IF YOU are thinking of taking a cruise consider Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines. The company offers a traditional “British” cruising experience, with a more personal style of service.

Fred.Olsen’s smaller, stylish, contemporary ships – Balmoral, Black Watch, Boudicca and Braemar; provide a more intimate environment in which to cruise, helping to create a convivial and more sociable atmosphere on board. The environment is more country house hotel than flashy Las Vegas-style resorts, and guests can enjoy the relaxed home-from-home comforts while taking an altogether more considered view of the world.

Fred.Olsen staff pride themselves on making guests feel at home the instant they step onboard.

There are plenty of things to do during the day and in the evening, but you can also just relax and do your own thing. Choose from sitting on deck in the sun, or with a good bookin one of the quiet lounges. Admire the views from the observatory lounge, accompanied by the gentle sounds of the pianist. You can work out in the gym, or indulge in a massage in the spa. Later, enjoy a wonderful five-course dinner in the restaurant, then get caught up in the energy and pizzazz of a show.

Fred.Olsen’s classically-styled ships are able to access ports beyond the reach of much larger cruise vessels. Featuring a wide choice of worldwide itineraries, most Fred.Olsen cruises start and finish in the UK, which means no flying and no flight taxes.

Cruises start from three nights up to an epic 114-night world voyage.

Fred.Olsen also offers sailings from eight UK ports in the 2013/14 worldwide brochure: the traditional ports of Southampton and Dover, plus the regional ports of Portsmouth, Harwich, Newcastle, Liverpool Greenock and Rosyth.

Fred.Olsen’s 800-guest ship, Black Watch, starts from Port of Tyne, Newcastle and sails to the Arctic Circle, taking in the fantastic scenery of the Norwegian Fjords.

Or if you fancy some sunshine, how about a cruise to the Canary Islands?

A Fred.Olsen cruise offers great value for money – with onboard pricing in sterling. The main language spoken by the staff on the ships is English.

Whether you are new to cruising, or a regular, you’re sure to appreciate the Fred. Olsen difference.