If you close your eyes and picture a “cruise”—we’re talking about the romance of it, the white gloves, the grand ballrooms, the feeling of actually travelling rather than just being a tourist—you’re picturing Cunard.
For over 180 years, this is how the world has travelled in style.
Now, don’t worry. People often think Cunard is “stuffy.” It’s not. It’s special. It’s one of the few places left where the journey is actually more important than the destination. If you’re tired of plastic theme parks and want a holiday where you feel like a VIP from the moment you step on board, this is it.
Destinations and Departures: The Iconic Crossing
Cunard owns the most famous route in travel: The Transatlantic Crossing.
Southampton to New York: Forget the cramped flight and the jet lag. You can sail from Southampton on the flagship Queen Mary 2, spend seven blissful days at sea with no phone signal and nowhere to be, and wake up sailing past the Statue of Liberty into Manhattan. It is a bucket-list experience.
The World: Of course, they do normal cruises too. You can sail from Southampton to the Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean, or even do a full World Voyage.
Short Breaks: Want to try it out? They run short 2-4 night voyages to places like Hamburg or Bruges. It’s the perfect way to test your sea legs.
The Ships: The Four Queens
Cunard’s fleet is royalty.
Queen Mary 2 (The Ocean Liner): She is the only true “ocean liner” in the world. She was built stronger, faster, and smoother than a standard cruise ship specifically to handle the Atlantic. She is grand, spacious, and has the only Planetarium at sea.
Queen Victoria & Queen Elizabeth: These are slightly smaller, elegant ships that feel like classic 1920s liners but with modern comforts.
Queen Anne: The newest addition to the fleet. She brings a modern, cooler edge to the traditional Cunard style. Think art deco meets modern luxury hotel.
Rooms: The “Class” System (Simplified)
Cunard works slightly differently from other lines. The restaurant you eat in depends on the room you book.
Britannia: This is the standard experience (Balcony, Oceanview, Inside). You dine in the magnificent Britannia Restaurant. It’s grand, tiered, and beautiful.
Britannia Club: A step up. You get a specific “Club” balcony room and your own intimate restaurant where you can eat whenever you like (no set times).
The Grills (Princess & Queens): This is the top tier. Booking a “Grills” suite is like staying in a boutique hotel on top of the ship. You get huge suites, private butlers, and exclusive access to the Grills Lounge and Terrace. It’s the ultimate indulgence.
Things to Do: Culture, Not Chaos
You won’t find a climbing wall or a water slide here. Cunard is about enrichment.
Insight Speakers: You might find yourself listening to a talk by a famous author, a real astronaut, or a historian.
Ballroom Dancing: The Queens Room is the largest ballroom at sea. Whether you’re a Strictly pro or have two left feet, there’s a live orchestra and plenty of space to give it a go.
The Library: It sounds quiet, but the libraries on these ships are stunning. Thousands of books, leather armchairs, and ocean views.
Fencing: Yes, you can actually take fencing lessons on the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.
Dining Options
Afternoon Tea: This is non-negotiable. Every day at 3:30 pm, white-gloved waiters bring out fresh scones, finger sandwiches, and cakes. It’s an event, and it’s included in your fare.
The Golden Lion: A proper British pub. You can get a pint of ale, fish and chips, or a ploughman’s lunch. It’s the casual heart of the ship.
Steakhouse at The Verandah: A premium steakhouse for a special occasion (extra charge).
Room Service: It’s included, 24 hours a day. Breakfast in bed while looking at the ocean is a must.
Good to Know
The Dress Code: This is the big one. Cunard keeps the tradition alive.
Daytime: It’s relaxed. Jeans, shorts, t-shirts are fine.
Evenings: After 6 pm, shorts and t-shirts are out. The code is usually “Smart Attire” (shirt and trousers, dress, or blouse).
Gala Evenings: These happen a few times a voyage. This is Black Tie. We’re talking tuxedos and ballgowns. The whole ship dresses up, and the atmosphere is electric. (Note: If you really don’t want to dress up, you can eat in the buffet or the pub, but you’ll miss out on the main vibe).
Service: The “White Star Service” is legendary. It’s polite, discreet, and incredibly professional. They take great pride in it.
Ready to travel like royalty?
Browse our Cunard voyages below. Whether it’s the iconic Transatlantic crossing or a summer cruise to the Mediterranean, experience the Golden Age of travel.
