Ambassador Cruise Line: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
In This Guide
- Introduction
- A Brief History
- The Ambassador Cruise Line Fleet
- Accommodation and Service Levels
- What’s Included in Your Fare
- Loyalty Programme: Ambassador’s Club
- Pre-Paid Packages Available
- Dining Options
- Onboard Entertainment & Activities
- Ambassador Cruise Line for Solo Travellers
- Dress Code
- Gratuities / Tipping Policy
- Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
- What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
- Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
- Official Websites
- Required Travel Documents
- Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
- Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
- Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
- Food Policy
- Current Starting Ports (2025)
- Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Ambassador Cruise Line
- Frequently Asked Questions
- A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
Ambassador Cruise Line is a British company that delivers a premium-value, traditional cruise experience. It focuses on the adult market with no-fly departures from a variety of UK ports. The cruise line is celebrated for its authentic atmosphere, warm service, and outstanding cuisine at an affordable price point.
A Brief History
Established in 2021, Ambassador Cruise Line was created to fill a gap in the UK market for traditional, adult-focused cruising. Its founders, a team with deep industry experience, aimed to blend classic cruise values with modern sustainability standards. The atmosphere on board is designed to be warm, friendly, and distinctly British.
The line’s flagship, Ambience, embarked on her maiden voyage in April 2022 and was joined by Ambition in May 2023. This expansion allowed Ambassador to serve more regional UK ports, reinforcing its commitment to convenient, no-fly holidays. In early 2025, Ambassador merged with Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC), forming the Ambassador Group to broaden its reach across Europe.
The Ambassador Cruise Line Fleet
Ambassador Cruise Line operates a fleet of classic, mid-sized ships that offer a welcoming and comfortable environment. Their size allows them to access a wider range of ports than many larger mega-ships. Each vessel provides a variety of dining options and entertainment venues.
Ambience
- Launch Date: 1991 (Entered service with Ambassador in 2022)
- Tonnage: 70,285 GT
- Capacity: 1,400 passengers
- Notable Features: The Palladium theatre, Observatory lounge, Sea & Grass restaurant, spacious deck areas
As the flagship, Ambience set the standard for the Ambassador experience with her spacious public areas and traditional feel. The ship underwent a significant refurbishment to align her with modern environmental standards before launching. She appeals to those who appreciate a classic cruising style.
Ambition
- Launch Date: 1999 (Entered service with Ambassador in 2023)
- Tonnage: 48,123 GT
- Capacity: 1,200 passengers
- Notable Features: The Cavern Club, Saffron restaurant, The Palladium theatre, multiple lounges
The fleet’s second ship, Ambition, offers a slightly more intimate yet equally comfortable cruising experience. She features many of the same popular venues as her sister ship, including speciality restaurants and the main theatre. Her smaller size allows for access to an even greater variety of destinations.
Renaissance
- Launch Date: 1993 (Entered service with CFC in 2023)
- Tonnage: 55,575 GT
- Capacity: 1,100 passengers
- Notable Features: Classic design, serves the French market, focus on gastronomy
Following the merger, Renaissance joined the Ambassador Group but continues to operate under the CFC brand for the French market. She shares the classic design philosophy of the Ambassador fleet and maintains a distinctly French atmosphere. The ship is undergoing upgrades to meet modern environmental standards.
Accommodation and Service Levels
Ambassador offers a wide range of comfortable and well-appointed cabins to suit different budgets and preferences. All cabins include tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge, hair dryer, safe, and UK three-pin electrical sockets. The onboard service is known for being attentive, friendly, and professional.
Standard Cabins
The standard cabins offer a comfortable and affordable retreat for your voyage. These are available in Inside, Obstructed View, and full Ocean View categories. They provide excellent value while ensuring a restful personal space.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Flexible Bedding: All cabins feature twin beds that can be easily converted into a double bed to suit couples or friends.
- Essential Amenities: Each cabin is equipped with an en-suite bathroom, ample storage space, and a television.
- Comfortable Furnishings: The decor is classic and designed to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere after a day of exploring.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Suite Categories
For guests seeking more space and an enhanced level of comfort, Ambassador provides several suite categories. These range from Junior Suites with a sitting area and private balcony to the top-tier De Luxe Suites. Suites provide a significant upgrade in both space and amenities.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Junior Suites: These suites feature a combined living and sleeping area with a private balcony, offering more room to relax.
