Ambassador Cruise Line
Alan Fairfax travels south as a solo, in search of Mediterranean sunshine, onboard Ambassador's Ambience
As the sun begins to set a chill fills the air telling us winter is fast approaching, time, like the birds, to travel south. Ambassador Ambience eases away from the berth beginning our transit of the River Thames to the open sea and our first port of call Leixöes in Portugal.
Ambience
My cabin, a balcony on deck 10, is spacious with a very comfortable bed and more than enough drawer and hanging space for a long voyage. There are the usual amenities of Hairdryer, fridge and tv. One 3 pin socket and USB slot, plus one that requires an Australian adapter. Balcony is quite small but there are two recliners to relax on and watch the world go by.
The Buckingham dining room operates 2 seatings for dinner, 5.45pm and 8.15pm but open seating for breakfast and lunch. The buffet, Borough Market, is located on deck 12. For something special, Saffron, specialising in dishes from India or Sea & Grass, a dining experience that has 7 ‘Acts’ on a fixed menu plus the Al Fresco Grill for that burger by the pool. Add to this 7 bars, 2 coffee locations, a large theatre, 2 lounges with pianist/violinist etc. swimming pool, gym, sauna & steam, hot tubs, large sunbathing areas and a wonderful ‘Blast from the Past’, ‘Late Night Nibbles’ you have a ship that should suit the expectations of everyone.
Destinations:
Leixöes, Portugal, Rain early, sun afternoon 22c.
A port unknown to many. Ride the shuttle to the port gate and stroll 50 yards to the magnificent golden sands of Praia de Matosinhos Beach, relax under a parasol of the beach bar, sip a cool drink and watch the Atlantic Rollers turn to foam as they break onto the golden sand. Time for lunch, stroll through the small park housing the National Monument of the Lantern Tower of Senhor de Padrāo into Rua dos Heróis de França to be greeted by the aroma so loved of restaurants cooking fresh sea food with just that hint of garlic and herbs, small pavement restaurants, tables covered in pristine white cloths, shining cutlery, glasses sparkling in the sun light, menus of fish, meats and local dishes, a memorable finish to an area that’s easy to fall in love with.
Lisbon, Portugal. Rain Showers/Sun 22c
Enjoy the early morning transit along the River Tegus passing “Belem Tower” with its history dating back to 1519. In 1983 together with the Jerónimos Monastery it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on past the “Monument to the Discoveries” shaped as a ships bow built in memory of Henry the Navigator before passing under the 7,740ft April 25th Suspension Bridge connecting Lisbon to Almada and overseen by the 360ft “Cristo Rei” (Christ the King) statue inspired by Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. The city is a mix of old and new, but all parts are readily accessible by one of the famous Lisbon Trams.
Cadiz, Spain. Sun 24c
Boasts a history going back over 3,000 years. Plaza de la Catedral home to the Baroque styled Cadiz Cathedral completed after 116 years in 1838. Its large entrance flanked by two beautifully sculptured bell towers, the main altar, choir stalls, side areas and wall paintings topped by the domed roof never fail to make an impression. In the same square sits the Santiago Church, the Church of St. James dating back to 1638 and a starting point for pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. The church is recognisable by its coloured striped exterior standing out in the bright sunshine, the interior with its ornate altar wall of statues and carvings, definitely worth a visit before relaxing with a coffee at one of the pavement cafés watching the street performers. There is also a Hop On/Off bus stop outside the port gates.
Ajaccio, Corsica. Sun 22c
Take a trip on the ‘Little Train’ from the town square, past the house where Napoleon Bonaparte was born in 1769 and onto his memorial before travelling along the coast past small coves and beaches taking in the stunning scenery of this mountainous island before returning to the town which is itself worth exploring. Wander the narrow streets that haven’t changed over the centuries.
Cannes, France. Sun 21c
This is a tender port as the ship has to anchor in the bay. Cannes is famous for the world renowned film festival each year. Travel ‘Le Petit Train’ that carries you on a journey to the famous locations. My excursion took me through the villages to St. Raphael. Stop here for a coffee on the sea front, keep your eyes open, see how many famous people you recognise. The return journey is along the ‘Golden Corniche’ passing villas, apartments, golden sand beaches shaded with palms and pines leading back to Cannes.
Livorno Italy, Sun 22c
Gateway to Florence and Pisa. Many head by coach to Pisa for the leaning tower or to Florence for the museums and art galleries.
Civitavecchia, Italy. Sun 23c
The port for Rome just over an hour away by coach. Enter Vatican City defended by the Papal Swiss Guard in their uniforms dating back centuries, visit the Vatican Museum, walk and explore the Popes Gardens, admire the work of Michaelangelo in the beautiful Sistine Chapel. Explore St Peters Basilica, the largest basilica/church in the world, the tomb of St. Peter with tombs of many Popes, side chapels and a main alter that takes your breath away.
However, by heading to Rome you miss the delights of Civitavecchia with history traced back to the 2nd century. The sea walk with magnificent views across the harbour, Church of the Holy Japanese Martyrs built in the 1800’s, beautiful paintings adorn the 6 side altars, Forte Michelangelo with the upper part of the Maschio Tower, designed by Michelangelo.
Olbia, Sardinia. Sun 28c
Where you get off the shuttle bus is an old fashion ‘Merry Go Round’ in bright colours with its prancing horses and playing Wurlitzer style music as it revolved, memories of a bygone era and nearby, a large Ferris Wheel. From the coach park It’s a short walk to the shops where a large cup of fresh coffee is under 1€. On returning to the ship, you are dropped off near to the main port entrance where you have to show your passport. After passing through security, you board another shuttle back to the ship.
Palma, Mallorca, Sun 25c
An island of diversities. The vineyard in the mountains, the Caves of Drach, travel by vintage train through lemon, orange and olive groves to Soller. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, its 40 metre nave is the 8th highest in the world. Something for everyone.
Gibraltar, UK. Sun 23c
The Rock, home to about 300 Barbary Apes, are a major attraction. On a clear day the views from the top of the rock enable you to see the coast of North Africa. In the town are many duty free shops selling phones, cameras, cigarettes, alcohol and the like at attractive prices due to there being no VAT.
Vigo, Spain. Rain 19c
Our last port of call before returning to Tilbury and reputed to be Spain’s busiest fishing port. Our coach tour passed the huge fish market. This area has a rugged coastline but with beautiful beaches and secluded coves, many describe it as the real Spain.
Solos
So, did I find the sun, in most cases yes, especially in the Med. Travelling as a solo was a pleasure, first afternoon at sea, a cocktail party hosted by members of the Future Cruises Team, waiters serving drinks and canapés. This was followed by a solos lunch and finally a farewell gathering with drinks. There were also 3 daily meet ups but not hosted. This cruise line is exceptional for solo travellers, there were 131 of us, the majority repeat passengers, and it’s easy to see why.
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