Fred. Olsen has been a corporate supporter of the RNLI for over 40 years. An RNLI volunteer, Howard Bell (and his wife, Poppy) started fundraising onboard the cruise ships in the 1960s and the relationship has grown since then.

Through the wonderful and continued support of the Fred. Olsen passengers and crews, they have have funded several inshore lifeboats, the last B-774 Braemar, which went on service in 2001, bought three mobile training units, kitted out three seminar rooms at the Lifeboat College and raised the funds for the development of the Atlantic 85 DODO (drive-on-drive-off) trolleys, in addition to funding three trolleys at Mudeford, Cullercoats and Criccieth.

In 2009, a further £91,000 was raised, helping them reach their latest target of £150,000 to fund the new Atlantic 85 lifeboat for Kyle of Lochalsh, due on service in 2011.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines pride themselves on providing a very personal service on their four distinctive vessels: Braemar, Black Watch, Boudicca and Balmoral. So just remember, you can enjoy a relaxing cruise and help fundraise for the RNLI at the same time.

Rachael Jackson, Public Relations Manager for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, comments: 'Fundraising for the RNLI has become an institution on all our ships, and it is very rewarding to know that the generosity of our passengers and crew has achieved so much this year.'

The RNLI and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines are also pleased to announce a new travel partnership for 2010. Book one of these selected Fred. Olsen cruises and the RNLI will receive 10% of the price.

Click here to find out about the exclusive offers on Fred. Olsen cruises to RNLI supporters.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit fredolsencruises.co.uk.