Discover Fred. Olsen’s new Mediterranean fly-cruise programme

Author: Lucy Abbott

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Step into unrivalled exploration with Fred. Olsen’s latest jewel: the 2025 Mediterranean fly-cruise programme

We all know the Mediterranean, but have you ever admired this eclectic and picturesque region through the lens of the expert itinerary makers at Fred. Olsen?

This is your chance to sail to a hand-picked selection of the most captivating destinations the Mediterranean has to offer in 2025, with the lines sparkling new itineraries.

From the cobbled side streets of the Italian Riviera to the blue-domed churches of the Greek Islands, you can delve into the essence of Mediterranean beauty more easily than ever before.

So, prepare yourself for some serious itinerary-envy as we transport you to a realm where every moment is filled with discovery, where ancient history meets modern luxury…

Lounge at the tranquil nature reserve Koutavos Lagoon. Credit: Adobe

Sunshine and souvlaki

Fred. Olsen’s 28-night ‘The Amalfi & Dalmatian Coasts with Greek Islands’ itinerary has been designed to reveal the beauty of the Italian Riviera’s Cinque Terre, known for its five colourful villages perched on cliffsides and full of local shops.

Not only that, on this itinerary, you can explore the scenic islands of Greece. Take Argostoli, for example, the capital of Kefalonia, where you can lounge at the tranquil nature reserve Koutavos Lagoon. Don’t forget to stop off at a bustling Greek taverna where you can taste juicy olives, souvlaki, and sip on fruity local wine.

Onboard the intimate Balmoral you’ll go on to navigate the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, located in southwestern Montenegro and encapsulated by towering limestone cliffs, as well as sailing past the mountainous Makarska Riviera.

This cruise departs on September 27, 2025, departing from Valencia, Spain to Rhodes, Greece, and features an impressive 19 ports of call.

Keep an eye out for a free flamenco show in Seville’s Plaza de España. Credit: Adobe

Tapas and traditions

For those seeking a shorter voyage with all the charm of a Mediterranean cruise packed into 10 nights, look no further than Fred. Olsen’s ‘Spanish Colours & Cultures’ itinerary.

Calling at La Coruña, Cádiz, Ibiza, Barcelona, and Valencia, you can immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Spanish life.

In Barcelona, marvel at the Sagrada Familia Cathedral and explore the bright colours of Park Güell. Whereas, in Seville (accessible from Cádiz) you can wander into a scene straight from Star Wars in the Plaza de España, where they actually filmed ‘Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones’.

You can’t visit Spain without watching a passionate flamenco dance – we recommend you keep an eye out for a free show in Seville’s Plaza de España.

And afterwards, drink in the views while you savour a glass of cold Sangria and perhaps a cheeky plate of tapas (or two) – it’s a tradition for a reason.

Ibiza isn’t just a party town, you can find some of the best markets in the Mediterranean here, with the Punta Arabí Hippy Market offering some unique finds.

Departing on September 17, 2025, onboard Balmoral, you’ll depart from Southampton and disembark in Valencia.

For the ultimate sunset snap, watch from the village of Oia. Credit: Adobe

Gyros and glamour

Who could say no to eight-nights of island hopping in the Greek Islands? Not us, that’s for sure.

Beginning in Dubrovnik, you can explore the history-filled Old Town where you’ll pass ancient city walls while meandering down the main street, Stradun Street. For panoramic views, take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srd.

Argostoli, Kefalonia, is a highlight where we recommend you take a boat tour to Melissani Cave, which is a tranquil underground lake with sunlight pouring in from a collapsed cave roof.

From Balmoral, you can soak up the sun and the sights of the Zakynthos coastline, be sure to keep an eye out for friendly dolphins swimming alongside the ship.

We love Thira in Santorini, which boasts panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Fancy a top tip? For the ultimate sunset snap, watch from the village of Oia and let the romantic atmosphere whisk you away.

Your last port of call is Rhodes, which is known for its medieval town centre and sandy beaches – both of which you could take advantage of during your visit.

Don’t let these stunning destinations be something you just read about, create memories to last a lifetime and choose Fred. Olsen to curate this experience for you.

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About Lucy Abbott

Lucy is a cruise journalist who has sailed on a variety of ships, from expedition to river – with her favourite being expedition cruising.

Lucy is interested in new sustainable ways to cruise as well as how cruising is becoming accessible for all.

She works together with Kaye Holland to keep the World of Cruising website up to date with all the latest cruise news.