The Black Watch is a throwback to the golden age of cruises, decked out from top to bottom in a classical and traditional fashion. Capable of managing 800 guests, this means that there will be less crowding and the ship can go to interesting ports of calls that many others miss.
In 2010, the Black Watch went through a major refurbishment of the ship’s public areas, including a new casual dining area, Braemar Garden, with seating for 120 people. One section of this newly created dining facility can be used for private parties.
Other public areas of the ship have also been rejuvenated with eye-pleasing and pleasant decor.
Aboard the Black Watch, amenities are plentiful with a theatre, library and cabaret as well as two swimming pools and a fitness center. One highlight is the new Atlantis Spa, a great way to relax after doing some serious sightseeing. The main objective behind many spa treatments is to relieve stress and offer a feel-good attitude to continue on to the next day’s adventure.
90% of the cabins are outside with most measuring a comfortable 160 square feet. There are ultra spacious balcony and superior suites available as well.
DESTINATIONS
The Black Watch is truly a world traveller and goes to many exotic destinations.
For instance, in 2014, a two-month voyage sails from Southampton on 14 January 2014, makes a interesting mix of calls including Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Easter Island, Tahiti, Auckland and Bay of Islands before finally reaching Sydney.
Known as the ‘Australia & South America World Cruise’, it can be extend to a total of 114 nights. This is the longest world cruise ever undertaken by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
For anyone who has ever desired to carry on this journey from Sydney, the ship will leisurely head towards Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore and several ports in India, Jordan, Egypt and finally Malta and Gibraltar, before concluding in Southampton.
Another highlight for 2014 is the ‘Black Watch’s Film Stars & Fast Cars’ sailing. Taking place in May 2014, this two for one special features the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco’s Grand Prix.
It’s not too early to think about 2015 ether as Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines announced its schedule. Word is out that the “Solar Eclipse Cruise” that embarks from Southampton on the 9th of March 2015 is already full but it is possible to join the waiting list!
Black Watch has scheduled another themed departure taking place on the 12th of April and heading in the Mediterranean. This will entail a 28-night ‘Gallipoli Centenary Cruise’ which will honour Anzac Day. During WWI, troops from Australia & New Zealand landed at what is known as Anzac Cove in Gallipoli. A service observing this event will be held off the shores of Gallipoli marking its 100th year.
There are many more itineraries to choose from that are shorter in duration. The Black Watch offers the best of a Fred. Olsen Cruise in quality, price and interest.
FRED OLSEN OFFER TRADITIONAL SERVICE ON CLASSIC SHIPS
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is well known for their high quality and cruise aficionados find their traditional service on smaller classic ships a excellent benefit. They have earned respect of both guests and rivals alike.
All ships in their fleet are small size, which is an excellent advantage as passengers receive more spacious and comfortable surroundings with plenty of elbow room. The fleet can head to exotic areas that are unlikely for the mega cruise ships to make port. The food quality is exceptional, even by the standards of other major cruise lines and will impress the most experienced of gourmets.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has its headquarters in the UK and provides adventure for all kinds of travellers, including solo cruisers.
A cruise holiday aboard a Fred. Olsen ship ensures single guests will never dance alone as dance hosts and hostesses are available.
AWARDS
September 2013 marked another notch for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines by receiving the “Best Affordable Cruise Line” award from the Cruise International Awards (CLIA). This is not their only award to their repertoire, having been voted “Best European and Classic Ship Operator” and the “Best for Seeing the World.”
British cruisers voted that the 2012 Cruise Critic ‘Cruisers’ Choice UK for the ‘Best for Entertainment award’ to the ship Black Watch. The consensus was that the Black Watch’s crew “consistently went the extra mile.”
Images courtesy of Fred Olsen Cruises
Written by Veronica Shine
