After the busy festive period, escape to the sun-kissed Canaries on a rejuvenating cruise just as the winter cold, rain and gloom sets in at home. You’re in for a restful, relaxing holiday, hopping between beautiful islands, exploring their volcanic lands, sampling their culture and relaxing on their glorious beaches. On Tenerife, you could head to the coast for a few hours of sunbathing, or even opt to see the island’s volcanic interior and ascend Mount Teide by cable car. Perhaps uncover the secrets of the mysterious pyramids and poison gardens of Güímar. You’ll find Gran Canaria is a haven for relaxation; the island is renowned for its year-round warmth and its long stretches of golden sands, such as those found at Maspalomas. You could spend some time on a laidback amble through the picturesque Agaete Valley here too.
With its imposing volcanoes and verdant forests, La Palma’s landscapes make for rewarding exploration, as does the otherworldly scenery of Lanzarote. Perhaps take to the peaks and lava fields of Lanzarote’s Fire Mountains; amongst this lunar-like wonderland you'll get to feel the heat of an active volcano, and leave your footprints in the dramatic black sands. Other highlights include chances to indulge yourself at the Olsen family-owned Jardin Tecina Hotel on La Gomera, where the forests and volcanic gems of an UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve await you too. Not far from the Canaries, there’s also a visit to the floral Portuguese island of Madeira. From Funchal you could ride the cable car to discover the floral scenes of fragrant botanical gardens and watch as people ride toboggans down the capital’s hills, or take in lush-green scenery uncovered via the unique levada trails.
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.