Cunard
Quick Answer: Where ocean travel becomes an art form. Since 1840, Cunard has defined elegance at sea with Transatlantic crossings, Grill-class dining, and the kind of white-glove service that makes every guest feel like royalty. Four legendary Queens — Queen Mary 2, Queen Anne, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth — carry forward a heritage that transformed sea travel from transport into tradition.
Is Cunard Right for You?
Imagine stepping aboard and feeling centuries of maritime history beneath your feet. The afternoon tea arrives on fine china, the evening calls for black tie, and the library holds more volumes than some small-town branches. Cunard isn't just a cruise — it's a portal to a more gracious era of travel, where the journey truly matters as much as the destination.
Queen Mary 2 remains the only true ocean liner in service, offering scheduled Transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton that evoke the golden age. Onboard, Grill-class dining creates a tiered experience where suite guests enjoy exclusive restaurants and private lounges, while Britannia passengers discover elegant multi-course dinners that rival fine London establishments.
Ideal for travelers who appreciate formal traditions, enrichment lectures, classical music, afternoon tea rituals, and the singular experience of crossing the Atlantic by sea. Cunard rewards those who savor the ceremonial — from the white-gloved waiters to the Commodore's cocktail party.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Brand Identity: British ocean liner heritage since 1840
- Parent Company: Carnival Corporation & plc
- Signature Features: Transatlantic crossings, Grill-class dining hierarchy, formal evenings, enrichment lectures, afternoon tea
- Best For: History enthusiasts, formal-travel lovers, Transatlantic crossing seekers, enrichment-focused travelers
- Fleet Size: 4 ships (the Queens)
- Primary Itineraries: Transatlantic crossings, world voyages, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska
Ships by Class
Explore each ship's page for deck plans, live trackers, dining venues, and stateroom guides. Classes ordered by distinction.
Ocean Liner
The only true ocean liner in service. 148,000 GT, 2,691 guests, scheduled Transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton. Kennels, planetarium, largest ballroom at sea.
Queen Anne Class
Newest Queen. 113,000 GT with reimagined public spaces, Pavilion pool with retractable roof, Bright Lights Society entertainment venue, and The Pavillion — Cunard's first al fresco dining venue.
Vista Class
90,000 GT sisters sharing elegant Vista-class design with Royal Court Theatre, Queens Room ballroom, Commodore Club, and garden lounges. Classic Cunard elegance with modern comfort.
Gallery
Level Up Your Planning
You've chosen the Queens — now make your voyage unforgettable. These resources turn good crossings into great ones.
Restaurants & Menus
Browse Grill-class dining, Britannia Restaurant, and specialty venues with menus, dress codes, and honest reviews.
→Packing Lists
Transatlantic or Mediterranean? Gala night essentials? Get ship-tested lists that fit your itinerary — nothing forgotten.
→Port Guides
What to do when you dock. Honest snapshots, DIY options, and accessibility notes for every port of call.
→Solo Cruising
First time sailing alone? Learn how to own your itinerary, find your people, and love the freedom.
→First Cruise Guide
New to cruising? Start here for embarkation tips, what to expect on day one, and how to make the most of sea days.
→Compare Lines
See how Cunard stacks up against other cruise lines — from casual to ultra-luxury — and find your perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cunard unique?
Cunard is the world's most iconic ocean liner company, operating since 1840. Known for Transatlantic crossings on Queen Mary 2, Grill-class dining hierarchy, formal evening traditions, and white-glove British service that harkens to the golden age of ocean travel.
What is Grill-class dining?
Cunard's Grill dining is a tiered system: Queens Grill (top suites), Princess Grill (premium suites), and Britannia Restaurant (standard). Each Grill offers exclusive dining, private lounges, and dedicated concierge services. Your stateroom category determines your restaurant assignment.
Does Cunard still do Transatlantic crossings?
Yes. Queen Mary 2 offers regular scheduled Transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton — the only ocean liner still providing this classic seven-night service. Multiple crossings run spring through autumn each year.
Which Cunard ship is best for first-timers?
Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth. These Vista-class sisters offer an intimate, classic Cunard experience at 90,000 GT with elegant public spaces, Royal Court Theatre, and Queens Room ballroom — ideal for discovering Cunard traditions without the scale of Queen Mary 2. Their size makes them easy to navigate and fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
What are Cunard's ship classes?
Cunard operates three distinct classes: the Ocean Liner (Queen Mary 2 — the only true ocean liner in service, built for Transatlantic crossings), Queen Anne Class (the newest Queen with reimagined public spaces and al fresco dining), and Vista Class (Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth — elegant 90K GT sisters with classic Cunard design).
How formal is Cunard compared to other cruise lines?
Cunard is more formal than most cruise lines. Daytime is relaxed casual, but evenings call for Smart Attire at minimum, and Gala nights require black tie or dark suits for men and evening gowns or cocktail dresses for women. Longer voyages feature multiple Gala nights. If you enjoy dressing up and the ceremony of formal dining, Cunard delivers that experience better than any other line at sea.
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Additional Information
What information does this page provide?
This page provides planning resources and information about Cunard. Use it alongside official cruise line resources when planning your trip.
Is this information official?
This page provides community insights and planning resources. Always confirm details with Cunard or your travel advisor before making final decisions.
How can I get more help?
For additional assistance, contact Cunard directly or work with a travel advisor who specializes in cruises.