We went for the first time on Fred Olsen’s new ship, Bolette. We sailed from Dover and as we live nearby it is a very easy port for us. Boarding was very pleasant, live music to greet us and a fast and efficient boarding procedure.
We were shown to our cabin, which was a Superior Outside on deck 2.
A very spacious cabin with lots of storage space, mini fridge and easy to use safe.
We were very lost the first day but soon found our way around. Having travelled on all of Fred’s other ships, I think Bolette beats them all. Of course Braemar is still a favourite and has a huge fan club mainly for being so friendly. For friendliness Bolette does not compare.
The food was very good in the main restaurant and very well presented. We went to The View a couple of times to try it and is self service in as much as you are served your food but can choose your food as you see it. Also has a pasta station and ice cream station as well as a variety of different types of food hot and cold and a gluten free section.
The waiters very good as always and there to help you in whatever way you need.
I got very hooked on their seedy brown rolls and miss them already!
The show company were very good and very talented, we also enjoyed the guest entertainment.
The whole point of the trip for us was to go to the Floriade in Amsterdam which did not disappoint. The tour was very well organised and the tour guide on the coach very knowledgeable which made our visit a lot easier. There were plenty of eating places and toilets, a very enjoyable day although quite tiring. There was a land train and a cable car ride, and a lot of volunteers to help you find the different areas if you were lost.
The only downside on Bolette for me was the lack of shops. Being a larger ship I had expected more. Therefore the choice of perfume etc. was very limited and certainly nowhere to browse around.
What we experienced on this trip we are certainly looking forward to the next.
