, catering for birthdays, anniversaries and retirements, or just a special treat or two for the important people in your lives.

Please contact our Reservations department on 0800 500 180 and they will be more than happy to assist you.

When you book your cruise holiday, you can request either first or second seating for dinner (6.15pm or 8.30pm) and we'll try our best to ensure you get it. You can also request your table size but unfortunately this cannot be guaranteed.

When booking on an Anchor fare please note that Dining sitting will be allocated at the discretion of the cruise line and will be advised within the cruise ticket. Anchor Fare guests can choose to book a specific dining sitting at the time of booking for a small supplement. Unfortunately requests for preferred table sizes when booking an Anchor fare are not accepted.

Breakfast and lunch times are more flexible.

Depending on the level of the port, a security check in line with the Department for Transport's regulations will be carried out.

Please note that any alcohol taken on board your cruise ship, whether at embarkation, or during a port call, will be stored and will be returned to you at the end of your cruise.

Boarding usually starts at approximately 2pm - but do check your cruise tickets for the right times. If you arrive before the check-in time stated, you may not be able to enter the cruise terminal.

What information do I need to have to hand for check-in?

At check-in for your cruise holiday you will need to produce both your ticket and passport, so please ensure you have both readily to hand. All guests are required to check-in no less than 1 hour before sailing time. Exact details regarding where and when to check-in for your cruise will be advised in your ticket pack.

At this time you will be issued with your cruise ship's pass and boarding card. You may then relax in the Cruise Terminal lounge until embarkation commences.

Do we have to carry our cases on to the ship ourselves?

On arrival at your UK cruise departure port you will be directed to the baggage drop-off area where porters will be on hand to take your luggage from you. Unfortunately, baggage without labels will not be accepted. Your luggage will then be taken directly to your room after passing through security checks. Wheelchair assistance is available from the port authorities on arrival, should it be required.

At check-in for your cruise holiday you will need to produce both your ticket and passport, so please ensure you have both readily to hand. All guests are required to check-in no less than 1 hour before sailing time. Exact details regarding where and when to check-in for your cruise will be advised in your ticket pack.

At this time you will be issued with your cruise ship's pass and boarding card. You may then relax in the Cruise Terminal lounge until embarkation commences.

On arrival at your UK cruise departure port you will be directed to the baggage drop-off area where porters will be on hand to take your luggage from you. Unfortunately, baggage without labels will not be accepted. Your luggage will then be taken directly to your room after passing through security checks. Wheelchair assistance is available from the port authorities on arrival, should it be required.

Shore Tours are available 4 to 6 weeks prior to departure, and can be booked online, through the Manage My Cruises section of this website; or by completing the form in your Cruise Book.

To be able to book your shore tours online, you must be logged into My Cruises, and then ensure you have completed the Guest Information Form.

You can also book your Shore Tours when on board your cruise ship, although we recommend booking before you depart, as many tours are very popular and book up very quickly.

If you would like to follow a video guide on how to book your shore tours online, please use the following: My Cruises User Guide.

Yes, you can.

You can filter your shore tour choices by the amount of walking involved. Please also read the tour notes which come up when you click Is this tour right for you? within My Cruises – this includes walking and other general information (including refreshments and toilet stops) to help you decide on suitable tours.

It may be possible to do more than one shore tour in a day, if the time in port and duration of chosen tours permits.

Your Shore Tour Booking Form in your Tours Book will show you the time of day tours are operating, and if you are booking online you will only be able to book two or more tours on one day, if it is possible to do so.

Most shore tours require guests to be able to board a coach; however there are a few tours which are wheelchair accessible and we can also look into private tour options, in wheelchair accessible vehicles, in all ports if required.

Generally, a meal or refreshments are provided on a full day shore tour - please look for the symbol on your chosen shore tour to see what facilities are provided

Guests on Fred. Olsen organised tours do not require a Russian Visa. If you intend to tour independently, or indeed step off your cruise ship alone, a Visa MUST be obtained. We suggest that non-British citizens seek advice from their embassy or consulate. Private tours are available, which do not require a separate visa application. For further information, please see your tour details.

