Gorgeous cruise ship MS Ambition to be based at Portsmouth port as "highly anticipated" schedule announced

MS Ambition will be making three turnaround calls at Portsmouth International Port in April, with tourists leaving and coming onboard in the city. This is the first time the ship has operated from the city under its new guise.

An extensive list of luxury vessels will be sailing into the port throughout the year. Portsmouth City Council leader Steve Pitt said: “The port's cruise schedule is always a highly anticipated announcement, and this year is no different.

“Each cruise call has the ability generate up to £1.5m for the city’s economy through passenger spend and berthing charges, with profits going directly back into funding council services. The port works closely with local businesses and partners to boost local tourism and plays an important role in the local area.

“2026 will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a community open day, alongside the city’s centenary celebrations. Portsmouth is a city built on maritime history, and we are looking forward to welcoming the international cruise industry and their passengers back for another busy year.”

MS Ambition was launched in 1999 under the name Mistral by Festival Cruises. She has previously been known as Grand Mistral, Costa neoRiviera, and AIDAmira throughout her extensive career.

The 48,200 tonne ship went through an extensive refit in 2023, with improvements made to her propulsion system, rudders, and stabilisers, alongside a fresh coat of paint. Up to 1,200 passengers can enjoy several eateries and restaurants, a palladium, wine bar, swimming pool, hot tub, sun deck and terrace, spa, and other amenities.

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Portsmouth port’s new cruise calendar started on January 4 with Fred Olsen's MS Borealis. More than 70 calls will operate at the port throughout the year. Several brands will be returning to the city, including SAGA, Virgin Voyages with Valiant Lady, Viking, Noble Caledonia, AIDA, Phoenix Reisen, and others. Many of ships are in the small to medium sized boutique bracket, a niche which the port has been capitalising on.

Head of cruise and ferry Andrew Williamson said: “We have built significant relationships with our valued cruise partners in recent years, and this has been reflected in our 2026 schedule. We have six inaugural calls on the horizon, all from brands who have previously called at the port, which is a direct result of the investment we have put in deliver the best experience for our passengers.

“2026 will also see us add shore power to our cruise offering, giving operators the opportunity to plug into the grid and switch off their engines while in port.”

The full Portsmouth International Port cruise schedule can be found here.