Ambassador Cruise Line has announced the purchase of its second ship, to be named Ambition.

The 1,200-guest ship – which will enter service in 2023 – has been purchased from Costa, which operated it under the AIDA brand, as AIDAMira.

Ambition, like sister ship Ambience, will offer no-fly sailings predominantly targeting the 50-plus market.

In addition to sailing from Tilbury, the ship will operate a 2023 programme of regional departures from ports such as Newcastle, Dundee, Belfast, Liverpool, Bristol and Falmouth.

Prior to entering service with Ambassador Cruise Line, Ambition will undergo upgrades, including the installation of the latest emission reduction technologies.

This will reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 95 per cent compared to current standards, according to the cruise line.

Elsewhere on board, Ambition will feature two main restaurants and speciality dining options, as well as four bars and lounges, and a pub.

These areas will be complemented by a tiered main theatre, casino, card room, library, and craft studio.

A full programme of itineraries and offers will be detailed in a “bumper” 2023/24 season brochure.

CEO Christian Verhounig said: “We are delighted with the warm reception given to the introduction of Ambassador to the market – a new brand, proposition and our first ship.

“This announcement of the addition of Ambition to the fleet reflects our confidence and willingness to invest in the future of Ambassador and the cruise sector.

“We are particularly excited to be offering regional departure options for Ambition in 2023, while also offering guests who travel from London Tilbury a greater choice of sailings and ships on which to enjoy them.

“Clearly, we are all focused on the success of Ambience’s maiden season which commences in April this year, but we believe existing and new guests, as well as our trade partners, will be thrilled to hear about Ambassador’s growth plans”.

Ambassador recently revealed details about its travel agent concession scheme, offering discounted fares for the 2022/2023 maiden season on Ambience.