Let’s talk about Cunard – one of the coolest cruise lines out there with a story that goes back more than 180 years. These folks have been sailing the high seas since before your great-grandparents were born, evolving from mail carriers to luxury cruise masters while keeping their fancy reputation intact.
How It All Started
Back in 1840, a guy named Samuel Cunard from Halifax, Nova Scotia kicked things off. He was a war vet and timber merchant who snagged the first British Government contract to deliver mail across the Atlantic. His company (originally called the British and North American Royal Mail Steam Packet Company – quite a mouthful!) sent its first ship, the Britannia, across the ocean that July.
In those early days, things were pretty wild by today’s standards. They kept actual cows on the ships for fresh milk, then turned them into dinner on the last day of the trip! Despite these quirky practices, Cunard quickly became known for being super reliable and safe, holding the Blue Riband for fastest Atlantic crossing for most of the next 30 years.
Growing Up Through the Years
As time went on, Cunard really made its mark. In the 1850s, their ships were hauling horses to the Crimean War. Famous writers like Charles Dickens and Mark Twain sailed with them and couldn’t stop raving about their captains.
Some cool milestones along the way:
- 1870: They introduced the first flushing toilets at sea (thank goodness!)
- 1880s: They helped bring over a million immigrants to America
- They also launched Servia, the first steel ship with electrical lighting
By the early 1900s, Cunard was crushing it with “floating palaces” that looked like The Ritz. Their superliners Lusitania and Mauretania were speed demons on the water, with Mauretania holding the fastest ship title from 1909 to 1929. Sadly, Lusitania was torpedoed during WWI in 1915.
The Glory Days and Adapting to Change
Cunard’s golden age came after World War II with their amazing ocean liners Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth. These babies could cruise at over 30 knots and were the biggest ocean liners around. Queen Elizabeth held the size record until 1996!
Then came the late 1950s and Cunard’s worst nightmare: jet planes. The Boeing 707 started flying the transatlantic route, and suddenly Cunard’s fleet seemed old-school. Ships that had been the toast of the Atlantic started disappearing.
Facing this transportation revolution, Cunard took a big gamble on a new ship: Queen Elizabeth 2. She kept Cunard sailing the Atlantic until 2008, when Queen Mary 2 took over the job.
Today’s Fleet: The Four Queens
These days, Cunard runs four gorgeous ships, all with the fancy “Queen” title:
Queen Mary 2
The big boss of the fleet, she’s still doing those classic transatlantic crossings plus world voyages. In 2026, she’ll do something totally new – sail through the Panama Canal for the first time ever during her World Voyage.
Queen Victoria
Keeping things classy while sailing all over the globe.
Queen Elizabeth
Starting in 2025, she’ll be hanging out in the Caribbean, running 33 voyages from Miami to awesome island spots like Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Honduras, Tortola, Antigua, Barbados, and St Lucia.
Queen Anne
The new kid on the block who just started sailing in early 2024. In January 2026, she’ll head out on a World Voyage at the same time as Queen Mary 2, hitting up cool cities like New York, Buenos Aires, Dubai, and Melbourne.
The Cunard Experience
Step onboard a Cunard ship and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time – polished brass, Art Deco vibes, and afternoon tea served by waiters in white gloves. They’ve got tons of staff making sure you’re treated like royalty from morning till night.
Cunard still does something most cruise lines have dropped – separate dining rooms based on what cabin you booked. You’ll eat in either the Queens Grill, Princess Grill, or main restaurants depending on your room, with different dress codes for each.
Despite all this tradition, Cunard isn’t just for old folks. The average age on Queen Mary 2 has actually dropped from 59 to 55 in recent years, with plenty of twenty and thirty-somethings on each trip.
Cool Special Voyages
Cunard keeps things fresh with special “Event Voyages” featuring experts from the worlds of art, food, wine, and entertainment. For 2025, they’ve got:
- Great Australian Culinary Voyage with top Aussie chefs
- Film Festival at Sea with the British Film Institute
- 185th Anniversary Sailing with maritime history buffs
- Dance the Atlantic with the English National Ballet
- Classical music voyage with Anthony Inglis and the National Symphony Orchestra
Behind the Scenes
Today, Cunard is a British cruise line based in Southampton, England. It’s operated by Carnival UK and owned by Carnival Corporation & plc. Since 2011, Cunard and its four ships have been registered in Hamilton, Bermuda.
