The Cunard Fleet: Timeless Elegance at Sea
Sailing with Cunard is as much about the ship as the journey itself. Each vessel in the fleet carries forward the line’s long-standing legacy of transatlantic glamour and British refinement — combining white-gloved service with modern comfort, cultural enrichment, and art deco-inspired design. Whether you’re crossing the Atlantic or island-hopping through the Med, a Cunard ship offers more than just transport: it’s a destination in its own right.
Here’s a closer look at the fleet:
Queen Mary 2
Launched: 2004
Refurbished: 2016 (major remastering)
Cunard’s flagship and the world’s only true ocean liner still in service, Queen Mary 2 is the epitome of transatlantic style. Built for speed and stability, she offers a classic crossing experience between New York and Southampton, complete with planetarium shows, ballroom dancing, afternoon tea, and the only seagoing kennels in the world. Her 2016 “remastering” brought refreshed staterooms, new Britannia Club balconies, and updated dining venues.
Queen Victoria
Launched: 2007
Refurbished: 2017
Queen Victoria channels the charm of a bygone era with sweeping staircases, plush lounges, and a more intimate scale. She’s a favourite for Mediterranean voyages and northern Europe itineraries, known for her polished service and beautifully styled public spaces. Her last refit enhanced the Grand Suites, Britannia Club dining, and the addition of new single staterooms.
Queen Elizabeth
Launched: 2010
Refurbished: 2018
Elegance meets Art Deco on Queen Elizabeth, where subtle design cues nod to the golden age of cruising. With a slightly lighter, more contemporary feel than her sister ships, she often sails Asian and Australian routes. The 2018 update brought fresh interiors, upgraded staterooms, and revamped retail spaces.
Queen Anne
Launched: 2024
The newest addition to the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne is a bold step into a new era for the line. With an expanded wellness concept, new suite designs, more culinary variety, and modern art collections, she brings a refined yet forward-thinking energy to the fleet. Though the design pays homage to Cunard’s heritage, her onboard experience is noticeably fresh, elegant, and thoughtfully elevated for today’s traveller.
Each Cunard ship upholds the brand’s storied reputation — yet each offers a slightly different take on life at sea, from grand ballrooms to serene spas and intimate cocktail lounges. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic allure of QM2 or excited to experience the innovations aboard Queen Anne, there’s a vessel to match your mood and voyage style.
I can also understand why some travellers want to experience “all four Queens” - there is the standard Cunard Line service and ethos, yet each ship has not only it’s own style, but reflects different moments in time.