Cultural Gems of the Iberian Peninsula & France

12 Nights • Ambassador Cruise Line

From £1,149pp | Departs from Portsmouth

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Cultural Gems of the Iberian Peninsula & France

Offer Highlights

  • Ambassador Cruise Line
  • Portsmouth
  • Ocean Cruise
  • Ambition
  • resort
  • Europe, Southern Europe, Mediterranean
  • England, Spain, France
  • 13 days / 12 nights

CRUISE OF THE WEEK
Free Classic Drinks Package, excluding gratuities
Book by 23:59 on 22nd September 2026

This journey offers a blend of off-the-beaten-path treasures and signature experiences that showcase the true essence of Western Europe. Wander the streets and vineyards of Bordeaux and visit the historic Spanish ports of Getxo and Santander.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

El Ferrol
Guarded by castles at its harbour entrance, Ferrol is one of Spain's oldest and most famous port cities. Stroll through historic plazas, visit naval monuments, and discover the city's maritime charm.

Santander
Though much of ancient Santander, Spain was lost to fire in the 1940s, the city is popular with tourists due to its bustling beaches, historic landmarks like the Cathedral of Santander, and rich local seafood from oceanside restaurants and market stalls.

Concarneau
A delightful call into Concarneau offers you the chance to explore one of Brittany’s most picturesque fishing ports. Stroll along the historic ramparts for sweeping sea views or relax by the waterfront and soak up the atmosphere of this charming port town.

Fowey
Clinging to the Cornish coast is picture-perfect Fowey. Lose track of time in riverside bookshops and quaint cafes, or take a ferry ride across the Fowey River to take in views of surrounding villages.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is one of the most densely populated cities in Southern England, and is unusual as most of its built-up area occupies Portsea Island, linked to the mainland by road and rail bridges. Although there is a Roman fort at nearby Portchester, occupied later by the Saxons and Normans, there was no settlement on the site of Portsmouth at the time of the 1086 Domesday Book. The town developed in medieval times and received its first charter in 1194 from King Richard I; soon afterwards it became a major naval base. It has the world’s oldest dry dock, and is home to several famous ships, including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the Mary Rose, raised from the Solent in 1982. Portsmouth remains an important naval base and is home to a large proportion of the British service fleet. The waterfront area is now dominated by the Spinnaker Tower, 560 feet high, the United Kingdom’s tallest building outside London. Other things to see in the city include the house where Charles Dickens was born, and the City Museum, which contains a permanent exhibition devoted to another famous writer, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who lived in the town.

A day to relax and enjoy life on board.

Ferrol

El Ferrol has been inextricably linked to the sea for more than two millennia, being a major shipbuilding centre for most of its history. From its beginnings as a tiny fishing port in the 1st century BC, it endured conquests by Vandals, Suebis, Arabs and Christians. With the arrival of the Bourbons in the 18th century, Ferrol became a leading maritime centre, largely due to its large natural harbour on the Ferrol Inlet, an arm of the Atlantic. Now a large commercial port, Ferrol is also the gateway to the northern Spanish province of Galicia, a region noted for its green mountains, deep gorges and fast-flowing rivers. It is also well placed for visiting the medieval holy city of Santiago de Compostela. Interestingly, Ferrol's city centre is modelled on Lisbon in Portugal, a country with which it has strong historical and linguistic ties. The layout comprises of a rectangle lined with six parallel streets, with two squares on each side. These squares have the city's best shops, restaurants and bars.

Santander

Getxo

Le Verdon-sur-Mer

Situated on the Garonne River, 70 miles (113 km) inland from the Atlantic, Bordeaux's origin can be traced back to the 3rd century when it was Aquitaine's Roman capital called Burdigala. From 1154 to 1453, the town prospered under the rule of the English, whose fondness for the region's red wines gave impetus to the local wine industry. At various times, Bordeaux even served as the nation's capital: in 1870, at the beginning of World War I, and for two weeks in 1940 before the Vichy government was proclaimed. Bordeaux's neo-classical architecture, wide avenues and well-tended public squares and parks lend the city a certain grandeur. Excellent museums, an imposing cathedral and a much-praised theatre add to the city's attractions. The principal highlights, clustered around the town centre, can easily be explored on foot.

A day to relax and enjoy life on board.

Concarneau

Brest

A day to relax and enjoy life on board.

Cherbourg

Originally a little fishing village, Cherbourg has developed into a historic port designed by Vauban. This was also a strategic naval port during the Napoleonic wars; there is a marina with over 1000 moorings. “Cap de la Hague” is to the West and the “Pointe de Barfleur” to the East. This port, which belongs to Normandy, is a region that has provided inspiration for countless artists and writers, and is the land of apple orchards and rolling farmland dotted with villages of half-timbered houses. Boasting a wealth of abbeys and châteaux, as well as a superb coastline, it offers something for everyone. Cherbourg was also the first stop of RMS Titanic after it left Southampton, England. On 19 June 1864, the naval engagement between USS Kearsarge and CSS Alabama took place off Cherbourg. The Battle of Cherbourg, fought in June 1944 following the Normandy Invasion, ended with the capture of Cherbourg on June 30.

