Holidaymakers planning their next getaway might want to consider an extraordinary cruise departing from Liverpool in early 2027. The Discovering North Africa & Malta voyage is now available to book through Fred. Olsen, featuring a 19-night journey with stops at eight ports.
Itinerary and destinations
The cruise will include a visit to Tangier, the Strait of Gibraltar, Cartagena, Algiers, Valletta, La Goulette, Cagliari, Melilla, and Matosinhos. Departing on February 1 2027, the vessel will arrive back at the docks on February 20.
Travellers will have the opportunity to discover vibrant souks, elaborate palaces, and ancient kasbahs throughout this thrilling adventure. The initial port of call is Tangier, Morocco, where narrow twisting alleyways are filled with the aromas of fresh spices and traditional cuisine like tajines of stew and delicious brouchettes.
Highlights along the route
Sailing through the Strait of Gibraltar, passengers might spot whales or dolphins alongside the spectacular sight of the legendary Rock of Gibraltar, also known as Caple Mons. Cartagena is rich in ancient heritage where visitors can explore the Roman Theatre along with numerous other archaeological landmarks, the ECHO reports.
Situated near the Mediterranean coastline, Algiers is a maze of alleys, scattered with souks, hammams, and mosques. A day at sea will then transport you to Valletta, Malta, with its unmistakable 16th-century fortifications, National War Museum, and eclectic architecture.
The stop also happens to coincide with the five-century-old Malta Carnival, where music, vibrant costumes and processions fill the streets. The ship itself is Fred. Olsen's flagship, the Bolette, and offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy your trip.
Pricing and inclusions
There are plenty of cabin options, including ocean from £4,099pp, terrace from £5,499pp, and luxurious suites from £7,999pp. Those interested in single or interior cabins can call via the website for further details and prices.
All options include full board dining with five-course à la carte dinners, daily casual dining options, evening shows, live music, a variety of on-board activities, swimming pool, jacuzzi, and fitness centre access, as well as free shuttle service for ports over one mile from the ship.
Other cruise options and traveller feedback
If you would prefer a different type of trip, you could book a journey to the Caribbean through Ambassador Cruise Line from £1,449. Departing from London Tilbury, this 24-night Caribbean Voyage will call at France, Portugal, and the Azores before crossing the Atlantic.
MSC Cruises also offers a wide variety of trips across the globe. One such offering is the 9 NIGHTS on MSC Virtuosa, which will depart from Southampton and go across northern Europe from £489 per person.
Many travellers who have already booked journeys with Fred. Olsen praised their experience, with one writing: "No problems embarking very quickly and efficiently. Food was good, and staff was excellent. A very personal service from the day we booked."
Another added: "I like the small ships. They are very good and very nice to be honest with you, at a very reasonable price for what you get." A third said: "From the moment we arrived at the port everything was so well organised."
"Ship, staff, food and entertainment were all excellent. Shout out to our waiters, Pedro and Shubham. 10 out of 10 for service and friendliness."
A fourth added: "Our first cruise on the Borealis - very impressed from start to finish. The staff were all very friendly and efficient & nothing was too much trouble for them. Our waiters, Christopher & Julius & housekeeping team member, Julie (cabin 1865) deserve a mention also. We really enjoyed the entertainment, especially Brendo's singing!"
While a fifth said: "High quality of staff and service levels, creative and welcoming public areas and the instructive, effective and easy organisation throughout." A sixth added: "On entering our cabin we were pleasantly surprised at the size & decoration. We had a wonderful cruise made more special by our companions at dinner & the Fred Olsen staff."
However, one less pleased traveller wrote: "We would not have booked this cruise if we had known that we would be sailing slowly up and down the Irish Sea for a week. Just £50 each in our cruise account is nowhere satisfactory compensation."
Another added: "As ever we enjoyed almost all aspects of our cruise but our cabin 5018 had a few problems which I have outlined in detail in an email to guest relations. Our shower room fell far below the standard we have come to expect. I have included clear photos to back up what I have reported and I am awaiting a response from Fred Olsen."
