Fred. Olsen’s Bolette Returns to Service After Major Dry Dock Refresh

Refreshed spaces, upgraded entertainment, and a polished return to the seas

Bolette entered dry dock on 18 January for scheduled maintenance, technical inspections, and a host of enhancements designed to elevate the onboard experience. This work reflects Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ ongoing commitment to maintaining its fleet to the highest standards, comfort, style, and performance included.

Guests returning on board will notice a number of interior upgrades across the ship. These include refreshed finishes in The Observatory and The Ocean Bar, new carpeting in the main dining room, and revitalised corridors and stairwells throughout the vessel. More than 50 guest cabin bathrooms were also renovated, adding an extra touch of comfort where it matters most.

Bolette’s speciality restaurant, Colours & Tastes, has undergone a complete interior transformation as part of a wider fleet refresh. The redesigned space now features warm, neutral tones, refined textures, and curated artwork, creating a more intimate and elevated dining atmosphere.

From 2026, guests can also look forward to a rotating menu inspired by global flavours, including Grill, Italian, and Asian cuisines, offering even more variety throughout their cruise.

Enhancements were also made to the Neptune Lounge in support of Fred. Olsen’s new entertainment partnership with RWS Global. Upgrades include a new LED wall and aerial performance structures, allowing for higher production values and a richer evening entertainment programme. Brand-new theatre productions are set to debut on Bolette from June.

Fred. Olsen’s Bolette Returns to Service After Major Dry Dock Refresh

Alongside the guest-facing updates, an extensive programme of technical work was completed. This included hull blasting and repainting, tank cleaning, and refurbishments to tender platforms and stabilisers. Bolette was also fitted with more efficient propeller blades, supporting strong operational performance while aligning with the line’s environmental goals.

Samantha Stimpson, CEO of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said the company was delighted to welcome guests back on board to enjoy the refreshed spaces and enhanced onboard experiences, while highlighting the importance of the long-standing partnership with APCL A&P Falmouth.

Mike Spicer, Managing Director of APCL A&P Falmouth, added that projects like Bolette’s dry dock make a significant economic contribution to the South West, supporting both the workforce and apprenticeship programmes.

This marks Bolette’s second refit at APCL A&P Falmouth and the seventh dry dock project completed across the APCL Group for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. A dedicated team of 350 people, including subcontractors and more than 40 apprentices, supported the project, reinforcing the cruise line’s commitment to UK shipyard capability and maritime skills development.

Bolette has now resumed sailing and is welcoming guests back on board for her next programme of voyages, beginning with a 32-day roundtrip Caribbean cruise from Liverpool. For guests stepping on board, it’s business as usual, just with a little extra polish.