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M.S. Balmoral in Norway in July. |
| Reviewed By: jones, redditch on 12th Jul 2008 |
| Cruise Line: Fred. Olsen Cruises |
Times cruised before: 6-10 |
| Cruise Ship: Balmoral |
Sailed:
July,
2008 |
| Destination: Norwegian Fjords |
Age: 46-55 |
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We have just returned from a cruise to the Fjords on Balmoral.Having cruised several times we can say that Fred Olsen compares favourably with other lines such as Cunard,Costa,MSC,and Princess.It's little things that make a difference and having tea and coffee-making facilities,no added 15% charge on a round of drinks,and the service in the Ballindalloch Restaurant of our waiters Ferdi and Roberto helped to make it that much more enjoyable.Fred Olsen uses mainly Philippino staff and these 2 guys were a delight to meet and be served by.When I went to collect croissants from the self-service buffet Roberto asked me why I hadn't asked him to fetch them! Boddingtons is 2.55 a pint,Magners 3.15 and Pina Colada 3.65 for those who like a drink.Cabins had plenty of drawer and hanging space,bars and restaurants are nicely decorated without being glitzy.Olden,Flam and Eidfjord are small but scenic ports,Bergen is a pleasant city.The Flam railway is a marvellous piece of engineering with breath-taking views,well worth the trip.We were fortunate with some lovely weather.
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| Quality of Food |  |
| Ballindalloch Restaurant 3 times a day!Ate starters,soup,salad,main course,sweet, cheese&biscuits and coffee.Oh and a bottle of wine!Kippers for breakfast. | | Entertainment |  |
| Enjoyed all the shows particularly one by the ship's staff. Andrew Skrimshire is a fine cellist. | | Shore Excursions | n/a |
| | Staff |  |
| The ever-smiling resaurant waiter Roberto and his colleague Ferdi on table 109 made dining a most enjoyable experience.Thank-you,chaps! | | Children's Facilities | n/a |
| | Onboard Activities |  |
| Plenty of activities throughout the day and night. | | Cabins |  |
| An inside cabin on Coral deck 4 was adequate,plenty of drawers,room for a table and armchair.Would have enjoyed a sports news channel and Sky News to keep up-to-date,but thats being picky. | | Overall Rating |  |
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