It is a rare and wonderful opportunity to experience multiple bucket list destinations in a single journey without the logistical headaches of separate travel arrangements. On a recent voyage titled Gems of the English Channel, I was fortunate enough to accomplish exactly that, ticking off several dream locations while enjoying the comforts of a dedicated cruise ship.
A Seamless Start from Home Ports
The adventure began with the convenience of a no-fly sailing, a speciality of Ambassador Cruise Line, which launched just four years ago. Departing from Tilbury in Essex, a mere hour's drive from my home, eliminated the usual airport stress. The line also operates from other UK home ports including Portsmouth, as well as locations in northern England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Boarding the Ambience, a vessel with a capacity for 1,400 passengers, offered a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere compared to the modern mega-ships.
Life Onboard: Pampering and Fine Dining
From the very first evening, the service set a tone of exceptional care. My waiter, Noor, greeted me with a warm "Good evening Miss Ruth. House Bubbles?"—a delightful ritual that made me feel instantly pampered. The culinary offerings were outstanding. On that initial night, I indulged in a special steak and lobster dish for a modest supplement, expertly served by food waiter Adie. Both staff members became familiar friends by the journey's end.
Evenings were spent enjoying drinks in one of the many lounges, participating in quizzes, or watching professional theatre shows. The Expedition Drinks Package provided peace of mind, removing any concern about a final bar bill. For relaxation, the seawater pool offered a bracing swim, while the spa facilities, including an excellent Indian head massage from therapist Yuni, provided perfect indulgence.
Diverse Dining and Formal Nights
Dining options catered to every mood. The Borough Market buffet presented a wide array of choices from classic fish and chips to roast dinners, curries, stir-fries, salads, and vegan options. For a more upscale experience, the Sea and Grass restaurant served a fabulous but very filling seven-course tasting menu. Saffron, a specialty restaurant, delighted curry enthusiasts. The cruise also featured two formal 'dress up' nights, one of which afforded me the pleasure of dining with the amiable Captain Hugh Maynard.
Enchanting Ports of Call
Beyond the onboard luxuries, the itinerary promised captivating destinations, each with its unique charm.
Cornwall's Lost Gardens of Heligan
Our first stop was Fowey in Cornwall, accessed via a tender—one of the ship's lifeboats—which provided a short, laughter-filled journey to shore. We passed the former home of author Daphne du Maurier in this picturesque town nestled along the Fowey River estuary. A forty-minute trip from the town brought us to the world-renowned Lost Gardens of Heligan. This 200-acre subtropical paradise, created in the 18th and 19th centuries, features giant ferns, palm trees, and exotic plants. After falling into disrepair post-World War I, it was miraculously rediscovered and restored from 1990 onwards, resulting in a truly magical landscape.
The Isles of Scilly: Britain's Caribbean
The next destination became my personal favourite: the Isles of Scilly. Arriving in the morning mist, the outer uninhabited islands appeared shrouded in mystery. Anchoring off St Mary's, the largest of the five inhabited islands, I embarked on a wildlife safari with the St Mary's Boatmen's Association. On a 90-minute open-decked vessel trip, we observed Atlantic Grey seals and a variety of birds, including adorable puffins that whirled overhead before diving into the sea. The islands' white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters strikingly resembled the Caribbean, promising a compelling reason for a future return visit. Other guests explored the spectacular subtropical gardens on Tresco island.
Guernsey's Charm and History
Our call at St Peter Port, capital of Guernsey in the Channel Islands, offered a tender transfer to explore the town's pretty cobbled streets. I enjoyed some VAT-free shopping and relaxed café culture, while other passengers delved into the island's wartime history or toured its beautiful landscapes by vintage bus. Literature enthusiasts visited Hauteville House, the stunning home of exiled author Victor Hugo. Alternative sightseeing options included a 45-minute tour on 'Le Petit Train' or a fun ride in a Tuk Tuk, both available at the harbourside.
Medieval Honfleur in Normandy
The final port was Honfleur in Normandy, France. While popular excursions included visits to Monet's house and gardens, the D-Day beaches, or the Bayeux Tapestry, I opted for a leisurely stroll through this breathtaking medieval town. Founded in the 11th century as a strategic port on the Seine estuary, Honfleur's centrepiece is its stunning Old Harbour, surrounded by tall, thin, half-timbered buildings that create one of France's most photogenic spots. Busy cafés and restaurants line the quays, ideal for lunch or a drink. I also visited the 15th-century Saint Catherine's Church, the largest wooden church in France.
Reflections and Future Adventures
As we departed France on the final night, I reflected on a wealth of special memories, from wildlife encounters and historic gardens to culinary delights and cultural discoveries. This cruise proved that travel adventures are not confined to the young, with many fellow passengers returning repeatedly for Ambassador's "warmest welcome at sea." The journey has undoubtedly inspired plans for my next sailing adventure, lured by the unique gems of the English Channel.
