CFC Renaissance
On-board Guides Info-pack
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The Ambassador Group
Ambassador
In January 2025, Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC) merged with Ambassador Cruise Line to form the "Ambassador Group" - creating a leading European premium affordable value cruise line. This strategic merger brings together CFC's strong presence in the French no-fly cruise market with Ambassador's success in the UK market.
The Fleet
  • Renaissance (CFC) - 1,200 passenger capacity, serving the French market
  • Ambience (Ambassador) - serving the UK market
  • Ambition (Ambassador) - serving the UK market
Markets & Destinations
  • Primary Market: No-fly European cruises targeting the silver market (over 50s)
  • UK Departures: Seven regional UK ports (London Tilbury, Newcastle, Dundee, Liverpool, Belfast, Bristol, Falmouth)
  • French Departures: Le Havre, Dunkerque, Marseille
  • Destinations: British Isles, Western Europe, Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Norwegian Fjords
  • New for 2025: Caribbean fly-cruise programme introduced in Q4 2025, including Guadeloupe and Martinique
Brand Identity
  • CFC Renaissance offers a traditionally French product for French-speaking passengers
  • Ambassador vessels (Ambience & Ambition) offer a traditionally British product for UK passengers
  • Each brand maintains its distinct character to ensure guests enjoy an experience aligned with their cultural expectations
Ownership & Investment
The Ambassador Group is backed by Njord Partners and Cheyne Capital. CFC invested €30 million in Renaissance's initial refurbishment (2023), followed by an additional €15 million refit in early 2025, demonstrating the group's commitment to quality and environmental standards.
Renaissance: Your Home at Sea
Renaissance
Welcome aboard Renaissance - a premium cruise ship that combines intimate proportions with refined elegance. Completely renovated in France and designed to offer a unique travel experience, Renaissance is a cruise ship with intimate dimensions and a French-speaking crew. Between refinement and conviviality, discover living spaces where every detail has been designed to combine comfort and classic charm.
Ship Specifications
Built
1993 in Italy
Renovated
June 2023 and January 2025
Passenger Capacity
Approximately 1,200 passengers
Crew
French-speaking crew
Character
Premium boutique ship with intimate atmosphere
Special Feature
Small enough to access ports unavailable to larger ships
Departures
Le Havre, Dunkerque, Marseille
Accommodation Options
Grande Suite Renaissance (87m²)
  • Located on Deck 10 - the most spacious suite on the ship
  • Private terrace of 18m² with lounge chairs and dining table
  • Separate bedroom with King Size bed
  • Large dressing room
  • Luxurious black marble bathroom with shower and whirlpool bath
  • Spacious living room with convertible sofa
  • Separate dining area
Suite Renaissance
  • Located on Deck 10
  • Two twin beds convertible to King Size
  • Generous living area with convertible sofa
  • Wardrobe space
  • Bathroom with whirlpool bath
  • Private terrace with relaxation chairs and table
Balcony Cabins
  • Private balcony
  • Spacious outdoor space
  • Perfect for breakfast with exceptional views
Promenade Terrace Cabins
  • Sliding glass door opening directly onto Deck 6 promenade
  • Exclusive deck chairs reserved for cabin use
  • All standard cabin amenities
Sea View Cabins
  • Window overlooking the sea
  • Fully equipped with all comforts
Interior Cabins
  • Standard comfort cabin
  • All amenities for an exceptional stay
Dining & Entertainment
Restaurant Vatel
  • Main dining room with elegant décor
  • Illuminated ceiling with panoramic sea views
  • Two dinner sittings: 6:30 PM or 8:45 PM
  • Open seating for breakfast and lunch
  • (No supplement)
Le Décanteur - Wine Bar
  • Dedicated space for wine enthusiasts
  • Light wood décor creating warm atmosphere
  • Partner winemaker selections
  • Guided tastings with master sommelier
  • For both curious amateurs and connoisseurs
Renaissance Theatre
  • Evening entertainment with specially created shows
  • Guest artists and surprises during extended port stays
  • Daytime venue for destination lectures
  • Crew presentations and excursion briefings
L'Odyssée Auditorium
  • Multi-purpose space
  • Culinary demonstrations
  • Cinema screenings
  • Fascinating conferences
  • Can be privatized for groups, meetings, seminars
Ship Features
  • Teak deck terrace
  • Harmonious proportions - human-scale ship
  • Refined setting combining comfort and authenticity
  • Recent renovations meet strictest environmental standards
  • Accessibility features for passengers with reduced mobility
  • Reception on Deck 7
Renaissance represents the perfect balance of intimacy and elegance. Its boutique size allows access to exclusive ports while providing all the amenities of a premium cruise experience. With its French-speaking crew and refined atmosphere, Renaissance offers an authentic cruising experience where every detail has been thoughtfully designed for your comfort and enjoyment.
A Video Tour of Renaissance
Video
Renaissance and "Marsupilami"
CFC’s Renaissance served as the filming location for French filmmaker Philippe Lacheau’s movie “Marsupilami,” the company said.
For 15 days at the end of September 2024, the film crews were alongside the passengers of the Renaissance to make this film, which was released in France on Feb. 4, 2026.
“Filming the Marsupilami movie aboard the Renaissance was an exciting and challenging experience. Hosting a film crew on a working ship is always a logistical challenge, but our teams demonstrated great flexibility and remarkable professionalism,” said CFC President Maëlysse Pierrot-Guibourt.
“The energy of the shoot, the friendliness of the cast, and the creativity of the script and production truly enlivened life on board. It was also a wonderful opportunity to showcase the Renaissance, our ship of which we are particularly proud, and to share the experience of cruising.”
The actors mixed with the real guests onboard the 1,258-guest ship, making them part of the film experience.
“The only pitfall when filming onboard this ship is forgetting that we’re there to shoot a movie,” said Lacheau.
CFC even debuted a special logo for the occasion in the style of the Marsupilami – a comic book character and fictional animal with an incredibly long tail – to mark the occasion.
Your Role
The On-Board Guide Role
Guides are expected to be visible, approachable, and confident onboard. This is not simply about delivering tours — it is about creating a reassuring, knowledgeable presence that enhances the entire guest experience.
Socialising with Guests
Engage naturally with passengers in public spaces, building rapport and trust throughout the voyage.
Informal Talks
Offer engaging presentations using visual props, maps, and storytelling to bring destinations to life.
Pre-Excursion Briefings
Reassure guests before excursions, providing clear information and building confidence for shore experiences.
Coordinated Team
This project must feel like one coordinated team, not individuals working separately. Unity creates excellence.
Living Aboard
Life On Board
Accommodation
Twin cabins are provided. These are standard, functional crew-style cabins designed for comfort and rest between cruise days.
Meals
All meals are provided onboard. Dining facilities offer varied menus to accommodate different preferences and dietary requirements.
Drinks Policy
Drinks are included within standard policy. Professional behaviour is expected at all times, both on and off duty.

