Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral named ‘Best for Dining’ in Cruise Critic’s UK Cruisers’ Choice Awards for second year running

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral has been voted ‘Best for Dining’ by guests and consumers in Cruise Critic’s annual UK Cruisers’ Choice Awards – for the second year in a row.

Balmoral, which carries up to 1,325 guests, retained the top title in the ‘Mid-Sized Ship’ category. The ship features six restaurants, including three main dining rooms – the Ballindalloch, Spey and Avon – and buffet restaurant The Palms Café.

In addition, Balmoral also boasts two specialty dining restaurants – The Grill, serving sumptuous steaks and fresh seafood, and The Poolside, with a menu to celebrate the culinary delights of the destinations visited during each cruise.

The UK Cruisers’ Choice Awards are based entirely on reviews posted to the Cruise Critic website in a 12-month period. Each year the site receives more than 50 million opinions, reviews and photos from its followers.

Thomas Rennesland, Hotel Operations Director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:

“We know that we offer exemplary food right across our fleet, and Balmoral is certainly no exception. This award is testament to our talented and hardworking chefs, the galley team and the waiters, all of whom help to deliver the culinary experience for which we are known and loved. The fact that these awards are voted for entirely by guests makes it extra special.

“Of course, outside of breakfast, lunch and dinner, guests can also enjoy a silver service afternoon tea in The Observatory, a selection of delicious homemade cakes, signature coffees and chocolates in The Bookmark Café, delicious ice creams and, if that wasn’t enough, a late night feast at our Supper Club before turning in for the night.

“There is one thing for sure – you will never go hungry on a Fred. Olsen Cruise!”

Colleen McDaniel, Cruise Critic Editor-in-Chief, said:

“Our Cruisers’ Choice Awards have been a well-respected seal of approval for the past 10 years, due to the fact that they’re representative of true experiences from travellers themselves. They highlight the best of the best –cruise ships and lines – that truly stand out as having offered incredible vacations.

“While this is a unique year for the travel industry, it’s important to recognize the exemplary experiences that the cruise industry delivers. Cruising is a beloved form of travel, and there’s a reason cruisers are eager to return to the sea once they’re able.”

Balmoral’s award win follows on from the news that Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will be welcoming two new ships, Bolette and Borealis, into the fleet, bringing with them a host of new restaurants and culinary experiences.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines or to book online, visitwww.fredolsencruises.com, call Reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), or contact your ABTA travel agent.