Glenys & Ian – Why Cruising with Ambassador Surpassed Our Expectations
Monday, 29 September 2025
For Glenys & Ian, travelling is a passion, and cruising has always been a favourite way to explore new places. Having already been on other cruises, they thought they knew what to expect when they joined Ambition with Ambassador Cruise Line. But what they discovered was something quite different – a cruise that combined warm service, outstanding food, and a ship atmosphere that truly exceeded their expectations.
Here’s their story – in their own words – about cakes that made them swoon, a foxtrot that had them laughing, and a holiday that left them wanting more.
“It far exceeded our expectations” – the warmest welcome at sea
Glenys & Ian had already experienced cruise holidays before, so they arrived with a fair idea of life on board. But from the moment they stepped onto Ambition, they realised this would be something special.
“As we have cruised previously, we sort of knew what to expect! But actually, it far exceeded our expectations.”
For them, it was the service and atmosphere that made the difference. Staff were friendly and attentive, nothing was too much trouble, and there was a relaxed but professional feel throughout the ship. They felt instantly at home – which is exactly what Ambassador aims to provide: an authentic no-fly cruise experience with the warmest welcome at sea.
A sweet discovery – cakes in Borough Market
When asked to choose a favourite place on board, their answer came instantly.
“Favourite space has got to be in Borough Market drooling over all the AMAZING cakes!”
Borough Market, one of Ambition’s dining venues, became a daily indulgence. Whether it was afternoon tea or a sneaky slice after dinner, the cakes were the highlight.
“The food on board was 5-star quality wherever and whatever you were eating! However, I will say the cakes surpassed my wildest dreams!”
Food is often a central part of cruising, and for Glenys & Ian, the dining experience was exceptional across the board. But those cakes became the memory they’ll always smile about.
Laughing through the foxtrot – trying something new on board
One of the joys of cruising with Ambassador is that there’s something for everyone, from quizzes and crafting to shows and dance classes. Glenys & Ian threw themselves into it all – and found a new favourite hobby, even if they weren’t naturals.
“To be honest, we enjoyed all the onboard activities equally but if we had to choose one it would be the putting as golf is our passion! Dancing the foxtrot certainly put us out of our comfort zone as neither of us had attempted it previously. However, it did make us laugh our socks off!”
It wasn’t about being perfect – it was about sharing the moment together. That balance of familiar comforts (like putting practice) and light-hearted challenges (like dance lessons) is what made their days at sea so memorable.
West End nights at sea – mind-blowing entertainment
The evenings were just as full of highlights as the days. Ambassador is known for its West End-quality shows, and Glenys & Ian were blown away by the performances they caught.
“We watched most of the entertainment offered on board ship. However, the two shows we managed to watch were truly mind-blowing.”
They were so impressed that one of their only regrets was not seeing even more. “If we could go back tomorrow, we’d eat more cakes and watch more shows in The Palladium.”
Porto and Bordeaux – destinations to treasure
A cruise is about more than the ship – it’s also about the destinations. For Glenys & Ian, two ports stood out.
Porto: “The highlight of our trip – the city’s riverside charm was unforgettable.”
Bordeaux: They joined a wine tasting and blending experience on the Medoc Wine Road Tour. “It was the perfect balance of culture, flavour and fun.”
One of the things they valued most was how easy it was to combine exploration ashore with relaxation back on the ship. “The balance was spot-on.”
Treasured memories – every single second
When reflecting on their cruise, Glenys & Ian struggled to choose one standout moment – because, for them, the entire trip was filled with joy.
“Every single second… we’ll treasure it all.”
They laughed together, explored together, and enjoyed the small touches that made the holiday feel effortless. The cruise didn’t necessarily change their relationship – “our bond was strong to start with” – but it gave them a shared set of memories they’ll never forget.
“There was nothing not to love” – why they’d sail again
When asked whether they’d cruise with Ambassador again, their answer was instant.
“100% There was nothing ‘not to love’ and everything to love.”
They describe Ambassador as “amazing, wonderful, fantastic, entertaining, delectable.” For them, it was the combination of professional staff, smooth organisation, warm friendliness, and a ship that felt alive with activities and entertainment.
Their advice to anyone considering an Ambassador cruise?
“Stop thinking and get it booked. You will not regret it.”
Why Cruise with Ambassador?
Glenys & Ian’s words sum up the Ambassador difference: affordable quality, small-ship friendliness, and experiences that exceed expectations. With carefully crafted itineraries, outstanding cuisine, West End-style shows, and the no-fly convenience of sailing from UK ports, it’s easy to see why they say there was everything to love.
