A Taste of Balmoral: My Fred. Olsen Fam Trip Experience - Kathrine Turver
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a fantastic fam trip aboard Balmoral, and it truly exceeded expectations from start to finish.
Our journey began with a smooth flight from Stansted to Málaga, where we joined the ship ready for a short but memorable itinerary.
Once onboard, I was delighted to learn that I had been upgraded to a beautiful suite on Deck 9, complete with the Sweet Dreams package. The added space, comfort, and thoughtful touches made the voyage even more enjoyable and gave me a perfect opportunity to experience the elevated offering for guests considering an upgrade.
Our ports of call were Gibraltar and Lisbon, both delivering wonderful experiences. In Gibraltar, I joined the popular Rock Excursion, which turned out to be a real highlight of the trip. Standing atop the Rock with panoramic views was unforgettable, and seeing the wild monkeys up close was an incredible moment. The guide was knowledgeable and engaging, and I walked away having learned so much about the area’s history, wildlife, and culture.
Lisbon welcomed us with its vibrant charm, colourful streets, and warm atmosphere. A perfect final stop.
The staff onboard Balmoral were exceptional throughout my trip. From the moment I stepped onboard, every team member went out of their way to make the experience warm, welcoming, and effortless. Their professionalism was matched by genuine friendliness, and nothing ever felt too much trouble.
Whether in the restaurants, bars, or around the ship, the service was consistently attentive and personalised. Crew members remembered preferences, offered helpful recommendations, and created an atmosphere that felt both relaxed and refined. The housekeeping team, too, delivered outstanding care. My suite was always immaculate, with thoughtful touches that made the Sweet Dreams package even more special.
Overall, the staff’s dedication and passion for what they do truly elevated the entire journey and played a huge part in making the trip unforgettable. it was a trip that offered both insight and inspiration. I left feeling more connected to the product and excited to share these firsthand experiences with customers.
Written by Kathrine Turver - Sales Consultant , Sussex Cruise Club