Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has returned to Newcastle, offering a selection of sailings throughout spring and summer to destinations including Norway, Portugal, Spain, Scotland, France and the Mediterranean.

The arrival also marks the first time Fred. Olsen’s Borealis has visited the Port of Tyne, with the inaugural call celebrated with an exchange of plaques - a maritime tradition marking the establishment of a lasting relationship between the port and ship.

This year, aboard smaller ship Borealis, guests can go in search of the Northern Lights and learn more about life in the Arctic in Tromsø with a Sámi community, discover the maritime traditions of Spain and Portugal with the chance to join a flamenco lesson in Cádiz, explore Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders and waterfalls, and enjoy a five-night mini-cruise to Amsterdam to witness the spectacular tulips in full bloom.

Over the weekend, Borealis departed Newcastle for its 10-night ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ cruise.

Jak Johnson, International Passenger Terminal Manager at the Port of Tyne, said:"We're delighted to welcome Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines back to the Port of Tyne, as we kick off another exciting cruise season.

"We are especially excited to give a warm North Eastern welcome to the Borealis on her inaugural visit.

“Our team takes great pride in providing a smooth and efficient turnaround for every vessel, ensuring passengers enjoy a seamless start and end to their journey.

"Supporting cruise operations is a key part of what we do, in total, we have 42 cruise calls scheduled with different lines this year."

Doug Glenwright, Guest Experience Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:“We’re delighted to be returning to the Port of Tyne to mark the start of our 2025 cruises from Newcastle.

“This year, we’re offering an exciting selection of cruises from the city, where guests can look forward to exploring the heart of each destination and experiencing unforgettable moments, such as spotting whales, dolphins, and other native wildlife from the deck, seeking out the Northern Lights, and discovering the local way of life.”

Newcastle is just one of Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s 2025 departure ports, alongside Liverpool, Portsmouth, Southampton, Dover, Rosyth and Southampton.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines sailings from Newcastle visit www.fredolsencruises.com/cruises-from-newcastle