Cunard

With a fascinating history dating back 180 years, our sea-faring expertise and destination knowledge is incomparable – no one knows the world, or our ships, better than we do. They have always been The Most Famous Ocean Liners in the World®.

Our fleet of magnificent ships is manned by the most professional crews at sea today, and when you sail into a destination you can be assured of the highest level of local knowledge to enhance your time ashore.

From fabled vessels of the past to her present royal court - Queen Mary 2, also known as QM2®, Queen Victoria, also known as QV® and Queen Elizabeth, also known as QE® - Cunard has carried guests across the great oceans and to the far points of the globe in unparalleled style.

Cunard Experience

Where does the Cunard experience begin? With the famous White Star Service, of course from the moment you step on board, the constant priority is to make you feel welcome. In fact, matching your expectations instinctively is what Cunard do best. British officers uphold the highest standards.

As you arrive at your embarkation terminal, savour the delicious thrill of anticipation.
Along the quay and then on deck, excitement builds. After being shown to your stateroom, take a stroll to acquaint yourself with one of the world’s most famous liners. Now sound the horn and strike up the band! As the coastline falls away and you dress for your first dinner at sea, relax – your Cunard holiday has just began

Greet each new morning in the spirit of freedom. Will you venture ashore, or broaden your inner horizon right here? From wine to gardening, Beaujolais to begun Lizzies, there is a lively talk to fire every imagination. Chill out – the kids are being happily entertained! The most relaxing ambiance is yours to soak up throughout your perfect day.

Cunard Heritage

The Industrial Revolution had progressed far enough by the 1830's to make the idea of transatlantic communication by means of a fleet of steamships plausible. The desire for dependable delivery of the mails on which imperial communication and commerce depended prompted the government of Her Majesty Queen Victoria to invite interested parties to bid for a contract to provide this service. Samuel Cunard of Halifax, Nova Scotia, was the successful contender. His contract to deliver the mail across the Atlantic from Great Britain to North America was signed on May 4, 1839, and originally involved a commitment to provide three steamships of 800 tons and 300 horsepower. Samuel Cunard was a highly successful and enterprising Canadian businessman and one of a group of 12 individuals who directed the affairs of Nova Scotia. Cunard had the reputation for being not only a very astute businessman but also an individual with exceptional diplomatic ability.
In order to successfully carry out his contract, Cunard solicited the assistance of Robert Napier, an engineering genius who was responsible for creating the engines of some of the best new ships of his day. Cunard also needed financial backing and received it from three accomplished businessmen: James Donaldson, George Burns and David Maclver. These five men founded the British and North American Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, later known as "Cunard Line".
Sir Samuel died April 28th, 1865. In 1981, Sir Samuel Cunard was inducted in ASTA's Travel Hall of Fame in honour of his contribution to developing transatlantic travel.

Delightful Indulgences

The most fun you can have doing all the things you never have time for Daytime heralds a world of delightful indulgences, from a delicious spa treatment to the finest shopping at sea. Everyone knows that a key factor in the richly seductive promise of a Cunard cruise is the opportunity to enjoy all those marvellous things you never have time for at home. So come on in – there really is something for everyone. Treat yourself, or expand your horizon. You might even try both at once!

Did you know Cunard's Maritime Quest and Heritage Trail are fascinating ways to explore our great seafaring tradition? Capture the flavour of the golden age of travel and see some rather famous past passengers. It’s all part of a wonderfully diverse programme of entertaining discovery designed to ensure you never experience a dull moment.

Catch a brilliant talk, attend a lively art auction, win our daily quiz and scoop the bingo jackpot- all in a perfect day. From yoga and aerobics to painting sessions and dance classes, you will be spoiled for choice. Fancy a rubber of bridge? The most social game in the world is the best method yet devised of meeting sociable people like you.

Famous For A Reason

Having long ago set the standard, Cunard continue to exceed it.

Over 160 years ago, Samuel Cunard set out to deliver mail across the Atlantic, not realising he was taking the first step towards setting a new standard in luxury travel. Since then, Cunard has become a byword for comfort, style, and the ultimate travel experience as defined by successive eras. Today, Cunard continue to celebrate a golden heritage while creating new standards daily. Quintessentially British, they explore the world in all its rich diversity with people of the world – people like you.

Impeccable service defines and differentiates the Cunard experience most eloquently. It always has. From award-winning grill dining to a tasty snack or a chocolate on the pillow, there attention to detail will make you feel special. Put simply, nothing is too much trouble.

In fact, the experience of higher grade staterooms is not unlike belonging to the most privileged club. Let the discreet concierges meet your every need, ship side and ashore, from a quick round of golf to the best seats in the house, from postage stamps to private car hire. Naturally, embarkation and disembarkation are on a priority basis.

Champagne, complimentary bar, fresh flowers and fruit, soft terry robes in your suite – nothing rivals the unashamed luxury of Cunard's famous ‘Grills Experience’. Why wait to enjoy the cream of cruising today? Why wait to delight someone special?

Your fare includes transfer between airports, hotels (if applicable) and ship at the overseas port of embarkation/disembarkation.

Smoking Policy

Smoking will no longer be permitted in any public area with the exception of Churchill's Cigar Lounge (cigars only), designated areas on the open decks and the upper level of G32 on Queen Mary 2. Smoking is permitted on private balconies.

With effect from 24 March 2012 for Queen Victoria and 27 April 2012 for Queen Elizabeth & Queen Mary 2 smoking will no longer be permitted in staterooms, however, smoking is permitted on private balconies.

The Finest Dining

At Cunard they understand instinctively the contribution made by the finest dining to the ultimate cruise experience. In every culinary context, the famous "White Star Service” sets the tone beautifully. Not only have Cunard gone out of their way to make each restaurant a venue to remember, they have also engaged some of the world’s top chefs and experts.

From grill to cafe, Cunard leave nothing to chance in matching an ambiance to your every mood. Naturally, you will find a tempting range of informal settings in which to enjoy a tempting snack. Room service, of course, is at your beck and call, 24 hours a day, at no extra charge.

Would you not love to enjoy the very best of Cunard as epitomized by the celebrated ‘Grills Experience' Besides the most spacious and lavishly appointed suites anywhere at sea, it means the intimate atmosphere of the award-winning Grilling Restaurants and exclusive access to the Queens Grill bars, plus your own private butler service and lift access in higher category suites.

Various Activities

Staying fit and going home looking your radiant best are part and parcel of a Cunard cruise holiday. But hold on a minute-there is no need to get carried away completely on a tide of fresh – air enthusiasm! It is nice to know you can do as much or as little as you choose here on deck! That is the style. You set the pace, today and tomorrow.

From shuffleboard to tennis and jogging, you can warm up gently or work out to your heart’s content. Naturally, on deck is an ideal place to relax with the latest blockbuster novel. Anyone for golf this afternoon? Being at sea is no handicap when it comes to exercise. Our outdoor putting and driving ranges allow you to get into the swing of things without getting mud on your shoes.

Whatever your mood, there is something to engage you every hour of each day. Relax while the kids get to grips with our tried and trusted programmes – you know it makes sense! Doing your own thing like this instills a freedom you could get used to.