Guests must carry their passport at all times. When leaving your cruise ship for tours, you will have to pass through Immigration (and on your return). To assist with meeting Russian immigration requirements, it would be greatly appreciated if ALL guests can bring with them a photocopy of their passport photo page only and hand this to check-in staff. This is in addition to bringing your full passport with you.

This may be possible – if booking online, you will be advised at the time of checking availability if your chosen tours will clash.

Shore Tours staff would also be able to give a guide in regards to tour times.

Child prices are shown on the Shore Tour Booking Form in your Tours Book, if applicable (for children aged 12 years and under) and will also be shown when booking online – please note that the discount is only applied once you reach the payment stage.

If you wish to visit a specific site, we can look into a tailor made, private tour option for you.

If you have booked a tour online and wish to cancel or amend it – please contact us and we will action your request for you.

Please note that a 10% cancellation charge will be incurred should you cancel a tour once onboard.

Tours books are sent to guests approximately six to eight weeks prior to the cruise departure date.

All Fred. Olsen cruise ships have a limited number of rooms grades with both a bathtub and a shower. Where a bathtub is specified, the shower will usually be over the bathtub. These rooms grades can be found on the deck plans for your chosen cruise ship, and are indicated by a triangle symbol.

All Fred. Olsen cruise ships feature dual voltage - 110*volts requiring a US style flat 2-pin plug, and 220 volts requiring a continental round 2-pin plug (both have a 60 volt cycle).

Hairdryers are supplied in all rooms. Some rooms may have hairdryers fixed to the walls within the bathrooms, whilst others have the traditional hand held type. If any guests have specific hairdryer needs, it is recommended they pack & bring their own hairdryer onboard to ensure they meet their requirements.

Yes, it is possible to select an Ocean View room with a picture window rather than a porthole on board your cruise ship. Details of these Superior Ocean View and Outside Ocean View room types can be found on the deck plans for your chosen ship.

Each room grade on Fred. Olsen cruise ships has a television, and both Balmoral and Braemar have interactive television; enabling you to select shore tours, order your wine for dinner, and much more.

Other facilities available include a telephone and hairdryer; and on Balmoral and Braemar there is also a safe in each room.

Selected suites on board also have fridges or mini-bars included.

If you upgrade to a Suite, you can benefit from the Suite Dreams package.

Get even more from your cruise holiday and indulge in a suite.

All the rooms are comfortable, but if you treat yourself to a suite you'll enjoy a distinctly superior stay. What's more, when you book selected suites, the additional style, comfort and space is made even more special with a complimentary 'Suite Dreams' package of extra features.

Selected rooms on board have restricted views - these are indicated with symbols on the deck plans

On both Balmoral and Braemar, some rooms have two moveable beds that may convert into one double bed.

Suite accommodation on all four ships may offer twin or double beds.

All four cruise ships feature rooms specially adapted for wheelchair use.

Motorised wheelchairs/scooters will only be accepted on Braemar when occupying a designated wheelchair-accessible room.

In accordance with safety requirements it is regrettable that the number of guests using wheelchairs on board is restricted as follows:

• Braemar: 6
• Black Watch: 6
• Boudicca: 6
• Balmoral: 12

However, subject to further quotas, additional wheelchairs/scooteers can be stored on board for use ashore only. Only those rooms indicated as adapted for wheelchair use have private facilities for wheelchair users.

No, but each cruise ship has a Laundry Room with irons and ironing boards, washing machines and tumble dryers.

There is also an on board laundry service, which your room staff will be happy to arrange for you. Details of this will be in your room welcome pack.

Please note that travel irons are not permitted on board.

A room service menu operates aboard all ships between 10am and 10pm each day, offering light snacks (except during embarkation and disembarkation times). Beverages are available 24 hours a day, and the menu will be in your room.

In all rooms across the fleet:

• Liquid hand wash, body wash and shower gel dispensers are provided in the bathroom.

In Owners, Premier and Marquee Suites, in addition to the above hand & body lotion, dispensers are also proivided.

Items such as shower caps, shoe mitts, sewing kits, vanity kits and small bars of soap are available on request from your stewardess.

