Ambassador Cruise Line has announced that Shirley Robertson, OBE will be the Godmother to Ambition.
In her new role, Shirley will name Ambition at an official launch ceremony in Newcastle on Thursday the 11th of May 2023. She will then join the ship’s first cruise, which departs Newcastle on Friday the 12th of May 2023, for one night, before disembarking in her hometown of Dundee. Ambition will then continue her inaugural 14-night Hidden Gems of France and Spain sailing.
As one of the most recognisable faces in sailing, there seems no better fit for Ambition’s Godmother than Shirley. She was appointed MBE in 2000 and OBE in 2005, making history when becoming the first British woman to win Gold Medals at two consecutive Olympic Games (Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004). Named World Sailor of the Year by the International Sailing Federation in 2000, she has been a trailblazer for women in sailing for many years, and features in Scotland’s prestigious Sports Hall of Same and holds a role as Deputy Lieutenant for the place she now calls home, the Isle of Wight.
Since retiring from international competition, Shirley has gone on to become one of the sport’s most successful broadcasters. An accomplished presenter across multiple channels, she has previously fronted CNN’s dedicated sailing programme, Mainsail, as well as presented the BBC’s Olympic sailing coverage. She is an engaging public speaker and a regular contributor to discussions across a variety of topics within sailing.
Shirley is passionate about all things nautical and her story is an inspiration to us all. We believe she will be a wonderful advocate for our brand, and her ambitious drive, iconic status and dedication to achievement echo Ambassador Cruise Line’s determination to continue offering their guests the warmest welcome at sea into 2023 and beyond.
We can’t wait to see her onboard!
