Fred Olsen Unveils 82 Night Cruise To Showcase Culture-Rich Asia

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has introduced a new 82-night Grand Journey, allowing passengers to see the culturally rich countries of Asia on a voyage that is scheduled to coincide with the Holi Festival.

The sailing on Balmoral includes stops in Myanmar and Cambodia, where tourists may see the Angkor Wat temples from Siem Reap.

“Wildlife enthusiasts will have the opportunity to observe unique species in Borneo, home to probosci’s monkeys, or explore Sri Lanka’s Udawalawa Elephant Park,” according to the line.

In addition, on a call to Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, tourists will see the C Chi tunnels, an immense network of underground tunnels.

There will also be the opportunity to attend the traditional Hindu Holi Festival in Mumbai.

The cruise will leave Southampton on 18 January 2025, with fares beginning at £8,999 per person.

“This magnificent trip has been crafted specifically with guests excited about cultural travel in mind,” said Martin Lister, Fred Olsen’s head of itinerary planning and destination experience.

Those who accompany us onboard Balmoral will learn more about several intriguing historical civilisations and have the opportunity to see numerous remarkable religious sites, monuments, and places of worship.”

Visitors searching for natural wildlife will be able to experience rare and migratory species such as birds and monkeys and dramatic displays of lit fireflies, with Borneo being a particular highlight.

Of course, our visit to Mumbai will be a wonderful highlight, scheduled to coincide with the traditional Hindu festival of Holi, when passengers can see the bonfires of Holika Dahan followed by the happy flinging of Gulal.”

Earlier this month, Fred Olsen announced a new world cruise for 2025 inspired by the voyages of notable historical explorers.

The flagship Bolette will sail from Southampton on 6 January 2025 on a path comparable to the first global circumnavigation by explorers Magellan and Elcano in 1519.