APCL Group Secures Two Vessel Multi Million Pound Contract with Ambassador Cruises.

26 Nov 2025

APCL Group has secured a multi million pound ship repair contract with Ambassador Cruise Line which will see two of its vessels drydocking at APCL’s Falmouth and Tyne facilities.

Ambassador’s Ambition arrived for her scheduled dry docking this month which will run until December. It is the first time that Ambassador has partnered with APCL A&P Falmouth, with Ambience set to follow in January for her own refit at APCL A&P Tyne in Newcastle.

Ambition’s programme of works includes a full hull repaint, mechanical overhauls, servicing of propulsion and stabiliser systems and essential steel repairs. Within the hotel areas, guest cabins, restaurants and entertainment venues will undergo a series of refurbishments to refresh soft furnishings, fabrics and finishes, as well as improvements to crew accommodation.

Ambience will arrive at APCL A&P Tyne in January for a 21 day drydocking. Her scope includes preparation and coating application, tank steelwork, steering gear check, hot well tank steel repairs, as well as stern and bow thruster overhaul. Ambience is by far the largest cruise ship to be dry docked in the Tyne in over 20 years.

David Mc Ginley, Chief Executive of APCL Group, said: “APCL Group is delighted to have signed this latest two vessel contract with Ambassador Cruise Lines.

“The combination of APCL’s strategic locations, technical expertise and project management enables our Group to complete vital maintenance work under tight time schedules – minimising the downtime of Ambassador’s fleet.”

Mike Spicer, Managing Director of APCL A&P Falmouth, said: “APCL A&P Falmouth is delighted to welcome Ambition to its Falmouth facility for its refit. APCL is familiar with Ambition and her crew as she and her passengers are regular visitors to Falmouth’s International Cruise Terminal.

"Working with Ambassador Cruise Line further strengthens our position as a trusted partner for major cruise maintenance and refurbishments in the UK."

Ian Douglas Managing Director of APCL A&P Tyne, added: “APCL A&P Tyne looks forward to welcoming Ambience to its facility in January.

“APCL Tyne facility is becoming a recognised centre of excellence for cruise ships and we look forward to deploying our skills and capabilities on the vessel in the new year.”

Nick Hughes, Chief Operating Officer at Ambassador Cruise Line, said: “We are pleased to be working with A&P Falmouth and A&P Tyne for the first time on Ambition and Ambience's dry dock project. This multimillion-pound investment demonstrates our continued focus on delivering affordable quality while ensuring the Ambassador fleet operates to the highest technical, environmental and hospitality standards. We are proud to see UK yards win our competitive selection process and to be able to support local industry and the regional economies in both areas.”