Last updated: 13 October 2025
In This Guide
- Introduction
- A Brief History
- The Cunard Fleet
- Accommodation and Service Levels
- What's Included in Your Fare
- Loyalty Programme: Cunard World Club
- Pre-Paid Packages Available
- Dining Options
- Onboard Entertainment & Activities
- Cunard for Solo Travellers
- Dress Code
- Gratuities / Tipping Policy
- Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
- What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
- Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
- Official Websites
- Required Travel Documents
- Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
- Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
- Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
- Food Policy
- Current Starting Ports (2025)
- Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Cunard
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
Cunard embodies the golden age of ocean travel, offering a refined and sophisticated experience that harks back to the grand liners of yesteryear. Known for its iconic Transatlantic Crossings, white-gloved service, and formal traditions, Cunard provides a truly distinguished voyage. It's an ideal choice for those seeking classic luxury and an unparalleled sense of occasion.
A Brief History
Cunard's storied history began in 1840 when Samuel Cunard founded the British and North American Royal Mail Steam Packet Company. Its inaugural vessel, the Britannia, established the first regular transatlantic steamship service and secured the British Government's mail contract. Cunard quickly became synonymous with speed, reliability, and safety on the high seas.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Cunard competed for the prestigious Blue Riband award with legendary ships like Lusitania and Mauretania. The post-war era saw the launch of the magnificent "Queens" – Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth – which became epitomes of transatlantic luxury. Acquired by Carnival Corporation in 1998, the brand continues its legacy with a modern fleet that upholds its rich heritage.
The Cunard Fleet
Cunard's fleet consists of majestic ocean liners and cruise ships, each designed to evoke a sense of grandeur and offer a luxurious experience. Each vessel, affectionately known as a "Queen," carries forward the line's legacy of elegance and tradition. The fleet offers a unique blend of classic British heritage and modern amenities.
Queen Anne
- Launch Date: 2024
- Tonnage: 113,000 GT
- Capacity: 2,996 passengers
- Notable Features: The Bright Lights Society show bar, Wellness at Mareel spa, Grand Lobby with contemporary design
As the newest ship in the fleet, Queen Anne blends Cunard's signature style with fresh, contemporary interiors. She offers an array of new dining experiences and reimagined spaces, including a stunning top-deck wellness studio. The ship represents the future of Cunard while honouring its past traditions.
Queen Mary 2
- Launch Date: 2004
- Tonnage: 149,215 GT
- Capacity: 2,691 passengers
- Notable Features: The only true ocean liner in service, Illuminations planetarium, Queens Room ballroom, kennels for pets
Queen Mary 2 is the flagship of the Cunard fleet and the only purpose-built ocean liner for transatlantic crossings. Her robust construction allows for smooth sailing in the North Atlantic, offering a unique and authentic travel experience. Onboard, guests can enjoy grand public rooms, sophisticated entertainment, and the timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea.
Queen Victoria
- Launch Date: 2007
- Tonnage: 90,049 GT
- Capacity: 2,061 passengers
- Notable Features: Private theatre boxes in the Royal Court Theatre, Winter Garden with retractable roof, traditional wood-panelled library
Queen Victoria exudes classic elegance with warm wood tones, ornate chandeliers, and plush fabrics throughout her public spaces. She is particularly loved for her intimate, refined atmosphere that feels like a classic British club. Her layout includes a traditional promenade deck and a stunning three-tier Grand Lobby.
Queen Elizabeth
- Launch Date: 2010
- Tonnage: 90,901 GT
- Capacity: 2,081 passengers
- Notable Features: Art Deco-inspired interiors, Garden Lounge modelled on Kew Gardens, Games Deck for bowls and croquet
Recalling the glamour of the 1930s and 40s, Queen Elizabeth features stunning Art Deco design elements. The ship offers a unique blend of classic Cunard traditions with a slightly more modern feel than her sister, Queen Victoria. Guests particularly enjoy the open-air Games Deck and the elegant Garden Lounge for social gatherings.
Accommodation and Service Levels
Cunard operates a class-based system, primarily defined by your choice of stateroom and its corresponding restaurant. This structure dictates where you dine for main meals and the level of service and amenities you receive. The experience is meticulously tailored to your accommodation grade.
