Following a short and easy flight, the elegant Balmoral was waiting for me in sunny Palma de Mallorca. Boarding was smooth and speedy, and before long, I was settling into my Superior Suite. With a separate sitting area, a private balcony, and every comfort I could possibly need, I knew it would be the perfect home for the next few days.
With my suitcase unpacked, I did what I always love most on embarkation day - exploring the ship! I started on the top deck to make the most of the warm weather. Balmoral has plenty of sun loungers and open deck space, plus two large heated saltwater pools where you can unwind, swim for a few lengths, or simply float and enjoy the views. Nearby, Jacuzzis offer blissful relaxation, and the Marquee Bar - with its glass roof and stylish décor - is an inviting stop for a refreshing drink.
An area I really liked was the Observatory on Deck 11. With panoramic views and soft, comfortable seating, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy Fred. Olsen’s Scenic Discoveries commentary. In the evening, it transforms into a lively lounge with music and entertainment from the resident band.
Next on my list was Atlantis Spa, a serene retreat with picture windows framing the sea. I booked a massage straight away (something I always recommend to avoid missing out). The treatment list includes massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and more, alongside hairdressing services for a fresh new style. Close by is the well-equipped Fitness Centre, offering a range of gym equipment, complimentary yoga and Pilates classes, and even sunrise sessions out on deck.
On Deck 10, the Spey and Avon restaurants offer a bright, elegant dining experience with ever-changing views. Their menus mirror the main Ballindalloch Restaurant, with freshly baked breads, soups, steaks, pastas, delicious desserts, and regional dishes inspired by each destination visited.
Moving down to Deck 8, I discovered the relaxed Lido Bar & Lounge, the perfect place to enjoy a drink with panoramic views over the aft pool. Also on this deck is Colours & Tastes, Balmoral’s Asian-inspired speciality restaurant. I made a note to return later for its tempting fusion dishes.
Deck 7 is a real hub of activity. The aft swimming pool makes a lovely spot to cool off, especially with Scoops Ice Cream Parlour close by. I found the Thistle Restaurant, a light and airy venue offering informal buffet dining and complimentary tea and coffee throughout the day. Afternoon tea (with sandwiches, scones and cakes) is served daily here too.
Continuing my tour, I found the Morning Light Pub. Named after one of the Olsen family's largest sailing ships in 1892 and decorated to resemble a British pub, the Morning Light Pub has a welcoming atmosphere and traditional style.
One of my favourite discoveries was the Bookmark Café. The aroma of freshly ground coffee and the display of handmade chocolates were irresistible - I had my eye on them from day one. Nearby is the serene Earth Room, filled with thought-provoking books and digital content about our planet, sustainability, and environmental issues.
The Card Room was surprisingly large compared to other cruise ships, ideal for bridge enthusiasts and card players. At the front of the ship, the Botanical Room stood out with its lush greens and peaceful atmosphere - perfect for reading or unwinding.
Passing the atrium, I browsed the onboard shops, offering everything from duty-free perfumes and jewellery to everyday essentials and Fred. Olsen merchandise.
At the very front of Deck 7 is the Neptune Lounge, home to evening entertainment including guest performers, singers, magicians, and the popular Captain’s Welcome and Farewell parties. During the day, it becomes a venue for talks and enrichment lectures linked to the destinations visited.
Down on Deck 6, I found the charming Oriental Tea Room, decorated with exotic touches and serving teas from China, Japan and Taiwan, as well as tea cocktails and Asian bottled beers. Close by is the Ballindalloch Restaurant, where each evening’s five-course menu is freshly prepared and beautifully served.
After a day of exploring, I enjoyed a sailaway drink on the top deck, complete with a fun cocktail-flair demonstration from the bar team. That evening, dinner in Ballindalloch did not disappoint. I enjoyed a crispy egg with black pudding crumble, Scotch broth, toad in the hole, and banoffee pie. As a fan of traditional British dishes, I loved the comforting, home-style cooking Fred. Olsen is known for.
Back in my suite, the Daily Times informed me of entertainment options, including a disco and Motown show, a Motown deck party, and live music across the ship. I ended my night with a drink in the Lido Bar, watching guests dance the night away at the deck party.
After a restful sleep, I woke to the skyline of Barcelona. I chose the Thistle Restaurant for breakfast, where the buffet offered everything from hot favourites to continental treats, and excellent coffee!
For today’s excursion, I opted for a Flamenco show, while other guests chose city tours, Sagrada Família visits, and art museum trips. The performance was an unforgettable blend of emotion, rhythm and storytelling - an authentic cultural experience.
Back onboard, the day’s entertainment offered plenty of options: a magician and comedy show, a grand buffet, a deck bbq, quizzes, golf, indoor curling, and more. Daily solo traveller meet-ups were also offered, which is wonderful for those cruising alone.
That evening, I dined in Colours & Tastes. Asian cuisine is one of my favourites, and the meal was exceptional - from the spicy rock croquette to the Korean sticky beef short rib and the five-spice chocolate cake. I chose a wine pairing to complement each dish, and everything was beautifully matched.
After all that food, I was ready for bed, but not before enjoying a nightcap. Fred. Olsen has such a wide range of drinks on the menu, and I was so surprised at the value! I rounded off the evening with my new favourite drink - an appletini!
We sailed overnight to Valencia, where we’d be enjoying an overnight stay. After a quick breakfast at the Thistle Restaurant, I headed to the Neptune Lounge to join today’s excursion: a paella cooking class. Other options included a city tour, a tuk-tuk experience, a tasting tour, and a visit to Albufera National Park.
We travelled into the countryside to a traditional home where our outdoor cooking stations were set up. Our host shared the history of paella (including the fact that chorizo or fish does not belong in the traditional dish). After donning our chef’s attire, we prepared our dish, then sat together at a long banquet table to enjoy our creation, accompanied by local wines, cheese, breads and dessert.
Back on board in the afternoon, I took the complimentary shuttle into Valencia to explore the old town, and then returned to the Bookmark Café for those chocolates I’d been eyeing up since embarkation - they were every bit as delicious as expected.
My final dinner in the Ballindalloch Restaurant was wonderful, and it was heart-warming to see the crew celebrating several guests’ birthdays. Throughout my stay, the attentive and friendly crew truly made the experience special.
