This is the moment we've been waiting for, 14 years since the last Cunard queen (Elizabeth) ascended to the throne, the fleet is once again complete; four ships representing the four ruling queens of England.
Mayflower terminal, Southampton, is a buzz of excited guests waiting to meet the new queen and step onboard to a new era of Cunard interiors and public spaces. The band was playing, the bell hops were on hand for photo opportunities against a fresh floral flower wall. The whole terminal had been made over with bespoke signage replacing the normal ones; even that ‘to the ship’ sign everyone loves had a royal make over. This was the beginning of the new queens’ exceptional thought-out details.
As we approach the new queen its deep black hull and iconic red with black striped funnel come into view, a sight that never disappoints and reminds us, that we're in for something special.
…And just like that, we’re onboard. We’re welcomed into the Grand Lobby and its breath taking. It’s still the Cunard you know and love, but its matured, its modernised, don’t worry there’s still touches of art deco elegance, deep greens, royal blues, and warm golds. The centre piece of the ship is an art deco inspired mural, that changes depending on of the direction you view it from. It’s nod to the more traditional pieces on her older sisters and pays homage to the golden age of travel.
The ship immerses you in the enchanting ambiance that flows through the ship's interior; meticulously curated colour palettes adorn each space. Bold and vibrant hues elevate the signature areas and Queens Grill Suites, with deep blues intertwined with hints of golden yellow in the Britannia staterooms to capture the essence of the sea and radiant sunlight. Meanwhile, the rich and opulent tones of red, amber, and gold enhance the luxurious lounge experience in the Princess Grill Suites, ensuring an unforgettable journey of indulgence and sophistication. For the Princess and Queens Grill restaurants, the bright colours include elements of gold, to reinforce the luxurious but refined overall design aesthetic.
Alongside the Grand Lobby mural there’s other statement pieces around the ship including the amazing autumn leaved tree in the grills area, an art selection on each staircase and the lights above the dance floor in the Queens room, the towering golden columns in the Britannia Restaurant and the playful lion portraits in the Golden Lion. The ship’s over all look and feel is the classic Cunard you know and love, but elevated with modern touches, colours and materials, with twists of Art Deco thrown in.
First, we explored our cabin, A Britannia Club room with balcony. Like the other areas of the ship the rooms are stunning with thoughtful touches like the wall papers in the corridor and behind the circular mirror on the vanity desk, art deco style bedside and feature lamps and the deep royal blue behind the bed framed by a warm nickel trim, set on a sea blue wall. The soft furnishings such as the Scottish houndstooth cushion compliment the room perfectly, incorporating British design heritage.
The king-sized bed is dressed in crisp white cotton sheets with a golden yellow throw and the signature Cunard logo cushions. My favourite overall piece is the three-dimensional layered paper artwork on the wall, which is simple, but very effective.
At this point we were starving (Hangry!) so we headed to the Golden Lion pub to try some British classics that have been specially curated for Cunard by Michel Roux Jr. We chose the Smoked Haddock Scotch Egg, which is the only way we want our Scotch eggs from now on! Bloody Mary Spiced Chips, which works well; pepper, a hint of Worcester sauce and tangy tomatoes flavours that linger after each bite. We also had the Cunard Gold beer-battered sustainable hake, that we know and love from the other Cunard Queens. Lastly, but by no means least; Michel Roux Signature Three Cheese Toastie. Made with Ogleshield, Gruyere, and Mature Cheddar Cheese – a must have if you eat here, especially for all you cheese lovers! The Golden Lion is also the perfect place to try Cunard’s exclusive ales, stouts, IPAs and Queen Anne’s very own gin. Some items are an up charge on the menu and some are included within your cruise fare like the fish.
With our bellies full we explored the ship and fell in love with Anne more and more. Highlights include the double story Pavillion pool area with retractable roof, balconied seating areas, large LED screen, Wellness Café, Bar and Grill. The other pool onboard is just as inviting, perched at the aft of the ship; the panorama pool club. Centerer around the pool, once again with balconied terraces and panoramic views of the ocean and the wake, Annes footprint on the ocean. Alfresco dining can also be found in this area provided by Tramonto. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean, complemented by hints of African and Arabic influences, Tramonto presents straightforward and genuine dishes that celebrate the sunny essence of Europe's coastal areas. You’ll find the other three alternative dining here too. Head starboard to Aranya, the ships Indian restaurant. Upstairs nestled side by side overlooking the Panorama pool is Sir Samuels, for steak and Aji Wa - a fresh take on Japanese cuisine, a first for Cunard.