Standard Cabins
Guests in Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms dine in the magnificent two-tier Britannia Restaurant. These cabins offer comfortable spaces with twice-daily steward service. Guests can also upgrade to a Britannia Club Balcony stateroom for single-seating dining in the more intimate Britannia Club Restaurant.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Britannia Restaurant Access: The main dining venue for guests in standard staterooms, offering a grand setting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a choice of two sittings.
- Comfort and Style: Well-appointed staterooms featuring modern amenities, comfortable bedding, and elegant decor.
- Dedicated Steward: A personal steward provides twice-daily service, including turndown service, to ensure your stateroom is always pristine.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Suite Categories
Cunard's suite experience, known as the "Grills," offers a significant step up in luxury, space, and service. Guests in Princess Grill Suites dine in the exclusive Princess Grill restaurant. The highest tier, the Queens Grill Suites, provides the ultimate Cunard experience with sprawling accommodations and access to the Queens Grill restaurant.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Princess Grill Suites: These spacious suites feature private balconies and access to the exclusive Princess Grill restaurant, offering an intimate and high-quality dining experience.
- Queens Grill Suites: The pinnacle of Cunard luxury, these suites range from large apartments to duplexes and include butler service, a fully stocked bar, and exclusive access to the Queens Grill restaurant, lounge, and terrace.
- Priority Services: All Grills guests benefit from priority embarkation, disembarkation, and a dedicated concierge to handle requests.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Exclusive Suite-Level Services
Grills guests receive a host of exclusive perks designed to elevate their voyage into an experience of pure indulgence. These benefits begin from the moment you arrive at the terminal. They ensure a seamless and luxurious journey from start to finish.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Welcome Aboard: A welcome bottle of sparkling wine (Princess Grill) or Champagne (Queens Grill) awaits you in your suite upon arrival.
- Exclusive Access: Grills guests enjoy private lounges and sun terraces, providing a tranquil retreat away from the main public areas of the ship.
- Enhanced Amenities: Luxuries include personalised stationery, priority tender services in applicable ports, and a pillow concierge menu for a perfect night's sleep.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Accessible Cabins
Cunard provides a range of fully accessible staterooms and suites across all categories, including Britannia and the Grills. These cabins are designed for guests with limited mobility. It's recommended to book these well in advance due to their limited number.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Modified Design: Accessible cabins feature wider doorways and sufficient turning circles to comfortably accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Adapted Bathrooms: All accessible cabins are equipped with wet-room-style bathrooms, which include grab rails, a pull-down shower seat, and a raised toilet.
- Location and Availability: These staterooms are strategically located near elevators for convenience and are available in various categories, from inside cabins to Grill Suites.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
What's Included in Your Fare
A Cunard cruise fare is largely inclusive, covering the core elements of your voyage with a touch of luxury. Your fare includes your en-suite accommodation, which is serviced twice daily by a dedicated steward. It also covers all meals in your designated main restaurant and casual dining at the buffet.
Key inclusions in your fare typically cover:
- Accommodation: Your stateroom or suite, complete with a dedicated steward providing twice-daily service.
- Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in your designated main dining room (Britannia, Princess Grill, or Queens Grill), plus casual dining in the Lido/Kings Court buffet, and traditional Afternoon Tea.
- Beverages: A selection of drinks at mealtimes in the main dining rooms and buffet, including water, tea, coffee, and fruit juices.
- Entertainment: Lavish theatre productions, live music, film screenings, access to the ship's library, and the Insights guest speaker programme.
- Activities: Use of the ship’s swimming pools, fitness centre, and sports facilities, as well as access to the supervised children's club.
Please note that inclusions may vary depending on the specific fare type, ship, and itinerary. Always confirm details at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programme: Cunard World Club
The Cunard World Club is the cruise line's loyalty programme, designed to recognise and reward returning guests. Membership is automatic after completing your first voyage. Status is earned based on the number of voyages completed or the number of nights spent on board, whichever is greater.
Silver Tier
- Requirement: After completing 1 voyage.
- Perks & Benefits: Member savings and special offers, access to the Cunard World Club desk onboard, a dedicated telephone advisory line, and a subscription to the Cunarder magazine.