Remember: you represent Intercruises and TourGuide Partner™ throughout your time aboard. Professionalism extends beyond working hours.
Dress Code
Dress code
Professional Appearance Required
A suitable smart dress code is required at all times when visible to guests.
Standards Expected
  • Clothing should be clean, pressed, and well-maintained
  • Professional appearance suitable for both ship and shore environments
  • Comfortable enough for extended periods of standing and walking
  • Appropriate for varying weather conditions in Scottish ports
  • Smart casual to business casual depending on activity
Your appearance reflects the quality and professionalism of the entire operation. Guests form impressions quickly, and presentation matters.
Teamwork
Team Culture
Success depends on teamwork, shared information, mutual respect, and positive group energy. This cannot be overstated.
"Success depends on teamwork"
Guests notice team atmosphere as much as information. A cohesive, supportive team creates an environment where guests feel welcomed, valued, and confident.
When guides support each other, share insights, and maintain positive energy, it elevates the entire experience for everyone aboard.
Mutual Respect
Shared Information
Positive Energy
Team Support
Communication
Communication Standards
01
Clear & Calm
Maintain professional composure in all communications
02
Align with Shorex
Coordinate closely with shore excursion team onboard
03
Keep Colleagues Informed
Share relevant information promptly
04
Report Early
Flag issues before they become problems
Why Communication Matters
Clear, calm, professional communication is essential to operational success. Misunderstandings create delays, confusion, and guest dissatisfaction.
Guides must align with Shorex teams, keep colleagues informed of any changes or challenges, and report issues early whilst they can still be resolved effectively.
Proactive communication prevents problems. Reactive communication manages crises. Choose proactive.
Important Contact Numbers
Arrival Info
Arrival 17th April
Welcome to Newcastle

To ensure you're well-rested and ready for your exciting journey, guides will arrive the day before the ship to settle into accommodation and prepare for the cruise ahead.
Premier Inn North Shields (Ferry Terminal)
Address
Coble Dene Road, North Shields, Tyne And Wear, NE29 6DL
Telephone
0333 321 1356
Booking Reference
AVO3204109
Check-in Details
  • Check-in available from 3pm
  • Full English Breakfast included for all rooms
Room Allocations

Arrive refreshed and ready! The ship arrives the following morning, so use this time to settle in and prepare for an exciting cruise.
April Sailing
April Sailing 2026
Joining Details
Guides join Friday 17 April in Newcastle.
Renaissance arrives morning of Saturday 18 April.
Itinerary Overview
1
18 April
Newcastle
2
19 April
Newhaven / Edinburgh
3
20 April
Aberdeen
4
21 April
Kirkwall
5
22 April
Lerwick
6
23 April
Invergordon
guides & Overview
April 2026: Tour Guides & Overview
Tour Overviews
During the April sailing window, guides will lead a variety of excursions, ranging from historic city explorations to dramatic natural landscapes. Familiarity with these specific tours is crucial for providing an exceptional guest experience.

