Luxury and expedition cruise line, Seabourn, is offering a new World Cruise for 2026, a 129-day voyage onboard the Seabourn Sojourn that visits fourteen different countries, called the “Ring of Fire: Hidden Gems,” available for booking now.
01.11.2023 - 07:31 / forbes.com / queen Anne
In May 2024, almost 3,000 guests and more than 1,200 crew will set sail from Southampton on the maiden voyage of the Queen Anne, the 249th vessel in the storied history of Cunard Line.
Following the maiden voyage to Spain and Portugal, Queen Anne will feature cruises to historic Mediterranean cities, Caribbean islands, and the Norwegian fjords during its first year of operation.
The launch of a new Cunard vessel is always a special occasion. Queen Anne’s status as the first new Cunard cruise ship in 12 years adds even more intrigue.
“Queen Anne is going to be quite different,” said 56-year-old captain Inger Klein Thorhauge to The Telegraph. “She has a more modern touch. This is the future for Cunard.”
Will the line manage to retain the touch of class Cunard is known for while moving with the times? With the launch fast approaching, here’s what you can expect from the latest Cunard cruise ship.
The Queen Anne cruise ship marries Cunard's 182-year legacy with modern design, featuring an updated livery and interiors by top design firms like David Collins Studio, renowned for its work on Claridge’s Hotel.
The ship's Grand Lobby boasts an Art Deco-inspired metal mural, reflecting the golden age of travel. Theater-goers will appreciate the lavish two-deck Royal Court Theatre.
Dining on the Queen Anne is more diverse with 15 restaurants, but traditionalists will be happy that mainstays Britannia Restaurant and the Golden Lion pub remain. The latter has received a revamp, and will be curated by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux. New additions include premium Japanese, Indian, Mediterranean, and steakhouse offerings.
Traditional features including the white-glove afternoon tea service and ballroom dancing remain, but are joined by a new late-night cabaret club, a pool area with DJ and retractable roof, and a wellness area featuring a Himalayan salt sauna.
Departing Southampton on May 3, 2024, the 7-night maiden voyage will make port calls in Spain’s La Coruña and Portugal’s Lisbon. With just two ports, there will be plenty of time for guests to explore the brand new ship.
Keen travelers hoping to join the maiden voyage will be disappointed, however. The voyage has been sold out for months. Accommodation is still available in all but the most premium suites for the second voyage, a 14-night Canary Islands itinerary.
Mediterranean cruises will be an important part of Queen Anne’s first year, as the ship visits historic cities such as Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Cartagena, and the port of Civitavecchia for trips to Rome.
Norwegian fjords cruises will also be available, as Queen Anne sails along some of Norway’s most picturesque waterways including the Sognefjord and Aurlandsfjord.
The ship’s debut year rounds
Luxury and expedition cruise line, Seabourn, is offering a new World Cruise for 2026, a 129-day voyage onboard the Seabourn Sojourn that visits fourteen different countries, called the “Ring of Fire: Hidden Gems,” available for booking now.
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