Gold Tier
- Requirement: 2 voyages or 20 nights.
- Perks & Benefits: All Silver benefits, plus a complimentary two-hour internet plan per person and an invitation to the Cunard World Club cocktail party onboard.
Platinum Tier
- Requirement: 7 voyages or 70 nights.
- Perks & Benefits: All Gold benefits, plus an additional two-hour internet plan (four hours total), a 20% discount on laundry services, priority check-in, and a 10% discount at onboard retail shops.
Diamond Tier
- Requirement: 15 voyages or 150 nights.
- Perks & Benefits: All Platinum benefits, plus an additional four-hour internet plan (eight hours total), priority disembarkation, a complimentary meal at a specialty dining venue, and a dedicated Diamond member contact at the Purser's Office.
Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.
Pre-Paid Packages Available
Cunard offers several pre-paid packages to help guests manage their onboard spending and enhance their experience. These packages can be purchased before the cruise, often at a better rate than buying onboard. Visit the official website for current pricing.
Beers, Wines, and Spirits Option
- Beverages Included: A wide selection of beers, spirits, liqueurs, and wines by the glass up to a specified price point.
- Cocktails & More: Includes a variety of classic cocktails and mocktails from the bar menu.
- Non-alcoholic Drinks: Covers soft drinks, juices, specialty coffees and teas from Illy, and small bottled water.
Speciality Hot Drinks Option
- Premium Coffees: Unlimited access to espresso-based beverages like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos from the premium Illy coffee brand.
- Artisanal Teas: A wide selection of premium teas from Tea Forté, served across the ship's cafes and lounges.
- Other Hot Drinks: Also includes premium hot chocolate.
Wi-Fi Packages
- Essential Plan: This package is designed for basic internet use. It is suitable for browsing the web, checking emails, and using social media messaging apps without video or audio calls.
- Premium Plan: This option offers faster speeds, allowing for more data-intensive activities. It supports streaming music and video content, making video calls, and smoother social media browsing with images and videos.
Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line's official website.
Dining Options
Dining on Cunard is a central part of the experience, with a focus on high-quality cuisine and impeccable service. The class-based system means your main dining venue is linked to your accommodation. Beyond this, a variety of other complimentary and specialty options are available.
Key dining venues across the fleet include:
- Main Dining Rooms (Britannia, Princess Grill, Queens Grill): These elegant venues serve multi-course breakfast, lunch, and dinner with classic British and international dishes in a formal setting.
- Lido / Kings Court: The ship's casual buffet restaurant, open throughout the day for a vast array of international cuisines, snacks, and self-service drinks.
- The Verandah: A classic steakhouse and specialty restaurant offering prime cuts of meat and high-quality seafood in an elegant setting (supplement applies).
- The Golden Lion Pub: A traditional British pub serving classic pub fare like fish and chips and shepherd's pie for lunch, alongside a wide selection of ales and beers.
- Afternoon Tea: A daily Cunard ritual served in the magnificent Queens Room, featuring white-gloved waiters serving finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and delicate pastries.
Please note that dining options may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
Life onboard a Cunard ship is rich with activities that cater to a sophisticated and discerning clientele. Days can be spent at a leisurely pace, perhaps browsing the extensive library or attending a lecture. The daily programme offers a structured list of events from morning to night.
Onboard, you can expect:
- Royal Court Theatre: Home to lavish West End-style productions, musical performances, and headline entertainers.
- Queens Room Ballroom: The heart of the ship's social life, hosting daily Afternoon Tea and spectacular Gala Evenings with a live orchestra for ballroom and sequence dancing.
- Insights Enrichment Programme: A renowned guest speaker programme featuring experts from fields such as history, politics, arts, and science who deliver engaging lectures.
- Live Music: A variety of musical performances can be enjoyed throughout the ship's lounges and bars, from resident pianists and classical recitals to jazz ensembles.
- Illuminations (Queen Mary 2 only): A unique venue that serves as a luxury 3D cinema, a classical music venue, and a full-scale planetarium with fascinating shows about the cosmos.
