Fred Olsen expands fleet with Bolette and Borealis

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has acquired two ships from Holland America Line, to be renamed the Bolette and Borealis.

The ships were formerly the Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and carry up to 1,380 and 1,404 guests. The deal was part of Carnival Corporation speeding up the sell off of part of its fleet, the initiative has also led to P&O Cruises losing Oceana.

Fred. Olsen Junior, chairman of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “I am delighted to be announcing this news today. We have chosen these vessels as they will fit seamlessly into our existing fleet of small ships, each carrying under 1,500 guests, bringing with them new and larger public areas whilst not compromising on our small ship experience.

“The naming of the vessels is important to us. Bolette and Borealis are both names of ships we have had in years gone by.

“This increase in our capacity demonstrates our confidence in the future. With over 170 years of seafaring history, we have sailed through many difficult periods. With these new additions to the fleet, we will come out of this current situation stronger than ever, ready to deliver the award-winning itineraries that we are famous for.”

Peter Deer, managing director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “This is an exciting chapter in the history of our company, and I know that our loyal and returning guests will be looking forward to exploring our new ships as soon as they can.

“Of course, we also hope to attract new guests to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and we look forward to demonstrating the exceptional service that makes us the best UK cruise line for repeat business.”

The two new ships will enter the fleet later this year following time to allow for rebranding work to be undertaken.