October 22, 2009 - Fred Olsen's Black Watch is entering dry-dock in early December for an extensive programme of refurbishment.
The work, to be carried out at the Blohm + Voss GmbH shipyard in Hamburg, will start on December 2 as Black Watch returns from a Canary Islands cruise. She will resume on December 14 with a five-day European Christmas Markets mini cruise from Southampton.
A new casual dining area is to be created in the space where the Braemar Lounge and Garden Cafe are currently situated - midships on Deck 6, Lounge Deck. The transformed area will become the Braemar Garden, with seating for more than 120 persons, and replaces the Garden Cafe which currently seats only 80.
One section will be screened off, creating a 40-seat room for private dining. This new area will be completely refitted with new soft furnishings, a new bar, and buffet.
Other areas of the ship will also have new soft furnishings as part of this programme, including the Neptune Lounge, Piper's Bar, Glentanar Restaurant (one of the main formal dining areas), and the Observatory Lounge. In addition, many bathrooms will also be refitted.
Nigel Lingard, marketing director for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: "This is a major refurbishment for the very elegant Black Watch, and will improve and enhance the facilities on board. The new casual dining area will be fresher and more contemporary, and will offer a more spacious option for those choosing this dining option."
On the technical side, Black Watch will also have her last three open lifeboats replaced by two covered boats, which will be supplied by Fassmer Davit International.
