L2632 - Updates to Your Itinerary, Exploration of the Mediterranean Voyage

Whilst your cruise is still some way off, we wanted to get back in touch to tell you about some additional updates we’ve made to the itinerary for your Exploration of the Mediterranean voyage, and to bring all recent changes together in one place.

Why are we making these changes?

We know how much this cruise means to you, and we’re sorry if the changes feel disappointing.

We only make adjustments to our itineraries when necessary. These decisions are always guided by the latest local advice from our trusted partners on the ground, with one priority in mind, delivering the best possible experience for you.

A summary of the itinerary changes:

To make everything as clear as possible, the table below summarises the changes to your cruise with full detail shared afterwards.

Date	Original itinerary	Revised itinerary
7 October	Cartagena (now visiting on 25 November)	Melilla
21 October	Zadar	Brindisi (previously communicated – included here for clarity)
2 November	Kavala	Thessaloniki
5 November	Samos	Kos
22 November	Kalamata	Valletta (additional call)
25 November	–	Cartagena (revised call date)
26 November	Tangier	Gibraltar

Our revised itinerary map:

What has changed?

Updates in early October:

Early in our Mediterranean voyage, our planned visit to Cartagena on 7 October will be replaced with a call to Melilla. We’re pleased to confirm we’ll still be visiting Cartagena later in the voyage, on 25 November

Melilla is an autonomous Spanish city on the North African coast, close to the Moroccan border. Shaped by a unique blend of cultures including Spanish Catholic, Moroccan Islamic, Jewish and Hindu, it offers historic architecture, lively streets and a rich cultural heritage to explore during your time ashore.

Updates in early November:

As we explore the Greek islands, we’ve made two further adjustments:

2 November: Our overnight visit to Kavala will be replaced with Thessaloniki. Greece’s second city is layered with history shaped by Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Alongside its ancient monuments, Thessaloniki is well known for its vibrant food scene and lively markets, offering plenty to enjoy during your stay.

You’ll still be able to explore the beautiful city of Kavala, either independently or as part of an organised tour. The city is around a 90‑minute journey from Thessaloniki

5 November: Our visit to Samos will be replaced with a call to Kos. Located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, Kos is best known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine. The island combines Greek and Roman heritage with long beaches, archaeological sites and a relaxed local atmosphere, ideal for unhurried exploration.

We’re pleased to confirm our scenic cruising of Mount Athos remains unchanged.

Final adjustments as we sail towards Tenerife

As we depart Athens, we’ve made our final itinerary updates. These changes allow us to visit five countries in just eleven nights, adding even more variety and discovery to this part of your voyage.

Our planned visits to Kalamata and Tangier will be replaced with calls to:

1. Valletta
2. Cartagena (revised date)       &
3. Gibraltar

We know Valletta is a highlight for many guests, which is why we’re pleased to include two visits during your voyage. Surrounded by impressive fortifications and rich in history, its characterful streets, waterfront cafés and cultural landmarks reward Guests with something new to enjoy on every visit.

Cartagena is a historic port city in southeastern Spain, with over 3,000 years of history. Its well‑preserved Roman ruins, ancient city walls and lively maritime setting create a fascinating blend of heritage and seaside charm.

Gibraltar is a truly distinctive destination, best known for the iconic Rock of Gibraltar rising above the coastline. With its mix of British and Mediterranean influences, centuries of history and sweeping sea views, it offers a memorable place to explore.

Thank you for your understanding.

We know the 71 nights spent together will be a shared journey filled with memorable moments, rich destinations and experiences to treasure.

We’ll be back in touch before your voyage:

We’ll continue to keep in touch ahead of departure, sharing helpful information to ensure you feel prepared for this remarkable adventure.

In the meantime, you can view the planned themed nights for the voyage by clicking here

Plan your cruise with our new Help Centre:

Your on our new Help Centre, designed to make planning your cruise easier than ever.

1. Visit the homepage by clicking here
2. See your formal nights by clicking here
   
3. Plan your visits to Colours and Tastes, our speciality restaurant, by clicking here
   
4. As a reminder, view your themed nights by clicking here
   

A few helpful reminders:

1. Your Journey Guide, which includes details of tours, experiences and your cruise, will be sent at least 12 weeks before you embark Balmoral.
2. Your cruise ticket will be sent three weeks before your check‑in day.
3. Your luggage labels will arrive by post approximately two weeks before you set sail.

 With warm regards,

Your Guest Experience Team

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

 

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