Fowey

Nestled in the mouth of a wooded estuary, Fowey (pronounced Foy) is still very much a working china-clay port as well as a focal point for the sailing fraternity. Increasingly, it's also a favored home of the rich and famous. Good and varied dining and lodging options abound; these are most in demand during Regatta Week in mid- to late August and the annual Fowey Festival of Words and Music in mid-May. The Bodinnick and Polruan ferries take cars as well as foot passengers across the river for the coast road on to Looe.A few miles west of Fowey are a pair of very different gardens: the Eden Project, a futuristic display of plants from around the world, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a revitalized reminder of the Victorian age.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is one of the most densely populated cities in Southern England, and is unusual as most of its built-up area occupies Portsea Island, linked to the mainland by road and rail bridges. Although there is a Roman fort at nearby Portchester, occupied later by the Saxons and Normans, there was no settlement on the site of Portsmouth at the time of the 1086 Domesday Book. The town developed in medieval times and received its first charter in 1194 from King Richard I; soon afterwards it became a major naval base. It has the world’s oldest dry dock, and is home to several famous ships, including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the Mary Rose, raised from the Solent in 1982. Portsmouth remains an important naval base and is home to a large proportion of the British service fleet. The waterfront area is now dominated by the Spinnaker Tower, 560 feet high, the United Kingdom’s tallest building outside London. Other things to see in the city include the house where Charles Dickens was born, and the City Museum, which contains a permanent exhibition devoted to another famous writer, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who lived in the town.

Ambition

Ambition

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.

Unique Features

Ambassador Cruise Line is passionate about protecting our oceans and destinations, which is why their ships will exceed the latest environmental standards, including no single-use plastic on board and energy-efficient engines. They invite you to join them on their journey to a more sustainable industry with some of the most environmentally ships afloat.

De-Luxe Suite
De-Luxe Suite
Suite

Enjoy the exclusivity of your own Suite complete with a private ocean view balcony. Relax in a spacious sitting area, perfect for unwinding with a boo...

280–667 sq ft Max 4 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Sofa Bed Lounge Area Shower TV Safe +9 more
Premium Suite
Premium Suite
Suite

Enjoy the exclusivity of your own Suite complete with a private ocean view balcony. Relax in a spacious sitting area, perfect for unwinding with a boo...

280–667 sq ft Max 4 guests
Bath Double or Twin Configuration Sofa Bed Lounge Area Shower TV +10 more
Suite
Suite
Suite

Enjoy the exclusivity of your own Suite complete with a private ocean view balcony. Relax in a spacious sitting area, perfect for unwinding with a boo...

280–667 sq ft Max 2 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Shower TV Safe Hair Dryer +8 more
Suite Single
Suite Single
Suite

Midship - Deck 10The midship Suite (Ambassador Deck 10) offers a central location and easy access to the spa, sun/pool deck, and Borough Market one de...

280–667 sq ft Max 1 guests
Bath Double or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Shower TV Safe +9 more
Suite Guarantee
Suite Guarantee
Suite

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed suite as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin will be on the sh...

280–667 sq ft Max 2 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Toiletries Provided Room Service Available +8 more
Suite Single Guarantee
Suite Single Guarantee
Suite

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed suite single as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin will be on...

280–667 sq ft Max 1 guests
Bath Double or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Toiletries Provided +9 more
Balcony Cabin
Balcony Cabin
Balcony

The Balcony Cabin offers a front-row seat to the mesmerising beauty of the ocean. These refined accommodations feature a private balcony and a fixed d...

204–248 sq ft Max 3 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Sofa Bed Lounge Area Shower TV Safe +8 more
Balcony Guarantee
Balcony Guarantee
Balcony

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed balcony cabin as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin will be o...

204–245 sq ft Max 3 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Sofa Bed Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Toiletries Provided +8 more
Balcony Single Guarantee
Balcony Single Guarantee
Balcony

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed balcony single cabin as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin wi...

204–248 sq ft Max 1 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Sofa Bed Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Toiletries Provided +8 more
Ocean View Cabin
Ocean View Cabin
Outside

Sit back and enjoy endless ocean vistas from an Ocean View Cabin. This cabin type features two twin beds that are easily convertible to a double bed f...

