The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to Ambassador Cruise Line (2025)

The Essential Cruise Shop's expert guide to Ambassador Cruise Line, featuring one of their signature cruise ships.

In This Guide

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 (FAQ)
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
Additional Resources
Disclaimer
Affiliate Disclosure

Ambassador Cruise Line is a British company offering a premium-value, traditional cruise experience. It primarily targets the adult market with a focus on no-fly departures from a variety of UK ports. The cruise line is celebrated for its authentic ambiance, warm service, and outstanding cuisine at an affordable price.

A Brief History

Established in 2021, Ambassador Cruise Line emerged to fill a gap in the UK market for traditional, adult-focused cruising. The company was founded by a team with extensive experience in the cruise industry, aiming 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 a second ship, Ambition, in May 2023. This growth allowed Ambassador to serve even 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 for the brand. 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

Standard cabins provide a comfortable retreat and are available across four main categories. These include Inside, Obstructed View, and Ocean View cabins. All feature twin beds that can be converted to a double, offering excellent value.

Suite Categories

For guests seeking more space, Ambassador provides several suite categories. Junior Suites feature a sitting area and a private balcony, while Superior Junior Suites offer additional space. The top-tier De Luxe Suites are the most spacious, boasting a separate bedroom and living area with a large private balcony.

Exclusive Suite-Level Services

Guests booked in De Luxe Suites receive a range of exclusive perks designed to provide a more luxurious experience. These benefits often include priority embarkation and disembarkation. A welcome bottle of wine and fresh fruit, as well as complimentary laundry services, are also included.

Accessible Cabins

Both Ambience and Ambition are equipped with cabins designed for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility. These accessible cabins feature wider doorways and adapted bathrooms with roll-in showers. They provide more floor space for wheelchair access, so it is recommended to book them early as they are limited.

What's Included in Your Fare

Ambassador prides itself on offering a premium value experience with many inclusions in the cruise fare. This transparent approach helps guests budget for their holiday more effectively. You can relax knowing the essentials are already covered.

Your fare includes full-board cuisine, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in the main dining rooms and the buffet restaurant. Also included are afternoon teas, late-night snacks, and tea and coffee from designated stations. Daytime activities, guest lectures, and evening entertainment are also part of the package.

Additional costs include drinks from the bars, speciality dining, shore excursions, and spa treatments. Gratuities are also an additional charge. Ambassador offers a variety of packages that can be pre-booked to help manage costs.

Loyalty Programme: Ambassador's Club

The Ambassador's Club rewards loyal guests with a range of onboard benefits based on the number of nights sailed. Membership is automatic after your first cruise, and you earn one "Ambassador Night" for each night you spend on board. This simple system makes it easy to track your progress.

Ambassador Club Member

Requirement: 1-20 Ambassador Nights.
Perks & Benefits: Receive advance notification of new itineraries and access to exclusive member-only offers and onboard events.

Ambassador Club Gold

Requirement: 21-50 Ambassador Nights.
Perks & Benefits: All standard 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, 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.

Ambassador Experience Package

All onboard gratuities and service charges.
Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages including soft drinks, juices, and mocktails.
Premium teas and speciality coffees.

Ambassador Explorer Package

All benefits from the Experience Package.
House brands of spirits and liqueurs.
A selection of house wines by the glass.
Draught and bottled beer and cider.

Ambassador Expedition Package

All benefits from the Explorer Package.
Premium and luxury spirits, liqueurs, and cocktails.
A wider selection of premium wines by the glass.
All canned soft drinks, energy drinks, and bottled water.

Onboard Wi-Fi Packages

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. Options cater for different needs, from basic browsing to streaming.

Please visit the official Ambassador Cruise Line website to view the latest package details, pricing, and terms. You can typically purchase these packages through your online cruise planner before you sail.

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

Dining is a highlight of the Ambassador experience, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and classic British and international cuisine. The main dining room, the Buckingham Restaurant, offers a traditional five-course meal with set dining times. For a flexible option, the Borough Market provides a wide variety of buffet-style choices.

For a special occasion, guests can choose from several speciality restaurants for an additional charge. Sea & Grass offers a premium surf-and-turf menu, while Saffron serves authentic Indian cuisine. The Chef's Table provides an exclusive, multi-course VIP dinner with wine pairings hosted by the Executive Chef.

Onboard Entertainment & Activities

Ambassador offers a rich programme of entertainment and activities for its adult-focused audience. The Palladium hosts spectacular West End-style production shows, comedy acts, and musical performances. Throughout the ship, guests can enjoy live music in various lounges, such as the Observatory with its panoramic views.

During the day, the schedule is filled with engaging activities like guest lectures, arts and crafts workshops, and quizzes. For those seeking relaxation, the Green Sea Spa offers a full range of treatments, a thermal suite, and a salon. The onboard gym is also fully equipped for a complete workout.

