Writing competition to win £6k one of Ambassador’s entertainment initiatives

Ambassador Cruise Line has three new entertainment initiatives lined up for 2025. 

Celebration of the ‘80s

In spring, passengers will have the opportunity to embark on a four-night cruise on board Ambience paying homage to the 1980s while exploring two destinations: Zeebrugge, Belgium and Ijmuiden, the Netherlands.

Departing from London Tilbury on May 1, the ‘Back to the 80s’ themed Benelux Coastal Explorer itinerary will blend culture, nostalgia and entertainment. Highlights include a range of activities designed to transport travellers back in time, from themed cabaret shows and quizzes to menus bringing classic ‘80s favourites to life, fancy-dress competitions and workout classes inspired by the era of leotards and leg warmers. 

The Benelux Coastal Explorer will include special performances in the Palladium Theatre featuring two 80s icons: The Fizz - the spin-off pop group from Bucks Fizz featuring original members Cheryl Baker and Jay Aston; and Toyah Wilcox, the singer and actress, latterly of UK TV show ‘Strictly Come Dancing.’ 

Saver Fares start from £539 per person based on two people sharing an Ocean View cabin. Ambassador Fares, which include the top Ambassador Expedition Drinks Package, start from £714 per person based on two people sharing an Ocean View cabin.

Rock and roll

A big rock tenor singing show will also join Ambition’s lineup of entertainment as of next month.

‘Retro Rock Rebellion’ is set in a biker/rock bar on a hot summer’s night in the US. The atmosphere will be electrified by a young group of wannabe rock stars who hit the open mic, making the best use of the jukebox to showcase their talents. The new show promises guests a fun-filled night of rock and roll. 

Playwriting competition

Ambassador and the PEEL Entertainment Group have come together to launch the Ambassador PEEL Playwriting Challenge 2025, with entries set to open in January.

The winner will receive a cash prize of £6,000 and a free cruise for two in 2026. 

Peel has worked in the cruise industry for over 25 years and has produced a variety of entertainment for Ambassador since Ambience’s maiden voyage in April 2022. This includes Theatre@Sea, a programme that offers a variety of productions including dramas, comedies, thrillers and modern adaptations of classics.

The competition offers both experienced writers and unproduced playwrights the opportunity to submit their work to be in with a chance of having it staged onboard an Ambassador ship as part of PEEL’s Theatre@Sea programme. 

Shortlisted playwrights will be invited to join the ship for the day and have the opportunity to see their work performed by the team of accomplished actors. 

Entries for the award – the first of its kind to take place on a cruise ship – open on January 15 with members of the public able to submit their works up to April 4. The winner will be announced in December 2025.