- Superior Junior Suites: Offering even more space, these suites provide a larger living area for added comfort.
- De Luxe Suites: The most spacious option, these suites boast a separate bedroom and living area, a large private balcony, and enhanced amenities.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Exclusive Suite-Level Services
Guests booked in the top-tier De Luxe Suites receive a range of exclusive perks designed to provide a more luxurious experience. These benefits add a layer of convenience and personal attention to your cruise. They ensure a seamless and pampered journey from start to finish.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Priority Services: Enjoy priority embarkation and disembarkation, making the process of joining and leaving the ship smoother.
- Welcome Amenities: Guests are greeted with a welcome bottle of wine and fresh fruit in their suite upon arrival.
- Complimentary Services: Benefits often include complimentary laundry and pressing services to help you look your best throughout the voyage.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Accessible Cabins
Both Ambience and Ambition are equipped with a number of cabins specifically designed for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility. These cabins ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all passengers. They are limited in number and should be booked well in advance.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Wider Doorways: Doorways are widened to easily accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Adapted Bathrooms: The en-suite bathrooms feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and lower sinks for ease of use.
- Increased Floor Space: The cabins provide more interior floor space, allowing for better manoeuvrability within the room.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
What’s Included in Your Fare
Ambassador Cruise Line offers a premium-value experience, with the standard fare covering all the essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable holiday. This transparent approach allows guests to relax, knowing that the core aspects of their trip are already taken care of. It helps in managing your budget without unexpected costs.
Key inclusions in your fare typically cover:
- Accommodation: Your cabin, including amenities such as tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge, safe, and UK three-pin sockets.
- Full-Board Cuisine: Breakfast, lunch, and five-course dinners in the main dining rooms, plus casual buffet options, afternoon tea, and late-night snacks.
- Onboard Entertainment: Full access to a wide range of entertainment, from spectacular shows in The Palladium theatre to live music and guest comedians.
- Daytime Activities: A comprehensive programme of events, including insightful guest lectures, arts and crafts workshops, quizzes, and deck games.
- Ship Facilities: Access to the onboard swimming pools, whirlpools, fitness centre, and library for all guests.
Please note that inclusions may vary depending on the specific fare type, ship, and itinerary. Always confirm details at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programme: Ambassador’s Club
The Ambassador’s Club is designed to reward loyal guests with a range of onboard benefits. Membership is automatic after your first cruise, and you earn one “Ambassador Night” for each night you sail. This simple system makes it easy to track your progress towards higher tiers.
Ambassador Club Member
- Requirement: 1-20 Ambassador Nights.
- Perks & Benefits: Members receive advance notification of new itineraries, access to exclusive member-only offers, and invitations to special onboard events.
Ambassador Club Gold
- Requirement: 21-50 Ambassador Nights.
- Perks & Benefits: All standard Member benefits, plus priority shore excursion booking, a dedicated loyalty manager, a dedicated check-in desk at Tilbury, and an invitation to a members’ cocktail party.
Ambassador Club Platinum
- Requirement: 51+ Ambassador Nights.
- Perks & Benefits: All Gold benefits, plus priority embarkation and disembarkation, complimentary laundry services, an additional 10% discount on future cruises, and a private audience with the Captain.
Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.
Pre-Paid Packages Available
Ambassador offers several pre-paid packages to help you manage your onboard budget and enhance your holiday. These cover everything from drinks to internet access. It is often more cost-effective to purchase these before you sail.
Beverage Packages
- Ambassador Experience Package: Includes all onboard gratuities and service charges, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks and juices, plus premium teas and speciality coffees.
- Ambassador Explorer Package: Includes all benefits from the Experience Package, plus house brands of spirits, a selection of house wines by the glass, and draught and bottled beers and ciders.
- Ambassador Expedition Package: Includes all benefits from the Explorer Package, plus premium spirits and cocktails, a wider selection of premium wines, and all canned soft drinks and bottled water.
Internet Packages
- Onboard Wi-Fi: Satellite internet access is available for purchase on board. Packages are typically sold based on usage duration, such as for 24 hours or for the entire voyage, with options catering for different needs from basic browsing to streaming.
Please visit the official Ambassador Cruise Line website for the most current pricing and details. You can typically purchase these packages through your online cruise planner before sailing.
Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line’s official website.
