Lined up by the Boudicca

Ninety-seven members of of the Kent-based LANBARA (Longfield & New Barn Active Retirement Association) and friends were impressed by a recent 12-day cruise around the Baltic with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, departing from Dover. Social Secretary Martin Boddy explains, “It is the third cruise for the club that committee member Ron Huntington and myself have organised directly with Zoe Archer at Fred. Olsen and we have found we are treated with dignity and respect especially as our age group has medical problems and disabilities.”

Included in the package booked were three coaches from Buzzlines in Kent, which took the group to and from Dover and a private cocktail party onboard; members who were celebrating anniversaries and birthdays also received cakes and champagne. “The staff onboard the Boudicca were wonderful as was the food and accommodation and we certainly received value for money,” comments Martin. “Buzzlines was also very good; we use the company for all our holidays.”

After being fast-tracked through the terminal at Dover, the group enjoyed stops in several Baltic cities. “Members marvelled at the palace interiors in St Petersburg, tried to understand the Sibelius monument in Helsinki, bought bargains in Tallin, went sightseeing in Stockholm and photographed the mermaid statue in Copenhagen,” enthuses Martin. “It turned out to be a marvellous experience for everyone and we saw a multitude of different cultures. All in all, a fantastic holiday with many memories that will last for years.”