As discussed on the Fred board there have been a number of subtle changes since the new CEO came into post.
As many lines look to cut lots of extras, the only way Fred can perhaps differentiate themselves from the newer, better furbished ships with extra restaurants / activities/ balcony cabins etc is food, service and those little extra touches.
Fred has always seemed to attract an older demographic and perhaps they need to embrace that, they just can’t compete for young families. They can’t compete with P&O on the style of the ships or indeed on price but they can by retaining some of the more traditional elements of cruising..
P&O have made it clear they are looking for the younger demographic on their new ships and have tailored what they offer to this demographic.
Fred seem to be going after older special interest cruisers and offering more unusual itinerary’s to attract them.