Dining Options
Ambassador Cruise Line prides itself on a culinary experience that blends traditional British flavours with international cuisine. All dishes are prepared with high-quality ingredients. Guests can enjoy a classic five-course dining affair or opt for more casual, flexible options.
Key dining venues across the fleet include:
- Buckingham Restaurant: This is the main dining room, offering a traditional cruise experience with a five-course menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, served at two fixed sittings.
- Borough Market: A casual and flexible buffet-style venue serving a wide array of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed dining schedule.
- Sea & Grass: A premium speciality restaurant (supplement applies) featuring a seven-course tasting menu that showcases a modern take on classic surf and turf dishes.
- Saffron: An authentic Indian speciality restaurant (supplement applies) where chefs prepare a menu celebrating regional culinary traditions from across the subcontinent.
- Chef’s Table: An exclusive VIP experience (supplement applies) where guests enjoy a multi-course gastronomic dinner with wine pairings, personally hosted by the Executive Chef.
Please note that dining options may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
The entertainment on Ambassador Cruise Line is designed to offer a rich and varied programme for its adult-focused audience. From spectacular West End-style shows to intimate live music, there is always something engaging to see or do. The focus is on classic, high-quality entertainment.
Onboard, you can expect:
- The Palladium Theatre: The main show lounge hosting high-quality production shows, tribute acts, guest comedians, and classical soloists across two nightly performances.
- Live Music & Lounges: Various bars and lounges, such as the Observatory and Raffles Bar, feature live musicians playing everything from classical piano to contemporary hits.
- Daytime Activities & Enrichment: A full schedule of daily activities including guest speaker lectures, arts and crafts workshops, quizzes, and deck games like shuffleboard.
- Wellness & Fitness: The Green Sea Spa offers a comprehensive menu of treatments and a thermal suite, while the onboard gym provides a range of modern fitness equipment.
Please note that entertainment and activities may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Ambassador Cruise Line for Solo Travellers
Ambassador Cruise Line is widely regarded as an excellent choice for solo travellers due to its friendly atmosphere and dedicated facilities. The line actively welcomes individuals and makes it easy to socialise and meet new people. The traditional cruise setting encourages conversation and shared experiences.
Accommodation for Solo Cruisers
Ambassador is particularly well-suited for solo cruisers thanks to its allocation of dedicated single-occupancy cabins. These cabins are available across different grades, including inside and oceanview options. This allows solo guests to book without paying the hefty single supplements often found on other cruise lines.
Key options and features include:
- Dedicated Single Cabins: Both Ambience and Ambition feature a generous number of twin cabins for single occupancy at a special rate, making solo travel more affordable.
- Comfortable Amenities: These cabins are thoughtfully appointed with all the standard amenities, ensuring a comfortable and private space for individual travellers.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Meeting People and Onboard Life
The cruise line makes a conscious effort to ensure solo travellers feel included and have ample opportunity to socialise. The onboard atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Many activities are designed to be enjoyed in groups.
Key options and features include:
- Solo Travellers’ Get-Together: A welcome cocktail party is organised specifically for solo travellers at the start of each cruise, providing an easy way to meet fellow guests.
- Hosted Dinners: The cruise line can arrange for solo guests to be seated together for dinner in the main dining room, fostering conversation and camaraderie.
- Group Activities: The wide range of daytime activities, from quizzes to craft classes, makes it easy to connect with like-minded passengers in a relaxed setting.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Dress Code
Ambassador Cruise Line maintains a traditional approach to its dress code, which varies between daytime and evening. The aim is to create a relaxed atmosphere during the day and a more refined ambiance at night. Specific guidance is always provided in the daily onboard programme.
Key dress code guidelines include:
- Daytime Casual: During the day, attire is relaxed and casual. Shorts, t-shirts, and comfortable footwear are perfectly acceptable in most areas of the ship.
- Evening Smart Casual: In the evenings, the dress code is typically smart casual. This means trousers and an open-neck shirt for men, and a smart dress, skirt, or trousers for women.
- Gala Nights: On most cruises of 6 nights or more, there will be formal or ‘Gala’ nights. Guests are encouraged to wear glamorous evening wear such as a dinner jacket, tuxedo or dark suit for men, and a cocktail or evening dress for women.
Please note that dress code enforcement can vary. It is always best to check the latest guidelines for your specific sailing. You can also see our guide for Ambassador’s dress code.
