Soul Train at Sea
Enjoy magical moments on a journey to Western Europe.
Cruise Code: A12712
- Departs
- 17 May 2027
- Duration
- 13 nights
- Sails from
- London Tilbury
- Ship
- Ambience
- ORCA
- Music Themed Cruise
If your idea of a perfect holiday includes dancefloor classics, live shows and a ship full of people who know every word, this one’s for you. Expect a full-on celebration of soul across the ship, including the Decades of Detroit – Motown & Soul Show, plus live acts and entertainment throughout your time on board. When the mood takes you, you will have DJs playing Northern Soul and Motown classics to soulful dance and modern favourites, plus rare and underplayed RnB, Mod, Ska and Reggae.
You’ll also be cruising down to sunnier shores, calling at seven ports across Spain, Gibraltar, Portugal and France. Think Vigo’s laid-back Galician coast, Cádiz and Almería in southern Spain, a stop in Gibraltar, then across to the Algarve at Portimão and on to Lisbon for a proper city fix, before finishing with a taste of Normandy in Honfleur, France.
What's happening on board
Darrell Smith performing 2 nights in the Palladium
Meet & Greet with Darrell Smith
4 Motown era DJ’s playing around the ship every night
Special onboard events
Theme Gala Dinner
CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
Lisbon
Lisbon unfolds across seven hills, offering constant surprises of light, colour and movement. Ride a historic tram through narrow streets, pause at hilltop viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River, or glide above the waterfront on the cable car at Parque das Nações, where the city feels open, bright and full of life. Neighbourhoods hum with music and conversation, tiled façades catching the sun as locals greet one another with easy warmth. Visit Belém’s great monuments or simply wander, letting the city’s friendly, vibrant spirit lead the way. Lisbon is joyful, welcoming and alive.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, captivates with its iconic rock and maritime history as the gateway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore historic fortifications and keep an eye out for the iconic Barbary macaques that roam the streets.
Almeria
Almeria invites you to explore its dramatic landscapes and fascinating history. Visit the Alcazaba fortress, a Moorish marvel perched high above the city, or wander the quaint streets of the Old Town. Unwind on the pristine beaches or venture inland to the lunar-like landscapes of the Tabernas Desert, which served as the backdrop for hundreds of ‘Spaghetti Western’ films.
Itinerary
- Sails from (and returns to) London Tilbury
- 13 nights
- 7 Ports of call
- 4 Countries
Full itinerary:
Cabins & Fares
Deck: 11Location: Forward, Midship, AftSize: 327-558sq ft/34.5-51.8sq mBalcony Size: 46.2-67sq ft/4.3-6.2sq m
Discover our Suite Benefits
Deck: 10, 11Location: Forward, Midship, AftSize: 210sq ft/19.5sq mBalcony Size: 28sq ft/2.6sq m
Deck: 4,5,6,8,9,10,11Location: Forward, Midship, AftSize: 190sq ft/17.7sq m
Deck: 5,6,8,9,10,11Location: Forward, Midship, AftSize: 190sq ft/17.7sq m
Accessible Cabins
If you are travelling with us with any disability or mobility needs, we offer a range of adapted cabins to accommodate these requirements. Speak to our reservations team today to learn more.
Included in all bookings
- Flexible cancellation policies† –
- Comfortable accommodation in chosen cabin category –
- Exceptional full board cuisine –
- Captain’s cocktail party* –
- Captain’s Gala Dinner and Baked Alaska Parade* –
- Informative guest speakers* –
- Amazing entertainment –
- Range of fitness, dance and wellness classes –
- Use of gym, swimming pool and hot tubs –
- Spa access –
- Porterage of luggage between the port and cabin.
- All port taxes, fees and charges
Speakers & Acts
Darrell Smith
Guest Act - Soul Vocalist
Darrell Smith is an extraordinary vocalist with an incredible range and versatility that spreads decades of material – but with a principal speciality on soul – and anything that requires power and a higher register!