Yes, there are towels in all rooms on board, but it is requested that you leave these in your room. Specific towels for use by the pools are provided.

Upgrade to the Suite Dreams package and benefit from a bathrobe and slippers, and luxury towels.

All rooms on all cruise ships have complimentary tea and coffee making facilities.

The restaurants on board Fred. Olsen cruise ships are as follows:

Balmoral -

There are 3 restaurants - Ballindalloch on Main Deck, and the Avon and Spey, both of which are on Highland Deck. The same menus are available in all restaurants on board Balmoral.

There is also the Palms Cafe, which is a more informal place to eat, if you prefer not to stick to the set dining times on board your cruise ship.

Braemar-

Braemar has 2 restaurants - Thistle on Atlantic Deck, and the Grampian Restaurant on Marquee Deck.

There is also the Palms Cafe, again a more informal restaurant, perfect for a more informal dining experience.

Bouddica -

Boudicca has 3 restaurants - Four Seasons, Heligan and Tintagel, all located on Lounge Deck.

The Secret Garden Cafe offers a more informal dining option - this restaurant is self-service, but the standard is as good as in the main restaurants.

Black Watch -

Black Watch has 2 restaurants - The Glentanar and the Orchid Room, both located on Lounge Deck.

The Braemar Garden Cafe offers a delicious buffet option for meals on board your cruise holiday, again with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.

When it comes to evenings on board your cruise ship, dressing for dinner is traditional. Generally the style is smart casual, with gentlemen wearing a jacket/or shirt and tie and ladies smartly dressed. Chino type trousers or smart dark jeans are acceptable, but no trainers please.

During the day the restaurants require our cruise guests to adhere to an appropriate dress code, i.e. no swimwear.

Subject to availability, you can pre-book your restaurant and dining times (Early - 6.15pm or Main - 8.30pm on board Boudicca, Black Watch and Balmoral. For Braemar 6pm - 8.15pm) on board, and these will remain the same throughout your cruise holiday; unless you choose to eat in the more informal cafe style restaurants. Some deals that bookings are made on unfortunately do not confirm these for you, but you will be advised of this at the time you make your cruise booking.

Table sizes are not guaranteed as the seating for dining is allocated on board, but you are able to request a table for 2, 4, 6 or 8. Note: Unfortunately, Boudicca does not have tables to seat 8 guests.

You can choose to either take advantage of the buffet style breakfasts and lunches, or select dishes from the a la carte menus - the choice is yours.

For breakfast, you may choose from cereals, porridge and fresh fruit, to typical cooked breakfast items at the buffet. Or, you may prefer to be served by waiters from a menu which includes made to order options.

Lunch ranges from salads to pasta dishes, and from tasty desserts to cheese and biscuits; or dishes served by waiters, incuding popular soups!

In hotter climates, you can also choose to dine outside for breakfast and lunch - the perfect accompaniment to eating al fresco.

Your individual needs are as catered for as much as possible. So, vegetarian, low fat, dairy-free, lactose-free and gluten-free food are all on the menu.

Please make any special requests when you make your cruise booking. It may not be possible to source specific brands given the location or the availability at local ports.

Yes, the same show is on twice in the evenings in the main lounges, so that guests dining on either first or second sitting have the opportunity to see the great entertainment on board.

It is requested that those guests on first sitting who have already seen the show, vacate the seats closer to the front for guests coming in to watch the show after their second sitting dinner.

You can request to sit with friends or family who have made a separate booking to you, but are travelling on the same cruise. Unfortunately, your request cannot be guaranteed, but crew will do all they can to try to meet your requirements.

There is a Children's menu on board from which to make appetising selections for younger cruisers. There is also a limited number of high chairs on each cruise ship - please request this at the time of making your booking.

There is an extensive complimentary room service menu for breakfast and light snacks on board from which to choose from. The times and availability of each will be detailed in your Welcome Pack on board.

On Balmoral and Braemar you can order breakfast on FOi (Interactive TV) by visiting 'Breakfast Service' from the main menu, or by calling room service.

All rooms have complimentary tea/coffee making facilities.