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Ambassador Cruise Line operates a discretionary tipping policy to recognise the excellent service provided by the crew. Gratuities are pooled and distributed amongst the hotel and catering staff. This ensures all the team members who serve you are rewarded.
Key aspects of the gratuity policy include:
- Automatic Gratuities: A recommended amount is automatically added to your onboard account to make tipping convenient. The suggested rate is typically £7 per person per night.
- Reduced Rate for Longer Cruises: For cruises over 14 nights in duration, the recommended daily gratuity amount is often reduced to £6 per person per night.
- Adjustable Amount: While automatically added, the gratuity amount is discretionary and can be adjusted by visiting Guest Services on board before the end of your cruise.
Please note that gratuity policies and amounts are subject to change. Always confirm the latest details with the cruise line.
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
Ambassador Cruise Line has a strict policy regarding bringing beverages on board its ships. This is in line with standard industry practice for health, safety, and inventory control. The policy applies to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Key rules for bringing beverages onboard include:
- Prohibited Items: Guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol, soft drinks, or bottled water on board for consumption.
- Onboard Purchases: All beverages for consumption during your cruise must be purchased from the onboard bars and restaurants.
- Port Purchases: Any alcohol purchased ashore during a port of call will be securely stored by the ship’s crew. It will be returned to you on the last evening of your cruise for you to take home.
This policy is strictly enforced and subject to change. Items outside the allowance will be confiscated.
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Guest feedback for Ambassador is generally very positive, with many cruisers becoming loyal repeat customers. The line is often praised for delivering a premium-value, traditional British cruising experience. However, like any cruise line, there are also common points of constructive feedback.
Common Praises
- Exceptional Value for Money: Guests frequently mention that the cruise fare offers excellent value, considering the quality of food, service, and onboard experience included.
- Attentive and Friendly Crew: The service from the international crew is consistently highlighted as a standout feature, with staff being described as warm, professional, and genuinely caring.
- Quality Dining Experience: The food, particularly in the main dining room and speciality venues, receives high marks for its quality, variety, and presentation.
- Classic British Atmosphere: Many passengers appreciate the distinctly British feel, from the no-fly UK departures to the style of entertainment and cuisine.
Common Criticisms
- Older Fleet: While the ships are well-maintained, some guests note their age and that they lack the modern features of newer mega-ships.
- Entertainment Style: The entertainment is tailored to a mature, predominantly British audience, which may not appeal to all tastes or younger travellers.
- Additional Onboard Costs: While the base fare is good value, some feel the cost of drinks and excursions can add up quickly if not on a package.
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
Ambassador is committed to sustainable cruising and has invested heavily in upgrading its fleet to meet high environmental standards. This allows them to sail in the most protected sea areas. Their efforts focus on reducing emissions and minimising waste.
Key environmental initiatives include:
- Emissions Reduction: Both ships are equipped with technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 95%, meeting stringent IMO Tier III standards.
- Waste Management: The line has eliminated single-use plastics for guest amenities and is focused on reducing printed materials and recycling waste.
- Shore Power Connectivity: The ships can connect to shore power where available, allowing their engines to be switched off in port to reduce local air pollution.
- Advanced Wastewater Treatment: Both ships feature advanced wastewater treatment systems that are significantly more efficient than required by current regulations.
For the most detailed and current information, please refer to the cruise line’s official sustainability reports.
Official Websites
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is essential to use the official Ambassador Cruise Line website. This ensures you have access to the latest itineraries, pricing, and company policies. It is the primary resource for all UK-based customers.
The primary official websites are:
- United Kingdom Site: https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/
Always ensure the website URL is correct to avoid phishing scams.
Required Travel Documents
Ensuring you have the correct travel documents is your personal responsibility and is critical for a smooth embarkation. Ambassador enforces a strict “no documents, no travel” policy. Failure to comply will result in denial of boarding without a refund.
Key documentation requirements include:
- Passport Validity: A valid passport is mandatory for all Ambassador cruises, including UK-only itineraries. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining at the scheduled end date of your cruise.
- Visas: You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas for the countries on your itinerary. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with the embassy of each country you will visit.
Be aware that cruise line rules are often stricter than national entry rules. For example, a country might only require three months of passport validity, but if the cruise line’s policy is six months, you must meet that higher standard. Always check with the cruise line directly.