Residing in Lancashire – Northwest England – he discovered the magic of music from an early age his earlier influences including Paul Weller, the British Indie Music scene and Tamala Motown– not to mention a musical upbringing entrenched in the shadows of Wigan Casino – the hub of 60s and 70s Northern Soul! As he developed his gift and embarked on his own vocal journey, his passion led him to focus on the soul greats – paying homage to artistes such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder – culminating in a first class honours in Music from the University of Salford.
His growing reputation in the industry has seen him perform theatre shows and undertake a wide variety of radio and recording session work during the last few years, culminating with Darrell’s stand out performance on the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall for the ‘Northern Soul at the BBC Proms’ event. Broadcast on the BBC, Darrell, along with the BBC Concert Orchestra and 5 other vocalists, led by Vula Malinga, performed a full program of Northern Soul classics to a sold out crowd and rave reviews.
Recently, Darrell stared in the Traitors at the BBC Proms shown on BBC One on New Years Day 2026
Tony The Hat
Guest Act - DJ
I first got into the soul scene in 1967 at St Mary’s Youth Club in Batley, soon moving on to the Bin Lid Club in Dewsbury and later The Torch, where I saw Major Lance live. In the early ’70s, after meeting Sheena, we travelled to legendary venues including Wigan Casino, Blackpool Mecca and Top Rank Hanley, catching artists like Millie Jackson and attending the 9,000-strong Queens Hall all-nighters in Leeds.
I did my first DJ spot in 1970 and are still going strong. In 2026, Kefalonia Soul celebrates 20 years—alongside our 50th wedding anniversary with over 300 friends joining us.
Sean Chapman
Guest Act - DJ
I first got into the soul scene in late 1976, spending four years at Cleethorpes Winter Gardens, where I developed a deep love of typical northern soul, new soul and funk. My first all-nighter was Wakefield Unity in 1977, followed by regular trips to legendary venues like Wigan Casino and Sheffield KGB. By 1979 I was inspired by the mod revival—bands like The Jam—and began collecting classic 45s and tailoring my own clothes. After starting DJing in 1982, I played across the UK and Europe, building a respected career alongside 30 years in the RAF. Today, I’m known for energetic, uptempo sets that keep dance floors packed.
Eddie Mcdonald
Guest Act - DJ
I got into Northern soul in 1978 at St. Kays in Aberdeen after hearing Little Anthony’s “Better Use Your Head.” It sparked a lifelong passion—and I even met my wife there. I later helped run Northern and mod nights and DJed reggae locally, playing the final Music Hall all-nighters to crowds of 900. After stepping away in the late ’80s, I returned in 1999 at the Belmont Social Club, earning guest spots across Scotland and on several soul live streams. I’ve DJed at major events like Prestatyn and the Winter Gardens, volunteered in community radio for 10 years, and helped raise over £25,000 for charity through Scottish soul events.
Dennis Hyde
Guest Act - DJ
I fell in love with soul music as a teenager, travelling the country to attend iconic events, including the Casino. Along the way I met my wonderful wife, and we recently renewed our vows in Kingston surrounded by family and 190 members of our soul family—an unforgettable day and night for us both.
In partnership with Kev and Gloria, we’ve helped host soul cruises and holidays across the Caribbean, Norwegian Fjords and Mediterranean, plus land-based trips to Mexico, Mauritius and Spain. Now on our ninth cruise, with three rooms and record sales, we’re excited for another incredible trip filled with soul and great memories.
FAQs
European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) and what this means for Ambassador’s guests
In alignment with the latest guidance, we can confirm that guests sailing on board Ambassador Cruise Line’s no-fly sailings will not be impacted by the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) during their trip.
This new digital border system, which first began on 12 October 2025, changes the requirements for British citizens travelling to a Schengen Area country with travellers using a UK passport now required to register biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, upon arrival.
However, cruise passengers embarking and disembarking a sailing in the UK are not required to go through this new process.
