Ambassador Cruise Line has named double Olympic sailing gold medallist Shirley Robertson OBE as godmother to its second ship, Ambition.

Robertson will name Ambition ­at an official ceremony in Newcastle on 11 May.

She will then join the new ship’s first cruise, which departs Newcastle on 12 May, for one night before disembarking in her home town of Dundee as Ambition continues its inaugural 14-night Hidden Gems of France and Spain sailing.

Robertson made history when she became the first British woman to win gold medals at two consecutive Olympic Games – Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004.

In addition, she was named World Sailor of the Year by the International Sailing Federation in 2000 and was the first-ever female skipper in the Extreme 40 Sailing Series.

‘No better fit’ for Ambassador

Ambassador Cruise Line CEO Christian Verhounig said: “As one of the most recognisable 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.”

Robertson added: “I was drawn to Ambassador from the very first contact. I love their passion for quality service and their drive to look for sustainable options at every turn.

“I’m also a big fan of holidays that don’t involve the stress of airports and love the beauty and variety our very own coastline offers. Being at sea, and the excitement of arriving somewhere by sea, is very special.

“I’m very much looking forward to being a regular on Ambition and partnering with the dynamic team at Ambassador – I can’t wait.”