They’ve expanded way beyond their original transatlantic routes and now take passengers pretty much everywhere: Africa, Australia, the Caribbean, Far East, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America – you name it.
Practical Booking Tips
First-time Cunard cruisers often get overwhelmed by the options. Here’s what you need to know:
- Best Time to Book: Cunard typically releases their best deals 12-18 months in advance, with early booking discounts of up to 25%. Last-minute deals appear 60-90 days before sailing but usually only for less desirable cabins.
- Loyalty Program: Join the Cunard World Club even before your first cruise. Benefits start after just one sailing and include priority boarding, exclusive events, and discounts on future voyages.
- Cabin Selection Strategy: Inside cabins on decks 4-6 often provide the best value, while Britannia Club balcony cabins offer Princess Grill dining privileges at a lower price point than Princess Grill suites.
- Travel Agent Advantage: Booking through specialized cruise travel agents often gets you extra perks like onboard credit and complimentary specialty dining that aren’t available when booking direct.
What’s Actually Included (And What’s Not)
Let’s be real about what your fare covers:
Included in your fare:
- All main dining options (though restaurant access depends on cabin category)
- Room service (limited 24-hour menu)
- Entertainment (theater shows, live music, lectures)
- Access to most onboard facilities (pools, library, gym)
- Daily afternoon tea service
Extra costs to budget for:
- Drinks (cocktails $12-18, wine packages from $39/day)
- Specialty dining ($20-65 per person)
- Internet packages ($20-35/day, though packages offer better value)
- Spa treatments (average $150-250)
- Gratuities ($13.50-16.50 per person/day depending on cabin)
- Shore excursions (typically $50-200 per person)
Best Routes for First-Timers
Different Cunard itineraries offer vastly different experiences:
- Transatlantic Crossing: The quintessential Cunard experience. 7-8 days of pure sea time means you’ll fully experience the ship’s activities, lectures and entertainment. Best for those who enjoy sea days and don’t need port stops.
- Mediterranean Voyages: More port-intensive with less formal nights, making them ideal for those who prefer exploration over ship time. The 12-day Western Mediterranean route offers the best balance of sea days and port visits.
- Norwegian Fjords: Spectacular scenery with moderate formality. Popular with photographers and nature lovers, these 7-14 day sailings feature breathtaking views from your balcony.
- Alaska: Cunard’s Alaska voyages typically run May-September aboard Queen Elizabeth, offering a uniquely refined way to experience the Last Frontier. The 10-day roundtrip from Vancouver hits all the highlights including Glacier Bay, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, and the Inside Passage. Unlike other cruise lines in Alaska, Cunard maintains its signature formal nights even in this more rugged destination. Book port-side cabins (left side of ship) for the best glacier and coastline views when sailing northbound. The Alaska itineraries tend to attract a slightly more adventurous Cunard crowd but still maintain the line’s elegant atmosphere.
- Weekend Sampler Cruises: 2-3 day cruises from Southampton let you experience Cunard’s formality and service without the full commitment.
Onboard Life Hacks
- Specialty Restaurant Strategy: Book Steakhouse at The Verandah for lunch ($25) instead of dinner ($65) for the same menu at nearly half the price.
- Drink Package Alternative: Instead of the pricey drinks package, pre-purchase drink vouchers (10 for $90) which end up being more economical for most cruisers.
- Free Alternative to Paid Internet: Most ports have cafes near the cruise terminal with free WiFi. Save your internet package for sea days.
- Library Loan System: Cunard ships have extensive libraries. Reserve popular books early in your cruise as they get snapped up quickly.
- Best Deck for Stability: If you’re prone to seasickness, book midship cabins on Decks 4-6 which experience the least motion, especially important on Transatlantic crossings.
