Former AIDAmira will be renovated prior to beginning service in the UK in summer 2023
By
Rebecca Gibson |
British cruise operator Ambassador Cruise Line has purchased a second cruise ship, which will be christened Ambition when it starts service in 2023.
The vessel, which formerly sailed as AIDA Cruises’ AIDAmira, has capacity to carry up to 1,200 guests in 714 cabins, 125 of which have balconies and 113 are suites with up to 62 square metres of living space. Other onboard highlights include a tiered main theatre, casino, card room, library, craft studio, wellness centre, gymnasium, two swimming pools and a range of shops. In addition, the ship has two main restaurants and speciality dining options, a bistro-style café, four bars and lounges and a pub.
Prior to entering service, Ambition will undergo similar extensive upgrades as her new sister ship, Ambience, which will set sail in April 2022.
Ambassador will install updated ballast and sewage water treatment systems to enable the vessels to sail in strictly environmentally protected seas. The ships will also be fitted with technologies to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by around 95 per cent compared to current standards, ensuring they comply with International Maritime Organization Tier III standards.
“We are delighted with the warm reception given to the introduction of Ambassador to the market – a new brand, proposition and our first ship,” said Christian Verhounig, CEO of Ambassador. “This announcement of the addition of Ambition to the fleet reflects our confidence and willingness to invest in the future of Ambassador and the cruise sector."
Like Ambience, Ambition will offer no-fly sailings primarily targeted at the 50-plus market from London Tilbury in the UK. In addition, the ship will sail regional departures from ports such as Newcastle, Dundee, Belfast, Liverpool, Bristol and Falmouth in summer 2023.
“We are particularly excited to be offering regional departure options for Ambition in 2023, whilst also offering guests who travel from London Tilbury a greater choice of sailings and ships on which to enjoy them,” said Verhounig. “Clearly, we are all focused on the success of Ambience’s maiden season which commences in April this year, but we believe existing and new guests, as well as our trade partners, will be thrilled to hear about Ambassador’s growth plans.”