Christmas Sun Escape to Spain & Portugal
Festive Days, Winter Sun, Southern Shores
Cruise Code: A22835
- Departs
- 21 December 2028
- Duration
- 15 nights
- Sails from
- London Tilbury
- Ship
- Ambition
This 15-night festive cruise sails roundtrip from London Tilbury, following the winter sun south into Spain, Gibraltar and Portugal aboard Ambition. Designed as an alternative way to celebrate Christmas, the itinerary blends seasonal comfort onboard with warm-weather destinations shaped by history, cuisine and coastal life.
Discover Atlantic character in Vigo, Andalusian warmth in Cádiz, and relaxed Mediterranean living in ports such as Motril, Almería and Alicante. Cartagena adds Roman heritage and sheltered harbours, while Gibraltar offers dramatic views at the meeting point of seas. The journey concludes in Leixões, gateway to Porto, known for riverside districts and port wine traditions.
Thoughtfully paced and quietly celebratory, this Christmas sailing combines sunshine, culture and festive comfort in a relaxed seasonal escape.
CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
Cádiz
Almost entirely surrounded by the sea, Cádiz is bright, breezy and full of life. Step straight into the historic old town, where golden stone streets open onto sun-washed plazas and lively cafés. Watch daily life unfold along the waterfront promenades, or sample local flavours in bustling markets. With its blend of ancient history and Andalusian warmth, Cádiz invites unhurried wandering and moments of pure Mediterranean joy. It’s a city best experienced slowly, with the sea never far from view.
Cartagena
Cartagena reveals layers of history shaped by centuries of maritime importance. Roman ruins sit alongside elegant architecture, while the natural harbour frames the city beautifully. Wander through compact streets rich in heritage, or enjoy relaxed cafés overlooking the port. There’s a sense of discovery here, where ancient stories and modern Spanish life meet. Cartagena offers a thoughtful, cultural pause along the Mediterranean coast.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar rises suddenly and dramatically from the sea, creating an unforgettable sense of arrival. From the heights, views stretch across continents, where Europe and Africa feel almost within reach. The town below blends British character with Mediterranean warmth. History, nature and daily life intersect here. Gibraltar feels both familiar and wonderfully unexpected.
Itinerary
- Sails from (and returns to) London Tilbury
- 15 nights
- 8 Ports of call
- 3 Countries
Full itinerary:
Cabins & Fares
Deck: 7,8,9,10,12Location: Forward, Midship, & AftSize: 226 - 506sq ft/ 21 - 47sq mBalcony Size: 54 - 161sq ft/5 - 15sq m
Discover our Suite Benefits
Deck: 9,10Location: AftSize: 161-183sq ft/15-17sq mBalcony Size: 43-65sq ft/4-6sq m
Deck: 7,8,9,10Location: Forward, Midship, AftSize: 118-161sq ft/11-15sq m
Deck: 7,8,9,10,12Location: Forward, Midship, AftSize: 140sq ft/13sq 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
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.
The Ship – Ambition
Here she is, Ambition. Our second lady of the sea. Aptly named to further emphasise our commitment t …
Here she is, Ambition. Our second lady of the sea. Aptly named to further emphasise our commitment to inspire and delight every guest to enjoy an authentic cruise experience effortlessly, and sustainably
Ambition will carry up to 1,200 passengers to give her a true sense of comfort and space in her 680 cabins, 125 of which have balconies and 113 are suites with up to 62m2 of living space.
Her dining options will inspire you with two main restaurants, speciality dining options*, and a more casual bistro-style café. Sit back, relax and enjoy a drink in one of her four bars, lounges and pub. Or take in a show in the tiered main theatre, or discover your hidden talents in the card room, library, and craft studio.
Other facilities include the wellness centre, gym, two swimming pools and a range of retail shops, perfect for days at sea.
- Guests
- 1,200
- Cabins
- 680
- 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 shows, plays, talks and so much more 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
Inspired by authentic cruising and quality dining, the Buckingham Restaurant is designed to provide guests with a wonderful a la carte dining experience. 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.
The Cavern
Lounges & Bars
Named after the infamous Cavern Club, home to Liverpool’s booming rock ‘n’ roll scene in the early sixties and regular visitors the Beatles, The Cavern will be your onboard home of live music and acts throughout the day and night.
With a wide range of drinks available, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the atmosphere as 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.
Our Sauna and Steam Room are also available for all guests to use.
Brontë’s library
Facilities
Brontë’s Library is the home of peace and tranquillity on board, and the perfect place for those looking to take some time to relax after a busy day at sea. Select a good book within Brontë’s calm atmosphere before heading off to your favourite queit reading area.
Why not join other like-minded literature lovers through our cruise book club, where you can discuss your views on some of the current bestsellers.
All books are chosen in advance, giving you the opportunity to purchase your copy before boarding.
Pool Bar
Lounges & Bars
The Pool Bar is one of the loveliest bars on board Ambition. Enjoy a specially made cocktail as you sit back and relax around the pool.
Real Guest Experiences & A Look Around Ambition
Get a real feel for life at sea with Ambassador as we take you onboard Ambition. Hear what our guests have to say, explore our welcoming restaurants, lounges, and entertainment spaces, and see exactly what to expect when you sail with us. Whether you're new to cruising or a returning guest, this video gives you a taste of what makes Ambition special.
More about the ship