Accessibility Information
- All Cunard ships have accessible cabins with wider doorways and roll-in showers
- Queen Mary 2 has the most accessible cabins (30) with visual door alarms and tactile room numbers
- Pool hoists available on request (pre-book)
- Service animals welcome with advance notice
- Special dietary requirements accommodated with 90-day advance notice
- Tender ports may be problematic for wheelchair users – research your specific itinerary
Current Fleet Comparison Chart
| Feature | Queen Mary 2 | Queen Anne | Queen Elizabeth | Queen Victoria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year Built | 2004 (refurb 2016) | 2024 | 2010 (refurb 2018) | 2007 (refurb 2017) |
| Passengers | 2,691 | 3,000 | 2,081 | 2,061 |
| Specialty Dining | 4 venues | 6 venues | 3 venues | 3 venues |
| Unique Feature | Planetarium | Wellness Suite | Garden Lounge | 2-story library |
| Best For | Transatlantic | Families | Exotic ports | Classic cruising |
What sets Cunard apart is its mix of old-world charm and modern comforts. Whether you’re after those iconic transatlantic crossings or grand world voyages, Cunard delivers a unique experience that harks back to the golden age of sea travel.
Dress Code Reality Check
Cunard’s dress codes are famously stricter than other cruise lines. Here’s what you’ll actually need:
Gala Evenings (2-3 per week):
- Men: Tuxedo or dark suit with tie required in main restaurants and public areas after 6pm
- Women: Evening/cocktail dress or formal pantsuit
Smart Attire (other evenings):
- Men: Jacket required (tie optional), no jeans or shorts
- Women: Dresses, skirts, or dressy pants (no jeans or shorts)
Daytime:
- Smart casual but still no shorts, flip-flops or jeans in public areas
Pro tip: Pack light by renting formal wear through Cunard’s onboard service (book in advance) or check out their formal night package deals that include pre-selected outfits delivered to your cabin.
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Cunard Cruise Line: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant, refined atmosphere with nods to the golden age of ocean travel | Higher price point compared to mainstream cruise lines |
| Rich maritime history and traditions not found on other cruise lines | Strict dress codes may feel restrictive for casual travelers |
| Exceptional service with one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry | Fewer onboard activities for children compared to family-focused cruise lines |
| Spacious public areas with less crowding than most modern mega-ships | Older demographic might not appeal to younger travelers seeking a lively atmosphere |
| World-class enrichment programs featuring renowned experts and speakers | Additional costs for many beverages and specialty dining experiences |
| Unique dining system allowing access to exclusive restaurants based on cabin category | Traditional fixed dining times in main restaurants (though flexible options are slowly being introduced) |
| Transatlantic crossings – a true ocean voyage experience that few other lines offer | Fewer itinerary options in some regions compared to larger cruise lines |
| Classic afternoon tea service included in your fare | Limited nightlife options that may end earlier than on other cruise lines |
| Planetarium on Queen Mary 2 – the only one at sea | Wi-Fi can be expensive and slower than on newer ships |
| Formal nights create glamorous atmosphere not found on most cruise lines | Less innovation in onboard activities compared to newer cruise lines |
| Extensive libraries with quiet places to read and relax | Entertainment tends toward classical rather than contemporary options |
| Single cabins available on Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne without hefty supplements | Fewer balcony cabins on Queen Mary 2 due to her ocean liner design |
| Exceptional stability of Queen Mary 2 in rough seas | Older ships (except Queen Anne) may show wear in some areas despite refurbishments |
| Sophisticated fellow passengers interested in conversation and culture | Class system might feel outdated or exclusionary to some passengers |
| British traditions like pub quizzes and proper tea service | Beverage packages are pricier than industry average |
Gym
Each Cunard ship boasts a state-of-the-art fitness centre equipped with:
- Cardio Machines: Treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines. Free to use.
- Strength Training Equipment: Free weights and resistance machines.
- Fitness Classes: Yoga, Pilates, spinning, and aerobics classes led by professional instructors. These cost extra.
- Personal Training: Book sessions with personal trainers for a customised workout plan.
Games
Cunard offers a variety of games and activities to keep you entertained during your voyage:
- Deck Games: Try your hand at shuffleboard, deck quoits, or table tennis.
- Board Games and Puzzles: Enjoy classic board games, card games, and jigsaw puzzles in the Game Room.
