Fred. Olsen’s Balmoral Sets Sail on Epic 82-Night Asian Adventure
Fred. Olsen’s smaller ship Balmoral is gearing up for a grand 82-night cruise packed with history, wildlife, and vibrant culture. The voyage kicks off in southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton on January 18, 2025, and promises a deep dive into some of Asia’s most legendary landmarks and festivals.
Temple Runs and Timeless Civilisations
Passengers will explore the jaw-dropping temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the world’s largest religious monument. Myanmar’s ancient city of Bagan is also on the itinerary, offering a rare glimpse into centuries-old history. Wildlife buffs can spot Borneo’s famous proboscis monkeys or get up close with elephants at Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe Elephant Park.
History, Festivals and Local Life
Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City offers a haunting look into wartime history with the extensive Củ Chi tunnels. In India, Chennai acts as the gateway to Mahabalipuram’s Pallava dynasty monuments. The cruise culminates in Mumbai, where guests can join in the riotous Hindu Holi Festival and witness the busy dabbawallas deliver lunches across the city.
Perks and Prices
The ‘Discovering Asia with the Holi Festival’ cruise starts from £8,999 per person. Book now and enjoy up to £500 per person to spend on board, plus free door-to-door transfers within 250 miles of the UK port.
Martin Lister, Head of Itinerary Planning at Fred. Olsen, says: “This Grand Voyage is perfect for culture lovers. Guests can explore ancient civilisations, stunning religious sites, and diverse wildlife. The highlight? Experiencing Mumbai’s Holi Festival, complete with bonfires and colourful celebrations.”
Full Itinerary Highlights
- Southampton, England
- Gibraltar
- Valletta, Malta
- Alexandria, Egypt (overnight)
- Suez Canal Cruise
- Sharm el-Sheikh & Safaga, Egypt
- Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Colombo & Hambantota, Sri Lanka
- Port Klang (for Kuala Lumpur), Malaysia
- Kota Kinabalu, Borneo
- Muara, Brunei Darussalam
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Sihanoukville, Cambodia
- Singapore
- Yangon, Myanmar (overnight)
- Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Kochi & Mumbai, India (overnight)
- Muscat & Salalah, Oman
- Aqaba, Jordan
- Asdod & Haifa, Israel
- Heraklion, Crete
- Catania, Sicily
- Cartagena, Spain
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Return to Southampton
Book Your Spot Now!
For more info or to secure your cabin, visit fredolsencruises.com/cruise/discovering-asia-l2502. You can also call Reservations at 0800 0355 242 or chat with your ABTA travel agent. Don’t miss this epic voyage of discovery with Fred. Olsen!
