Fred. Olsen’s Bolette to Star in Channel 5’s ‘Cruise of a Lifetime’ with Susan Calman

Fred. Olsen’s Bolette to Make her TV Debut

Bolette to Star in Channel 5’s ‘Cruise of a Lifetime’ with Susan Calman. Image: Fred. Olsen Cruise Line

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ flagship, Bolette, is preparing for her Channel 5 debut this January, as comedian and presenter Susan Calman takes viewers on a breathtaking journey through the Norwegian Fjords. The feature is part of Susan’s Cruise of a Lifetime series, showcasing the beauty and culture of one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

An Adventure Through the Fjords

Setting sail from Liverpool, Susan embarked on an eight-night voyage, exploring Norway’s dramatic fjordlands. Her itinerary included stops at Olden, Ålesund, Åndalsnes, and the world-famous Geiranger. Along the way, she enjoyed scenic sailings through the majestic Nordfjord and Geirangerfjord, passing natural wonders like the Seven Sisters Waterfall.

Immersing herself in Norway’s outdoor lifestyle, known as friluftsliv (open-air living), Susan experienced:

  • The Briksdal Glacier: A stunning natural wonder reached from Olden.

  • Kayaking in Ålesund: Paddling through the scenic Brosundet canal.

  • The Loen Skylift and Romsdalen Gondola: Both offering exceptional vantage points of Norway’s rugged landscapes.

  • The Golden Train on the Rauma Line: A historic railway journey from Åndalsnes to Bjorli, recognised as one of Europe’s most scenic train rides.

Behind the Scenes on Bolette

Susan Calman with Bolette’s Crew and Guests. Image: Fred. Olsen Cruise Line

Back on board, Susan explored the inner workings of the cruise ship, joining a behind-the-scenes tour of the galley, food stores, and laundry. She also mingled with guests during a formal evening and took some well-deserved relaxation time in the onboard spa.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Heritage

Samantha Stimpson, CEO at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, shared her excitement for Bolette’s Channel 5 debut:

“It was a pleasure to welcome Susan aboard our fleet for the first time. As a company rooted in Norwegian heritage, we’re known for offering exceptional cruises to this beautiful part of the world. The smaller size of our ships allows us to explore fjords inaccessible to larger vessels, making this a truly unique experience to share with a wider audience.”

Explore Norway with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines in 2025

Bolette docked in Olden. Image: Fred. Olsen Cruise Line.

Inspired by Susan’s adventure? Fred. Olsen offers a range of Norwegian Fjord cruises in 2025, perfect for those seeking stunning landscapes and immersive experiences.

Bolette’s T2511 ‘Mountain Landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords’

  • Duration: 8 nights

  • Departure: 29th May 2025, Liverpool

  • Highlights: Scenic sailings of Romsdalsfjord and Nordfjord; waterfalls at their peak; exploring the fjordlands via innovative transport methods.

  • Price: From £1,119 per person.

Learn more about this cruise

Bolette’s T2515 ‘Glaciers, Mountains and Fjords of Norway’

  • Duration: 9 nights

  • Departure: 9th July 2025, Liverpool

  • Highlights: Scenic train journeys on the Flåm and Rauma lines; outdoor pursuits like kayaking; glacier tours.

  • Price: From £1,309 per person.

Learn more about this cruise

Balmoral’s L2518 ‘Mountains and Fjords of Norway’

Duration: 7 nights

Departure: 7th August 2025, Rosyth

Highlights: The Atlantic Ocean Road; kayaking and hiking; the stunning Nordfjord.

Price: From £1,129 per person.

Learn more about this cruise

Balmoral’s L2522 ‘Mountainous Landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords’

Duration: 7 nights

Departure: 8th September 2025, Newcastle

Highlights: Apple harvesting in Hardangerfjord; scenic railways and cable cars; seasonal produce.

Price: From £1,129 per person.

Learn more about this cruise

Tune In and Book Your Adventure

Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifetime aboard Bolette airs on Channel 5, Friday 17th January, and will be available on demand via My5 after the broadcast.

For more information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit www.fredolsencruises.com or contact Reservations on 0800 0355 215 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 am–6 pm; Saturday, 9 am–5 pm). Alternatively, book through your local ABTA travel agent.

Embark on your Norwegian adventure today and create memories to last a lifetime!