Ambassador Cruise Line expanded its longstanding partnership with retail specialist Harding+ by awarding the company the full onboard retail contract for the cruise ship Renaissance, the newly refurbished vessel acquired by Ambassador’s January 2025 merger with Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC).

Harding+, which first partnered with Ambassador in 2021, will now curate and manage the complete retail experience aboard Renaissance. The ship will launch with four dedicated retail spaces, including a 13 sqm accessories boutique featuring brands such as Pandora and Swarovski, a 15 sqm fine jewellery store, a 30 sqm spirits and tobacco shop, and a 20 sqm holiday essentials outlet.

This new collaboration builds on Harding+’s guest-centric retail model, which focuses on destination-driven product curation, luxury beauty, and bespoke offerings tailored to the demographic profile of each ship. “Working with a strong sense of French culture when it comes to Renaissance and its guests is a positive challenge,” said Harding+ CEO Chris Matthews, emphasizing the importance of localized insight and custom retail strategy.

The Renaissance will also be the first ship to launch with Harding+’s full stock integrity project integrated from day one, incorporating digital tracking and handheld labeling technology to streamline onboard operations and inventory accuracy.

“Retail plays an essential role in creating our ‘Ambassador Moments,’” said Bob McGowan, Chief Experience Officer at Ambassador Cruise Line. “With Harding+ bringing their expertise to Renaissance, we’re confident in delivering a seamless and elevated shopping environment that reflects the tastes and expectations of our French guests.”