Overview
A timeless style flows throughout Braemar's interiors. Large windows bathe the ship's public areas in natural light and provide spectacular views, and the polished wooden fixtures, decadent fabrics and elegant decor assume the feel of a traditional country house hotel. One of the focal points on Braemar is the beautifully painted, five-deck-high Atrium area, while the cascading outside decks at the stern enhance the ship's elegant profile and offer stunning vistas no matter which outside deck you're on.
Capable of comfortably accomodating up to 929 passengers, Braemar has a uncrowded, intimate feel, with friendly staff providing a fantastic level personal, attentive service and catering to your every need. On board, guests can enjoy an unforgettable cruise holiday in the comfort and ample space of recently refreshed rooms and suites, and updated restaurants, bars and lounges offering sumptuous cuisine, a wide range of beers, wines and spirits, and fantastic daily entertainment from talented performers. What's more, as Braemar is the shortest of the four ocean-going ships in the Fred. Olsen fleet, it is perfect for cruising rivers and bringing you closer to the heart and highlights of towns and cities across Europe and beyond.
Facilities and Amenities
As well as a choice of comfortable accommodation, dining venues, bars and lounges, all of which have been refreshed and refurbished as part of the ship's thorough refit in late 2017, Braemar features all the facilities and amenities you need for a comfortable, restful and stress-free stay on board, including heated pools and bubbling jacuzzis, a well-stocked library and even a self-service Laundry Room.
Pools & Jacuzzis
Keep fit by swimming a few lengths, or cool down after relaxing in the sunshine on deck in Braemar's large, heated saltwater pools. Located in the centre of Marquee Deck, both pools have bubbling Jacuzzis close by, perfect for whiling away some time on sea days, or unwinding after an exciting exploration ashore.
Library
Located in the Bookmark Cafe on Lounge Deck, Braemar well-appointed library provides a wide variety of books and publications, including some large print books, to delve into, accompanied by speciality coffees, teas and tempting chocolates served at this quiet, comfortable space.
Gaming Tables
Try your hand at Blackjack or Roulette at Braemar's Gaming Tables, located portside on Lounge Deck. Perhaps attend one of our daytime teaching sessions to improve your game and learn how to win big, then put your skills into practice in the evenings against our friendly croupiers, your new-found friends and fellow guests. Please note: games of chance may not be charged back to your on board account.
Card Room
Featuring plenty of card tables and comfortable chairs, the Card Room on board Braemar provides guests with a quiet, relaxing space to enjoy a competitive hand or two, or simply a bit of fun. Bridge is always a popular pursuit on board, so you're sure to find players up for a challenge. On some cruises, Bridge tuition is on offer to help you develop your skills.
Laundry Room
One of the treats of being on board your cruise ship is to leave behind the routine chores. And of course, there is a comprehensive on board laundry service which your stewardess will be pleased to arrange for you. Full details and prices for this service can be found in your Welcome Pack waiting in your room.
Activities and Entertainment
There's always something to keep you entertained on board Braemar. The ship's comfortable lounges and public areas are the venues for a wide range of activites and entertainment, from interesting and insightful talks and lectures, brain-teasing quizzies and enriching classes to enjoy throughout the day, to live shows performed by a resident team of talented singers, dancers, musicians and comedians every evening.
At the Neptune Lounge and the intimately-sized Coral Club, you're in for a variety of fantastic entertainment, no matter when you choose to stop-by; while at the Morning Light Pub you'll always find a place to simply sit, relax and enjoy a glass or two of your favourite drink in the company of fellow guests and new-found friends. Braemar's spacious open decks are perfect for whiling away some time on board too, especially on sea days. The Marquee Deck features pools, jacuzzis and plenty of seating and sunloungers, and is also the venue for unforgettable sail-away parties; while the Lounge Deck's promenade is ideal sunshine and moonlight strolls.