Whilst on board you will be able to use your mobile, tablet and other wi-fi enabled devices to connect with friends and family at home. You can choose to buy pay-as-you-go or day packages, allowing you to email friends and family, keep up to date with the news and upload your photos as you cruise! Simply connect to the wi-fi once aboard, select your package and any charges will be billed directly to your on board account.

Please be aware that this service is operated over a satellite connection, therefore speeds can be slower than you would experience at home, and is subject to service operation.

It is aimed to dock the ship as closely as possible to the destination in all ports. Often it will be walking distance or a short bus ride from the local centre. A shuttle bus may sometimes be provided, either by Fred. Olsen or the local port authority (a nominal fee usually applies). It is sometimes the case that the port is furthest away. Where this arises, it may be necessary to book a tour to visit the main destination (although it may also be possible to travel there by taxi or public transport). It is aimed to keep these instances to a minimum.

As a guideline there are generally three formal nights on a two week cruise, with the remaining nights as smart casual. The exact number, including any theme nights will be highlighted on your cruise ticket.

Dress code guidelines are mentioned in your cruise ship's Daily Times so you can be prepared for the next evening to come.

Whether you are celebrating your anniversary or a special birthday on your cruise, celebration packages are offered to make the occasion more special.

Crews on board will be delighted to help make your cruise holiday even more memorable - book one of the Celebration Packages, and see for yourself.

Each cruise ship has at least one swimming pool on board, plus jacuzzis to relax in.

The swimming pools and locations on board your cruise ship are as follows:

Balmoral -

Balmoral has 2 swimming pools, on Marquee Deck and also on Lounge Deck. Both also have 2 jacuzzis on each deck.

Braemar -

Braemar has 2 swimming pools, both of which are situated on Marquee Deck. There are also 2 jacuzzis and a paddling pool.

Boudicca -

Boudicca has 2 swimming pools, 1 on Lounge Deck, where there are also 2 jacuzzis and an exercise pool. In addition, there is a smaller pool on Marquee Deck.

Black Watch -

Black Watch has 2 swimming pools, 1 on Lounge Deck, with a jauzzi and exercise pool. There is also a smaller pool and jacuzzi on Marquee Deck.

On selected cruises a range of activities and entertainment are offered that adds something extra to your cruise holiday experience, making it even more enjoyable.

On many cruises, there are guest lecturers who will chat about their chosen subject, or about the ports of call on your cruise. Details of who the lecturer is and the subject matter will be detailed in the Daily Times once you are on board.

You can make phone calls from all Fred. Olsen’s ships, as there are telephones in all the rooms. Dialling codes and instructions for using the phone are detailed in your room. All telephone calls made from your cruise ship are via satellite.

You can also use your mobile phone whilst on board all Fred. Olsen ships.

All four cruise ships have lifts in public areas. Please refer to the Deck Plan for your particular cruise ship to locate where they are.

However, please note that while all ships have public lifts to all guest decks, excluding Sun Deck, these do have restricted space for wheelchairs, particularly for the larger motorised type.

Cruising from a UK port, guests can take 90kgs of luggage on their holiday. Please check your cruise documents for the correct amount of luggage for your cruise. Please take into consideration the airlines luggage limits.

Fred. Olsen are committed to ensuring that all guests are able to make the most of their experience on board and the crew make efforts to assist guests as much as they can.

However, it is regrettable that on safety grounds those guests who are confined to a wheelchair will be unable to go ashore in tender ports. Please note that on these occasions there may be up to 24 steps down to the tender platform. Fully collapsible wheelchairs can be carried on board a tender, but the guest in question must be able to board the tender with the minimum of assistance. Whereas tender ports are generally known in advance of arrival and are detailed in both the brochure and on our website, unforeseen circumstances on the day may necessitate such a service should the original berth become unavailable for whatever reason.

Each cruise ship has a fully equipped fitness centre on board. There are friendly fitness instructors available to give you help and guidance, as you stay in shape with treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bikes and free weights.

Guests can also choose to take a yoga, aerobics, stretch and tone or pilates class whilst cruising. Or you may choose to make the most of the beautiful views and join the 'walk a mile', with a stroll or walk round your cruise ship deck.

