"Exciting enhancements" made to luxury cruise ship MS Borealis as vessel returns to Portsmouth - new changes
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A stunning luxury cruise ship has been modernised with “exciting enhancements” ahead of her return to Portsmouth during her winter season.
MS Borealis, operated by Fred Olsen, as gone through extensive investment ahead of operating from Portsmouth International Port this year. Engineers oversaw a two-week maintenance rejuvenation programme in Rotterdam, Netherlands - bringing technical upgrades and guest-centric enhancement designed to make customers’ experience better.
CEO of Fred Olsen, Samantha Stimpson, said she is delighted the 61,849 tonne vessel is welcoming back guests after undergoing major changes. “This investment underscores our ongoing commitment to enhancing the guest experience and proudly maintaining our fleet of classic, smaller ships for many more years of service,” she added. “The dry-dock programme allowed us to carry out essential technical and mechanical maintenance to ensure Borealis continues to operate efficiently and responsibly.
“During this period, we also invested in energy-efficient upgrades to key components, reaffirming our dedication to protecting the oceans we sail and ensuring a more sustainable future for cruising. Inspired by what our guests value most, we’ve also introduced a range of exciting enhancements – from refreshed public spaces to new dining experiences – designed to offer greater choice, improved comfort, and more memorable moments at sea.”
What changes have been made?
Public areas such as The Observatory and The View have been refreshed to make them brighter and more inviting for passengers. The onboard Atlantis Spa has also been upgraded, with upgraded salon equipment, a new pedicure chair and a new jacuzzi in the Thermal Suite. New fresh water piping systems have also been fitted in selected guest corridors.
The Neptune Lounge has been upgraded with better stage technology to improve the lighting and acoustics, along with the addition of new aerial silks. MS Borealis’ speciality restaurant, Colours and Tastes, has been refreshed with premium interiors to showcase the art collection. A new rotating themed menu featuring Gourmet Grill, Italian, and Asian-fusion, has been implemented.
A brand new open-air lounging venue called Fresco is set to be introduced, offering relaxing panoramic views. It also features a foot spa experience and spotlight stage for live performances. A workforce of more than 920 supported the successful completion of this project.
Other operational improvements have been made, with new RFID cabin doors and key cards being implemented, along with an updated phone system. Crew cabins and staff recreational areas have been refurbished, with the galley being modernised with energy-efficient equipment and a new pizza oven.
A workforce of more than 920 supported the successful completion of this project. MS Borealis underwent hull cleaning, grit blasting, and checks on key systems including the keel, bow thrusters, stabilisers, and propellers. More efficient propellers have been installed to improve fuel performance.
Several trips from Portsmouth have been scheduled for this year, with guests being give the chance to visit Germany, Latvia, Finland, Norway, Portugal, The Canary Islands, Spain, and other destinations - including specialist cruise ships to see The Northern Lights.