Cunard has named its newest ship – the ‘Queen Anne’ – which will sail in 2024, with sales set to start in May. The vessel will be the 249th in the cruise line’s historic fleet and will mark the first time since 1999 that the company will have four ships at sea (including Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth).
A pioneer of luxury travel since 1840, Cunard currently chooses its ship names to reflect its British heritage, specifically honouring queens regnant (monarchs in their own right, not the spouse of a reigning king) of the last millennium. In this case, Queen Anne served as queen of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1702 to 1714 and at a time when England and Scotland were united as Great Britain (1707).
Cunard says it explored multiple naming options and was ultimately inspired by Queen Anne’s reign, further engaging with British historian, author, and television presenter, Kate Williams, to assist in the detailed research.
“Queen Anne… has a fascinating tale to tell – one of queenship, unity of developing constitutional monarchy, a golden age of the arts,” says Williams. “She was an inspiring woman, wildly popular with her people. She should be celebrated. This new ship in the Cunard fleet is the perfect way to do it!”
When it sets sail, the Queen Anne will feature reimagined Cunard signature spaces as well as the introduction of new dining, culture, and entertainment experiences, underpinned by outstanding White Star Service.
Bridging tradition and contemporary luxury, Queen Anne will combine influential design styles of both past and present and introduce an updated Cunard livery.
The décor will reveal bold colour tones and showcase a striking aesthetic, while in keeping with Cunard’s timeless sophistication.
“This marks a very special moment in Cunard’s 182-year history and showcases Cunard’s exciting global plans for the future, allowing even more guests around the world to set sail with Cunard,” said Sture Myrmell, UK president of Carnival, Cunard’s parent company.
He added that more details about the new ship will be shared shortly. Travel agents are invited to contact their BDM for more information.
Record setting
Meanwhile, Cunard says its experienced record-breaking sales the first two days after releasing is Summer 2023 itineraries. Moreover, “Cunard’s two strongest booking periods in more than a decade have happened in the last 12 months,” says the company.
The recent sales surge, which was especially strong for Princess and Queens Grills suites, surpassed record-breaking sales in 2021 for Queen Elizabeth summer sailings, said Jamie Paiko, VP of Sales for Cunard North America.
Cunard’s Summer 2023 schedule includes 150 voyages calling at 120 ports in 35 countries, with 23 late evening departures and 15 overnight stays with voyages between two nights and 37 nights in duration.