I was not sure , but I wished to try a new Cruise line . I have been very fortunate , I have managed to save and have done a few Cruises with P and O . One with Marella. Following the development of Ambience , I looked through the Itinerary. I didn’t have alot of money to spend , but realised I could afford a 7 night Cruise to Norway , departure Tilbury on Ambience.
I must admit I was a little apprehensive. A new Cruise line , sailing from a different Departure Port…..but all was well ..
Upon arriving at Tilbury , the queue was about 39 minutes in waiting time to full check in ..I was assisted by a young lady , who was so friendly and kind . All was checked . My documents passport , Covid Certificates etc . I was given a TKT for boarding . I thanked her , asking if there would be a Show in The Palladium Theater , she smiled , laughing , telling me that she was a dancer onboard , that there was a Show tonight called “Dance , Dance Dance ” . With this in mind , I thought I would arrangements to view this . Within 5 minutes I was onboard ,after having my pass checked .
I was spellbound. The atrium was absolutely stunning . Over 3 decks . In beautiful greens whites , blues and a hint of purple . It was called Center Court . Beautiful furniture. Spacious , there were 2 ladies playing a beautiful piece of Classical music . One on playing a Piano , the other a Violin. I stood and listened , it was mesmerising as I looked around at the beautiful spectacle before my eyes . I went to the area that was serving Coffee , ordered one , sitting down in one of the most comfortable chairs .
After 10 minutes I went in search of my cabin , an inside double , which I booked for one . I was very impressed with my cabin . Brand new carpet and chair . A good seating area . Tea , coffee facilities. A fridge , Television. Information laid out about the ship and daily program. All was neat clean and very tidy , a shower room toilet sink and many areas to place toiletries etc .
There was a knock on the door , my Steward introduced himself , explaining also about Emergency Procedures etc , what was available and wear to go for my Muster ( to be checked off) which I did at the correct time .
I decided that it was time to explore the Ambience. Aft of the deck I had my accommodation on , was a door to an open Aft Deck , Consulate Deck . I had an amazing view of The Thames , there were other passengers there , we exchanged communication with excitement. There were comfortable chairs and sun loungers. The sun was shining , it was 28 o c .
I walked up 2 flights of stairs , I then arrived at Borough Market , the Buffet . It was open , there were so many choices of food , so well presented , with Chefs and their assistants serving the culinary delights. I soon chose what I wanted and sat by a huge window , in a very spacious area , looking over Tilbury… The Cruise was about to begin , the food was so tasty. Different flavours , I walked out through the other doors leading into the Ship , there was a huge open deck , swimming Pools . Bars , Crew serving ice cold Drinks .Music was playing, folk were singing , Entertainment had commenced, Crew were neatly dressed in costume , singing in perfect harmony to “up best songs” , The Cruise Director , George , who was so professional spoke for awhile. Making everyone laugh with his words and antics . Slowly Ambience sailed out into The English Channel. A perfect Sailaway.
Returning to my Cabin , my case was there ..I unpacked.
I later walked around the Ship . It was well above my expectations. The Public areas were so tastefully decorated . Beautiful wallpaper , lights furniture , art work carpets and beautifully hung curtains . I was in awe . The Botanical Lounge was one of my favourites . Supreme Decor . Later on I went to my allocated table in the dinning room . Plenty of choices . The surroundings was busy , I was served promptly the food was beautifully prepared on my plate , great food . I walked around the Ship had an amazing Cocktail , then off to see a show in The Palladium. It was performed by “Peel” a company of Music singing and performers . Wow!!!!! That is all I could say……the best performance I had ever seen on any Cruise Ship . The singing and dancing was Supreme. Superb! I noticed the young lady that checked me in singing and dancing with great enthusiasm.
The next 5 days were in the beautiful Fjords . Ambience led the way , sea day and Ports of call . All was well organised with getting off the Ship . The Ports of call were amazing . I really enjoyed Flam , the ship berthed right in the Centre of the beautiful village with mountains calf with pine trees and Waterfalls surrounding us .
All the Crew were so attentive. There was much entertainment . Singing , duets , bands . Very good .
Around the swimming pool and paddle pool were adequate Sun beds . Music played quietly from speakers . Much conversation with fellow passengers . Folk swimming eating relaxing and snoozing in this beautiful environment.
Snacks were available – Pizza , Burger bar , all inclusive. I must say the food in Borough Market was the best I have ever tasted …..I thoroughly recommend Point East , section . Spicy culinary flavours .
I would often sit in the Observatory , an area top deck , looking out to sea . So relaxing , tastefully decorated . In the evening there would be much music and dancing & merriment.
There was a Gym , which I didn’t visit , as well as a small Casino .
There were many duty free shops , and reception around the main atrium . I recommend having a drink from The Bar SW19, taking in the atmosphere of Ambience.
Early morning walks around the next deck up which had a jogging area also ,overlooking the Pools and admiring the sea and Ports of call , was an added bonus . Fresh sea air , a bit of exercise , while also looking at the huge Television Screen that would often be showing a Quiz game .
The Cruise passed quickly . I enjoyed every moment , especially sitting on one of The aft open decks , watching the Ships wake , seeing amazing Sunsets.
There were always new areas and venues to be found onboard .
All the passengers I spoke with were so friendly , enjoying themselves 100%.
After eating a lot , visiting many new areas to see on land . Enjoying the amazing Professional performers onboard . The brilliant announcements from friendly dedicated George , Cruise Director the Cruise was coming to an end .
Any negatives , not really . There was a lot of Purple ! Maybe a few areas on the open decks were showing the ships age , 30 years , but to me it gave feel if being in a Cruise Ship in past times .
We arrived back in Tilbury during a Heatwave! 27 of After the cooling breeze if Norway in average 20 o c , it seemed warm
Disembarked at 10 am . Relaxed and feeling refreshed , I picked up my case from Tilbury Docks , returning to my home County with superb Memories .🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🌊👍🛳️