Gratuities are not included in the cost of your holiday. However, Fred. Olsen pride themselves on the service offered to guests, and are confident that you'll wish to reward staff on board for this service, although tipping is entirely at your discretion.

Gratuities are charged for guests aged 12 and over. This is split between your stewardess and restaurant waiter, and will be automatically added to your on board account. Please remember that gratuities, while very much appreciated, are voluntary and therefore can be adjusted or removed completely at Guest Services on board the ship if you wish.

The shows on board are generally after first and second sitting dining times have finished, details of which can be found in the Daily Times in your room. You will have plenty of time to enjoy dinner, before heading through to the Show lounge and enjoying the evenings of cabaret, magic or comedy.

There is always plenty to do on board your cruise ship, whilst you sail on to your next exciting destination.

The Daily Programme is designed for you to do as much or as little as you like - after all, you are on holiday, so we want you to relax as much as you want.

Each of the cruise ships has both an Atlantis Spa, and salon on board. Guests can choose from relaxing facials, massages or beauty treatments in the Atlantis Spa, a new hairdo for the glamour of the formal nights, or burn off some calories in the Fitness Centre.

Just a quick note - Atlantis Spas and Salons are always popular, so it's recommended to book in advance.

For your peace of mind all cruise ships have a Medical Centre offering primary and emergency care, with a doctor and/or nurse on call at all times. All cruise ships also have two qualified nurses on board.

A strict 'no-smoking' policy is now operated in all inside areas. Smoking will only be permitted on room balconies (excluding Deck 7 Terrace Balconies on Black Watch and Boudicca) and on designated open deck areas.

Electronic cigarettes not emitting a vapour, may be used in rooms or on room balconies but, are not permitted in any non-smoking public area. They can easily be mistaken for a real cigarette and result in potential confrontation and necessitate staff intervention.

Electronic cigarettes emitting any vapour, even if only a water vapour, may only be smoked in designated external smoking areas.

Each of the cruise ships has an on board Laundry Room with self service washing machines and tumble driers. A laundry service is also provided, which your stewardess will be happy to help you arrange - full details of this can be found in the Welcome Pack in your room.

Each laundry room also hosts ironing facilities should these be required. Please note that travel irons are not permitted.

All four cruise ships have shopping facilities on board offering a wide range of gifts ranging from perfumes and jewellery to fomal and casual clothes.

Also on board are 'Port Shops', which sell all those little extras that you find you either need or have forgotten, from sun cream to postcards, and crisps to chocolates; just in case there isn't enough choice of food already!

Dependant on your cruise itinerary, limited amounts of the most common currencies are carried on board should you wish to use this facility when on your cruise holiday, or to 'top up' any currency you may have already purchased.

Each cruise ship has public toilets in communal areas, which are clearly marked. These generally tend to be outside on deck, and near to restaurants and bars.

Please refer to the deck plan for your chosen cruise ship for where to find the public toilets.

At the start of your cruise holiday, you are required to register your credit or debit card, and then anything you buy will be automatically charged to your room account.

Then, when your cruise holiday is at an end, you don't have to go and settle your bill, as it will be automatically charged to your card. You can see your room account balance at any time; and if you are cruising on board Balmoral and Braemar, you can check this on the interactive tv.

Please note that if you are paying by credit card, there is a 1.5% surcharge.

Fred. Olsen offer a number of transfer options for guests who are booked on cruises whith split departure and arrival ports.

Please read the following section of the website regarding the use of wheelchairs and scooters on board our cruises, and embarking or disembarking our cruise ships.

Disability and Reduced Mobility.

At least 24 hours before the end of your cruise holiday, full disembarkation instructions will be placed within your room.

On arrival into UK ports your cruise ship has to be cleared by Customs and Immigration Officials before the disembarkation process can begin. This enables you to take a leisurely breakfast, leave your room, and take a comfortable seat in one of the public lounges before being called forward according to your colour coded disembarkation card.

Should you have to catch a flight home, please speak to Guest Services on board your cruise ship, who will ensure you disembark in enough time to meet your transfer back to your chosen airport.