Ambassador Cruise Line for Solo Travellers

Ambassador Cruise Line is widely regarded as an excellent choice for solo travellers, thanks 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

A key feature for solo travellers is the availability of dedicated single cabins on both Ambience and Ambition. These are offered across Inside and Ocean View categories and are priced for one person, avoiding the often-hefty single supplement. The single supplement is the extra charge other lines typically levy for one person occupying a double cabin.

Meeting People and Onboard Life

Ambassador organises a welcome cocktail party specifically for solo travellers at the beginning of each cruise. The cruise line also hosts dedicated meeting points and can arrange for solo guests to be seated together for dinner. The wide range of group activities also makes it easy to connect with like-minded passengers.

Dress Code

The dress code on Ambassador is relaxed during the day, with guests typically wearing casual attire. In the evening, the code is generally "smart casual," such as trousers and an open-neck shirt for men and a smart dress or trousers for women. There are also formal "Gala" nights on most cruises, where guests are encouraged to wear glamorous evening wear.

See our guide for Ambassador's dress code.

Gratuities / Tipping Policy

Ambassador Cruise Line operates a discretionary tipping policy to reward the crew for excellent service. A recommended amount of £7 per person per night (£6 for cruises over 14 nights) is automatically added to your onboard account. This can be adjusted at guest services, but it is a standard practice to thank the crew for their service.

Embarkation Day Beverage Policy

Guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol, soft drinks, or water on board Ambassador's ships. All beverages for consumption must be purchased from the onboard bars and restaurants. Any alcohol purchased ashore during a port visit will be stored securely and returned to you at the end of the cruise.

What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View

Guests consistently praise Ambassador for its exceptional value for money and the high quality of its food and service. The friendly and attentive crew are frequently highlighted as a major positive. Many cruisers also appreciate the traditional British feel and the convenience of no-fly departures.

On the other hand, some guests note that the ships, while beautifully maintained, are older vessels. They may lack some of the modern amenities found on brand-new mega-ships. The entertainment is generally considered high quality but is tailored to a more mature audience.

Environmental & Sustainability Efforts

Ambassador is committed to sustainable cruising and has invested significantly in upgrading its fleet to meet the highest environmental standards. Both ships are equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems and technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 95%. This allows them to sail in the most environmentally protected sea areas, meeting stringent IMO Tier III standards.

The cruise line has also eliminated single-use plastics for guest amenities and is focused on reducing printed materials. Both ships can connect to shore power, allowing their engines to be switched off in port to reduce local emissions. These efforts demonstrate a genuine commitment to protecting the oceans and destinations they visit.

Official Websites

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, booking, and managing your cruise, always 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.

Official Website: https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/

Required Travel Documents

A valid passport is mandatory for all Ambassador cruises, regardless of the itinerary. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining at the end of your cruise. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visas for all countries on your itinerary.

Be aware that cruise line rules are often stricter than country-specific rules. For example, a destination might only require three months of passport validity for entry, but if the cruise line's policy is six months, you must meet that higher standard. Warning: Cruise lines enforce a strict "no documents, no travel" policy, and you will be denied boarding without a refund if you fail to comply.

Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)

When travelling with a minor under 18 for whom you are not the legal parent or guardian, you must carry a notarised letter of consent. This letter must be signed by both legal guardians, granting you permission to travel and authorise emergency medical decisions. This policy also applies to single parents, who should carry a consent letter from the other parent or proof of sole custody.

Onboard Safety & Permitted Items

The safety of guests and crew is the highest priority on board. All guests must attend a mandatory safety drill before the ship departs. For everyone's safety, certain items are strictly prohibited, including weapons, illegal drugs, clothes irons, heating elements, and candles.

Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy

You must bring all prescription medications in their original pharmacy packaging, along with a copy of your prescription or a doctor's note. While cannabis may be legal in some destinations, it is strictly prohibited on board under international maritime law. This applies to all forms, including medicinal cannabis, and can result in severe legal consequences.

Food Policy

Bringing Food Onboard

You may bring small quantities of non-perishable, pre-packaged snacks such as biscuits or crisps on board. However, fresh food, homemade items, and anything requiring refrigeration are not allowed for public health reasons.

Taking Food Off the Ship

For public health reasons, you are not allowed to take fresh food, such as fruit or sandwiches from the buffet, off the ship in port. This policy is in place to prevent the transfer of agricultural pests and diseases between countries.

Bringing Food Back from Port

You may bring commercially packaged and sealed food items back on board as souvenirs. However, be aware of UK customs regulations, as bringing certain products like fresh fruit, meat, or dairy back into the country is often restricted.

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. All port links are affiliated. The Essential Cruise Shop will be paid a commission on any completed bookings at no additional cost to you.

Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Ambassador Cruise Line

Ambassador offers a diverse range of itineraries, from short European breaks to epic grand voyages. Here are three examples that 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 and stunning coastlines.

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 (FAQ)

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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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Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
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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.

Affiliate Disclosure

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.

The Essential Cruise Shop's Guide to Ambassador Cruise Line (2025) | Ships, Dress Code & Tips

Your complete expert guide to the fleet, dining, onboard life, and policies for Ambassador Cruise Line in 2025.