A new cruise line is heading down under – and it has its sights firmly set on the Aussie market. Ambassador Cruise Line will sail into Sydney Harbour in February 2024 on its first visit to Australian waters.
Comprising one half of the UK’s newest cruise line, Ambassador’s Ambience will sail into Sydney and Auckland as part of its Grand Round the World Cruise.
With a focus on journeys across the Mediterranean, British Isles and Arctic among other itineraries, the cruise line currently sails from its home port of London Tilbury, but will set sail from six more UK ports from 2023.
Ambassador Cruise Line chief executive Christian Verhounig says the cruise company was delighted to be entering the Australian market after its first season in the UK.
“We want to bring back the joy of cruising and inject a newfound confidence in the industry, as we strive toward making a significant contribution to the travel industry in the Australian and New Zealand markets,” he remarked.
“Our guests can embrace the premium value cruising experience on classic ships and enjoy the warmest welcome at sea, complete with excellent cuisine and amazing entertainment as they visit hidden gems across the globe.”
Ambassador’s other vessel, Ambition, will depart on its inaugural season in May 2023. Together, Ambience and Ambition will sail to 165 ports in 58 countries across six continents.
With a capacity of 1,400 guests, Ambience offers five restaurants, nine lounges, a swimming pool, spa, gym and evening entertainment.
Local appointment to engage with trade
As it prepares to engage with the Australian market for the first time, the cruise line has appointed Adelaide-based Dean Brazier to the position of Head of Sales and Marketing Australia and New Zealand.
“It is wonderful to be part of reigniting the cruise industry here in Australia, working with Ambassador to introduce a premium-value and distinctive product that upholds traditional cruise values,” said Brazier.
“I am really looking forward to working with local agents and partners in market as we prepare for the arrival of Ambassador Cruise Line’s ship, Ambience in 2024.”
Brazier’s focus will be on helping travel advisors develop and grow their business while also working with wholesalers, tour operators and other trade partners.
As part of its offering, Ambassador provides protection for guests in the form of financial failure insurance cover and an independently managed trust account, in which guests’ funds are deposited and only released when cruises depart.
For more information, advisors can email TradeSalesAustralia@ambassadorcruiseline.com or visit www.ambassadorcruiseline.com.
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