Ambassador today confirmed details of a joint flight-cruise program to the Caribbean, which will take place during the winter of 2025/26 and will combine source markets from the UK, France and the Netherlands on board the Renaissance, which joins Ambience and Ambition in the Ambassador group fleet.
The launch of this new season follows the confirmation of the merger between Ambassador Cruise Line and the French company Compagnie Française de Croisières.
From October 2025 to March 2026, Ambassador passengers will be able to enjoy 10 Caribbean fly-in cruises aboard the Renaissance, homeported in Bridgetown, Barbados. Significantly expanding Ambassador's annual offering, each itinerary will be 14 nights long, with the exception of two repositioning cruises at the beginning and end of the season.
Like its sister ships in the Ambassador fleet, Renaissance is a welcoming small-to-midsize vessel, fully refurbished in 2023 and modernized with the latest environmental technologies by January 2025, in line with Ambassador's high ecological standards and commitment to sustainable travel. With a multilingual crew, it can accommodate approximately 1,100 passengers and offers a generous space-to-passenger ratio that ensures comfort and freedom.
The inaugural winter season marks Ambassador's entry into the cruise-and-fly market, with Virgin Atlantic flights from Manchester and London Heathrow Airport to Barbados every other Monday. Upgrades to Economy Delight, Premium , and Upper Class.
Statements from Christian Verhounig, CEO of Ambassador Cruise Line: “As we embark on an exciting new chapter for Ambassador, I am delighted to present our incredible 2025/26 winter itineraries aboard the Renaissance: a significant milestone on our journey to become a leader in the European market for quality, affordable senior cruises and a fitting response to the growing demand for winter cruising options in warm climates.
“This new season in the Caribbean highlights what makes us special: each itinerary has been carefully designed to take advantage of the Renaissance and the exclusivity it offers, achieving the perfect balance between adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion.
“With an exciting array of winter itineraries, the Renaissance reinforces our commitment to providing our passengers with affordable, quality experiences, with a wider selection of voyages and destinations than ever before, ensuring that every guest enjoys the 'warmest welcome at sea' in a comfortable and sustainable way.”
Winter Program 2025/26 – Renaissance
All Renaissance itineraries will depart from and return to Bridgetown, Barbados, and will last 14 nights. The 10 voyages have been designed to offer the best of the Caribbean, along with the excellent cuisine, incredible entertainment, and warm hospitality for which Ambassador is known.
Some of the featured itineraries include:
- Tropical Autumn Escape (November 17, 2025): Inaugural itinerary that allows you to discover the vibrant culture, crystal clear waters and stunning landscapes of eight Caribbean destinations, including St. Kitts, Martinique, Antigua, St. Maarten and Curaçao.
- Christmas in the Caribbean (December 15, 2025): A festive voyage exploring the fragrant shores of Grenada, the unspoiled beauty of Tobago and the charm of Guadeloupe and Martinique, with a magical Christmas in St. John's, Antigua.
- Valentine's Caribbean Escape (February 9, 2026): A romantic cruise to exotic destinations including Curaçao, Aruba, St. Kitts, Tortola, and Bonaire. Valentine's Day will be celebrated in picturesque Guadeloupe with a special evening on board under a starry sky.
The Renaissance features a selection of elegant and comfortable staterooms and suites, designed to provide a welcoming experience, exceptional gastronomy with culinary options at the Renaissance, including the Grand Restaurant, Belle-Île Buffet Restaurant and specialty restaurants; bars and other activities including Les Evens Spa or Moana Pool, Bar & Grill.
The itineraries have been designed to allow passengers to immerse themselves in the culture, history, and natural beauty of the Caribbean. Some of the highlights include:
- Helicopter tour over the Soufrière Hills volcano in Antigua: A 45-minute flight with breathtaking views.
- Catamaran cruise to the Pitons in St. Lucia: A relaxing excursion to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- St. Kitts Scenic Train Tour: Through lush landscapes and the island's dramatic coastline.
- Discovering Virgin Gorda in Tortola: A hidden paradise with unique volcanic formations and natural pools.
With a perfect combination of adventure, luxury and cultural discovery, Ambassador Cruise Line's 2025/26 winter season promises to be an unforgettable experience for all travelers.
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