Strange move by Fred’s don’t you think?

In a surprise announcement which coincides with the launch of their 2016/17 brochure, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines have announced that they will be banning children from 20 of their planned cruises and only people of 18 years or older will be allowed to sail. What is so surprising about this announcement is that hardly any children sail on these ships anyway, a handful at most on each cruise, so of all the changes that Fred Olsen could make they decide to do this. I must admit, I’m a bit baffled by it!

Usually families would chose the like of Royal Caribbean, NCL or P&O as they have plenty of family friendly features, as well as the kids clubs, to keep their little ones happy and entertained for the duration, thereby ensuring the opportunity to get some well deserved R&R for themselves. Fred’s have none of the above although children are well looked after by the staff who do their best to entertain them given the limited facilities, and now it seems they want the little blighters off the ships altogether.

The other announcement for next year is the introduction of brand new destinations, one of which will feature on the ‘ Maiden Call Mystery Cruise’ – this is not the first times Fred’s have offered a mystery cruise – guests have no idea where they will be sailing to until they get on board, but one of the ports of call in 2016 will be a new port for the cruise line.

Nothing groundbreaking or too outrageous then for the foreseeable from Fred’s, but then that’s why, on the whole, we love them – they do what they say on the tin. You know that you can board safe in the knowledge that food and service will be excellent and that the happy staff will go the extra mile to ensure you have the best possible cruise experience.

For groundbreaking you need to look elsewhere! For more info on cruising, as always please call me on 0800 408 6084 or email me at [email protected]. I’ll be delighted to chat to you.