We were luckily enough to be given the opportunity to join Braemar in the Caribbean embarking in St Maarten during her transatlantic voyage to Barbados. After our flight via Paris we arrived at lunchtime very exhausted and tired and we were delighted to be greeted by the ever so cheerful and friendly Fred. Olsen Staff who directed us to our cabin where our luggage was waiting.

Our home for the next four nights was to be a twin outside cabin on Atlantic deck. The cabin was standard but comfortable and well equipped with light soft furnishings.

Out next port was Antigua, Braemar docked at St John’s where we decided to take a private tour around the island. After negotiating with one of the local taxi drivers we had a morning tour followed by lunch at Jolly Beach and returned mid afternoon to the ship. We really got into the feel of the Caribbean as we left Antigua to the sound of a local steel band and flowing rum punch!

The following morning we arrived into St. Lucia where we took a half day Fred. Olsen tour of the North side of the island. The tour included a visit to Pigeon Island, a silk printing factory and finished with an hour leisure time on Rex beach. Once back onboard we enjoyed a buffet lunch in Palms Café and time around the deck and pool area.

For dining “al fresco” Palms Café is ideally situated at the aft of the ship and has a tiered outdoor seating area which offers amazing horizon views. Breamar has plenty of deck space to offer her passengers and the pool is a good size which was complimented by the friendly staff that were always on hand. The fitness centre which is at the front of the ship is well equipped with the latest gym technology. A personal trainer is available should you want a one to one session. The gym also included a sauna and steam room which was free of charge.

We dined on late sitting at 8.30 which allowed for extra time to explore the islands and the ship. We were still able to enjoy pre-dinner drinks and a show after dinner. There is one main restaurant on Braemar, Thistle Restaurant, which is light and airy with excellent service.

Pre dinner drinks are best to be had in the Braemar lounge where an excellent pianist really sets the atmosphere. This lounge was located on deck 5 where most of the public rooms are situated. Also on this deck are the limited but well stocked shops, the photo gallery and the Coral Club for evening and day entertainment.

The following day we arrived in Barbados where the ship was docked overnight which did give you the opportunity to stay ashore until late if you wished. We arranged with a local taxi driver to go to Malibu Beach where we enjoyed lunch and a visit to the Malibu factory. We did make plans to go ashore after dinner to St Lawrence Gap for the evening but unfortunately we were hit by a bad storm so we decided instead to see the finale show onboard where the crew take part in performing, which is very entertaining! The shows on Braemar are fantastic with a variety of performers, something for everyone to enjoy.

Unfortunately the day came for us to leave Braemar however one of the services which Fred. Olsen offer on their Barbados arrival and departure cruises is bonded baggage. This is an excellent service which takes care of your luggage from the moment you check it in from Gatwick or from the night before you leave the ship. For us we had to leave our suitcases outside our cabin the evening before we departed and we would not see or have to handle them again until we arrived at Gatwick.