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
Ambassador Cruise Line has specific documentation requirements for adults travelling with children under 18 who are not their legal wards. This policy is in place for the safety and welfare of the minor. These rules apply even if you are a close relative, such as a grandparent or aunt.
Key requirements for non-guardian travel include:
- Consent Form: You must carry a notarised letter of consent signed by both legal parents or guardians. The letter must grant you permission to travel with the minor and authorise you to make decisions regarding emergency medical treatment.
- Single Parent Travel: If you are a single parent travelling with your child, it is advisable to carry the child’s birth certificate and a consent letter from the other parent or proof of sole legal custody.
Failure to provide required documentation can result in denial of boarding. Always verify requirements well in advance.
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
The safety of all guests and crew is the highest priority on board Ambassador’s ships. All guests must attend a mandatory safety drill before departure to familiarise themselves with emergency procedures. There are also strict rules about items that are not permitted on board.
Key safety rules and permitted items policies include:
- Mandatory Safety Drill: Attendance at the muster drill is compulsory for all passengers. This drill provides essential information about life jacket use and evacuation routes.
- Prohibited Electronics: Items with heating elements, such as clothes irons, travel steamers, and hot plates, are strictly forbidden as they pose a fire risk.
- Other Prohibited Items: Weapons, sharp objects (beyond small personal grooming tools), candles, incense, and illegal drugs are also not permitted on board.
For a complete list of prohibited items, please consult the cruise line’s official website before you pack.
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
It is important to follow the cruise line’s policies regarding medications and understand their strict stance on illegal substances. These rules are in place to comply with international maritime law and ensure the safety of everyone on board. Clear guidelines help prevent any issues during security screening.
Key policies include:
- Prescription Medications: You must bring all prescription medications in their original pharmacy packaging. It is also highly recommended to carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note, especially for controlled substances.
- Carry-On Luggage: All essential medications should be packed in your carry-on luggage, not in your checked bags, to ensure you have access to them at all times.
- Prohibited Substances: While cannabis may be legal in some jurisdictions you visit, it is strictly prohibited on board under international maritime law. This applies to all forms, including medicinal products.
The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Consult the cruise line for any questions regarding specific medications.
Food Policy
Ambassador Cruise Line has specific policies regarding bringing food on board, taking food ashore, and bringing food back from ports. These rules are primarily in place for public health and safety reasons. They also help comply with local and international customs and agricultural regulations.
Bringing Food Onboard
The policy for bringing your own food on board is quite restrictive to ensure hygiene standards are maintained. Only certain types of items are allowed. This helps prevent foodborne illnesses.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Items: You may bring small quantities of non-perishable, pre-packaged, and commercially sealed snacks such as biscuits, crisps, or chocolate bars.
- Prohibited Items: Fresh food, homemade items, cooked meals, and anything requiring refrigeration or heating are not allowed on board.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Taking Food Off the Ship
For public health and agricultural reasons, taking food off the ship in port is generally not permitted. This is a standard policy across the cruise industry. It helps prevent the accidental transfer of pests or diseases between countries.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Fresh Food: You are not allowed to take fresh food items, such as fruit, vegetables, sandwiches, or dairy products from the buffet, off the ship.
- Packaged Items: Taking pre-packaged, sealed items like a box of biscuits off the ship is generally acceptable, but it is always best to check first.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Bringing Food Back from Port
Bringing food items back onto the ship after a day in port is allowed under certain conditions. However, you must also be mindful of your home country’s customs regulations when you disembark. This is particularly important for agricultural products.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Onboard: You may bring commercially packaged, sealed, and non-perishable food items back on board as souvenirs (e.g., sealed boxes of chocolates or biscuits).
- UK Customs Restrictions: Be aware that bringing certain products like fresh fruit, meat, or dairy back into the UK is often restricted or prohibited.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Ambassador Cruise Line specialises in no-fly cruising from a wide range of regional UK ports, making the start of your holiday convenient. This approach eliminates the stress of airports and allows you to begin your trip closer to home. All port links are affiliated; The Essential Cruise Shop will receive a commission for qualifying bookings.