118–161 sq ft Max 44 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Pullman Bed x2 Shower TV Safe Hair Dryer +7 more
Ocean View Single Cabin
Ocean View Single Cabin
Outside

Midship - Deck 9The midship Ocean View Cabin (Consulate Deck 9) offers a central location and easy access to the spa, sun/pool deck, and Borough Marke...

118–157 sq ft Max 1 guests
Shower TV Safe Hair Dryer Telephone Desk +6 more
Ocean View Guarantee
Ocean View Guarantee
Outside

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed outside cabin as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin will be o...

114–161 sq ft Max 2 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Shower Room Service Available TV Safe Hair Dryer +6 more
Ocean View Single Guarantee
Ocean View Single Guarantee
Outside

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed outside cabin (cats 6C-8) as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cab...

118–161 sq ft Max 1 guests
Shower Room Service Available TV Safe Hair Dryer Telephone +6 more
Inside Cabin
Inside Cabin
Inside

Aft - Deck 12The aft Inside Cabin (Sun Deck 12) is located towards the rear of the ship, with access to the fresh air and open views of the Sun Deck,...

140 sq ft Max 1 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Shower TV Safe Hair Dryer Telephone +6 more
Inside Single Cabin
Inside Single Cabin
Inside

Aft - Deck 12The aft Inside Cabin (Sun Deck 12) is located towards the rear of the ship, with access to the fresh air and open views of the Sun Deck,...

140 sq ft Max 1 guests
One Single Bed Shower Room Service Available Safe Hair Dryer Telephone +5 more
Inside Single Guarantee
Inside Single Guarantee
Inside

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed inside cabin (cats 1-4) as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin...

140 sq ft Max 1 guests
Double or Twin Configuration Shower Room Service Available TV Safe Hair Dryer +6 more
Inside Guarantee
Inside Guarantee
Inside

These are our Entry Level Fares – Simply offering a guaranteed inside cabin as standard, perfect for those who don’t mind where their cabin will be on...

140 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Shower Room Service Available TV Safe Hair Dryer +6 more

Ambition’s restaurants are designed around choice and comfort — from leisurely breakfasts and relaxed buffets to elegant evening dining and Mediterranean specialities. All offering a variety of flavours and settings to suit your mood.

Holyrood Restaurant
Holyrood Restaurant
Cover

Inspired by authentic cruising and quality dining, the Holyrood Restaurant is designed to provide guests with a wonderfu...

Chef’s Table
Chef’s Table
Cover

Considered the ultimate on board culinary experience, featuring multi-course a la carte dining and the option for wine p...

Saffron
Saffron
Cover

A firm guest favourite on board Ambience, our Asian speciality restaurant, Saffron, provides a dining experience to reme...

Lupino's
Lupino's
Cover

Lupino’s restaurant pays homage to Michelle Lupino – our much missed colleague who sadly passed away following a short i...

Borough Market
Borough Market
Cover

Taking inspiration and serving cuisines from all over the world, our casual buffet-style eatery, Borough Market, feature...

Buckingham
Buckingham
Cover

Inspired by authentic cruising and quality dining, the Buckingham Restaurant is designed to provide guests with a wonder...

Alfresco Grill
Alfresco Grill
Complimentary

For those wanting a casual meal in the afternoon, the Alfresco Grill serves burgers, hot dogs, pizzas and chips.

Room Service
Room Service
Cover

You will find a 24-hour room service menu in your cabin, offering a range of drinks and snacks, both hot and cold. Room...

Bars & Venues

If unwinding is on your agenda, then why not kick back in one of our lounges? We have the timeless Cavern offering live cabaret, game shows and light entertainment, and the stylish cocktail Clifton Lounge serving all your favourite tipples, and the Pool Bar and Consulate Bar are perfectly positioned for you to soak up the rays. Other bars include The Angel Bar overlooking reception. And, for all your pre and post-theatre moments, we have the elegant Pendennis bar, and the Purple Turtle Wine Bar.

Entertainment

Speaking of theatre, we have an exciting entertainment programme at The Palladium ready to whisk you away to new worlds full of song, dance, comedy, and wonderful storytelling with the Ambassador Theatre Company. There’s also Grafton Street, our arts, crafts and activity area, No.10 Conference Room perfect for meetings, Aces & Eights ideal for many a hand of cards, Brontë’s library, the shopping galleria, fitness centre, an exterior jogging and walking track, swimming pool, splash pool and active pool. And to extend that feeling of rejuvenation, we have our Green Sea Spa on board, offering a sauna, steam room, hair salon and a range of restoring spa treatments.

Angel Bar
Angel Bar
Bar

Named after Antony Gormley’s imposing Angel of the North located in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, The An...

Clifton Lounge
Clifton Lounge
Bar Lounge

Named after one of Bristol’s most recognisable structures, Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Clifton Suspens...

