When Queen Anne launches in early 2024, it will be Cunard's 249th historic vessel, fourth in the current fleet and one that the line hopes will increase the brand’s North American market share.
According to Matt Gleaves, vice president of commercial for North America and Australasia, the new ship represents 40% growth potential in the U.S. and Canada.
And now, its accommodations and first itineraries have been revealed.
“As we step into the next chapter of Cunard's storied history, Queen Anne provides a platform to evolve the future of the brand and bring reimagined Cunard signature experiences to new audiences,” Gleaves said. “We are confident in the North American market and believe there is significant opportunity for growth. Queen Anne will celebrate what makes Cunard so special in a way that is relevant for today's luxury traveler, appealing to both our existing loyal guests and those sailing with us for the first time.”
As we step into the next chapter of Cunard's storied history, Queen Anne provides a platform to evolve the future of the brand and bring reimagined Cunard signature experiences to new audiences.
Design With Cunard’s History in Mind
Under the guidance of creative director Adam D. Tihany, designers David Collins Studio, Richmond International and Sybille De Margerie came together to develop the new ship’s accommodation designs to bridge traditional elements with contemporary ones. The five pillars leading the project were heritage, craftsmanship, storytelling, style and innovation.
The Cunard Archives, particularly the line’s art-deco heritage, inspired the amenity designs, according to Lewis Taylor, design director at David Collins Studio.
“We had the unique opportunity to explore the fascinating trove of the Cunard Archives, which is housed within the University of Liverpool,” Taylor said. “[It] provides a wealth of photographs, onboard pieces, details on layout, materials, fabrics, patterns and textures, plus business documents and marketing collateral, including menus and other ephemera. This experience was at the core of the design inspiration for Queen Anne.”
Staterooms and Suites
Each stateroom and suite category will display a unique design approach. Britannia cabins, which comprise the bulk of private rooms, will exhibit deep ocean blues accented by golden hues reminiscent of the sun. Three-dimensional paper cut deco frames and custom wall coverings will establish geometric patterns.
A Britannia cabin
Credit: 2022 CunardMeanwhile, the Princess Grill suites will sport Cunard’s signature reds and golds, along with other warm furnishings, and the Queens Grill will elevate the color palette further with royal purples and dark woods.
Grand and Master Suites specifically will serve as luxury residences shrouded in tones of green, purple, taupe and grey, highlighted by bespoke woods and marbles. Each of such six suites will be named according to a waterway significant to Cunard’s history: Mersey, Solent, Boston, Hudson, Halifax and Clyde. Bathrooms will feature a special black and white photo series documenting Queen Anne’s construction from world-renowned photographer Michael Mann.
Queen Anne’s Itineraries
Queen Anne will visit over 32 global ports during its inaugural run through the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern Europe, and the debut season will also feature an Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing.
For its seven-night maiden voyage on Jan. 4, 2024, Queen Anne will depart Southampton roundtrip for an overnight in Lisbon before returning to the United Kingdom for a rendezvous with Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria.
Also featured will be a 35-night Caribbean cruise beginning Jan. 27, 2024, from Southampton to the likes of Barbados and Saint Lucia, before moving on to sail the Mediterranean during sailings such as a 16-night cruise to Lisbon, Portugal; Cadiz, Spain; and Rome, departing March 29, 2024.