Please note that entertainment and activities may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Cunard for Solo Travellers
Cunard is widely regarded as one of the best cruise lines for solo travellers, offering a safe, welcoming, and sociable environment. The traditional atmosphere and structured daily activities make it easy for individuals to meet and mingle. The line actively caters to singles with dedicated cabins and social events.
Accommodation for Solo Cruisers
Cunard has thoughtfully designed specific staterooms for solo occupancy across its fleet. These cabins are priced for one person. This avoids the hefty single supplement often charged for a double-occupancy cabin on other cruise lines.
Key options and features include:
- Britannia Single Staterooms: All ships in the fleet feature a number of single staterooms, available as either an inside or oceanview cabin.
- Thoughtful Design: While smaller than standard double cabins, they are well-appointed with all the same amenities and clever use of space.
- High Demand: It is crucial to book these single staterooms far in advance as they are extremely popular and sell out very quickly.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Meeting People and Onboard Life
Cunard makes a concerted effort to ensure solo travellers feel included and have ample opportunities to socialise. The organised onboard programme provides a natural setting for meeting like-minded people. The cruise line also facilitates social interactions through specific events.
Key options and features include:
- Solo Gatherings: There are often dedicated coffee mornings or meetups for solo guests early in the voyage, hosted by the social team.
- Shared Dining Tables: Solo travellers can request to be seated with other singles at dinner in the Britannia Restaurant, fostering easy conversation.
- Gentlemen Hosts: On many voyages, gentlemen hosts are available as dance partners for ladies in the Queens Room during evening balls and dances.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Dress Code
The dress code is a cherished tradition on Cunard and a key part of the onboard experience, especially in the evenings. During the day, the atmosphere is casual. However, from 6:00 PM onwards, a more formal dress code applies in most public areas.
Key dress code guidelines include:
- Daytime Attire: Casual wear is appropriate throughout the day. This includes shorts, t-shirts, and resort wear, which are acceptable in all areas of the ship.
- Smart Attire (Most Evenings): This is the dress code for most evenings. For gentlemen, this means trousers or smart dark jeans with a collared shirt; a jacket is optional. For ladies, blouses, skirts, stylish trousers, and dresses are all suitable.
- Gala Evenings (Black Tie): The highlight of a Cunard voyage. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear a dinner jacket, tuxedo, or a dark suit with a tie. Ladies typically wear evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant separates.
Please note that dress code enforcement can vary. It is always best to check the latest guidelines for your specific sailing.
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Cunard operates a discretionary tipping policy to recognise the service provided by the crew. A daily Hotel and Dining Service Charge is automatically added to your onboard account for each guest. This amount varies depending on your accommodation category.
Key aspects of the gratuity policy include:
- Automatic Gratuities: A daily service charge is automatically added to your onboard account. As of 2025, the guideline amount is typically $14.50 USD per person, per day for Britannia guests.
- Grill Suite Gratuities: For guests in Princess Grill and Queens Grill Suites, the daily service charge is typically higher, around $16.50 USD per person, per day, reflecting the enhanced level of service.
- Discretionary Nature: The charge is discretionary. If you wish to adjust the amount, you may do so by visiting the Purser's Office before the end of your cruise.
- Bar Service Charge: A 15% service charge is automatically added to your bill for all bar and wine purchases.
Please note that gratuity policies and amounts are subject to change. Always confirm the latest details with the cruise line.
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
Cunard allows guests to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard at the start of their cruise for personal consumption in their stateroom. Any beverages brought onboard must be carried in your hand luggage. All items must be in sealed, original packaging.
Key rules for bringing beverages onboard include:
- Wine/Champagne: Each guest of legal drinking age is permitted to bring one bottle of wine or champagne (up to 750ml) on board at embarkation.
- Corkage Fee: If you choose to consume the bottle you brought in one of the restaurants or bars, a corkage fee (typically around $25 USD) will be charged to your onboard account.
- Other Alcoholic Beverages: Spirits and beers are not permitted to be brought on board and will be confiscated and returned at the end of the voyage.
- Soft Drinks: Soft drinks, water, and non-alcoholic beverages in reasonable quantities may also be brought on board in your hand luggage.
This policy is strictly enforced and subject to change. Items outside the allowance will be confiscated.
