The debut of any new cruise ship is cause for celebration — and fireworks — but the inaugural of Cunard’s Queen Anne, the line’s first new cruise ship in 14 years, proved to be an especially dazzling moment. The 2,996-guest vessel sailed from Southampton, England, on May 3 on the first of its 2024 itineraries to the Canary Islands, Mediterranean, and Northern Europe, before the ship crosses the Atlantic in early January 2025 to embark on her maiden world voyage.
What’s on board? We got a peek inside right before the inaugural sailing and discovered that Queen Anne beautifully evokes the storied heritage of Cunard Line — which also operates Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and Queen Mary 2 — while also offering a jazzier, more contemporary interpretation of the line’s Art Deco-inspired interior décor (there are plenty of eye-catching geometric shapes) and several exciting new venues. This is a ship for travelers who enjoy a sophisticated and highly polished ambiance, traditional entertainment (with some surprisingly hip DJ sessions later in the evening), and main dining room cuisine paired with more intimate specialty restaurants, including four new culinary concepts.
Here’s a first look at what guests can expect to enjoy while on board.
The Grand Lobby Embraces Cunard’s Past and Present
The design for Queen Anne all began in the three-deck Grand Lobby, where a towering brass mural and a circular pattern of marble flooring is echoed throughout the ship. Designed by David Collins Studio, the space features pillars delicately etched with Art Deco patterns, a curved grand staircase, and a soaring hand-poured plaster dome. The focal point is the mural by Ian Kirkpatrick that features three vignettes inspired by the Cunard story (and the concept of departure, onboard experience, and arrival in various ports) that subtly shift as the viewer moves from one side of the Grand Lobby to the other. Other highlights here include an array of boutiques, among them the Cabinet of Curiosities, a museum/shop featuring specially curated art objects and memorabilia as well as special items from brands such as Garrard and Chanel.
The Pavilion Offers a Place to Be Entertained
This multi-purpose space — a main pool deck by day and entertainment venue by night — was also designed by David Collins Studio and features a retractable glass-dome and a second level with chic banquettes, three hot tubs, a large movie screen, and a dramatic retro-chic checkerboard floor. During evenings onboard, guests can enjoy Performances at the Pavilion, live and pre-recorded musical entertainment from around the globe, as well as a line-up of feature and short films curated by the British Film Institute.
The Grills Lounge is an Inviting Pre-Dinner Oasis
Situated between the complimentary Princess Grill and Queens Grill restaurants — which are the main dining venues for guests who book Princess Grill or Queens Grill staterooms or suites — the Grills Lounge is a lovely spot to grab a pre-dinner cocktail. Its soothing circular motifs, in plush shades of blue, green, and gold, are complimented by an overhead skylight and a vivid faux Japanese maple tree that adds an aura of serenity.
Britannia Restaurant Welcomes Guests for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Queen Anne’s largest dining venue, the two-level Britannia Restaurant, is where guests who book Britannia staterooms can enjoy complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Gold columns, shimmering waterfall-style glass partitions etched with ocean motifs, and dynamic geometric carpeting provide an elegant backdrop for traditional dining onboard.
The Golden Lion Pub Serves a Fresh Take on Pub Classics
One of five extra-cost dining options on board Queen Anne, The Golden Lion Pub has a classic but elevated British pub menu designed by two-Michelin-starred Chef Michel Roux (yes, there’s fish & chips). Guests with a thirst for a pint or two served from the tap will find an ever-evolving lineup of beers and ales — among them, three Cunard exclusives — as well a selection of wines. It’s all quite creatively designed, but utterly casual (even on formal nights). There’s live entertainment, too.
New Dining Concept Aji Wa Entices with the Flavors of Japan
For sushi, sashimi, crispy light tempura, or tender Wagyu beef, guests can head to Aji Wa, one of the four new extra-cost eateries exclusive to Queen Anne (the others are Aranya for Indian specialties, Sir Samuels for steak and seafood, and Tramonto for fresh Mediterranean flavors). Offering a contemporary take on classic Japanese cuisine, Aji Wa is open for both lunch and dinner and features restaurant seating as well as a Sushi and Sake Bar for an up-close view of master sushi chefs at work.
The Thermal Pool at Mareel Wellness & Beauty is Ideal for Total Body Relaxation
Located on deck 1, Queen Anne’s Mareel Wellness & Beauty spa is a true sanctuary — especially the thermal pool area with its large jetted pool surrounded by heated loungers and a half dozen saunas, steam rooms, and immersive shower experiences. Guests in the mood for hands-on pampering can choose from three dozen massage, facial, and body treatments.
The Chart Room Serves Specialty Cocktails Inspired by the Stars
Each evening, the Chart Room — one of a dozen or so bars and lounges on board Queen Anne — serves an array of specialty cocktails inspired by the constellations that have long guided ships and sailors. Art Deco-inspired geometrics, especially circles, are everywhere, from the gleaming crystal chandelier to the cozy leather banquettes and swirling blue and red carpet.
Princess Grill Suites are Spacious and Sophisticated
Princess Grill Suites are one of four main categories of accommodation onboard Queen Anne — falling between standard Britannia staterooms and Britannia Club staterooms and Queens Grill Suites — and they offer a generous 300-plus square feet of interior space that includes a well-designed bathroom with a roomy walk-in shower, as well as a comfortable balcony. The neutral-hued carpeting and tufted floor-to-ceiling headboard continue the ship’s geometric design theme, while mid-tone wood furnishings and regal red velvet accents add luxe sophistication.
The Panorama Pool Club is the Place to Be on a Sunny Sea Day
Queen Anne is a totally new ship design for Cunard, offering much more outdoor relaxation space than the other three ships in the fleet, and one of the most desirable spots to enjoy a sunny day at sea is the Panorama Pool Club. Located aft on deck 9 beyond the Artisans’ Food Hall (an elevated version of a traditional cruise ship buffet), the open-air deck features a pool and two whirlpools along with a bar and panoramic wake views.