£549pp—Festive no-fly cruise to France & Belgium

Cruise to Antwerp and Rouen while their Christmas markets are in full swing. Walk among twinkling lights, browse the stalls, and sample some traditional delicacies. Dock overnight in both ports for time to explore their cobbled streets and Medieval architecture. Choose to take this 6-night sailing either this year or next.

What's included

• Six nights onboard Balmoral, in an Interior Cabin
• Full-board whilst cruising, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Onboard activities, such as guest talks and chart reading

When
Depart from Southampton on 16 December, 2024 or 2025.

For more information or to book online, see our partner's website.

Itinerary

• Antwerp... this Belgian port is renowned for its captivating museums and Art Nouveau architecture. The Christmas markets will be in full swing here. Admire the glittering lights and try out the temporary skating rink at Groenplaats. Sample traditional dishes like stoofvlees—beef stew made with beer. Try waterzooi, a creamy fish or chicken stew, or the famous frites and waffles. You'll stay overnight in port so you'll have plenty of time to explore.
• Rouen... the Christmas market here sits in the main square in front of the magnificent cathedral. Browse the stalls and try local speciality cheeses, ciders, and caramels. You'll dock overnight in port here. Be sure to explore the city's well-preserved Medieval old town and cobblestone streets.
• Scenic Seine cruising... in winter, the River Seine flows through the frost-touched countryside of Normandy. Cruise past enchanting towns nestled in the Seine Valley. See historic churches and traditional houses whilst sailing, and admire festive lights in rural France.

Ship details
Balmoral is the smallest ship in Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' fleet. Cruise Critic praises the offering of "classic small ship cruising with a fresh new look". 

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. An afternoon tea is served every day, with finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes.  You can dine at Fred. Olsen's speciality restaurant for a small supplement. The menu here specialises in Goan cuisine and Asian fusion dishes. A £10 per person supplement when pre-booking, or £15 when booking on board.

During the day, cosy up in one of the lounges. Or, visit The Observatory which has panoramic ocean views. At night, you could grab a drink at The Morning Light Pub. You could see a production in the elegant theatre and enjoy some dancing afterwards.

Enjoy guest talks from experts during your cruise. Architect and historian, Dr. Tom Gorst, will talk about the architecture in Antwerp and Rouen. Gary Miles, an expert in modern history, will discuss significant historical events in your destinations. 

Other options

• Sail in an Ocean View Cabin from £699 per person
• Sail in a Superior Ocean View Cabin from £899 per person

Transfers & baggage
Porterage is included between your cabin and the pickup and drop-off points.