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Guest feedback for Cunard is generally very positive, highlighting the line's unique position in the cruise market. Many passengers choose Cunard specifically for its traditional and formal atmosphere. However, this same quality can also be a point of criticism for those seeking a more contemporary holiday.
Common Praises
- White Star Service: Guests consistently praise the exceptional service, often describing the crew as professional, attentive, and personable without being intrusive.
- Sense of Occasion: The formal dress codes, Gala Evenings, and daily Afternoon Tea are frequently mentioned as highlights that make a Cunard voyage feel special and distinct.
- Food Quality: The quality of cuisine, particularly in the main dining rooms and the exclusive Grills restaurants, receives high marks from many travellers.
- Enrichment Programmes: The high calibre of guest speakers and lecturers in the Insights programme is a major draw for intellectually curious passengers.
Common Criticisms
- Atmosphere Can Be Too Formal: Some travellers find the atmosphere too formal or traditional for their taste, preferring a more relaxed and casual cruise experience.
- Older Demographic: While Cunard attracts a wide range of ages, the passenger demographic on longer voyages and classic itineraries can skew older, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Additional Costs: Some guests feel that while the fare is inclusive of basics, costs for drinks, specialty dining, and excursions can add up quickly.
- Pace of Life: The focus on sea days and traditional activities may feel slow-paced for travellers who prefer a more high-energy, activity-packed holiday.
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
As part of Carnival Corporation, Cunard is committed to a comprehensive sustainability programme focused on environmental protection and operational efficiency. The line is investing in new technologies and implementing strict onboard policies. These efforts aim to minimise its environmental impact.
Key environmental initiatives include:
- Advanced Air Quality Systems (AAQS): The fleet is equipped with systems, commonly known as "scrubbers," which significantly reduce sulphur and particulate matter from engine emissions.
- Shoreside Power: Cunard is investing in shoreside power connectivity, which allows ships to turn off their engines and plug into the local electrical grid while in port, reducing emissions.
- Waste Management: Comprehensive programmes are in place to reduce, recycle, and properly dispose of waste generated onboard, significantly reducing the amount sent to landfills.
- Single-Use Plastic Reduction: The cruise line has implemented significant measures to reduce or eliminate single-use plastics, such as straws, water bottles, and toiletries packaging.
For the most detailed and current information, please refer to the cruise line's official sustainability reports.
Official Websites
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, and to make bookings, it is essential to use Cunard's official regional websites. Using the correct site for your region ensures you see the relevant fares and policies. Be cautious of imitation sites.
The primary official websites are:
- United Kingdom Site: www.cunard.com/en-gb
- United States Site: www.cunard.com/en-us
- Australia Site: www.cunard.com/en-au
Always ensure the website URL is correct to avoid phishing scams.
Required Travel Documents
It is the guest's sole responsibility to identify and obtain all necessary travel documents, including passports and visas. You must carry a valid passport for the entire duration of your cruise. Failure to present the correct documentation will result in denial of boarding with no refund.
Key documentation requirements include:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must typically be valid for at least six months after the final date of the cruise. This is a strict cruise line policy.
- Visas: You are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas for all ports on your itinerary. Check with the embassies of the countries you will visit well in advance of travel.
- Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has a sufficient number of blank pages for any entry or exit stamps required by the countries on your itinerary.
Never assume a country's entry rules are the only ones that apply. For example, a European country might only require 3 months of passport validity for entry, but Cunard's policy requires 6 months. In this situation, the cruise line's rule is the one you must follow, and you will be denied boarding if your passport does not meet their standard.
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
If you are travelling with a minor (under 18) and you are not their parent or legal guardian, you must have specific legal documentation. This is required to prove you have permission to travel with the child. These rules are in place for the safety and welfare of the child.
Key requirements for non-guardian travel include:
- Consent Form: You must have a notarised letter of consent from the child's parents or legal guardians. This letter must authorise you to travel with the child internationally.
- Medical Authorisation: The consent letter should also explicitly grant you permission to seek emergency medical treatment for the child if necessary.
- Proof of Relationship: It is also advisable to carry a copy of the child's birth certificate or other documents that show the relationship to the consenting parents.
Failure to provide required documentation can result in denial of boarding. Always verify requirements well in advance.