It is requested that your luggage is placed outside your room door on the final night of your cruise holiday, where it will be transferred to the cruise terminal for you. It is asked that you adhere to this request as this process helps to reduce unnecessary obstruction of your cruise ship's corridors on the day of disembarkation, enabling you to disembark the cruise ship with ease when your deck is called. You will then collect your luggage from the relevant area of the cruise terminal.

Very competitive prices are offered on a large variety of luxury items in the Duty Free shops. It is requested that any alcohol purchased on board your cruise ship is given to staff for safe storage during your cruise, and it will then be returned to you at the end of your holiday.

It is aimed to provide you with the best possible customer care, before you cruise and whilst on your cruise holiday. Please see guest services whilst on board to sort out any missing luggage.

Family members and friends can get in touch with guests on board via one of the following ways:

Via telephone: Balmoral, Boudicca, Black Watch and Braemar phone number: 0800 028 5089. The caller will be required to know which ship the guest they're contacting is travelling on and their cabin number. Calls to this number are charged at $2.50 per minute.

Via email - directly: There is wi-fi on board all four ships, so guests can easily connect their mobile devices, phones, tablets etc. to keep in touch and up to date.

Via email - indirectly: You can email Fred. Olsen at internet@fredolsen.co.uk (please include the name of the guest, the ship and room number if available and your email will be passed on). Please note this email inbox is only manned Monday-Friday, 0900-1700hrs (UK time).

Bathrobes are provided for guests who are booked in relevant Suite grades under the Suite Dreams package.

Bathrobes are available to use on board for guests in other room grades, subject to availability. A refundable deposit is required and a charge is made to cover laundry costs.

Danece hosts are available to ensure that single guests are never too long without a dance partner. On each of the cruise ships there are usually four dance hosts available.

Fred. Olsen aim to ensure the entertainment on a cruise holiday is as memorable as the cruise destinations you'll visit.

When your cruise ship is berthed some distance from the centre of town a shuttle bus service is often provided to assist with your visit and save you money on taxi fares. All day tickets (for which a small charge is made) can be bought from Guest Services. However, for those guests who are booked on a Freedom Fare offer, this charge is included.

Shuttle buses do not operate in ports where it is easy/more economical for guests to use independent transport such as taxis, or when Fred. Olsen are prohibited from running a service – this is particularly the case in the Caribbean.

Precise timings for your stay in port vary from place to place and from sailing to sailing. Arrival and departure times can change as your cruise progresses, so are displayed as approximate periods rather than exact times. These are as follows:

To ensure a safe and secure environment for all guests and crew, there are strict regulations regarding items that may be considered to be an offensive weapon (in particular knives, including skean-dhu's with a blade over 7cm).

If you have misplaced your Oceans membership number do not worry. There are several ways in which you can obtain your Oceans number:

• Via Manage My Cruises on the Fred. Olsen website
• Via our Reservations team Ph 0800 500 180
• Via email: enquiries@cruiseconnections.co.nz

All four cruise ships have a well-appointed library on board offering a wide variety of books, including some large print books. There is also a selection of board games for use during your cruise holiday. Audio books are also available, but please remember to bring your own CD player.

All cruise ships feature dual voltage - 110*volts requiring a US style flat 2-pin plug, and 220 volts requiring a continental round 2-pin plug (both have a 60 volt cycle)

*Shaver point only on Boudicca.

Adapters can be hired on board or can be purchased at the on board shop.

For your safety before sailing a passenger muster drill must be carried out. This ensures that you are fully aware of all the on board safety and emergency procedures. This includes fitting your life jacket and finding your muster point.

It is not permitted to take your own alcohol aboard your cruise ship.

Any alcohol which is purchased whilst ashore will be placed in a secure hold area and will be returned to you at the end of your cruise holiday.

If you are an insulin dependent diabetic you can request the use of a fridge for your insulin and a sharps box for your needles. Your request can be made at the point of booking and will be noted by our reservations team.

Your friends and family can track the progress of your cruise by viewing the ship locator on the Fred. Olsen website. This provides a real time view of where your cruise ship is located.