The vessel, set to be named Ambition, has been purchased from Costa Cruises and operated as AidaMira for German line Aida.

Like its sister ship Ambience, which is set to launch in April, Ambition will offer no-fly sailings predominantly targeting the 50-plus market.

In addition to London Tilbury, Ambition will also offer a summer 2023 programme of regional departures from ports including Newcastle, Dundee, Belfast, Liverpool, Bristol and Falmouth, 

The ship’s full programme is being finalised and will be on sale from Q2 2022, Ambassador said.

Ambition will carry up to 1,200 guests across 714 cabins, 125 of which will have balconies and 113 will be suites.

The vessel has two main restaurants and speciality dining options, a more casual bistro style cafe, four bars and lounges and a pub. A tiered main theatre, casino, card room, library and craft studio will also feature onboard, as well as a wellness centre, gymnasium, two swimming pools and a range of retail shops.

Prior to entering service, Ambition will undergo “extensive upgrades”, including the installation of the latest emission reduction technologies – reducing nitrogen oxide emissions by around 95%.

Along with installing updated ballast and sewage water treatment systems, Ambassador said both ships in its fleet would be among the 10% of the global cruise fleet authorised to sail in strictly environmentally protected seas. 

Ambassador chief executive 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, whilst 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.”