Independent Travel Awards 2026: Win an unforgettable Mediterranean cruise for two
Here's how to win a bucket-list sailing with Fred. Olsen Cruises
UsenB
The Independent Travel Awards are now open, offering you the chance to tell us about your most exceptional getaways – and win one of 12 incredible prizes. Among them is an 11-night cruise aboard Fred. Olsen’s Balmoral, which promises to be an unforgettable sailing from Greece to Tenerife.
Two lucky adults, or an adult and child over 12, will be treated to a superior ocean view cabin on the cruise line’s “Country Hopping from Greece to Tenerife” voyage later this year.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines specialises in smaller ships and carefully curated itineraries, focusing on journeys that allow travellers to experience the best of a region in one trip.
The Norwegian-owned cruise company known for its smaller, traditional vessels – Bolette, Borealis, and Balmoral – which all carry fewer than 1,300 guests. That means there will be no rush for dinner or crowded corridors – the sailing will be a more intimate affair.
Balmoral will depart Piraeus, Greece, on 19 November 2026 with scheduled stops in Valletta, Malta, Trapani in Italy, Cartagena in Spain, then Gibraltar, Agadir in Morocco and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands.
Cruise highlights include the opportunity to visit the Acropolis in Athens, experience the vibrant culture of Morocco, enjoy a scenic sailing into Valletta’s Grand Harbour and cross the Strait of Gibraltar.
The cruise line describes the journey as “unforgettable”, especially as the ship can dock in the lesser-known port of Trapani due to its smaller size.
As for onboard amenities, the winner will find full-board a la carte and buffet dining, a luxury spa and fitness centre, multiple pools and hot tubs, and lively cabaret entertainment.
The prize includes flights to and from the UK, as well as transfers between the airport and the ship, which will be arranged and confirmed by Fred. Olsen. T&Cs apply.
How to enter
Follow this link to complete the survey and enter the prize draw, or discover the 11 other prizes here.
See here for full terms and conditions.
