Borealis

Borealis is the older of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ two former Holland America ships, built in 1997 as Rotterdam, when she served as that line’s flagship, and joining Fred. Olsen in 2021. She is a sister in spirit to Bolette, with the same solid construction, classic layout and generous teak decks, and she now carries a mostly British, mostly mature crowd who value a sociable, traditional atmosphere. Fred. Olsen’s itineraries play to her strengths: scenic routes such as the Norwegian fjords and Northern Lights voyages, plus the Canary Islands and longer journeys. Departures from several UK ports mean many guests can skip the flight entirely.

Best for: Mature British travelers who want a traditional, mid-sized ship for scenic voyages like the Norwegian fjords or the Northern Lights.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is a family-owned British line sailing three smaller ships, designed for mature UK travelers who like traditional cruising, no-fly departures from regional British ports and destinations big ships can’t reach, such as narrow Norwegian fjords. Fares include gratuities, guided walks ashore and selected drinks with meals. North Americans can sail, but onboard style, pricing and itineraries are tailored to British guests.