Three of Fred Olsen Cruise Line's ocean ships are scheduled for multi-million drydocks in preparation for the 2020-2021 season. The three liners (Balmoral, Black Watch, Braemar) will underwent general maintenance works, engineering works and renovations during their respective refurbishments at Blohm+Voss Shipyard (Hamburg Germany). The drydocks will also result in adding new public areas and stateroom enhancements. Some cabins on Black Watch will additionally receive bathroom upgrades.
A new ‘Oriental Room’ will be situated in the forward area of Balmoral's Main Deck 6, where Far Eastern-themed cocktails, drinks, and exotic teas will be served. A ‘Photo Gallery’ will be located mid-ship portside, while a new ‘Flower Shop’ is to be installed mid-ship starboard side, where passengers can choose from a selection of seasonal and year-round flowers, or select one of the ready-made arrangements.
- The 929-passenger Braemar entered Blohm+Voss on November 14 and will be embarking on a 9-night ‘French, Belgian and Spanish City Overnights’ voyage from Southampton on November 24.
- The 1350-passenger Balmoral will be entering the yard on December 10 and will depart on a 2-night ‘French Escape’ mini-cruise from Southampton on December 20, visiting Honfleur.
- The 804-passenger Black Watch will enter dry dock on December 11, after which she will host an overnight "Christmas Party Night" docked in Southampton on December 21.
- The 880-passenger Boudicca will receive her own refit in 2020 autumn, having undergone a transformation at Blohm+Voss in 2018 spring.
In 2020-2021, Fred Olsen’s cruise fleet of 4 smaller-sized ocean ships plus the riverboat Brabant will be visiting 277 destinations in 90 different countries on 6 continents, covering 104 different areas of scenic cruising on a total of 170 itineraries.