Finally sandwiched between the two pools is Artisans’ Foodhall, the onboard buffet. Whenever hunger calls, Artisans’ Foodhall is there to indulge your appetite. Experience the culinary finesse of Cunard’s esteemed chefs throughout your visit, whether it’s a bespoke breakfast omelette or a flavourful noodle dish customised to your liking. From tempting grab-and-go confections to freshly prepared dishes crafted before your eyes, this comprehensive dining adventure promises to fulfil your cravings.
In the centre of the ship is the spectacular grand lobby we spoke about earlier. This area is a stack of spaces to explore linked together by the grand stairs. Starting at the base of the staircase is the drawing room complete with a model of Queen Anne, the pursers’ desk and games room. Halfway up, The refined Chart Room cocktail lounge, is adorned with a beautifully crafted cut glass light installation, illuminating the marble counter. Across the open space is the Britannia Club Dining room, exclusively for guests in Club rooms.
The third tier is where you can find the Corinthian lounge, the time-honoured Cunard favourite. It’s the ideal place to begin your day at sea with a cup of hand-crafted coffee. You’ll also find one of our favourite additions is the Cabinet of Curiosities; An impressive array of carefully selected artifacts and artistic gems sourced from a diverse range of luxury labels. On board for the inaugural sailings are replicas of the British Royal families’ crowns and tiaras, alongside other wonders.
For dinner we ate in the Britannia Club Dining room. We ordered the Cold smoked ChalkStream Trout and Duck Liver and Madeira Parfait with smoked duck to start. We both enjoyed the Lobster Bisque for the soup course and the delicious duo of Abrey Allen beef and the Roaster Rack of ‘Red Gum Creek Lamb’ for entrée. To finish the cheese trolley was wheeled to our table and Scott enjoyed the peanut butter and milk chocolate Cremieux too. Espresso’s and petit fours were offered and devoured! The meal was paired with a selection of ‘Cunard Cellar Reserve’ wines, there’s also an extensive wine list on offer too.
An evening of entertainment was waiting to be enjoyed. We were very lucky to enjoy the preview of Noël Cowards ‘Brief Encounter’, specially adapted for sea by David Pugh and Emma Rice. Set in the Royal Court Theatre, a terraced space that evokes the sophistication and magnificence of renowned art deco concert halls. Featuring cascading chandeliers that illuminate the stage, impeccable sightlines, and plush velvet seating, this remarkable venue is dedicated to placing storytelling front and centre. Guests can also enjoy David Pugh’s production of Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of), written by Olivier award winning playwright and actress Isobel McArthur.
Adjacent to the theatre lies the Bright Lights society: A dazzling showcase of vibrant, electrifying light installations. Featuring captivating performances, the Bright Lights Society marks a pioneering venture for Cunard. This exhilarating new show bar immerses guests in a world of dynamic energy and vivid tones, offering evenings filled with wonder and intimate encounters with a comedic compare. Across the hall you can enjoy live music and acoustic sessions in the Golden Lion pub.
Moving aftwards you’ll stumble upon the updated and modernised Queens Room, which is a grand double story space styled by Sybille de Margerie. We enjoyed live music and danced the night away in this signature space. In the day this space is a hive of activity offering Cunard classics like fencing and dance lessons. The Casino bar known as bar 1840 is tucked behind the second level of this space.
The sixth and final venue is perched right the top and front of the ship, another well-loved venue, the Commodore Club. Amazing views can be taken in by day and laid-back music and cocktails can be enjoyed in the evening.
…and then it was off to bed, which was a dream sinking into the Cunarder bed.
We loved every second of our day onboard Queen Anne, we would go as far to say that we may have found our new favourite ship. The new queen is quintessentially Cunard, but created for a new era of the brand. She’s modern and sharp, with hints of nostalgia and thoughtful details throughout the ship, whilst retaining a familiar colour pallet. Although she was born in Italy, she a new icon of British design, with cues akin to that of five-star London hotels. Queen Anne is a classic example of quality understated British style and elegance.
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