Robertson will name Ambition at a ceremony in Newcastle on 11 May before joining its maiden sailing for a night, disembarking in her home town of Dundee. Ambition will then continue on its inaugural 14-night Hidden Gems of France and Spain sailing.
Robertson was appointed MBE in 2000 and OBE in 2005. She made history by becoming the first British woman to win gold medals at two consecutive Olympic games – at Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004.
She was named World Sailor of the Year by the International Sailing Federation in 2000 and went on to become the first-ever female skipper in the Extreme 40 Sailing Series.
"I was drawn to Ambassador from the very first contact," said Robertson. "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."
Ambassador chief executive Christian Verhounig added: “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."
Ambition will have capacity for 1,200 gusts across 714 cabins, 125 of which have balconies and 113 are suites. It has two main dining restaurants, as well as speciality fining options, plus a bistro-style cafe, four bars, lounges and wine bar.
Entertainment spans a main theatre, card room, library and craft studio, while other facilities include a wellness centre, gym, two pools and a range of shops.
Besides Newcastle, the ship will sail from a further six regional UK ports – Tilbury, Dundee, Liverpool, Belfast, Bristol and Falmouth.