- Trivia and Quizzes: Participate in fun and challenging trivia contests and quizzes.
- Bridge and Mahjong: Join organised bridge and mahjong games with fellow passengers.
Adventure and Sports
For those seeking a bit more adventure and physical activity, Cunard provides:
- Golf Simulators: Practice your swing on state-of-the-art golf simulators.
- Swimming Pools: Take a dip in one of the onboard swimming pools.
- Sports Courts: Play a game of basketball, tennis, or paddle tennis on the sports courts.
- Dance Classes: Learn ballroom, Latin, and other dance styles with professional instructors.
- Fitness Track: Enjoy a jog or walk on the outdoor fitness track with stunning ocean views.
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Entertainment on Cunard Cruise Line
Theatres
Cunard ships are known for their grand theatres and high-quality performances:
- Royal Court Theatre: Found on Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, this theatre offers West End-style shows, musicals, and theatrical performances.
- Illuminations Theatre and Planetarium: On Queen Mary 2, this multi-purpose venue serves as a cinema, lecture hall, and planetarium, providing a diverse range of entertainment options.
Casinos
Empire Casino: Located on all Cunard ships, these casinos offer a variety of games, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and slot machines. Professional croupiers are on hand to assist and provide a sophisticated gaming experience.
Bars and Lounges
Cunard boasts a variety of bars and lounges, each with its own unique atmosphere:
- Commodore Club: Enjoy panoramic views and signature cocktails in this stylish bar.
- Chart Room: A relaxing lounge offering a selection of fine wines, spirits, and live music.
- Golden Lion Pub: A traditional British pub serving classic pub fare, beers, and live entertainment, including trivia nights and karaoke.
- Carinthia Lounge: A chic spot for daytime refreshments and evening cocktails, often featuring live piano music.
Dancing
Dancing is a significant part of the Cunard experience, with numerous venues and events:
- Queens Room: The heart of Cunard’s dancing scene, this elegant ballroom hosts nightly dancing events, including themed balls, formal dances, and dance lessons with professional instructors.
- G32 Nightclub: On Queen Mary 2, this vibrant nightclub offers late-night dancing with a live DJ and a lively atmosphere.
- Live Bands and DJ Sets: Various bars and lounges feature live bands and DJs, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to hit the dance floor.
Other Entertainment
Cunard big selection of entertainment options to keep you entertained throughout your voyage:
- Guest Lecturers and Enrichment Programs: Renowned experts deliver talks on a wide range of subjects, from history and politics to art and science.
- Movie Screenings: Enjoy the latest blockbusters and classic films in the onboard cinemas.
- Live Music: Talented musicians perform classical, jazz, and contemporary music in various venues across the ship.
- Comedy Shows and Cabaret: Laugh along with stand-up comedians and cabaret performers in intimate settings.
- Themed Events and Parties: Cunard hosts a variety of themed events and parties, from black-tie gala balls to more casual gatherings.
Restaurants on Cunard Cruise Line
Cunard offers a variety of dining options, from casual to gourmet experiences. Some are included in your fare, while others may cost a bit extra. Here’s what you can expect:
Included Dining Options
- Britannia Restaurant: This is the main dining room for most guests. You’ll enjoy a classy dining experience with a wide range of international dishes. The best part? It’s included in your fare.
- Lido Restaurant (Queen Mary 2) and Lido Buffet (Queen Elizabeth & Queen Victoria): These casual buffet restaurants are perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can find a variety of dishes here, and there’s no extra charge.
- Kings Court (Queen Mary 2): This place transforms throughout the day, offering a buffet for breakfast and lunch, and themed dining in the evening. The buffet is free, but the themed evenings might cost a bit extra.
- Queens Grill and Princess Grill: If you’re staying in a suite, you’ll dine here. These exclusive restaurants offer gourmet options at no additional cost for suite guests.
Specialty Restaurants (Additional Cost)
- The Verandah Restaurant: Fancy some French-inspired fine dining? This is the place to go, but it comes with an extra charge.
- Steakhouse at The Verandah: In the evenings, The Verandah turns into a steakhouse, serving premium cuts of meat and seafood. This also costs extra.
