INSPIRATIONAL war veteran Simon Weston CBE is to return to the Falklands where he was badly burned in the 1982 conflict – as guest speaker on a special cruise.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will welcome Simon aboard Balmoral next year when the ship visits the Falkland Islands as part of an epic 78-night voyage to South America and the Antarctic.

He will join guests onboard for 14 nights during the call into Port Stanley, and will share his experiences of his time in the Falklands.

Port Stanley, Falkland Islands: Fred. Olsen Cruise Line

Well-known for his charity work, as a motivational speaker and broadcaster, Simon sustained serious burns to more than 46 per cent of his body during the Falklands War.

On June 8, 1982, he with other members of his regiment onboard the Sir Galahad near Fitzroy when it was  bombed and set on fire by Argentine fighters. The ship was carrying ammunition as well as phosphorus bombs and thousands of gallons of diesel and petrol.

Out of his platoon of 30 men, 22 were killed. In all, The Welsh Guards lost 48 men killed and 97 wounded aboard the ship. Simon, who underwent years of surgery, is Patron of the Falkland Veterans Foundation, The Enham Trust, Allied Service Trust and an Ambassador for Changing Faces.

Balmoral at sea: Fred.Olsen Cruise Line

Helen Bennett, Entertainments and Enrichment Manager at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, says: “We are so pleased to be welcoming Simon on board.

“His experience can add real insight to our guests as Balmoral sails to the Falkland Isles. His story is one of achievement and triumph in the face of adversity, and we know our guests will value learning more about his journey and about the Falklands War.”

Simon is apparently already a cruise fan, according to Alan Warner, who represents him at Champions UK plc: “He absolutely loves cruising, seeing new places and meeting new and interesting people on board. He is passionate about sharing his experiences during the Falklands campaign and life afterwards.”

Machu Picchu: Paul Cole/Heygo

Setting sail from Southampton on January 5, 2023, Balmoral’s 78-night voyage will allow guests to discover some of the most fascinating, lesser-visited parts of the world.

They will include the Galapagos and Patagonian Fjords, as well as iconic landmarks of Rio De Janeiro, the ancient sites of Machu Picchu, the idyllic beaches and green lands of Ilhabela and more.

Prices for the full ‘Exploration of South America and the Antarctic’ cruise – it’s number L2301 – start from £8,499 per person. For the full itinerary see the official website.

Simon Westom CBE image by Derek D’Souza Photography and courtesy Fred. Olsen Cruise Line