It’s not often that I would contemplate stepping aboard a ship in winter – I still have vivid childhood memories of the Rosslare-Fishguard ferry during a stormy October. But an affordable, no-fly weekend cruise caught my attention. No airport stress , no battle for the armrest – and the chance to wake up in glittering Antwerp – what wasn’t to like? Not to mention that Ambassador Cruise Line ’s second ship, Ambition , is far more luxurious than a low-cost flight.
Boarding on the Thames at Tilbury , just a hop from London, was not at all frenetic. There was an old-time glamour feel to walking through the Grade II listed cruise terminal. On board, passengers were in high spirits, not least because drinks were already being served at the Angel Bar.
Three weeks out from Christmas , the ship was festooned with decorations and trees, and many on board were dressed in sequins and taffeta. Read Next Seven of Europe's best scenic rail journeys for spectacular autumn colours New to cruise life, I was surprised by the inclusive, chatty atmosphere – passengers were making friends at the bar, in the lift, and as we assembled on deck for the safety drill. Although small by today’s cruise ship standards, it felt in no way crowded as around 1,200 passengers settled in at the bars and lounges or strolled the sun deck.
I put aside my “too cool to cruise” prejudices and felt a thrill as we set sail. And, although the full-board, three-day “ Festive Getaway Cruise ” goes f.