- London Tilbury, England, UK | Transport & Accommodation
- Newcastle (Port of Tyne), England, UK | Transport & Accommodation
- Dundee, Scotland, UK | Transport & Accommodation
- Liverpool, England, UK | Transport & Accommodation
- Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK | Transport & Accommodation
- Bristol Royal Portbury, England, UK | Transport & Accommodation
- Portsmouth, England, UK | Transport & Accommodation
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Ambassador Cruise Line
Ambassador offers a diverse range of itineraries, from short European breaks to epic grand voyages. The following examples showcase the variety of holidays you can enjoy. These itineraries illustrate the line’s focus on discovery and classic cruising.
Majestic Fjordland Exploration
Perfect for nature lovers and first-time cruisers, this itinerary offers breathtaking scenery and charming Norwegian villages. The dramatic landscapes of the fjords are truly unforgettable. It is a classic cruise experience that never fails to impress.
- Best For: Scenery Lovers, Couples, First-Time Cruisers
- Duration: 7 Nights
- Departure Port: London Tilbury
- Example Ship: Ambience
- Typical Ports of Call: Eidfjord, Bergen, Flåm, Haugesund
Canary Islands & Madeira Winter Escape
This voyage is ideal for those seeking sunshine during the cooler months without a long-haul flight. It combines relaxing sea days with visits to vibrant islands known for their pleasant climate and unique volcanic landscapes. It’s a perfect winter warmer.
- Best For: Winter Sun Seekers, Garden Enthusiasts
- Duration: 14 Nights
- Departure Port: Liverpool
- Example Ship: Ambition
- Typical Ports of Call: Leixões (for Oporto), Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz de La Palma, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Arrecife (Lanzarote), Lisbon
Round Britain & Scenic Ireland
Discover the beauty of the British Isles and Ireland from a unique perspective on this comprehensive cruise. This itinerary is perfect for history buffs and those who want to explore closer to home. It avoids the hassle of airports while visiting iconic cities.
- Best For: History Buffs, UK Explorers
- Duration: 12 Nights
- Departure Port: Bristol
- Example Ship: Ambition
- Typical Ports of Call: Cobh (for Cork), Belfast, Portree (Isle of Skye), Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Tobermory (Isle of Mull), St Peter Port (Guernsey)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes, satellite Wi-Fi is available throughout the ships for a fee. You can purchase various packages on board to suit your needs, from basic social media access to full streaming capabilities. - What power sockets are in the cabins?
All cabins are equipped with standard UK 3-pin electrical sockets, so you will not need a travel adapter for your British devices. - Can I bring my own alcohol on board?
No, guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol, soft drinks, or water on board. All beverages must be purchased from the ship’s bars and restaurants. - Is Ambassador Cruise Line adults-only?
Ambassador primarily focuses on an adult experience, but it is not strictly adults-only. The line offers designated multi-generational cruises during school holiday periods where children are welcome. - What is the currency used on board?
The onboard currency is the British Pound Sterling (£). All onboard purchases and your final account will be charged in GBP. - Are gratuities included in the fare?
Gratuities are not included in the standard fare but are automatically added to your onboard account. They can also be pre-paid as part of an inclusive package for convenience. - Are there formal nights on Ambassador cruises?
Yes, Ambassador cruises feature “Gala Nights” where guests are encouraged to dress in formal attire, such as dinner jackets for men or cocktail dresses for women. - Does Ambassador offer cabins for solo travellers?
Yes, both ships feature a significant number of dedicated single cabins across various categories, which can be booked without a single supplement. - Are there set dining times?
The main dining room operates on a traditional two-sitting dinner schedule. For more flexibility, the Borough Market buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. - Do I need a passport for a cruise around Britain?
Yes, a valid passport with at least six months validity at the end of the cruise is a mandatory requirement for all guests on all cruises, even for itineraries that do not leave UK waters.
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:
- “Free Cruise” or “Exclusive Offer” Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you’ve won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced “exclusive” deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for “port taxes,” or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
- Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line’s official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a “limited-time offer” that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer’s legitimacy.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.
To ensure your journey with Ambassador Cruise Line begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact Ambassador Cruise Line directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.
Additional Resources
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WayAway: Flight Aggregator
Tours & Activities
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Transport & Transfers
AutoEurope Car Hire: Click Here to Book
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Kiwitaxi: Private Transfers and Tours
Other Services
Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
Radical Storage: Luggage Storage
Yesim: eSIM Provider
Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
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Many of the links are affiliate links, The Essential Cruise Shop may receive a commission from qualifying clicks, orders or bookings. This income helps support our efforts to provide and improve our site and turn it into a one stop resource for travellers with a bias towards cruising.
