Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to Lengthen and Upgrade Second Ship

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' Braemar will be lengthened and upgraded during a 2008 dry dock. A similar project will begin on Fred. Olsen's newest acquisition, Balmoral-formerly Crown Cruises' Crown Odyssey-later this year. The work involves adding a 102-foot extension in the ship's mid-section, and extending the fore and aft sections on Deck 8. Elongating the ship will allow for more cabins and suites to be added, which will up the guest total to 977 (it previously stood at 727). The new space on Deck 8 also will allow for a new restaurant to be put in, along with an observatory lounge, a hallmark of Fred. Olsen ships. Visit [www.fredolsencruises.com].