Daytime activities
Whilst on board Braemar you'll be treated to guest speakers and performers, art and craft lessons, fun quizzes and much more, along with yoga, Pilates and other fitness activities to suit your needs and interests. Most daytime activities will be held either out on the Marquee Deck in the sea air, or at the large Neptune Lounge, sociable Coral Club or comfortable Morning Light Pub.
On sea days, it's our pleasure to inspire you with the chance to learn new hobbies or skills. You could choose from photography talks, ballroom dancing lessons, singing and language classes, theatre workshops or even watercolour tutorials. Activities vary from cruise to cruise and are highlighted each day in your copy of the Daily Times.
Guest Speakers
Our range of fascinating lectures from leading experts are always popular on board. Previous subjects have included wine tasting, the sky at night, maritime history and piloting Concorde.
Equally, guests value an insight into the destination they're heading to our knowledgeable port lecturers share all the information you'll need for venturing ashore, so you can be confident of making the most of your time in each port of call.
On board Braemar, our comfortable and spacious Neptune Lounge and Coral Club are ideal venues, with plenty of seating available and friendly staff on hand to serve you with your favourite tipple as you enrich your cruise experience.
Evening entertainment
When the lights go down on board Braemar, we'll treat you to a selection of live shows ranging from music and cabaret to quick-fire stand-up comedy. Just relax, sit back and enjoy the fabulous acts with your favourite tipple or cocktail in the Neptune Lounge. After the main show, there's usually a chance to catch a set from our Ship's Orchestra and show-off your dance moves. With our talented Dance Hosts on hand, no-one goes too long without a dance partner.
As well as enjoying the evening show, you can join new-found friends in the welcoming Morning Light Pub to enjoy performances from talented solo acts over a sociable drink; dance the night away to tunes performed by your ship's resident band in the Coral Club; or even take a moonlight stroll out on the open decks. For a magical end to your evening, head to the Observatory to enjoy a late-night drink accompanied by the sounds of a twinkling grand piano.
Bars and Lounges
From the grand Neptune Lounge, which hosts insightful lectures and spectacular live shows, and the Coral Club, with its resident bands and large dance floor, to the welcoming Morning Light Pub - your very own 'local' at sea - and the intimate Observatory Lounge, offering breathtaking views and Traditional Afternoon Tea, there's a venue to suit every occasion and guest on board Braemar.
Refreshed with new fixtures, decor and furnishings during Braemar's extensive refit in late 2017, every bar and lounge provides a spacious, comfortable and stylish place to enjoy a glass or two of your favourite tipple, as well as a range of fantastic entertainment, in the company of loved ones, new-found friends and hundreds, not thousands, of other guests.
Upgrade to All Inclusive
Fred. Olsen's All Inclusive Drinks Upgrade is another service offered to ensure your holiday is relaxing and enjoyable. By upgrading to All Inclusive, you can treat yourself to that extra glass or two of your favourite tipple, without having to worry about the bar bill at the end of your cruise - it's already covered.
Neptune Lounge
The Neptune Lounge is the largest of Braemar's two main show theatres, although music and entertainment is on offer throughout the ship, and is the venue for a variety of shows, events and performances.
Thanks to extensive improvements made as part of Braemar's thorough refit in 2017, which included the fitting of brand new carpets, furnishings and extra seating, the Neptune Lounge is now an even more comfortable place to enjoy port talks, lectures and more throughout the day, and variety of glamourous entertainment, music, dance, comedy and costumes every evening.
The Coral Club
This sophisticated lounge, seating 170 guests, is the venue for intimate evening shows, great music for dancing to resident live bands, as well as occasional late night cabarets.
It offers alternative shows to those in the Neptune Lounge, which are also given in two performances. It is also the location for the ever-popular on board Bingo. In the evenings here you may wish to enjoy to sample a fine selection of premium gins from our gin menu.
Observatory
Located on Marquee Deck at the very top of Braemar, the Observatory Lounge boasts the most spectacular panoramic views and is a wonderful place to enjoy a pre-dinner drink. Sit by the bar, or perhaps take a seat by the lounge's large windows and lose yourself in the stunning sights while listening to the twinkling sounds of a grand piano.
