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About Cunard Line

Only the ships of Cunard Line evoke the nostalgia of the Golden Age of ocean travel. With a tradition of luxury and service that began in 1840, the line maintains that heritage - though a Cunard Line Caribbean cruise today is significantly different in tone and atmosphere from the ocean crossings of yesteryear.

All ships have a romantic aura of glamour that is different from the showy glitz of other big ships. Though the Transatlantic crossings come closest to replicating the historic voyages, the three Queens now travel the world and have a loyal following of repeat guests.

The very formal all-British crews have been replaced by a mix of British and international crew members, though service remains at a high standard, especially for passengers in the higher cabin grades. This reflects the old class system of the old ships whereby those traveling in the better accommodations could expect the best food, the best amenities and the best service. Today passengers in the less expensive cabins can enjoy the atmosphere of iconic ships, but expect service and food on a par with other (non-luxury) cruise lines.

Cunard Line is best for:

Travelers seeking a traditional ocean liner experience;
Those who prefer educational pursuits onboard rather than Vegas-style entertainment;
Those who purchase higher-ticket cabins and are seeking a luxury cruise experience on iconic ships;
Those who wish to experience British-style travel;
Families who wish alternatives to transatlantic air travel (and who wish to travel with pets);
Those who desire a stylish world cruise.

The atmosphere and experience on-board Cunard Line:

The three Queens represent a marriage of modern technology and Old World charm and elegance. As it was in the "old days," passengers are segregated according the level of their accommodations. Passengers booked into Grills suites can expect accommodations that range from luxurious to spectacular - for example, the Grand Duplex, 2,248-square feet of glamour and style.

Passengers booked in suites or above dine in the Princess or Queens Grill, where requests for particular dishes can be fulfilled. Others dine in the elegant two-tier Britannia Restaurant, which features a dramatic grand staircase and some sumptuous menus. The Britannia has two seatings, but passengers who book a Britannia Club stateroom enjoy single-seating dining in the cozier Britannia Club restaurant.

All three ships have other dining venues; the QM2 and Queen Victoria have Todd English restaurants.

Onboard enrichment on the Queens is equal (or better) than anything at sea. Passengers may be treated to performances by actors from London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts; contemporary jazz by faculty and students of the famed Julliard School; planetarium shows created by the Royal Astronomical Society. There's more, of course, including the riches of the biggest libraries at sea. The spas on the Queens (especially the one on QM2) are simply beautiful.

During the day, shorts and beach wear are acceptable; however after 6 p.m., these as well as sandals, denim, sleeveless T-shirts (for men) are not appropriate. Casual wear is acceptable in the main restaurants for breakfast and lunch. Dress code for the evenings is announced in the daily programs and generally falls into two categories: informal (jackets for men, cocktail dresses or stylish separates for women) or formal (tuxedos or dark suits or military uniforms for men, evening or cocktail dresses or dressy pants suits for women).

The clientele of Cunard Line:

Cunard Line attracts an international clientele (onboard announcements are made in English, German, French, and Spanish.) who prefer a traditional ocean liner experience. Passengers tend to be older, but Transatlantic crossings, especially during school holidays, attract younger passengers and families.

Regarding children onboard Cunard Line: Children at least 6 months of age are welcome on most Cunard Line voyages; on Transatlantic Crossings, Transpacific voyages (including voyages to Hawaii) and World Voyages (including Segment Voyages), the minimum age is one year. A full children's program, from nursery to teens, is offered. Certified British nannies will change diapers, bottle feed and engage young children.