Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has announced its new 2027 cruise schedule, featuring 70 unique sailings from January to September. These itineraries depart from various UK ports, including Liverpool, Southampton, Portsmouth, Newcastle, and Rosyth. The program aims to offer travelers a mix of iconic destinations and less-explored locations, moving beyond standard tourist routes. Specific highlights for departures from Liverpool include scenic journeys through Greenland, explorations of Scotland's remote islands, and a special cruise aligned with Malta's vibrant carnival festivities.
Key Takeaways
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines launched 70 new sailings for 2027.
- Liverpool is a key departure port for several unique itineraries.
- Cruises include Greenland, Scottish Isles, and Mediterranean destinations.
- Expanded short cruise options are available around UK bank holidays.
- The Freedom Fare Price Promise offers booking benefits.
Expanded Cruise Options and Destinations
The 2027 program offers an expanded selection of shorter cruises, with options lasting five nights or less. These shorter trips are strategically timed to coincide with UK bank holidays, providing convenient opportunities for quick getaways. This approach caters to guests looking for a well-timed escape without committing to longer voyages.
Martin Lister, Head of Product Innovation at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, emphasized the thoughtful curation behind the new offerings. He stated that the program is designed to cater to a wide range of travelers, whether they seek a bucket-list adventure or a relaxing break.
"We're thrilled to unveil our 2027 cruise programme, thoughtfully put together by our journey planners to offer something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re looking to tick off a bucket-list destination or simply relax in comfort, we’ve created a range of sailings that promise unforgettable experiences," said Martin Lister.
Program at a Glance
- Total Sailings: 70
- Departure Period: January to September 2027
- Key Departure Ports: Liverpool, Southampton, Portsmouth, Newcastle, Rosyth
- Short Cruises: Five nights or fewer, timed with UK bank holidays
Liverpool Departures Feature Unique Voyages
For guests departing from Liverpool, the 2027 program reintroduces popular destinations and adds new cultural experiences. The return of Greenland cruises is a response to high demand, offering guests a chance to explore its rugged landscapes. Voyages to Scotland's wild isles and Norway's fjords cater to those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Conversely, sailings to the Amalfi Coast and the South of France provide a more relaxed pace, focusing on sunshine, classic coastal charm, and cultural immersion. These diverse options reflect Fred. Olsen's commitment to offering varied travel experiences from Liverpool.
The Fred. Olsen Fleet
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines operates a fleet of smaller, more intimate ships. These vessels are designed to access ports that larger cruise ships cannot, allowing for unique itineraries and closer cultural experiences. The Borealis and Bolette are two of the ships featured in the 2027 program, known for their comfortable amenities and focus on destination-rich journeys.
Booking Benefits and Inclusions
Guests who book by October 30th can take advantage of Fred. Olsen's Freedom Fare Price Promise. This policy guarantees the best value for early bookings. If a lower fare or additional benefits, such as onboard spending credit or drinks packages, are introduced later, Fred. Olsen will match the difference. This will be provided as a complimentary cabin upgrade or onboard credit, ensuring early bookers receive competitive pricing.
For solo travelers, single occupancy cabins will be priced equivalently to twin fares during the initial four weeks of the program launch. This initiative aims to make cruising more accessible for individuals traveling alone.
The Freedom Fare for 2027 cruises continues to offer comprehensive inclusions. Guests will benefit from full-board dining, diverse entertainment, and enrichment talks. Additional perks include complimentary guided walks ashore, shuttle buses for distant ports, access to fitness centers and classes, selected drinks with meals, and inclusive gratuities, port taxes, and fees. This package aims to provide a hassle-free and value-rich experience for passengers.
Highlighting Specific Liverpool Itineraries
Greenland: Rugged and Remote Exploration
The Borealis' 14-night S2711 'Exploring Rugged & Remote Greenland' cruise departs from Liverpool on July 5, 2027. Prices for this journey start from £2,099 per person. This itinerary includes cruising through the Prins Christiansund, known for its towering cliffs and dramatic fjords. Guests can participate in guided kayak trips or boat tours to the Qooroq Ice Fjord, offering close-up views of icebergs.
Expert guidance from ORCA, a marine conservation charity, will enhance wildlife spotting opportunities for whales, seals, and seabirds in the Arctic's remote waters. The itinerary includes stops in Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), Reykjavík (Iceland), Narsarsuaq, Qaqortoq, and Nanortalik (Greenland), before returning via Belfast to Liverpool.
Scottish Isles: Bank Holiday Break
A shorter, 5-night S2716 'Scottish Isles Bank Holiday Break' cruise on the Borealis departs from Liverpool on August 28, 2027, with prices starting from £669 per person. This cruise explores Scotland's wild islands, showcasing dramatic cliffs and Norse ruins. Guests can discover ancient history at sites like Skara Brae and Jarlshof, and sample local gin and whisky. The scenic sea journey includes sailing past iconic landmarks such as Fingal’s Cave and Dutchman’s Cap. Stops include Kirkwall (Orkney) and Lerwick (Shetland).
Mediterranean Culture and the Amalfi Coast
The 16-night S2717 'Cultural Mediterranean with the Amalfi Coast' cruise, also on the Borealis, departs from Liverpool on September 2, 2027. Prices begin at £1,999 per person. This voyage offers a deep dive into Mediterranean culture. Guests can experience authentic Naples, famous for its pizza, and visit Capri. Salerno offers Amalfi flavors, including fresh scialatielli pasta and limoncello. Ravello's classical elegance, with its music, gardens, and sea views, captures the essence of 'la dolce vita'. The itinerary includes Malaga, Cartagena, Olbia, Naples, Salerno, Cagliari, and Lisbon.
Volcanic Azores and a Solar Eclipse at Sea
The Borealis' 14-night S2713 'Volcanic Azores & The Solar Eclipse' cruise departs from Liverpool on July 21, 2027, starting from £1,899 per person. This unique sailing offers the chance to witness a solar eclipse at sea, with expert commentary provided by astronomers from Go Stargazing. Guests will explore the remote beauty of the Azores, characterized by volcanic peaks and crater lakes. Whale-watching tours will highlight the Atlantic's marine life. The cruise also includes time in Madeira and mainland Portugal, offering scenic landscapes and vibrant local culture. Stops include Matosinhos (for Porto), Lisbon, Funchal (Madeira), Ponta Delgada, and Praia da Vitoria (Azores).
North Africa and Malta's Carnival
The Bolette's 19-night T2703 'Discovering North Africa & Malta' cruise departs from Liverpool on February 1, 2027, with prices from £1,899 per person. This itinerary allows guests to wander Tangier’s historic Kasbahs and enjoy mint tea. Algiers offers grand Ottoman palaces and chef-led market tours focusing on local spices. A major highlight is celebrating Malta’s Carnival in Valletta, with two festive days of parades, costumes, and music. The itinerary includes Tangier, Cartagena, Algiers, Valletta, La Goulette (Tunisia), Cagliari, and Melilla.
Further details and booking options are available on the Fred. Olsen Cruises website. For more local news and events in Liverpool, visit Liverpool News Today.