Press release -
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Unveils FleetPortals™ for April Fools 2026
In a playful April Fools’ announcement, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveiled FleetPortals™, an imaginative concept for instant travel across its fleet.
Earlier today, the cruise line announced the introduction of FleetPortals™, a fictional technology that would let guests move effortlessly between its smaller ocean ships – Bolette, Borealis, and Balmoral – sharing the announcement across its social media channels:
“Introducing FleetPortals™ – a new era of cruising innovation. Designed to connect our fleet like never before, this pioneering technology allows guests to transition effortlessly between our ships in moments.
"Fancy lunch on Balmoral but sunset drinks on Borealis? Now you can do both. Step through. Travel instantly. Experience more.”
The imaginative concept was created to shine a spotlight on the cruise line’s unique ‘Fleet Fiesta’ event, where all three ships come together for a special quayside celebration in Las Palmas. The event will feature lively crew competitions, including a Battle of the Bartenders and Tug of War, along with uplifting performances from the fleet’s talented show team – all set against the vibrant backdrop of the Canary Islands.
Guests can join this special event on one of three sailings across the fleet, with itineraries featuring calls to Spain, the Canary Islands, Morocco and Portugal. Highlights include the colourful, winding streets of Tangier’s labyrinthine medina; Cádiz, one of Europe’s oldest cities and home to authentic Flamenco; and Lisbon, known for its freshly baked pastéis de nata.
While FleetPortals™ may not be quite a reality, guests attending Fleet Fiesta will still be able to step on board each ship throughout the day. With the ships docked side by side, the event offers a rare opportunity to explore more of the Fred. Olsen fleet – to wander through elegant lounges, welcoming bars and on-board restaurants, enjoy spacious open decks, and meet fellow guests and the friendly crew who bring each ship to life.
It may not be instant teleportation but discovering the Fred. Olsen fleet will still be just a short stroll across the quayside.
Phil Gardner, Director of Commercial & Product at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:
“Our Fleet Fiesta event gives guests a unique chance to see what makes a Fred. Olsen cruise feel so special, with the rare opportunity to step on board all three of our ships in a single day. It’s a fun celebration of our fleet – full of character, festivities and moments to enjoy together. For anyone looking for something a little different, it’s a memorable way to experience the spirit of cruising with Fred. Olsen.”
Guests can join the Fleet Fiesta celebrations on one of the following itineraries:
Bolette’s 16-night T2628 ‘Spain & Morocco Fleet Fiesta’ cruise, departing from Liverpool on 21st November 2026. Prices start from £2,149 per person.
- Meet up with Borealis and Balmoral in Las Palmas for a day of fun
- Explore coastal Spanish landmarks and Tangier's medina
- Immerse yourself in local culture, like sampling tagine and mechoui
Itinerary: Liverpool, United Kingdom – Cádiz, Spain – Ceuta, Spain – Tangier, Morocco – Agadir, Morocco – Arrecife, Canary Islands – Las Palmas, Canary Islands – Vigo, Spain – Liverpool, United Kingdom
For more details: Visit T2628 Spain & Morocco Fleet Fiesta
Borealis’ 15-night S2630 ‘Canary Islands Fleet Fiesta’ cruise, departing from Southampton on 23rd November 2026. Prices start from £1,749 per person.
- Enjoy a day of fun as Borealis joins Bolette and Balmoral in Las Palmas
- Embrace Spain's relaxing siesta culture and relax on sandy beaches
- Explore Madeira's lush landscapes and sample its fortified wine
Itinerary: Southampton, United Kingdom – Gibraltar, Gibraltar – Arrecife, Canary Islands – Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands – Las Palmas, Canary Islands – Santa Cruz de La Palma, Canary Islands – Funchal, Portugal – Matosinhos, Portugal – Southampton, United Kingdom
For more details: Visit S2630 Canary Islands Fleet Fiesta
Balmoral’s 10-night L2639 ‘Canaries Escape with the Fleet Fiesta’ fly-cruise, departing from Santa Cruz de Tenerife on 30th November 2026. Prices start from £1,049 per person.
- Experience a day of festivities in Las Palmas with Bolette and Borealis
- Uncover the vibrant treasures of the Canaries, Madeira, Lisbon and Porto
- Soak up the winter sun in Gran Canaria and Tenerife
- Flights from London or Manchester included
Itinerary: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands – Las Palmas, Canary Islands – Arrecife, Canary Islands – Funchal, Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal – Matosinhos, Portugal – Southampton, United Kingdom
For more details: Visit L2639 Canaries Escape with the Fleet Fiesta
To discover more about Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s Fleet Fiesta, visit https://www.fredolsencruises.com/fleet-fiesta. Book online or call Reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm) or contact your ABTA travel agent.