The Observatory Lounge is also the venue for our premium Traditional Afternoon Tea service, which offers guests a selection of delicious sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones accompanied by premium teas and unforgettable views.
The Bookmark Cafe
Life on the ocean waves doesn't mean having to sacrifice the regular 'caffeine fix' at your favourite coffee shop. The Bookmark Cafe serves a selection of delicious speciality coffees - espresso, cappuccino, mocha, iced lattes and more - along with quality tea blends.
Enjoy a quiet moment with a good book or share the experience with good conversation. You're sure to be tempted by our heavenly fresh chocolates too. From pralines to Champagne truffles, these melt-in-the-mouth treats are too good to miss.
Marquee Bar
Situated on Marquee Deck, close to the ship's sun loungers, swimming pools and jacuzzis, the Marquee Bar is the perfect place to take a break from the sunshine to grab a refreshing drink or a light bite to eat, or simply enjoy some time in the cooling shade.
Featuring plenty of comfortable rattan furniture, the Marquee Bar is an ideal spot for meeting friends for an alfresco pre-dinner drink too, while in warmer climes it is also the venue for fantastic late-night deck parties.
Morning Light Pub
With its welcoming, friendly atmosphere and charming traditional style, Braemar's" Morning Light Pub assumes the feel of your very own local at sea. Open throughout the day and the evening, it's the ideal place to relax and socialise with friends and fellow guests.
Perhaps enjoy a quick pint or a glass of wine at lunch before spending the afternoon ashore; stop by for a pre-dinner drink; or settle into a comfortable seat and relax long into the night while enjoying performances from live bands and comedians.
Relaxation and Fitness
While Braemar is smaller than many of today's megaships, there are still many places to relax, unwind and forget about the stress and strain of life back home as you explore the world in comfort and timeless style. Perhaps soak up the sunshine and ever-changing scenery from the sunloungers, pools and jacuzzis on Marquee Deck; feel the sea breeze on a leisurely walk around the ship's open promenade; indulge yourself at the Atlantis Spa; or work-off some excess energy at the fully-equipped Fitness Centre. How you make the most of your time on board Braemar is entirely up to you.
Feel energised
Enjoy wanders along the open promenade under moonlight or as the sun slowly rises on the horizon; unwind in the sauna and steam room; let the bubbling jacuzzis soothe you; and take a refreshing dip in the heated pool, all without having to endure queues for the ship's facilities and ever feeling overcrowded. You can treat yourself to hours of unspoilt relaxation, ensuring your holiday is as restful, energising and invigorating as it should be.
While there's so much time to relax and indulge on board, there's no need to stray too far away from your usual healthy lifestyle. At Braemar's fully-equipped Fitness Centre you can stick to your regular fitness routine; and even try your hand at number of classes including yoga, aerobics and Pilates, so there's reason to feel guilty about having that extra course at dinner.
Pamper yourself at the Atlantis Spa
Refresh the mind and revive the body at Braemar's haven of relaxation. The soothing surroundings of the Atlantis Spa is where you can really treat yourself. Situated on Atlantic Deck and open daily between 8am & 8pm, this luxurious spa offers a wide range of beauty and relaxation treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and hairdressing. Perhaps try out a new style for your holiday; get set for a formal evening or special occasion; or simply unwind after a busy day of exploring ashore.
Atlantis Spa Treatments
- Facial Treatments
- Body Treatments
- Massage Treatments
- Manicure & Pedicure
- Waxing & Tinting
- Hair Styling & Colouring
- Fitness
- Packages
Dining
Braemar features five elegant and intimate dining venues, each serving tempting indulgences perfectly prepared by our expert chefs. Whether you're feeling peckish or are simply making the most of your time on board to indulge, you'll always find something heavenly to tantalise your tastebuds.
