Ambassador Cruise Line has officially set sail on one of its most ambitious journeys of the year, as the Ambience embarks on a 40-day roundtrip voyage from Tilbury to the Caribbean.
The sailing also reflects a wider trend among UK-based cruise lines offering longer, destination-rich itineraries to the Caribbean during the winter season.
Branded as the Jewels of the Caribbean Sea cruise, the extended sailing is designed for travelers who want to slow down, stay longer, and truly immerse themselves in the rhythm of life at sea.
The voyage began on January 30, 2026, with the ship’s first stop in Ponta Delgada in the Azores. From there, Ambience crossed the Atlantic, easing guests into warmer waters and island living.
Early Caribbean calls include Antigua and Tortola, giving passengers a taste of classic island charm before the itinerary ventures into more distinctive territory.
One of the most talked-about highlights of the cruise is Ambience’s scheduled visit to Havana on February 16, 2026.
With a planned 13-hour stay, the ship will become the only mainstream cruise vessel calling on Cuba this year. For many guests, this stop represents a rare opportunity to explore Havana’s history, music, architecture, and culture in depth.
The move follows a series of recent trade-focused initiatives from Ambassador Cruise Line, including new incentive programs aimed at boosting agent engagement ahead of the 2026 season.
After Cuba, the journey continues through a rich mix of Caribbean destinations. The itinerary includes George Town in the Cayman Islands, Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, and Fort-de-France in Martinique.
Guests will also visit Jamaica, with calls at both Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, before sailing on to Bridgetown in Barbados and Castries in St. Lucia.
As the cruise begins its return leg to the UK, Ambience makes additional stops in Basseterre, St. Kitts, and St. Vincent, rounding out a diverse and thoughtfully paced itinerary. The ship is expected back in Tilbury in early March.
Once home, Ambience won’t be slowing down. The ship is scheduled for a busy year ahead, with spring cruises to Northern Europe followed by summer sailings to destinations such as Spain, Portugal, Madeira, the Canary Islands, and Iceland. Later in the year, a 31-night Mediterranean voyage will cap off the season.
The long Caribbean cruise follows a recent multi-million-dollar refurbishment, ensuring guests are enjoying refreshed staterooms, updated public spaces, and a smoother onboard experience throughout this landmark journey.