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
For the safety and security of all guests and crew, there are strict rules on what you can bring aboard a Cunard ship. All luggage is screened upon embarkation, and prohibited items will be confiscated. Attending the mandatory safety drill is also a condition of travel.
Key safety rules and permitted items policies include:
- Mandatory Safety Drill: All guests must attend the muster drill before the ship sails. This is a legal requirement and is crucial for your safety.
- Prohibited Electronics: Items with heating elements, such as clothes irons, travel kettles, and heating pads, are not allowed in cabins as they pose a fire hazard.
- Weapons and Sharp Objects: All weapons, firearms, ammunition, and sharp objects like knives (except for small, personal grooming items) are strictly prohibited.
- Drones: The use of personal drones is forbidden on the ship and in many ports of call due to safety and privacy concerns.
For a complete list of prohibited items, please consult the cruise line's official website before you pack.
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
Cunard has clear policies regarding the carriage of medications and a strict zero-tolerance approach to illegal substances. Guests must ensure all medications are properly packed and declared if necessary. These policies are in place to comply with international laws.
Key policies include:
- Prescription Medications: All prescription medications must be kept in their original packaging with the pharmacy label clearly visible. They must be packed in your carry-on luggage, not your checked bags.
- Medical Documentation: It is highly recommended to carry a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially for controlled substances or injectable medications.
- Illegal Substances: Cunard has a strict zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs. Any guest found in possession of such items will be disembarked at the next port and reported to local law enforcement.
- CBD Products: Even if legal in your home region, CBD products are prohibited onboard as their legal status varies globally and they can be mistaken for illegal substances.
The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Consult the cruise line for any questions regarding specific medications.
Food Policy
Cunard's food policy is designed to ensure the health and safety of all guests and to comply with international customs and agricultural regulations. These rules govern what food can be brought on, taken off, or brought back to the ship. Adherence to these policies is mandatory.
Bringing Food Onboard
Guests are permitted to bring small quantities of non-perishable food onboard at embarkation. These items must be pre-packaged and sealed in their original commercial packaging. This policy helps to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Items: Small amounts of items like biscuits, crisps, and sweets that are factory-sealed are generally allowed.
- Prohibited Items: Homemade items, fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, and other perishable foods are not permitted to be brought on board.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Taking Food Off the Ship
For public health reasons, guests are generally not permitted to take fresh food off the ship, particularly in ports of call. This restriction applies to open food items from any of the ship's dining venues. It helps prevent the cross-contamination of local ecosystems.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Prohibited Items: You may not take items like fruit, sandwiches, pastries, or cheese from the buffet or restaurants ashore with you.
- Permitted Items: Commercially sealed, pre-packaged items purchased from the ship's shops are usually acceptable to take ashore.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Bringing Food Back from Port
Bringing food items back onto the ship after a day in port is subject to strict agricultural regulations. These rules are in place to prevent the introduction of foreign pests and diseases. Most fresh food items are therefore prohibited.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Prohibited Items: Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat products, and plants are almost always prohibited from being brought back on board from port.
- Permitted Items: Commercially sealed and packaged items, such as a box of chocolates or a sealed jar of preserves, are typically allowed.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Cunard sails from a variety of ports around the world, though its primary homeport is Southampton, England. For 2025, major embarkation ports provide access to iconic global itineraries. These homeports are chosen for their excellent facilities and transport links.
- United Kingdom: Southampton
- Europe: Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Hamburg, Kiel, Trieste
- North America: New York, Fort Lauderdale, San Francisco, Vancouver
- Asia & Australia: Singapore, Tokyo, Sydney, Melbourne
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Cunard
Cunard offers a range of iconic voyages that focus on the journey as much as the destination. The itineraries reflect the line's classic character. Here are a few examples of popular voyages that capture the essence of the Cunard experience.
Classic Transatlantic Crossing
This is the quintessential Cunard experience, a seven-night voyage between Southampton and New York with no ports of call. It is a throwback to the golden age of travel, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the onboard activities. This journey is about pure relaxation and the romance of sea travel.
- Best For: Traditionalists, solo travellers, and those who love relaxing sea days.
