en en fi en oc en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en it en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en de en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en en es en en en en
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 .🛳ï¸ðŸ›³ï¸ðŸ›³ï¸ðŸ›³ï¸ðŸ›³ï¸ðŸŒŠðŸ‘🛳ï¸
Become a member to receive exclusive benefits
Our community is the heart of Silver Travel Advisor, we love nothing more than sharing ideas, inspiration, hints and tips between us.
Exclusive holiday offers and discounts
Travel insights delivered direct to your inbox
Plus a free copy of The Silver Traveller magazine and much more!
Already a member? Sign in
Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube Linkedin
©2021 Silver Travel Advisor, All Rights Reserved. ABTA: P8411. Silver Travel Advisor is a UK registered limited company. Book with Confidence. We are a Member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct. We provide financial protection for your money when you buy a package holiday. If you buy other travel arrangements such as accommodation only this protection doesn’t apply.
Silver Travel Advisor sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel’s membership of ABTA with membership number P8411. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct.
For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ. Tel: 020 3117 0599 or www.abta.comâ€
Hays Travel Limited are registered in England and Wales with company number 1990682 and VAT number 193167195. Registered office: 25 Vine Place, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear SR1 3NA. Silver Travel Advisor is a trading name and are registered in with company number 7408308 and VAT number 100952746. Registered office: 9b Hurst Road, Milford on Sea, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 0PY.