Dec
2018
Fred Olsen Balmoral Amsterdam & Antwerp Mini Cruise – 8th December 2018
Christmas is just around the corner, so now is the time to visit Europe.
Head on this December mini cruise with Fred Olsen and spend the night in both Amsterdam and Antwerp, soaking up the real European festive atmosphere.
Oh no, the ship has sailed on this cruise
Sorry, the ship has sailed on this mini cruise and I'm sure it was a blast! Never mind though, there are plenty more mini cruises to choose from.
About this cruise
This isn't a sun lounger cruise, well not in your bikini at least. It is mid-December after all. However, this itinerary reflects that, with no sea days and not one, but TWO overnight stops.
Let's get the party started on Saturday 8th December 2018 in Southampton, where you'll be introduced to Balmoral. She's an elegant ship that's large enough to offer variety but small enough so as not to overwhelm. If you've not tried small-ship cruising before, this is a very good introduction.
Get on board and get acquainted. You'll find plenty to keep you busy, from bars and lounges to a theatre and card rooms. There's a spa and a couple of outdoor pools, although it's the steaming hot tubs that you should be looking out for in mid-December.
You'll sail overnight and reach Amsterdam late in the afternoon on Sunday. So arguably, the morning is like a mini sea day, where you can do as you please. Have a lie-in, enjoy a lazy breakfast, sit in the lounge and watch the waves go by, take part in the onboard fun and games, or browse the boutiques.
The ship will remain in port overnight so you'll have the chance to tour Amsterdam in twilight as well as the following morning. Take an evening canal cruise or join an expert guide for a tour of Amsterdam's famous Red Light District. In the morning, head to one of Amsterdam's many art galleries and museums, hit the shops, or take a hop-on hop-off tour of the city.
On Monday afternoon you'll head back out to sea, bound for Antwerp in Belgium. You'll arrive early in the afternoon on Tuesday and will once again have the evening and following morning to explore Antwerp. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Royal Museum of Fine Arts which house the works of Rubens ad other Flemish artists. Alternatively, explore the region's diamond trade or satisfy your cravings with an in-depth look at their chocolate trade.
Early on Wednesday afternoon, the ship will make its way back along the Western Scheldt River (that's right - you get a mix of ocean cruising and river cruising on this itinerary) and back to Blighty, docking in Southampton early on Thursday morning.
It's a cheeky mid-December getaway that's easily crammed in before Santa arrives.
Tried and tested
I've sailed on Balmoral to Antwerp and Amsterdam. Read about my experience, my cabin, and the food.
The Route
The itinerary for this mini cruise is:
| Day | Date | Port | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saturday 8th December 2018 | Southampton | Late afternoon |
| 2 | Sunday 9th December 2018 | Amsterdam | Arrive late afternoon |
| 3 | Monday 10th December 2018 | Amsterdam | Depart late afternoon |
| 4 | Tuesday 11th December 2018 | Antwerp | Arrive early afternoon |
| 5 | Wednesday 12th December 2018 | Antwerp | Depart early afternoon |
| 6 | Thursday 13th December 2018 | Southampton | Early morning |
Why choose this taster cruise?
- 5 nights on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' largest small ship, Balmoral
- Voyage L1837 departs on Saturday 8th December 2018
- Sail round-trip from Southampton
- Overnight in both Amsterdam and Antwerp
So you know, the map above shows point-to-point lines which may cross land. Don't worry, your cruise ship will not sprout legs and run across dry land. Instead it's water all the way! Mapping is approximate, and the scheduled times are estimates. Your trip is subject to change as, occasionally, operators have to alter itineraries due to bad weather or unforeseen events.
The Price
Oh no, the ship has sailed on this cruise
Sorry, the ship has sailed on this mini cruise and I'm sure it was a blast! Never mind though, there are plenty more mini cruises to choose from.
More choices
Not quite right? Here are some other suggestions that may suit better.