Explore the Life and Work of Norway’s Greatest Artist, Edvard Munch, on a Fred. Olsen Scandinavian Cruise

Suffolk, United Kingdom, August 23, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is offering an enticing cruise for art lovers in summer 2013; "Scandinavian Capitals & St. Petersburg" (D1312) is a 14-night cruise aboard Boudicca, departing on 9th June 2013 from Greenock (Glasgow). This cruise is part of the Vistas onboard enrichment programme, and has a theme of "Art," hosted by the distinguished art historian and lecturer, Dr. Patricia Andrew. Dr. Andrew holds two degrees, in English Literature and History of Art, and has worked in museum curatorship and management around the UK.

Since 2002, Dr. Andrew has been self-employed as a lecturer, heritage consultant and University teacher, combining this with art-historical research, principally in 18th Century and early 20th Century fields. An experienced speaker and an accredited lecturer for the National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies (NADFAS), she travels all over the UK. In Edinburgh, she gives regular public lectures at the National Gallery of Scotland, where she has a large personal following of loyal attendees. Her presence aboard this exciting cultural cruise is sure to enhance the enjoyment of any art-loving guest.

One of the ports of call on this Scandinavian sailing is Norway's lively capital, Oslo, whose National Gallery plays home to Edvard Munch’s haunting painting, "The Scream," possibly the most recognisable work of contemporary art in the world. Dr. Andrew will bring this masterpiece to life in her illuminating lectures and talks on this great artist, who is currently the subject of a major exhibition at London’s Tate Modern.

The full"‘Scandinavian Capitals & St. Petersburg" cruise itinerary begins with Denmark’s pretty and cosmopolitan capital, Copenhagen. Boudicca then visits Tallinn in Estonia, with its picturesque, cobbled streets and magnificent domed churches. Next port is one of the cruise highlights, Russia’s glorious St. Petersburg, where an overnight stay allows more time to explore the feast of architectural delights. Next port is Helsinki, the attractive capital of Finland, which also offers great cultural stimulus in its museums and galleries, alongside tempting street cafés and bars. This is followed by a call into Nynashamn (for tours to Stockholm), Sweden, before the final port of call – Norway’s capital, Oslo, where Munch’s "The Scream" and other great works by European artists can be viewed at the National Gallery. The cruise then returns to Greenock.

The cruise will have a special resonance for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, with its strong Norwegian heritage and influences. A theme of "Art" is also fitting given the Olsen family’s long-established interest in art, having been collectors and patrons of artists, both traditional and contemporary, over several generations. In fact, guests aboard Fred. Olsen ships will find original artworks from the Olsen family collection displayed within easy viewing distance…and without the queues that you find in art galleries.

Prices for this fascinating cruise start from £1,599 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside, twin cabin, Grade ‘I’. The price includes all meals and entertainment on board, and port taxes, and there is no extra charge for taking part in Vistas activity.

Find out more about this and all Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s Scandinavian cruises by visiting www.fredolsencruises.com You can book online, by calling Reservations on 01473 742424, or through any ABTA travel agent.