By
Alice Chambers |
Former British athlete and Olympian Sally Gunnell OBE officially christened Ambassador Cruise Line’s first ship, Ambience, at an inaugural event at London Cruise Terminal in Tilbury, UK, on 19 April 2022.
Over 500 guests, partners and suppliers were invited to board the ship to witness the naming and blessing ceremony, explore the newly renovated accommodation and public spaces, enjoy a celebratory seven-course meal and experience various entertainment options.
“It is an absolute pleasure to be godmother for Ambassador Cruise Line’s first ship, Ambience,” said Gunnell. “Ambassador has a collection of brand values that I too strongly believe in, from community and well-being to being sustainable and ethical. This commitment demonstrates that Ambassador is a responsible cruise line and one that I’m extremely honoured to be working with.”
Several Ambassador Cruise Line executives spoke during the naming ceremony, highlighting how the cruise line was founded, the obstacles it has overcome since announcing its launch in May 2021, and its pledge to be an environmentally sustainable operator.
“Nearly 25 years ago on this day, I joined my first cruise ship as a bar waiter,” said Christian Verhounig, CEO of Ambassador. “While I instantly fell in love with the cruise industry, I could never have imagined that one day I would be the CEO of a brand-new cruise line and witness the naming its first ship.
“Launching a cruise line during the pandemic shows our belief in and commitment to the cruise and travel industry. Sustainability is also important to us. We have invested significant amounts into upgrading Ambience, including making the ship IMO Tier III compliant, making it possible for Ambience to sail in the most environmentally protected areas around the world.”
Speaking with CFR’s Alice Chambers and Rebecca Gibson during an exclusive interview onboard the ship, Verhounig said: “I’m looking forward to bringing back the crew’s enjoyment of cruising now that we finally have guests onboard. We know that we have a lot of passionate cruisers onboard who have done a lot of cruises before. I’m sure our guests will love Ambience.”
Following her christening, Ambience embarked on a maiden voyage to Hamburg, Germany, on 20 April, with her first paying guests onboard.
Ambience’s first season includes 31 sailings calling at over 90 different ports. Itineraries include trips to the British Isles, the Norwegian Fjords, The Nordics, the Artic, and many more destinations. The ship will then operate in the Canary Islands, Cuba, the Caribbean, Cape Verde and Scandinavia during the winter season.
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