Ambassador Cruise Line’s new ship, Ambition, will welcome guests onboard her maiden voyage on May 12, offering them the chance to be among the first to enjoy a meal in a restaurant that pays homage to Michelle Lupino – the valued Ambassador colleague who sadly passed away following a short illness in October 2022.
Michelle Lupino was a vibrant and engaging personality who was a much-loved team member, business partner and friend to many in both the Ambassador family and the wider industry. To mark her passing, Ambassador has chosen to honour her memory by creating an onboard dining experience for guests to enjoy which recognises her Italian heritage and vibrant, inclusive and warm-hearted qualities: Lupino’s.
Bob McGowan, Head of Guest Experience, Ambassador Cruise Line, said: “I was very close to Michelle, and news of her passing affected me deeply. When I was asked by the business to help create a place on our new ship to honour her memory, I wanted it to be a celebration of her life and the many things that made her so special, including her love of socialising with friends old and new. She was the life and soul of any party or gathering and would always make people feel welcome. We hope the restaurant designed in her image will be a fitting tribute to Michelle, and I’d like to think she would wholeheartedly approve of what we have created.”
Working with Atlantic Marine Interiors and renowned interior designer, Guri Blindheim, Lupino’s will be a Mediterranean-style restaurant with a relaxed, al-fresco feel. The restaurant has been conceived to offer guests a fresh, invigorating and warm welcome that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the company of others, whether they be old friends or new acquaintances. To add a personal touch, the ‘Lupino’s’ logo on restaurant signage has been designed in a style inspired by Michelle’s own signature.
Complete with a soothing colour palette of Ambassador’s signature brand colours of ‘aloe’ (green) with hints of ‘allium’ (purple), the relaxed atmosphere of Lupino’s will feature a convivial dining concept where families and/or friends can enjoy food and drink together. With flexible seating for up to 70 guests, and sharing platters inspired by the local tastes and cultures Ambition and her guests will experience across her various ports of call, the exceptional service, authentic flavours and amazing surroundings set the tone for the intimate feel of Lupino’s.
Christian Verhounig, CEO, of Ambassador Cruise Line, said: “Michelle was with us at the very start of our journey as we sought to build the welcoming Ambassador team ashore and onboard that today form the backbone of our business. She was not only an essential member of the team but also a long-term friend of myself and many of her colleagues. As such, when Michelle left us, the overriding feeling was one of utter shock, disbelief and sadness on both a professional and personal level.
“In Lupino’s, we have created a warm and welcoming dining experience, which our guests will enjoy for many years to come. Celebrating all the qualities she showed, Lupino’s will serve as a constant reminder to us all of the positive and inspiring impact Michelle, and indeed all of us, can have on those around us.”
Prior to entering service, Ambition will enter dry dock in Germany for six weeks from the beginning of April, where she will undergo environmental upgrade works, furnishing upgrades and more*. In addition to Lupino’s, dining options onboard Ambition will include two main restaurants, speciality dining options in the Saffron restaurant, a more casual bistro style café, four bars, lounges and a wine bar. Entertainment offerings include the main theatre, a card room, library and craft studio. Additional guest facilities will include the wellness centre, gym, two swimming pools and a range of retail shops.
To find out more, visit https://www.ambassadorcruiseline.com/our-ships/ambition/