- Duration: 7 Nights
- Departure Port: Southampton or New York
- Example Ship: Queen Mary 2
- Typical Ports of Call: None
Norwegian Fjords Majesty
This itinerary offers a dramatic contrast to the open ocean, taking guests deep into the heart of Norway's breathtaking fjordland. Sail past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and charming coastal villages. It is a journey of immense natural beauty combined with relaxing sea days.
- Best For: Nature lovers and landscape photographers.
- Duration: 7-12 Nights
- Departure Port: Southampton
- Example Ship: Queen Victoria
- Typical Ports of Call: Stavanger, Olden, Flåm, Haugesund
Mediterranean Discovery
Explore the cradle of Western civilisation on a voyage that blends ancient history with vibrant modern culture. These itineraries visit iconic ports across Italy, Spain, and Greece. Ample time in port allows for in-depth exploration of historic sites and beautiful coastlines.
- Best For: History buffs and culture enthusiasts.
- Duration: 7-14 Nights
- Departure Port: Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona
- Example Ship: Queen Elizabeth
- Typical Ports of Call: Florence/Pisa (from Livorno), Naples, Cartagena, Ajaccio
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the currency used onboard Cunard ships?
The onboard currency is the US Dollar (USD) for all ships, regardless of their location.
2. What is a "Gala Evening"?
A Gala Evening is Cunard's formal night. The dress code is typically Black Tie, and it's a chance for guests to dress in their finest attire for dinner, dancing, and special events.
3. Are gratuities (tips) compulsory?
A daily service charge is automatically added to your onboard account. While this is discretionary and can be adjusted at the Purser's Office, it is standard practice to pay it as it rewards the crew for their service.
4. Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?
Yes, each adult is permitted to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne onboard at embarkation. A corkage fee applies if you consume it in the restaurants or bars.
5. Is Wi-Fi available on the ships?
Yes, all ships are equipped with Wi-Fi powered by Starlink. You can purchase packages for the duration of your cruise, with different tiers available for basic browsing or streaming.
6. What electrical sockets are in the cabins?
Cabins are typically equipped with UK (3-pin), US (2-pin), and European (2-pin) sockets. It's always wise to bring a universal travel adapter to be safe.
7. Is there a self-service laundry?
Yes, complimentary self-service launderettes with washing machines, dryers, and irons are available for guests to use on all Cunard ships.
8. Is Cunard suitable for children?
Yes, Cunard is family-friendly and offers a supervised children's club called "The Zone". However, the overall atmosphere is more adult-focused and traditional compared to mass-market lines.
9. What is the Insights Enrichment Programme?
This is Cunard's onboard guest speaker programme. It features experts from various fields, such as authors, historians, and scientists, who give lectures throughout the voyage.
10. Do I need to book theatre shows in advance?
No, seating in the Royal Court Theatre is available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to arrive a little early to secure a good seat for popular performances.
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:
- "Free Cruise" or "Exclusive Offer" Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you've won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced "exclusive" deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for "port taxes," or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
- Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line's official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a "limited-time offer" that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer's legitimacy.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.
To ensure your journey with Cunard begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact Cunard directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.
Additional Resources
The following are affiliate links; we will receive a commission for any qualifying orders/bookings at no additional cost to you.
Travel Booking
Expedia: USA | UK | Canada | Australia
Hotels.com: USA | UK | Canada | Australia
Vrbo.com: USA | UK | Canada
Trip.com: Book Travel Services
Kiwi.com: Book Flights, Trains, and Buses
WayAway: Flight Aggregator
Tours & Activities
Get Your Guide: Book Tours & Attractions
Tiqets: Museums and Attractions
Transport & Transfers
AutoEurope Car Hire: Click Here to Book
Economy Bookings Car Hire: Click Here to Book
Welcome Pickups: Airport Transfers
Kiwitaxi: Private Transfers and Tours
Other Services
Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
Radical Storage: Luggage Storage
Yesim: eSIM Provider
Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
Affiliate Disclosure
Many of the links are affiliate links, The Essential Cruise Shop may receive a commission from qualifying clicks, orders or bookings. This income helps support our efforts to provide and improve our site and turn it into a one stop resource for travellers with a bias towards cruising.
