January 15, 2010 - Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has teamed up with the English Bridge Union to offer an EBU -sanctioned bridge tournament on board Balmoral, hosted by well-known player and Daily Express bridge correspondent Paul Hackett.
Both experienced and novice players will be able to join in the tournaments, taking place on the 12-night Canary Islands cruise sailing from Dover on May 3, and Hackett will be giving talks and commenting on each day's play.
Says Olsen marketing manager Mike Bird: "We have always had many guests on board who are keen bridge players. This new partnership with the English Bridge Union takes bridge on board to a new level and offers really keen players a way to enjoy a great holiday, while playing some top class, competitive bridge at the same time."
Hackett is a member of the winning English team at the World Senior Championship in Brazil in September 2009 - the first time in 50 years that English players have taken gold.
Prices start from £1,004 per person, based on two sharing an inside twin cabin. Those taking part in the bridge sessions must pre-book and there is an additional charge of £100 per player for participation. Players will earn EBU points from their involvement in the exclusive tournament.
Fred Olsen Cruise Line - 01473 742424, www.fredolsencruises.co.uk.