The Palladium
The Palladium
Theatre

Speaking of theatre, we have an exciting entertainment programme at The Palladium ready to whisk you...

The Cavern
The Cavern
Lounge

Named after the infamous Cavern Club, home to Liverpool’s booming rock ‘n’ roll scene in the early s...

Pendennis Bar
Pendennis Bar
Bar

Named after Henry VIII's mighty fortress, Pendennis Castle, in Falmouth, Pendennis Bar is the perfec...

Purple Turtle
Purple Turtle
Bar

The Purple Turtle Wine Bar continues Ambassador’s Purple Turtle venues, with her sister the Purple T...

Shopping Galleria
Shopping Galleria
Shop

There’s nothing like a bit of retail therapy! Head over to our Shopping Galleria and Duty-Free where...

Brontë’s Library
Brontë’s Library
Library

Brontë’s Library can be found on Deck 6.

Onboard Photography
Onboard Photography
Photographers

You can count on our onboard photography team to capture all your special Ambassador moments during...

Reception
Reception
Reception

The Reception can be found on Deck 5

Located high on Deck 11, Ambition’s Wellness Centre is a light-filled retreat with panoramic sea views — a serene space designed to help you relax, recharge and enjoy the rhythm of life at sea.

This dedicated wellbeing area includes a spa, gym and relaxation rooms, all with floor-to-ceiling windows so you can unwind or work out while gazing over the ocean.

Pool
Pool
Pool

Take a dip or soak up the sunshine with ocean views from the main pool deck. Join a game of shuffleb...

Green Sea Spa
Green Sea Spa
Spa Salon

Indulge in pure tranquillity at the Green Sea Spa, an oasis designed for ultimate relaxation. Whethe...

Gym
Gym
Gym

A fully equipped gym with cardio and resistance machines — all facing floor-to-ceiling windows at th...

Deck 14 - Exploration Deck
Deck 14 - Exploration Deck

  • Sun Terrace

Deck 12 - Sun Deck
Deck 12 - Sun Deck

  • Splash Pool
  • Sun Deck
  • Jogger's & Walkers Track
  • Premium Suite
  • Suite

Deck 11 - Lido Deck
Deck 11 - Lido Deck

  • Active Studio & Gym

  • Green Sea SpaSpa
  • Bronte’s Library
  • The Consulate Bar
  • Hot Tubs
  • Active Pool
  • Swimming Pool
  • The Pool Bar
  • Alfresco Grill
  • Lupino’s
  • Borough Market 

Deck 10 - Ambassador Deck
Deck 10 - Ambassador Deck

  • Bridge & Wheel House
  • Premium Suite
  • Suite
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Ocean View Cabins
  • Inside Cabins

Deck 9 - Consulate Deck
Deck 9 - Consulate Deck

  • Self-Service Laundry
  • Premium Suite

  • Balcony Cabins
  • Ocean View Cabins
  • Inside Cabins

Deck 8 - Ambition Deck
Deck 8 - Ambition Deck

  • De Luxe Suites
  • Premium Suites
  • Ocean View Cabins
  • Inside Cabins

Deck 7 - Boat Deck
Deck 7 - Boat Deck

  • The Cavern
  • Medical Centre
  • De Luxe Suites
  • Premium Suites
  • Ocean View Cabins
  • Inside Cabins

Deck 6 - Promenade Deck
Deck 6 - Promenade Deck

  • The Palladium
  • The Angel Bar
  • No 10 Conference Room
  • Brone's Library
  • Clifton Lounge
  • Grafton Street – Craft Room
  • Photo Gallery
  • Partnership Area
  • Saffron
  • Holyrood Restaurant
  • Aces & Eights

Deck 5 - Reception Deck
Deck 5 - Reception Deck

  • The Palladium

  • Purple Turtle Wine Bar
  • Centre Court
  • Destination Experiences
  • Future Cruise Desk
  • Reception
  • Pendennis Bar
  • Shopping Galleria
  • Buckingham Restaurant 

Deck 4 - Aloe Deck
Deck 4 - Aloe Deck

  • Tender Area

Choose your cabin

Ambition Portsmouth 28 Apr 2027 – 10 May 2027 Available
From £1,149 pp
No-fly cruise. Sails from Portsmouth — no flights needed, so you can book online.
Inside

Cosy interior cabin, no window

7 options

from £1,149 pp
Outside

Ocean view through a window or porthole

7 options

from £1,569 pp
Suite

Spacious suite with premium extras

6 options

from £2,649 pp
Date Ship Inside Outside Balcony Suite
28 Apr 2027 Ambition £1,149 £1,569 £2,649 Viewing
14 Jul 2027 Ambience £1,259 £1,529 £2,389 £2,979 View
19 Mar 2028 Ambience £999 £1,279 £1,979 £2,479 View
From £1,149 per person

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