FINDING FRED; WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE A FRED. OLSEN CRUISE

There are a number of reasons why cruising with Fred. Olsen might be something you discover that you enjoy quite a lot. While some are pretty obvious, a few of them are slightly more arcane, and not at all immediately apparent. So, without any further ado, here's what you get from this stalwart cruise line and, in some instances, what you don't get, either.

YOU DO GET smaller, more intimate and exclusive ships, with passenger numbers never higher than 1300 on the largest ship- Balmoral- and as low as 800 on the Black Watch and Boudicca. That translates to better, more personalised service overall, and a more familair, welcoming feeling where you are not just merely a statistic.

YOU DON'T GET the big ship facilities such as rock climbing walls, numerous extra charge restaurants, ice skating rinks, and huge,lavish floor shows performed in vast, multi story theatres. The casino action is very low key compared to the big ships. While sailing on Fred is always fun, even the line's most fervent admirers would concede that it's hardly a rock and roll lifestyle. Which, incindentally, is just fine by them.

YOU DO GET ships that are small enough to slip into the prettier, more secluded ports that the big ships have to bypass, and this in turn transaltes into a more immersive cruise experience as a whole. in most places, Fred's ships can rock up almost in the centre of town, and the line is also highly regarded as offering some of the best value, most completely inclusive shore excursions of any UK cruise line.

YOU DON'T GET shocking single supplements for cabins. The line has a good number of dedicated single cabins set aside on all of its ships at a very reasonable rate, with dance hosts for the ladies, and dedicated singles get togethers for dinner and other social activities. And, with themed cruises such as painting, mystery cruises and botany, you still won't end up feeling like a wallflower, either.

YOU DO GET the chance to relax in an all British environment, with food and drinks on board geared to British tastes. And the Filipino service staff on board each of the company's current fiour ships is a byword for elegant, attentive service. From fish and chips to fine dining and, of course, that all important afternoon tea served every day on board, the Fred ships have all the attributes and attitude of a genteel floating country house.

YOU DON'T GET ripped off for drinks prices and a whole conga line of added extras. So, forget stress, just sit back, and let one of these wonderfully understated, well served ships gently move the scenery for you. Lovely stuff.