Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines - Braemar

I’ve just returned from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Braemar.  Carrying around 929 passengers in 485 rooms, she offers a country house hotel atmosphere and a relaxing home from home. 

There are 7 passenger decks to explore on Braemar.  I noticed that in the majority of public areas, the ship had large windows which filled the ships interior with natural light, as well as offering spectacular views out to see.  Tastefully decorated with decadent fabrics, polished wooden fixtures and shiny brass fittings, she offers a unique and intimate feel, coupled with fantastic on board crew offering an outstanding level of personal service.

I think its amazing how the staff on board Fred. Olsen can remember your favourite tipple, and also remember exactly how your steak is cooked. I have returned to Fred. Olsen ships after 6 months and the staff still remember my name – I am not that memorable!   

The top deck - the Marquee deck, is the place to head when the weather is nice.  You will find 2 swimming pools, a paddling pool and 2 Jacuzzis with plenty of sun loungers.   The perfect place to relax on a sea day. The marquee bar will keep you refreshed throughout the day before heading to dinner in the Grampian restaurant.  You can also find more places to lounge in the sun and play golf in the nets on the upper Sun Deck.  Towards the front of the ship is the Observatory Lounge, I must recommend traditional afternoon tea here.  Served on certain days during your cruise.  It must be pre-booked as it is popular.  You can have a selection of teas, finger sandwiches and tempting sweet treats. 

On deck 7, the Bridge deck, you will mainly find suites and rooms, but this is the location of the rather impressive gym.  Formally a bar on board, the company decided to change it to the gym and what better way to keep in shape then exercising with fantastic sea views!

Deck 6 is next, the Lido deck, again, this is mainly filled with rooms but you will find the buffet 'style' Palms Café.  Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is an alternative to the main restaurants, and if you don’t fancy dressing up one evening, this is a great option.  There is so much choice here from salads and starters to mains and desserts.  With Fred. Olsen having a Norwegian heritage, seafood is very much order of the day with anything from a seafood cocktail to the fresh catch!

Most of the public facilities can be found on Deck 5, the Lounge Deck.  The Coral club is located at the back of the ship, with live entertainment and a place for a pre-dinner drink.  Guest services are open throughout the day for any queries whilst on holiday.  The port shop, photo gallery & excursion desks are located here.  The Bookmark Café is a fantastic chocolate shop selling handmade chocolates to eat on board, or take home as presents!  The Morning Light pub is like a local at sea with its daily quiz and the place to head for a cocktail before taking in an evening performance in the Neptune Lounge.  The Library offers a selection of books, the latest news around the World in the daily newspaper printed on board, plus a selection of board games. 

Decks 4, 3 & 2 you will mainly find accommodation.  On deck 3 there is the Atlantic Spa offering a range of treatments from massages to haircutting!  There is a sauna and steam room here too.

Once again my time on board Braemar is over; I always wish I could stay longer on board but can’t wait to join Braemar again, hopefully very soon.