Explore Norway with Fred. Olsen
Fred. Olsen – Exploring the Land of Fire & Ice in Nine Nights – May 2026
-
Balmoral in Dover ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
-
Colours & Tastes Restaurant on Balmoral ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
-
The Book Mark Café on Balmoral ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Sails from Newcastle
Embark on a journey through the ‘Land of Fire and Ice,’ a name bestowed upon Iceland for its contrasting geological marvels. You can observe the power and beauty of waterfalls like Dynjandi, Goðafoss and Gullfoss, witness the erupting Strokkur Geyser, and explore the remarkable Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel. Balmoral will also cruise past the unusually shaped peaks of Hornbjarg. Engage in Icelandic culture through horse riding, hiking, folklore, and bathing in geothermal hot springs. There’s also the chance to go whale watching from Akureyri, an area renowned for humpback sightings. Delve into Iceland’s commitment to renewable energy, understanding how they harness power from their natural landscapes.
Dates
Tuesday 5th May - Thursday 14 May 2026
Cruise Itinerary
Tuesday 05 May 2026
Departure from Newcastle, United Kingdom
Board the ship late evening before you set sail.
Wednesday 06 May 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Thursday 07 May 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Friday 08 May 2026
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is renowned as the perfect starting point for experiencing the Golden Circle Tour, visiting three remarkable locations: Thingvellir National Park, a keystone of Icelandic geological history; the Geysir geothermal area, home to the impressive Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes; and Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most picturesque and impressive in Iceland. You will also have opportunities to take a dip in the soothing waters of the geothermal pools of the nearby Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the South Coast of Iceland to wander along the black sand beaches of Vik or marvel at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
Saturday 09 May 2026
Isafjordur, Iceland
Renowned for its spectacular fjords, mountains, and valleys, Ísafjörður is a delight to explore in the summer months. Enjoy Ísafjörður from the unique perspective of the fjord on a kayak or guided boat trip. You’ll also have the chance to visit the spectacular waterfall at Dynjandi, which flows down the mountainside, spreading out like a bride’s veil. Meanwhile, enjoy sampling traditional Icelandic dishes, particularly freshly caught seafood, or local specialities like dried fish and stew.
Saturday 09 May 2026
Cruising by Hornbjarg, Iceland
As you cruise past Hornbjarg, one of the most remote cliffs in the north of Iceland, you will be able to appreciate the raw power of mother nature as the towering sea cliff is characterised by its sheer vertical drop into the Arctic Ocean, showcasing it as a stark natural barrier against the sea. You may also be able to spot puffins, guillemots, and other seabirds who nest here in the summer months.
Sunday 10 May 2026
Akureyri, Iceland
Nestled within the steep mountains of Eyjafjörður, visiting Akureyri in May offers fantastic opportunities to discover this small fishing town, overlooked by its distinctively shaped church and the volcanic lands that surround it. The fjord becomes a breeding ground for humpback and minke whales in the summer, so a whale-watching trip is ideal for spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You could experience the breathtaking ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, Godafoss Waterfall, or enjoy a hike to Súlur Mountain that towers over Akureyri, offering panoramic vistas over the town and surrounding fjord. There will also be chances to immerse yourself in local life by sampling traditional Icelandic dishes using local ingredients, like Arctic char, lamb, and skyr.
Sunday 10 May 2026
Cruising Eyjafjörður, Iceland
Cruising along the calm waters of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, flanked by steep mountains that slope down to the water’s edge, you are ideally placed at this time of year to search for marine life that makes this region home, including humpback whales. Amongst the seemingly never-ending mountainous views, you’ll be able to spot tiny villages and farms dotted along the fjord’s shores, including on the Island of Hrísey, which shares the green lands of the island with more than 40 bird species, including ptarmigans and the largest breeding colony of Arctic terns.
Sunday 10 May 2026
Cruising by Hrísey, Iceland
Hrísey Island is known as the ‘Pearl of the Eyjafjordur’ and is framed by mountainous landscapes and surrounded by the still waters of the Eyjafjordur. This is Iceland’s second largest island, yet only around 200 people live here in the one tiny fishing village. Those who do live on Hrisey share the flat green lands of the island with more than 40 bird species, including ptarmigans and the largest breeding colony of Arctic terns.
Monday 11 May 2026
Cruising Borgarfjörður Eystri, Iceland
As you cruise past the steep cliffs and through the deep blue waters of Borgarfjörður Eystri, you will have the chance to spot the large puffin colony at Hafnarhólmi, where the birds can often be seen flying over the water or nesting on the cliffs. The landscape surrounding the fjord is characterised by layered volcanic rock, where the picturesque village of Bakkagerði is nestled against the dramatic natural backdrop, its colourful houses standing out against the starkness of the rugged Icelandic terrain.
Monday 11 May 2026
Cruising Seyðisfjörður, Iceland
Located on the eastern side of Iceland, the fjord of Seyðisfjörður shares the same name as the town tucked away into its innermost corner. Surrounded by calm blue waters, huge mountains, hills and cliffs leading to an incredible display of nature – the Gufufoss Waterfall, formed by the river Fjarðará, and cascading down to a lagoon at the head of the fjord.
Monday 11 May 2026
Seyðisfjörður, Iceland
Located in the Eastfjords of Iceland, Seyðisfjörður is renowned as one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns, surrounded by green valleys where over 20 waterfalls cascade down into the lagoon at the head of the fjord. Skalanes Nature Reserve is situated on the south side of the town, and many seabirds, such as the black-tailed godwit, and cetaceans—including seals and porpoise—can be found here, along with several species of plant life. You’ll be able to see the town’s brightly coloured wooden houses, in hues of red, blue, yellow, and green, sitting alongside the quaint bright blue church.
Tuesday 12 May 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Wednesday 13 May 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Thursday 14 May 2026
Arrival at Newcastle, United Kingdom
After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.
Balmoral Ship Information
Balmoral is the largest of Fred Olsen’s cruise ships, on board there are nine decks two of which are for the sole purpose of leisure and relaxation.
The ship’s facilities include swimming pools & Jacuzzis, Fitness centre, Sundeck & golf nets, Atlantic Spa & Salon, library and card room. There are also boutiques, fine jewellery and Port shop. A selection of soft drinks, wines and beers are included and provided by a wide range of restaurants, cafés, grill and lounges on board.
During the day several talks, lectures and classes take place, while in the evening fantastic live performances including cabaret, stand-up comedy and concerts will keep you entertained throughout the duration of your cruise.
All of the 710 rooms are equipped with private facilities which include an en-suite shower (some may have a bathtub also), a desk, telephone, interactive television, hairdryer, air conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities. According to your needs you can choose between different room types: single, interior, ocean view, balcony rooms and suites.
| Date | Arrival | Departure |
|
Tue 05 May 2026 |
Late PM | |
| Wed 06 May 2026 | ||
| Thu 07 May 2026 | ||
| Fri 08 May 2026 | Early AM | Late PM |
| Sat 09 May 2026 | Early PM | Late PM |
| Sun 10 May 2026 | Early AM | Late PM |
| Mon 11 May 2026 | Early AM | Early PM |
| Tue 12 May 2026 | ||
| Wed 13 May 2026 | ||
| Thu 14 May 2026 | Early AM |