This means that guests of Ambassador’s no-fly sailings – which all depart from and return to one of seven UK regional ports, namely, London Tilbury, Newcastle, Dundee, Liverpool, Belfast, Bristol Royal Portbury and Portsmouth – need not fret about the new EES requirements before, during or after travelling with us.
Customer feedback consistently highlights how much our guests value being able to start their holiday with a minimum of hassle, given the convenience of embarking from a port that’s close to home – meaning no need to worry about airport queues, baggage restrictions or flight cancellations. The fact that guests on board any of Ambassador’s no-fly sailings will now also not be impacted by the new EES requirements is yet another advantage.
With an array of itineraries to breathtaking destinations across the Schengen Area, from sun-washed Gijon on Spain’s northern coast to Norway’s Alta, a prime Northern Lights hunting destination, Ambassador’s no-fly sailings allow guests to enjoy the ‘warmest welcome at sea’ with the added benefit of not needing to worry about the new EES system.
Is there internet access or Wi-Fi onboard?
With the Introduction of Starlink technology onboard we are excited to launch our new range of Wi-Fi options for guests.
Wi-Fi packages will be available to purchase once on board.
Find out more here.
When will I get my tickets?
Ambassador is a ticketless cruise line, so we will not issue guests with a physical cruise ticket. Instead, once within 90 days of departure (but no later than 24 hours before sailing), all guests are required to submit their API (Advance Passenger Information) to us via our website, by visiting our My Ambassador Sailing facility or via the Ambassador Cruise Line App.
Once this information has been submitted, you will be able to log in to ‘My Ambassador Sailing’ to check in online and to download your boarding pass and final documentation once online check-in opens, 72 hours before sailing.
What is the dress code on board?
During the day, we suggest that you wear casual clothing for your comfort. For the evenings on board, every day the Daily Programme suggests, as a guide, a mode of dress for that particular evening’s events.
There are generally two ‘formal’ or gala nights planned every 7-12 nights when many gentlemen wear dinner jackets, although a lounge suit is quite acceptable. Ladies on these occasions have a chance to dress up and often opt for evening or cocktail dresses. Please note that jeans, T-Shirts, shorts and open neck shirts are not permitted in the main restaurant on Formal or Gala evenings.
On evenings proposed as ‘smart’, a suit or smart jacket and trousers, with or without a tie, for the men is suggested and the ladies have further opportunities to look elegant in cocktail dresses or trouser suits.
A ‘casual’ recommendation often covers evenings spent in port or when a special event such as a deck party is scheduled. In these cases, the choice of dress is left entirely to you.
As general guidance, the number of formal nights onboard is as follows:
2-5 Nights -1 formal night
6-20 Nights - 2 formal nights
21-41 Nights - 3 formal nights
Over 42 Nights - 5 formal nights
For further information, please visit: https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-cruising-dress-code-with-ambassador/
What type of plug sockets are used on board?
Cabins are fitted with UK 3 pin sockets with some allowing for USB charging.
Do you arrange car parking at the ports?
We offer car parking all UK departure ports, with prices starting from £8.50 per car per night.
If booked directly with us, parking can be added via My Ambassador Sailing however if you are booked via a travel agent, parking must be added and paid via the booking agent.
Please note car parking must be booked at the very latest 2 working days before sailing and is subject to availability. You will not be able to pay on arrival if you have not pre-booked and will be refused entry to the car park.
ORCA
ORCA is one of the UK’s leading whale and dolphin conservation charities, dedicated to the protection of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the world. Ocean Conservationists will be showcasing the incredible diversity of wildlife that can be spotted from the deck, helping everyone learn more about the marine environment around them whilst collecting vital data about whales, dolphins and porpoises to contribute to their protection. Whilst on board, the team will be delivering activities to help guests learn more about these amazing animals as well as the threats they face, including the Ambassador & ORCA pledge and the first ever cruise “Anti-whaling” campaign.
The Ship – Ambience
Here she is, our flagship of the fleet, our first lady of the sea: Ambience. Derived from the French …
Here she is, our flagship of the fleet, our first lady of the sea: Ambience. Derived from the French word for ‘surrounding’, our ambition at Ambassador is to create the optimum atmosphere onboard; one that brings out the best in each of us. The perfect ambience.
