Liverpool homeport cruise ship Bolette returns after major refit

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ flagship vessel Bolette has returned to Liverpool Cruise Terminal following a 16-day dry dock programme, bringing refreshed interiors and upgraded facilities ahead of a new season of sailings from the city.

Bolette went for scheduled maintenance, technical inspections and a series of guest-focused improvements in January. The work forms part of Fred. Olsen’s ongoing investment in its fleet and its commitment to enhancing the onboard experience for passengers sailing from Liverpool.

Interior refurbishments have been carried out across several guest spaces. The Observatory and The Ocean Bar have updated finishes, new carpeting has been installed in the main dining room and guest corridors and stairwells have been refreshed. More than 50 cabin bathrooms have also been renovated.

The ship’s speciality restaurant, Colours & Tastes, has been completely redesigned as part of a wider fleet refresh. The updated space features warm, neutral tones and a new rotating menu inspired by global cuisines including grill, Italian and Asian dishes, offering greater variety for guests travelling from Liverpool.

Upgrades have also been made to the Neptune Lounge to support a new entertainment partnership with RWS Global. A new LED wall and aerial performance structures have been installed to allow for higher production values, with new theatre shows set to debut on Bolette from June.

Alongside the interior work, engineers completed extensive technical maintenance including hull blasting and repainting, tank cleaning and refurbishments to tender platforms and stabilisers. The vessel has also been fitted with more efficient propeller blades to support operational performance and environmental efficiency.

Samantha Stimpson, CEO of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are pleased to welcome Bolette back to her homeport of Liverpool following the completion of her dry dock, ahead of her upcoming programme of sailings.

“This refit has allowed us to maintain the high standards our guests expect while ensuring Bolette continues to operate efficiently and responsibly. We look forward to welcoming guests back on board to enjoy her refreshed spaces and enhanced onboard experiences.”

Now back in service, Bolette is welcoming passengers at Liverpool Cruise Terminal as she prepares for a new schedule of voyages, beginning with a 32-day roundtrip Caribbean cruise.

Travellers sailing from Liverpool in 2026 can choose from a range of itineraries, including a 14-night Azores and Madeira cruise departing on 14 April, a 10-night Norwegian fjords sailing on 27 May and a 14-night journey through river cities in France, Spain and Portugal departing on 6 June.

Full details of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines sailings from Liverpool are available on the company’s website.

2026 will be another record breaking year for Liverpool Cruise Port – find out why here.

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