Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral has welcomed her first guests aboard after completing a comprehensive multi-million-pound dry dock refurbishment at A&P Falmouth.
The ship underwent a two-week maintenance programme beginning on 1st December, during which significant upgrades were made both inside and out.
Onboard, the upgrades included the renovation of several cabins and bathrooms, a technical refurbishment of the Neptune Lounge, and the transformation of the former Palms Café into the new Thistle Restaurant.
The refurbished buffet venue now features a redesigned layout, refreshed seating areas, and updated buffet and drinks stations, making it the most significant internal project of the dry dock.
The ship’s WiFi capabilities were also enhanced to provide a more seamless experience for guests.
Externally, Balmoral underwent an ultra-high-pressure water blast of her underwater hull, received a coating of silicone antifouling paint to improve fuel efficiency, and had new propellers and bow thrusters installed.
A commitment to sustainability and local partnerships
Fred. Olsen CEO Samantha Stimpson highlighted the environmental and operational benefits of the dry dock.
“This has been an incredibly successful dry dock programme, allowing us to not only conduct important maintenance but also make some exciting enhancements for our guests – most notably our beautiful new buffet restaurant.
“The application of antifouling silicone paint to Balmoral’s hull will enable us to use less fuel, and teamed with other improvements we have made, including the upgrading of our propeller and stabilisers, will allow us to sail more efficiently and sustainably, whilst continuing to offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience on board.”
Fred. Olsen CEO Samantha Stimpson
A workforce of more than 700 people, including 350 Fred. Olsen crew and 30 apprentices from A&P Falmouth, helped complete the programme.
“Contracts such as these make a significant economic contribution to the prosperity of the UK and help support our workforce and apprenticeship programme. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines over the months and years to come.”
A&P Falmouth CEO David McGinley
Balmoral’s upgrades position her to offer guests an even more enjoyable and environmentally friendly cruising experience as she sets sail on her next adventure.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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