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Cunard is one of the oldest and most respected names in cruising. With a history going back to 1840, the company is known for its traditional style, formal evenings, and famous ocean liners. Cunard is not like many other cruise lines — it offers a more elegant, classic experience. The focus is on comfort, good service, and a slower, more relaxed pace. Many people who cruise with Cunard are repeat passengers who enjoy the style and atmosphere that the brand is known for. The most famous ship in the fleet is the Queen Mary 2, which still sails regularly across the Atlantic between Southampton and New York. It’s one of the few ships that offers this kind of trip as a regular route. Cunard also operates the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria, both of which sail around the world, visiting ports in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. Life Onboard the Cunard Ships Cunard ships are built to feel grand but comfortable. As soon as you step onboard, you’ll notice the difference. The staff greet you politely, the design is elegant rather than flashy, and there’s a calm, unhurried feel across the ship. Afternoon tea is served daily, there are regular classical music performances, and the dress code is more formal than on most other cruise lines. In the evenings, many guests choose to wear dinner jackets or formal dresses, though there are also more relaxed nights. The cabins are clean and well looked after. Even the smaller rooms feel carefully designed, with thoughtful touches like fresh fruit or flowers. Higher-grade cabins come with extra services and access to private dining areas. Cunard also has separate restaurants depending on the type of ticket you book, which adds to the feeling of a more personal experience. Food is a central part of any Cunard cruise. The menus change often and include British favourites alongside international dishes. You’ll find everything from roast dinners to seafood and light vegetarian meals. There are also casual dining spots and cafes around the ship if you prefer a quieter meal or a quick snack. Destinations and Routes Cunard cruises leave mainly from Southampton, but the ships travel all over the world. One of the best-known trips is the transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2. This route takes about seven nights and offers a more relaxed way to travel to the US, without airports or long flights. It appeals to people who enjoy the idea of crossing the ocean by ship, just like in the early days of cruising. Outside of the Atlantic route, Cunard also offers cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Canary Islands and the Caribbean. In the winter months, the ships set out on longer world voyages, some of which last for several weeks or even months. These trips often attract older passengers who have the time and interest to explore many different countries in one journey. Who Sails with Cunard? Cunard cruise lines are a good fit for travellers who enjoy tradition and quiet luxury. The average age onboard tends to be higher than on other cruise lines, though that’s not to say younger people aren’t welcome. Some couples come for a special anniversary, and solo travellers often enjoy the safety and calm social setting of the ship. Families with children are allowed on most cruises, but there’s less in the way of entertainment aimed at younger guests compared to more modern, family-focused ships. For anyone looking for a peaceful holiday at sea, with good service, elegant settings, and thoughtful details, Cunard offers something that’s becoming harder to find — a return to the classic way of cruising.
