Balmoral to Europe

Flagship of the current Fred. Olsen fleet, the 43,000 ton Balmoral accommodates some 1,350 passengers, making her the biggest and busiest ship in the fleet by quite a way.

That said, the old, traditional sense of intimacy and excellent service that defines the Fred. Olsen product is evident all over this lovely ship. Food and service are every bit as good as on any of her smaller siblings; it's just that there's more of, well, everything.

The ship was lengthened in 2008 with the addition of a new mid section, and this new area has the best cabins, so always good to check the deck plans. Not that there's anything wrong with the rest of the ship- there are just more twin bedded cabins in the new bit.

The focal point of Balmoral is a stunning, two storey central lobby, complete with a gracefully curving grand staircase, with a globe of the world at the base. Some Scottish accented touches were added to the ship and, quite surprisingly, it does work somehow with the original, predominantly Art Deco styling that still permeates this lovely ship.

There's a beautiful Observation Lounge on the upper deck right forward, with 360 degree views through glass walls. At night, this doubles up as Balmoral's disco.

But the nicest room is right aft, where the Lido Lounge features an upper level mezzanine and a two storey wall of glass that affords fantastic views right out over the stern.

Food wise, the main dining room is complemented by a pair of aft facing, upper deck venues- Spey and Avon- that serve more or less the same menus. The food is universally good, tailored to British tastes, but with a few continental twists sprinkled in. As ever on this line, service is warm, attentive, and a joy to savour.

Entertainment is not a strong point on board. Fred. Olsen traditionally caters to an older crowd, which partially explains the large number of good priced, single cabins on board.

Balmoral is comfortable, commodious and stylish, and she offers truly superb value for money. A lovely ship all round.