Newcastle - 18 April
  • Cathedral & City of Durham
  • City of Newcastle & Angel of the North
  • Bamburgh Castle & Lindisfarne
  • Footsteps of the Romans: Hadrian's Wall
Newhaven - 19 April
  • Magnificent Edinburgh City & Castle
  • Edinburgh Coast & Countryside
  • Scenic Edinburgh & Holyrood Palace
  • Edinburgh Castle & Royal Yacht Britannia
Aberdeen - 20 April
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Crathes Castle
  • Granite City and Old Aberdeen
Kirkwall - 21 April
  • Ring Of Brodgar & Skara Brae
  • Italian Chapel & Orkney Discovery
  • Scenes of Orkney
Lerwick - 22 April
  • Scenic Shetland
  • Shetland Contrast
  • North Shetland & Eshaness Cliffs
Invergordon - 23 April
  • Dornoch & Highlands @ Ease
  • Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle
  • Loch Ness Cruise
Arrival Info
Arrival 1st June
Welcome to Newhaven, Edinburgh

To ensure you're well-rested and ready for your exciting journey, guides will arrive the day before the ship to settle into accommodation and prepare for the cruise ahead.
TBA
Address
Telephone

Booking Reference
Check-in Details
  • Check-in available from 3pm
  • Full English Breakfast included for all rooms
Room Allocations

Arrive refreshed and ready! The ship arrives the following morning, so use this time to settle in and prepare for an exciting cruise.
June Sailing
June Sailing 2026
Joining Details
Guides join Monday 1 June in Newhaven / Edinburgh.
Renaissance arrives morning of Tuesday 2 June.
Itinerary Overview
1
2 June
Newhaven / Edinburgh
2
3 June
Aberdeen
3
4 June
Lerwick
4
5 June
Stornoway
5
6 June
Kirkwall
6
7 June
Scrabster
Guides & Overview
June 2026: Tour Guides & Overview
Tour Overviews
During the June sailing window, guides will facilitate diverse excursions spanning historic urban centers to breathtaking coastal and island scenery. Understanding these particular tours is essential for delivering outstanding guest experiences.
Newhaven - 2 June
  • Magnificent Edinburgh City & Castle
  • Edinburgh Coast & Countryside
  • Scenic Edinburgh & Holyrood Palace
  • Edinburgh Castle & Royal Yacht Britannia
Aberdeen - 3 June
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Crathes Castle
  • Granite City and Old Aberdeen
Lerwick - 4 June
  • Scenic Shetland
  • Shetland Contrast
  • North Shetland & Eshaness Cliffs
Stornoway - 5 June
  • North Lewis Discovery
  • Lewis and Harris @ Ease
  • Carloway Broch and The Isle of Lewis
Kirkwall - 6 June
  • Ring Of Brodgar & Skara Brae
  • Italian Chapel & Orkney Discovery
  • Scenes of Orkney
Scrabster - 7 June
  • Scenic Highland & Wick Heritage
  • John O'Groats & Dunnet Head
  • The Queen Mother's Castle of Mey & Gardens
Practical Tour Management for On-Board Guides
tour management
Effective tour management is the cornerstone of a successful and memorable port experience, especially when guiding international cruise passengers whose time is often limited and expectations are high. Beyond simply navigating, a skilled guide orchestrates a seamless journey, anticipating needs, mitigating challenges, and enriching every moment. This comprehensive guide outlines crucial considerations and best practices to ensure every tour operates flawlessly, leaving guests with cherished memories of the destination.
Timing Considerations
Adhere strictly to the cruise ship's "all-aboard" time. Always build in generous buffer periods for unforeseen delays like traffic, comfort breaks, or guests lingering at photo stops. Communicate the schedule clearly to guests at the outset and throughout the day.
Guest Management & Communication
Cruise passengers often come from diverse backgrounds and age groups. Set clear expectations regarding the tour's pace, physical demands, and available facilities. Use clear, concise language and consider visual aids where helpful. Engage guests with compelling storytelling and local anecdotes. Be proactive in addressing questions and concerns, and discreetly manage any issues to ensure the harmony of the group.
Weather Contingencies
Local weather is famously unpredictable. Advise guests in advance to dress in layers and bring waterproof outer shells, regardless of the forecast. Have alternative indoor attractions or sheltered viewpoints planned for inclement weather. Prioritize safety during adverse conditions, such as high winds or heavy rain, by adjusting routes or activities as necessary.
Accessibility Considerations
Inquire about any mobility challenges or specific needs of guests prior to the tour. Be aware of accessible routes, restrooms, and viewing platforms at all planned stops. Be prepared to offer assistance where appropriate and ensure all guests feel included and comfortable. Clearly communicate any potential barriers or limitations at certain sites.
Emergency Preparedness
Know where the first-aid kit is in the coach follow basic first aid procedures. Keep a list of local emergency services contacts (e.g., 999 for UK emergencies) and the port dispatchers emergency contact number readily accessible. Establish clear protocols for lost guests or medical incidents, including designated meeting points and communication methods.
Tour Best Practices
Immerse yourself in local history, folklore, and natural science to provide rich context. Maintain a high level of enthusiasm and adaptability. Encourage a "Leave No Trace" philosophy to preserve the pristine local environment. Remember that your passion for the destination is infectious and contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the guests.
By meticulously planning and proactively managing these aspects, guides can elevate a simple excursion into an extraordinary adventure, ensuring every international cruise passenger departs with a deep appreciation for the destination's beauty, history, and vibrant culture.