Sponsored by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has confirmed plans to host more than 500 travel agents across a series of regional ship visits this year

The line will host members of the trade during nine events in Southampton, Newcastle, Liverpool and Rosyth on its fleet of three ships.

Each day will include a ship tour, a three-course lunch, followed by an interactive and educational workshop session, along with the opportunity to meet members of the Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines team and onboard crew.

The Southampton programme onboard Borealis kicks off on 30 April, with two further events taking place at the south coast port on 9 July and 23 November.

Agents will have the chance to tour Borealis’ public spaces and see how the ship’s lounges and bars provide varied social experiences, from elegant pre-dinner drinks to relaxed post-show chit-chat.

Visitors will also be able to explore the Atlantis Spa and Thermal Suite, as well as the all-weather Lido Pool with retractable roof and adjoining Jacuzzis. Other highlights include the Serenity Tea Room, which offers premium teas and tea-inspired cocktails, alongside dining venues such as Vasco.

On 23 April, Balmoral will welcome agents in Newcastle before repositioning to Rosyth for an event on 14 July. The ship will then return to Newcastle for its final trade visit day on 2 September.

Agents stepping aboard Balmoral will be guided through the ship’s ornate public spaces, including the Observatory Lounge and the cosy Morning Light Pub, which offers real ales, lively music and light-hearted quizzes.

The trade will also see how the ship’s five restaurants and seven bars balance refined dining with relaxed social spaces, as well as explore specialised areas such as the Earth Room and Botanical Room, which focus on sustainability and flora.

Bolette, meanwhile, will host agents on 27 May, 6 July and 8 October in Liverpool. As Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ flagship, Bolette features multiple lounges and bars, including the Observatory Lounge with panoramic views and a striking two-tiered show lounge where theatrical and cultural events collide.

Visiting agents will also see the Lido Pool area with its retractable roof and adjacent Poolside Café, ideal for light dining, as well as how adventurous plates are curated in restaurants like Vasco.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ head of sales Geoff Ridgeon said: “Our travel agents are instrumental in sharing the Fred. Olsen experience with our customers, and these ship visits are an important way for us to support them.

“They give agents the opportunity to see first-hand the thoughtful touches, warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere that define the Fred. Olsen feeling and set us apart. We’re looking forward to welcoming agents on board and giving them the insight they need to confidently promote our offering.”

Agents can sign up on via the line’s Travel Agent Centre.