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Writer's pictureJenna Cockburn

REVIEW: Welcome Aboard The FringeShip - Ambassador Cruise Line and Playbill's Floating Hotel | Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024



Ahoy there, festival lovers! As we approach the end of August, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe is in full swing, and I recently had the unique opportunity to step aboard the FringeShip, Playbill's new collaboration with Ambassador Cruise Line. The Ambition, a ship turned into a floating haven for artists and festival-goers, promises an unforgettable experience during this iconic arts celebration. Buckle up as I share my journey through this extraordinary vessel!


A New Take on Festival Accommodation

Imagine docking right in the heart of Edinburgh, surrounded by the vibrant buzz of the festival while having your hotel room ready on water. That's what the FringeShip offers: a boutique hotel feel combined with the novelty of life at sea.


The Ambition is beautifully designed, featuring cozy cabins and inviting public spaces that provide a relaxed, casual atmosphere.


Amenities Galore

What’s a floating hotel without exciting amenities? The FringeShip boasts a variety of entertainment options tailored for festival-goers, ensuring there's something for everyone.



The ship features multiple lounges, restaurants, swimming pools, and a 500 person seated theatre, each with its own unique vibe.


Embracing the Fringe Culture

What truly set the FringeShip apart was its close connection to the spirit of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Throughout the day, I was surrounded by other festival attendees, artists, and performers, fostering a sense of community that was nearly tangible.


Onboard, I also enjoyed several Fringe shows and met talented performers staying on the ship. The ship also organised group outings, making it easy to explore the festival together.


The Location, Oh My!

Docked Edinburgh's Ocean Terminal, the FringeShip enjoys one of its most appealing aspects: location. It is nestled close to festival venues, allowing you to quickly pop back for a rest or a snack before heading out to catch more incredible acts.


The shuttle service provided by the FringeShip made navigating the area effortless. Guests could reach major attractions within minutes, ensuring they successfully experienced all of the festival’s highlights.


The Experience

In terms of fun, the experience aboard the FringeShip was amazing. Attending the festival is fantastic, but enjoying it surrounded by fellow enthusiasts on a ship added an exciting layer.


Themed nights and trivia games filled the ship's itinerary where guests got involved and created a lively party atmosphere that made the nights fun and entertaining.


Floating Hotel Experience

The FringeShip is a delightful blend of comfort and entertainment, making it the ideal floating hotel during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Embrace the excitement of the festival while soaking in the unique atmosphere of life on a cruise.


If you plan to attend the festival next year, consider a stay aboard the FringeShip. You’ll enjoy exhilarating performances while bonding with fellow festival lovers.


Set sail into an unforgettable adventure on the FringeShip - your floating home during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe!



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