With an average 1,400-guest capacity and careful configuration, she offers both a feeling of spaciousness and freedom, whilst retaining that sense of intimacy and camaraderie we each crave; it’s whatever makes you comfortable.
Entertainment-wise, she really will spoil you for choice. Let your hair down at the Observatory and bring out your finest ensembles for The Palladium. Whether you like it shaken or stirred, she has numerous bars to whet your whistle, including Raffles Bar, Botanical Lounge, SW19 and The Purple Turtle Pub.
Dining options are plentiful at our Buckingham restaurant or the Borough Market, with plentiful cuisine options, and for those wanting to soak in nature’s glory, we have our glorious Alfresco Grill. Wining and dining are more than fine at Saffron*, Sea & Grass* or our deluxe Chef’s Table*, where we offer a speciality gastronomic experience that’s not to be missed.
Put your best cards forward at Aces & Eights bridge and card room and the Ambassador Casino, or revive and renew at the gym and Wellness Centre. Other facilities include Kapoor’s, our onboard crafting studio, Brontë’s library, the shopping galleria, not to mention a swimming pool, two hot tubs and a large screen for outdoor movies. Sound good?
*Supplementary charges apply
- Guests
- 1400
- Cabins
- 789
- Guest Decks
- 10
What’s on board
Journeying to new lands to explore their landscape, culture and cuisine, on board a stylish, environmentally friendly ship.
The Palladium
Entertainment
It’s showtime! Our multi-tiered onboard theatre The Palladium hosts a variety of hand-picked performances just as diverse as the destinations we visit.
Waiting in the wings are our onboard entertainment team, the Ambassador Theatre Company. They can’t wait to entertain you as you enjoy an afternoon or evening of world-class storytelling.
Buckingham Restaurant
Restaurant
Buckingham Restaurant is Ambience’s main restaurant. Serving an exceptionally handcrafted breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, our restaurant team will be delighted for you to join them throughout your day on board.
On gala formal nights Buckingham Restaurant and her hardworking team really come out to shine, pulling out all the stops with exceptional service paired with authentic flavours. There is even the traditional Baked Alaska Parade, which is a sight not to be missed.
Borough Market
Restaurant
Looking for a more casual way to dine? Borough Market is the place to head. With stunning views and a variety of food stalls to tempt your tastebuds, why not join us for a bite?
Discover our food stations
Points East - A taste of Asian fusion cuisines
Sugar Bun - Enjoy a sweet treat at our dessert bar
The Oven - Missing your Sunday Roast? Our galley team are ready with all the trimmings
Grave ‘n’ Grains - Our dedicated vegetarian stall, where you can enjoy freshly made salads and more
Crouton - Enjoy a warming bowl of soup and a fresh bread roll at Crouton
Salt and Vinegar - Another taste of the UK with our dedicate fish and chip station, you can enjoy this Friday night treat any day
Borough Market Bar - Let our Borough Market team bring you the perfect drink to match whatever food takes your fancy!
Raffles Bar
Lounges & Bars
Raffles Bar will take you back to the halcyon days of the roaring twenties, with decor to make you feel as though you have stepped back in time.
Raffles is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner drink in style. With exclusive drinks including the Mint Berry Delight cocktail and Botanical Fusion cocktail, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Our expert bar team are always on hand to help mix a drink just to your taste.
Green Sea Spa
Facilities
Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and strives continually to exceed guest expectations. With our guests in mind, we have created an all-encompassing spa experience that relaxes, refreshes and renews in a serene, comfortable and welcoming environment.
From facial treatments to massages and hair care to healing treatments; there is something for everyone.
Out on deck
Facilities
There are spacious deck areas from which you can enjoy the panoramic views. And, when the weather is fine, there are two swimming pools, four hot tubs and a large screen for outdoor movies and sporting events.
Your on board Experience
Don't just take our word for it, hear what guests say about their time on board.
More about the ship