Day 1 Onboard the Ambassador Ambition – A Refreshing Change of Pace
Having spent most of my time on larger cruise ships, this is my first real experience of a smaller vessel and honestly, I’m impressed. The embarkation process in Liverpool was incredibly smooth and stress-free, helped along by glorious sunshine and a warm welcome.
After joining around 20 fellow Travel Counsellors, we enjoyed a guided tour of the ship’s key areas including restaurants, bars, the gym and public lounges. Despite being smaller in scale, everything felt surprisingly spacious and well laid out. There’s a calm, relaxed feel onboard without the crowds or queues you often find on bigger ships.
Lunch was a quick slice of pizza for me, which was hot and fresh, but there were plenty of options available to suit all tastes. I also had a chance to explore the outdoor areas, which include lots of deck space, sun loungers, jacuzzis, a pool and a poolside bar. It’s a great place to relax and take in the surroundings.
One of the biggest takeaways from day one is just how well suited Ambition is for the more mature cruiser. The atmosphere onboard is peaceful and refined, with a classic style and slower pace that really gives you time to switch off. The entertainment and dining options are well thought out and geared towards adults who value comfort, quality and good service. It also represents excellent value for money, especially with so many no-fly cruises available from UK ports.
This evening I dined at Saffron, one of the ship’s speciality restaurants. For £20, I enjoyed a beautifully presented three-course meal and a beer. I opted for the butter chicken curry which came highly recommended, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s well worth the additional charge for the quality and experience.
Tomorrow is set to be a busy one with meetings and cabin tours planned, so I’ll get a proper look at the accommodation and a chance to speak with the cruise line team.
Before I wrap up, I wanted to mention breakfast this morning. A full English is available from the buffet, with omelettes and poached eggs cooked fresh to order. I noticed the Holyrood Restaurant on Deck 11 was much busier than the Buckingham Restaurant on Deck 6. As both serve the same selection, I’d recommend heading to Deck 6 if you’re looking for a quieter and more relaxed start to your day.
If you’re thinking about trying a smaller ship or looking for a more traditional cruise experience that offers fantastic value, Ambassador Ambition could be just what you’re looking for. Feel free to get in touch if you’d like more information or help finding the right itinerary.
Until tomorrow
