Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines welcomed healthcare professionals from Hospice Malta aboard Bolette for a dedicated wellbeing day, as part of its ongoing community engagement work and in recognition of their vital contribution to palliative care.

39 staff members were invited aboard while the ship was docked in Valletta. Their visit included a guided tour of the ship, a crafts class and a relaxed lunch, offering time away from their professional responsibilities in a comfortable and enjoyable setting.

The visit was arranged to acknowledge the commitment and compassion these professionals show every day, while giving them time to pause and recharge. One Hospice Malta staff member reflected on the day:

“It was my first time on board a cruise ship, and it was a really lovely experience. Thank you to everyone on board and to the Fred. Olsen company for such a wonderful day.”

Another attendee added: “We were made to feel very welcome by the crew – comfortable and at home from the start. The tour of the ship was wonderful, and visiting the bridge was a real highlight. A truly memorable day.”

Hospice Malta provides free-of-charge, professional palliative care to more than 1,500 patients each year who are facing life-limiting illnesses, including end-of-life cancer, motor neuron disease, cardiac and respiratory conditions, and other complex health challenges. The organisation also provides emotional support to families and bereavement services.

Through this initiative, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines sought to express its appreciation for the staff who dedicate their careers to helping patients and their loved ones through some of life’s most challenging moments.

Paul Goodenough, Hotel Director on board Bolette, said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome the Hospice Malta team on board. It was an enjoyable day for everyone involved, and rewarding for our crew to show our appreciation for the remarkable work they do. Their dedication makes such a difference to so many people, and it was wonderful to give them the chance to relax and be looked after for a change.

“We believe that cruising is not only about the destinations we visit, but also about the positive contributions we can make along the way. Days like this help us build genuine, lasting connections with the communities we are privileged to visit.”

This event forms part of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ wider community engagement strategy, supporting the causes closest to its guests, crew and partners, while creating meaningful, measurable social impact in the communities it sails to and from.