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At a glance
Visiting:
Belgium
France
Length:
7 nights
Make your own way
no flight
Price from:£749pp
Request Brochure - European River Cities and Christmas Markets
To book or for more information please call: 0330 341 1117 and quote RTA
European River Cities and Christmas Markets
Your cruise is crafted to coincide with Christmas Markets in two European cities, which are reached via historically important rivers. You can soak up the cosy atmosphere while browsing the stalls for traditional handicrafts and sipping on warming mulled wine. In Antwerp, there will be chances to view art nouveau architecture, unearth the works of Rembrandt, sample Belgian chocolate and explore the diamond district – the largest of its kind in the world. Rouen’s medieval streets, half-timbered buildings and links to Joan of Arc are yours to discover before Balmoral sails the picturesque River Seine via the French countryside – a journey only possible on smaller ships.
Special Offer:
Solo traveller offer available
Holiday Highlights
Browse stalls at two traditional Christmas Markets in two cities
Sample delicious Belgian chocolates in Antwerp
Explore the winding medieval streets of Rouen
What's Included
Comfortable, stylish cabins and suites equipped with a Smart TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and individually controlled air conditioning
A tempting choice of cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five-course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets, late-night snacks and much more
Unlimited, self-service tea and coffee available 24hrs at selected venues, complimentary afternoon tea* with sandwiches and cakes, and in-room sandwiches and snacks
A full programme of evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, comedy, dancing and live music
Full use of on board leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and gym
A wide choice of engaging on board activities and lectures throughout the day
All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
Luggage porterage between your cabin and the drop-off/pick-up point
Formal welcome and/or Captain’s Drinks Party and Gala Buffet
Itinerary
Monday 16 December 2024
Departs Southampton
Depart: Late PM
Tuesday 17 December 2024
Antwerp
Arrive: Late PM
Depart: Late PM
Wednesday 18 December 2024
Antwerp
Arrive: Late PM
Depart: Late PM
Thursday 19 December 2024
Cruising
Friday 20 December 2024
Rouen
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Early AM
Saturday 21 December 2024
Rouen
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Early AM
Saturday 21 December 2024
Cruising River Seine
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Late PM
Sunday 22 December 2024
Arrive back at Southampton
Arrive: Early AM
Balmoral
With departures from Dover, Southampton, Newcastle and Rosyth, Balmoral cruises offer the chance to explore some of the world's most spectacular destinations. What's more, despite being one of the largest Fred Olsen ships, Balmoral is small enough to take advantage of the tighter waterways along each route, so guests do not miss out on remarkable sights along the way, such as the Norwegian fjords or Germany's Kiel Canal.
As well as incredible scenery, Balmoral cruises provide the very best in amenities and dining experiences, as well as stylish and comfortable accommodation. With fewer than 1,400 guests, there is ample room for every passenger to enjoy the spacious venues and public areas, while still having plenty of chances to enjoy the company of others. Whether you're travelling around the culture-filled Americas or the Scottish Lochs, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on board Balmoral.
Chargeable Extras
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours.
*Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea not included.
Upgrade to All Inclusive Drinks Package is available as a chargeable optional extra and can be added to your booking up to six days prior to your cruise departing.
Travelling to Europe
Rules may have changed since you last travelled to European Union countries as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The following are useful guidelines which will help you prepare for your next adventure. You do require government issued passport to travel.
Names - It is very important that all passenger names are exactly as per your passport although we do not require middle names.
Passport - Your passport must meet two requirements to travel to an EU country and to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. It must be: Less than 10 years old on the day you return home (please check the "date of issue") and valid for at least 3 months after the day you return home (please check the "expiry date").
Visa - You do not need a visa for short trips to most EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. You’ll be able to stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period.
European Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS) - Due to commence in 2025, all citizens of the United Kingdom will require a ETIAS electronic form completed prior to their arrival into the EU and Schengen member countries. The cost for this travel authorisation will be €7.00 per person with exceptions for under 18’s and over 70’s. The latest information and further details can be found at www.etias.com.