My wife and I started cruising over 20 years ago and our favourite line was Fred Olsen. No longer. Since Fred jr. took over, cruise prices doubled; there is far better value elsewhere. It cost us £56 on this cruise for the Maitre D' to tap a few keys on his computer to alter our dining time ( I have medical issues and cannot dine late ) A one litre bottle of water in the cabin costs a ridiculous £2.50 which cost only a few pence to Olsen.

The entertainment was dreadful. The most unfunny comedian we have ever heard, a pathetic lady magician and although the theatre company were very good, their material was sometimes awful ( A Night on the TON, whatever that is, was dreadful ) The food was good, the staff were excellent ( particularly the executive sous chef who hlped greatly with my difficult diet ).

We are members of Fred Olsen's Ocean Club Gold level but there is now no benefit to this. No priority boarding, no discounts, no Capain's party for Gold members. In effect, nothing for our years of loyalty Read more