Fred. Olsen has announced a 19-night Discovering North Africa & Malta cruise departing from Liverpool on February 1 2027, returning on February 20. The voyage stops at nine destinations: Tangier, the Strait of Gibraltar, Cartagena, Algiers, Valetta, La Goulette, Cagliari, Melilla, and Matosinhos.
Ports of call and highlights
The itinerary begins in Tangier, Morocco, where passengers can explore narrow streets filled with the smells of fresh spices and sample local dishes such as tajines and brochettes (kebabs). Cruising past the Strait of Gibraltar, travellers might spot whales or dolphins, as well as the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, also known as Caple Mons.
Cartagena offers the Roman Theatre and other archaeological sites. Algiers, near the Mediterranean coast, features lanes dotted with souks, hammams, and mosques. A day of sailing brings passengers to Valetta, Malta, known for its 16th-century walls, National War Museum, and diverse architecture. The visit coincides with the five-century-old Malta Carnival, where music, colourful costumes, and parades fill the streets.
Further destinations and the ship
In Tunisia, travellers can visit the ancient site of Carthage in La Goulette and barter in the Medina for souvenirs and spices. The next stop is Cagliari, Italy, where the local language is Sardu. Melilla, on the Moroccan coastline, offers both old and new towns with 14th-century fortresses and modernist buildings, the second largest collection outside Barcelona. Matosinhos, Portugal, is the final stop before returning home, with easy access to Porto for Port wine and the local dish Francesinha.
The ship is the Bolette, Fred. Olsen's flagship, featuring lounges, bars, restaurants, open deck spaces, and a roofed swimming pool on deck eight. Cabin options include ocean from £4,099pp, terrace from £5,499pp, and suites from £7,999pp. Single and interior cabin prices are available via the website. All options include full board dining with five-course à la carte dinners, casual dining, evening shows, live music, activities, pool, jacuzzi, fitness centre access, and free shuttle service for ports over one mile from the ship.
Other cruise options
Fred. Olsen also offers the Classic French Escapes: Bordeaux, Brest, Cherbourg & Honfleur trip with Ambassador Cruise Line, a 12-night voyage starting from £1,399 per person, including up to £200 onboard credit. This trip explores Brest, Bordeaux, Cherbourg, and Honfleur, with a stop in Belfast. Additionally, the Fjords & Mountains Of Norway voyage departs on June 26 2027, returning July 5, visiting Ålesund, Nordfjordeid, Nordfjord, Skjolden, Lustrafjord, Sognefjord, and Bergen.
