Guests on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ fleet will no longer be required to wear face masks on board, following the line’s latest review of its on-board measures.

The removal of masks is part of a phased reduction in Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines COVID-19 procedures, with pre-embarkation testing and the requirement to be fully vaccinated to remain in place.

Guests will be asked to pack a face mask with them for their travels, as will remain a requirement in some of the destinations they visit. In addition, crew members will continue to wear masks for the time being.

Balmoral is the first of Fred. Olsen’s fleet to set sail without a face mask requirement, having departed Newcastle under the new measures on Wednesday.

The new guidance will apply to Bolette’s next departure from Southampton on 22 May and Borealis’ departure from Liverpool on 25 May.