A hearty breakfast cooked just how you like it is the perfect start to each day; while the delicious buffets on offer in the fully refurbished Palms Cafe are ideal for a quick lunch or a late-night snack. In the main Thistle and Grampian restaurants, enjoy formal five-course a la carte dinners every evening; or perhaps book at table at The Grill or The Poolside for an unforgettable al fresco dining experience.
Dining included:
- Breakfast: a la carte & buffet
- Lunch: a la carte & buffet
- Afternoon Tea: a la carte & buffet
- Dinner: a la carte & buffet
- Supper Club: Buffet
Extras:
- The Grill |20 pounds per person
- Premium Afternoon Tea | 7.95 15 pounds
- The Bookmark Cafe | coffees & chocolates
Main Restaurants
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Thistle Restaurant
Located on Main Deck 4 at the base of the ship's beautiful Atrium, the Thistle is Braemar's largest restaurant. Tastefully decorated in creamy-beige and mocha coloured furnishings, the Thistle assumes an air of timeless style and elegance.
Thanks to large picture windows, guests can take in spectacular views from their spacious table and comfortable chair while devouring delicious, five-course a la carte dinners in the evening, as well as hearty breakfasts every morning.
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Grampian Restaurant
Smaller and cosier than the Thistle Restaurant, the Grampian is popular with guests who prefer an even more intimate dining experience. The table sizes in the Grampian are perfect for enjoying Fred. Olsen's renowned delectable dining in the company of a loved one, or just a few of your new-found friends.
Located at the top of the Braemar's stunning Atrium on Marquee Deck, The Grampian is enhanced further by large windows providing breathtaking views to enjoy in the comfort of newly updated seating, as our friendly waiters cater to your every need.
Relaxed Dining
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Palms Cafe
Completely refurbished as part of Braemar's extensive refit in late 2017, the Palms Cafe has been improved with new, stylish upholstery, soft furnishings and seating to create an inviting space in which to enjoy a more relaxed, slightly less formal style of dining.
Although we've changed the look of the Palms Cafe, you can still expect to enjoy an array of tempting buffet dishes here - perfect if you would prefer to not dine at a set time, or are simply looking for a late night snack. And, of course, every dish available will be expertly prepared to Fred. Olsen's renowned high standards.
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The Marquee Bar
Braemar's top deck Marquee Bar provides guests with an al fresco daytime dining option, offering a tempting menu of hearty breakfasts and delicious light lunches.
Situated on Marquee Deck, out in the open-air, the bar provides unspoilt views of spectacular scenery and cooling sea air to enjoy as you start your day; or perhaps while you take a break from sunbathing by the nearby pools.
Speciality Dining
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The Grill
For an extra special dining experience, book a table at The Grill for al fresco dining at its finest.
Open in warm weather, The Grill - located at the stern of the ship on Lido Deck - combines the relaxing sounds of the ocean with incredible views and fantastic food - a real feast for all the senses. Indulge at lunchtime, or perhaps treat yourself to The Grill's premium dinner menu in the evening - a unique experience that's not to be missed.
Room Service
All rooms and Suites have tea and coffee making facilities as standard, so you can enjoy a pick-me-up first thing, and a relaxing drink at the end of the day. For those times when you'd like something more while you're in your home-from-home at sea you can also order room service up until 11pm every day.
Continental breakfast can be ordered in advance for delivery at your preferred time, while snacks are available from 10am onwards. Should you prefer not to head to the restaurants, short lunch and dinner menus are also available. Whatever the time of day, you'll never be hungry on a Fred. Olsen cruise.
Afternoon Tea
Each day complimentary afternoon tea is served, with sandwiches, scones and cakes, along with fresh tea and coffee, always a popular choice.
On some days guests can book a very select experience: Traditional Premium Afternoon Tea. Enjoy beautiful views from the stylish Observatory Lounge, with musical accompaniment from our on board pianist and the careful attention of white-gloved waiters.
Your choice from a selection of premium teas by Taylors of Harrogate is served in porcelain teapots, along with elegant finger sandwiches, pastries and warm scones with jam and clotted cream. Such civilised indulgence - and all for only 7.95 pounds per person*.