Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral sets sail following multi-million-pound dry dock project
c: Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
The first guests have set sail aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ newly refurbished Balmoral, following a multi-million-pound dry dock programme.
The cruise line’s smallest ship, Balmoral, entered the shipyard at A&P Falmouth on 1st December for a two-week programme of maintenance.
On-board, the work has included a technical refurbishment of The Neptune Lounge theatre, the renovation of a number cabins and bathrooms, plus a complete refurbishment of the ship’s buffet venue, now named Thistle Restaurant - formerly the Palms Café.
The new restaurant boasts a new layout, refreshed seating areas and updated buffet and drinks stations, and has been the biggest internal project.
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Work has also been completed to enhance the ship’s WiFi capabilities.
Extensive maintenance has also been completed on exterior areas, including an ultra-high pressure water blast of the underwater hull, application of silicone paint to improve fuel efficiency and installation of new propellers and bow thrusters.
It is a requirement for all cruise ships to enter a dry dock at least twice every five years, so that inspections and maintenance can be carried out to parts of the ship that are usually beneath the water.
The application of antifouling silicone paint to Balmoral’s hull will enable to use less fuel, and teamed with other improvements made, including the upgrading of the propeller and stabilisers, will allow to sail more efficiently and sustainably, whilst continuing to offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience on-board.