Shirley Ann Robertson (1968-born), former sailing champion and double Summer Olympic Gold medalist (Sydney 2000, and Athens 2004), will christen Ambassador Cruise Line’s second ship - MS Ambition, on May 11, 2023, in Port Tyne (Newcastle).
Shirley was the first British woman to win gold at 2 consecutive Olympic Games. In 2000 she was named World Sailor of the Year by the International Sailing Federation and has presented on multiple sports channels. Robertson also acts as Deputy Lieutenant for the Isle of Wight.
Ambition is the 2nd vessel to join the line’s fleet following MS Ambience, which emerged in April 2022. The ship, which was previously operating as AIDAmira, was refurbished to accommodate 1,200 guests across 714 cabins.
Like her sistership, Ambition will be upgraded to operate at IMO’s Tier 3 emission standards, which will reduce her production of nitrogen oxide.
Christian Verhounig (Ambassador's CEO) said that as one of the most recognizable faces in sailing, "there seemed no better fit for Ambition’s godmother than Shirley Robertson."
“As a trailblazer for women in the sport, not only is she passionate about all things nautical, but Shirley’s story is an inspiration to us all. What’s more, with the launch of our second ship we are also announcing cruise departures from seven regional UK ports, including Shirley’s hometown of Dundee.”
Following her naming ceremony, Ambition will sail on the 14-day Maiden Voyage visiting ports in France and Spain. She will then offer voyages leaving from Ambassador’s six UK homeports - Belfast, Bristol, Falmouth, Dundee, Liverpool, and London Tilbury.