Sample A 'Mini-Cruise' With Fred. Olsen

The popularity of city breaks and long weekends away has grown enormously in recent years as people have less holiday time, and want to make the most of it. A great value-for-money option in this area is a ‘mini cruise’ - your holiday starts from the moment you embark, and there are no frustrating restrictions on what you can, and can’t, pack in your luggage.

Fred. Olsen has no fewer than 12 mini-cruises in 2012, from a range of regional UK ports, and many of them visit popular European cities, such as Amsterdam, Antwerp or Rouen.

These attractive short cruises offer wonderful value for money, as all your meals and the onboard entertainment are included in the price, and there are excellent onboard facilities, such as heated pools, hot tubs, fitness centres and beauty salons, plus a library, internet room and wi-fi access (so that you can always stay in touch), and spacious lounges and bars. There is also excellent onboard cuisine, and a busy programme of daily activities for those who want to join in. Here are just a few examples of some Fred. Olsen mini-cruise options:

Braemar has a three-night cruise departing from Dover on May 5, 2012, and visiting two lovely northern European cities – Ostende and Amsterdam. The Belgian city is an attractive port and, from here, you can opt for an excursion to the medieval city of Ghent. Amsterdam, of course, is one of the most popular European cities for a short break, with its lovely gabled houses, network of canals, and some of the finest art galleries and museums, alongside cafés and marvellous shops. The cruise returns to Dover, and prices start from £339 per person.

Balmoral has another three-night cruise, this time departing from Southampton, on August 25, 2012. This Bank Holiday weekend break visits the delightful medieval town of Antwerp, in Belgium, for an overnight stay. The cobbled streets and quirky old buildings are truly picturesque, and horse-drawn carriages give rides to visitors around the centre. You can relax at a pavement café, visit one of the many old churches or museums, or treat yourself in some of the exclusive boutiques and stylish shops. Antwerp is the centre of the European diamond industry, so there is no shortage of desirable jewellery on offer! Cruise prices start from £349 per person.

For an early autumn break, join Black Watch’s three-night cruise from Dover, departing on September 9, 2012, and visit the historic French city of Rouen, with its majestic cathedral immortalised by Monet. The city is steeped in history, and the Musée des Beaux Arts is a highlight. Prices start from £339 per person.

All prices are quoted per person, based on two adults sharing an inside twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. The price includes the accommodation, all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes.

For more info, visit www.fredolsencruises.com or contact the special cruise agents of The Cruise Line Ltd.

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