Cruising the Med

It's the start of a brand-new series of Cruising the Med and excitement is high as two very different duos embark on a five-day adventure aboard the cruise ship Ambition, their floating home for the journey ahead.

The ship has arrived at the scenic French port of Le Verdon, opening the door to another day of cultural discovery, good-natured competition and plenty of classic cruise fun. With the region famed for its vineyards, it's the perfect opportunity for our experienced cruising couple, Glenys and Ian from Lancashire, to venture inland and explore the world-renowned Bordeaux wine country.

The ship arrives in the vibrant Basque city of Bilbao, giving our holidaymakers the chance to soak up its culture, cuisine and unmistakable charm. First-time cruisers Graham and Lewis, the father-and-son duo from Hull, kick-start their day in true holiday style with a hearty breakfast on the beach.

The ship remains out in open waters for a full day at sea, giving our holidaymakers the chance to slow down, soak up the onboard atmosphere and take full advantage of the activities available on Ambition.

The ship docks in the colourful and culture-rich city of Porto, offering the perfect backdrop for our travellers' final adventures ashore. For father-and-son duo Graham and Lewis, the day begins with a creative challenge as they step into one of Porto's traditional workshops for a session of tile painting.

It's the start of a brand-new week onboard, which means a fresh set of eager holidaymakers are stepping aboard to begin their cruising adventure. The ship is docked in the historic Andalusian city of Cádiz, with its sun-soaked plazas, winding old-town streets and vibrant Spanish culture setting the scene for our new travellers.

The ship sails into one of the most unique destinations on the itinerary: Gibraltar, affectionately known as the Rock. With its familiar British touches set against Mediterranean sunshine, it's the perfect place for our duos to explore a little slice of home while still being most definitely on holiday.

The ship is en route to the Spanish port of Vigo and everyone has the chance to enjoy a full, activity-packed day at sea. With no port to rush off to, our duos settle into the rhythm of life on the open ocean - relaxation, entertainment and a touch of adventure.

It's the penultimate day onboard and our holidaymakers sail into the picturesque port city of Vigo, nestled on Spain's lush northwest coast. With only a short time left on their cruise, both duos are keen to make the most of their final adventures on shore.

It's the final day of the cruise for this week's holidaymakers and emotions are running high as our duos squeeze in their last memorable moments both on shore and aboard Ambition. The ship has arrived in the French port city of Brest, offering one final chance for sightseeing, culture and celebration before the journey comes to an end.

It's a fresh new week of Cruising the Med and it's the first aboard Ambassador Cruise Line's flagship vessel, Ambience and a brand-new set of excited holidaymakers are beginning their journey around the Mediterranean. The ship is docked in the sunlit and history-rich Sardinian capital of Cagliari, a city famed for its ancient fortifications, colourful streets and sweeping sea views.

It's day two aboard and our holidaymakers are waking up to stunning views as the ship sails into the beautiful and historic port of Syracuse, located on the sun-soaked island of Sicily, Italy. With its ancient ruins, glittering coastline and rich Mediterranean culture, it's the perfect setting for a day full of discovery and indulgence.

It's a full day at sea, giving our holidaymakers the chance to embrace everything the ship has to offer. From leisurely mornings to lively onboard entertainment. With no port to rush off to, both duos settle into the relaxed rhythm of life on the open water.

The holidaymakers are exploring the charming port of Argostoli, the capital of the Greek island of Cephalonia. With its turquoise waters, relaxed atmosphere and rich culture, it's the perfect backdrop for another day of unforgettable adventures.

It's the final day for our adventurers as they arrive at the enchanting Greek island of Corfu; a fittingly picturesque destination for a day filled with celebrations, surprises and heartfelt moments.

It's embarkation day for two brand-new pairs of cruisers and they're wasting no time diving into the delights of Amsterdam. Long-time couple and self-confessed dog devotees James and Damien kick off their very first cruise holiday in classic Amsterdam style. Gliding through the city's iconic waterways on a relaxing canal cruise.

It's day two aboard and with a full day at sea ahead, our new cruising couples are diving into everything the ship has to offer. Mother-and-daughter duo Jacque and Tamara are wasting no time embracing the onboard activities, beginning their morning with a jewellery-making class where they craft their own sparkling souvenirs.

The ship docks in the vibrant and picturesque Portuguese capital of Lisbon, where our cruisers are set for a day packed with flavour, culture and adventure. Civil partners James and Damien begin their exploration by diving straight into one of Portugal's most iconic culinary traditions.

The ship makes her way toward the final stop of the week, sunny Gibraltar. Our holidaymakers settle into a full and fabulous day at sea, with no shortage of activities to keep them entertained. Mother-and-daughter duo Jacque and Tamara, things off with a delightfully creative challenge: a towel-sculpting class.

It's the final day of the cruise for this week's intrepid travellers and the ship is gliding into one of the most unique ports in the Mediterranean, the unmistakably British-but-baking-hot territory of Gibraltar. With its iconic rock dominating the skyline, our holidaymakers are ready to make the most of their last adventure ashore.