8 5 during its revitalisation project. For example, more than 23 miles of new piping has been installed and all guest corridors now feature new ceilings. “In terms of exterior updates, the ship has obviously had full new livery and we have fitted new teak flooring on the open deck areas, upgraded the sound and light system, and created a new entertainment area to enhance the guest offering and overall experience,” says McGowan. Extensive investments have also been made to carry out technical upgrades on the ship, primarily with a view to improving its environmental performance. Ambience has been equipped with selective catalytic reduction systems, new advanced waste water treatment plants, and an improved food pulper system to decrease food waste. The new pulper system features an upgraded biodigester, which reduces the ship’s production of nitrogen and sulphur oxides by 75 and 80 per cent respectively and will decrease overall carbon dioxide emissions by 5.3 tons per year. Having overcome several challenges during the refurbishment process, including Covid-19related staff shortages and supply chain obstacles such as fuel shortages linked to the situation in Ukraine delaying its departure from the shipyard, Ambience embarked on its maiden voyage from the UK to Hamburg, Germany, on 20 April 2022. “We were delighted that we were able to take a well-loved ship with a great history and bring it back to life through designing areas and spaces that Ambassador’s guests will love,” says McGowan. “There are lots of new super-ships being built for the cruise market, but we’re keen to offer our guests a smaller to mid-size traditional, cruising experience with our fleet.” Following the success of Ambience’s refurbishment and debut, Ambassador will continue to carry out refurbishments on her sister ship, Ambition, which enters service in 2023. CFI A NOTE FROM THE GODMOTHER “I love it in the Botanical Lounge,” says Sally Gunnell OBE, former British athlete and godmother of Ambience. “Each bar and restaurant has its own theme which is fun, but in the lounge, the layout of the seats and tables means that guests can come inside and everyone is just friendly with each other.” Ambience offers 11 different bars and lounges, including the Botanical Lounge which has a contemporary garden-themed design REV ITAL I SATION
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