- Golden Lion Pub: Craving some British pub fare? While the pub itself is included, some food items might have an additional charge.
- Specialty Dining Evenings: Occasionally, there are themed dining nights in Kings Court or Lido Buffet, like Asian, Indian, or Italian. These usually come with a small extra fee.
Drinks Packages and Costs
Cunard offers several drinks packages to suit different tastes:
- Soft Drinks Package: You’ll get unlimited soft drinks, fruit juices, and non-alcoholic cocktails. Prices start around £10 per person, per day.
- Premium Soft Drinks Package: This includes everything in the Soft Drinks Package plus specialty teas and coffees. Prices are about £15 per person, per day.
- Beer, Wine, and Spirits Package: Enjoy a selection of beers, wines by the glass, spirits, and cocktails, with a price cap per drink. This starts around £35 per person, per day depending on how long your cruise is.
- Specialty Coffee Card: If you love your specialty coffees, this card lets you pre-purchase a set number at a reduced rate. Prices vary based on the number of drinks.
Accommodation on Cunard Cruise Line
Cunard offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick rundown:
Britannia Staterooms
- Inside Cabins: These are the most budget-friendly option, offering a comfortable space without a window.
- Oceanview Cabins: These cabins come with a window, allowing you to enjoy the view of the sea.
- Balcony Cabins: Featuring a private balcony, these cabins offer a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ocean views.
Princess Grill Suites
- These suites offer more space and luxury, with a separate living area, a private balcony, and access to the exclusive Princess Grill Restaurant.
Queens Grill Suites
- The top-tier accommodation, these suites provide the ultimate in luxury with spacious living areas, large balconies, and exclusive access to the Queens Grill Restaurant. You’ll also enjoy butler service and a host of other perks.
Single Cabins
- Cunard caters to solo travellers with single staterooms available on all their ships. These cabins are designed to provide comfort and convenience for solo cruisers, ensuring they don’t have to pay a supplement for double occupancy rooms.
Swimming Pools on Cunard Cruise Line
Queen Mary 2
- Pavilion Pool: This one’s on Deck 12 and has a retractable roof, so you can swim no matter the weather. There’s also a whirlpool nearby if you fancy a soak.
- Terrace Pool: Located on Deck 8, it’s an outdoor pool with fantastic ocean views and plenty of loungers for sunbathing.
- Minnows Pool: A small pool for kids on Deck 6, perfect for letting the little ones splash around safely.
- Canyon Ranch SpaClub® Pool: Found in the spa area, this pool is for spa guests and offers a peaceful, relaxing swim.
Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria
- Pavilion Pool: Midship on Deck 9, this pool also has a retractable roof, making it a great spot to swim rain or shine. It’s surrounded by comfy loungers and has a whirlpool close by.
- Lido Pool: Aft on Deck 9, this outdoor pool offers lovely views and a chilled-out vibe. It comes with two whirlpools and lots of sun loungers.
- Splash Pool: Up on Deck 10, this smaller pool is great for a quick dip or for kids to have some water fun.
Queen Anne
- Main Pool: This brand-new ship has a central pool with a retractable roof, so you can enjoy a swim in any weather. Expect a modern look and feel.
- Family Pool: Designed for families, this pool will be a safe and fun spot for kids and parents alike.
Cunard no-fly cruises that depart from UK
Cunard offers no-fly cruises from a few key UK ports, making it super convenient if you want to skip the hassle of flying. Here’s where you can hop on a Cunard cruise:
Southampton
- Southampton: This is the main port for Cunard’s no-fly cruises. Most of their ships leave from here, and you can find a variety of trips, including transatlantic crossings, Mediterranean cruises, and even world cruises. Southampton is easy to get to by car or train, making it a breeze for travelers from all over the UK.
Additional Ports
While Southampton is the main spot, sometimes Cunard has cruises leaving from other UK ports:
- Liverpool: This port is historically important to Cunard, and they occasionally run special trips from here.
- Dover: Every now and then, you might find a cruise departing from Dover, especially for Northern European and Baltic trips.
Let us wade through the 1000’s of cruises for you!
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