Sailing into Luxury: An Honest Review of Cunard’s New Queen Anne Cruise Ship
Cunard’s Queen Anne, launched in 2024, marks a new chapter in the iconic cruise line’s history, blending tradition with modern luxury. As the first new ship in 14 years, it offers a fresh take on Cunard’s classic elegance, catering to both loyal fans and new generations of cruisers. In this review, we delve into the highlights of Queen Anne, from its sophisticated dining options to its innovative entertainment venues.
Introduction to Queen Anne
Queen Anne is a $600 million vessel that stands out for its contemporary design while retaining Cunard’s timeless charm. It is larger than its predecessors, accommodating up to 2,996 passengers, and features a more packed itinerary, including a wide range of dining and entertainment options. The ship’s British heritage is evident in its amenities, such as the traditional English pub and daily afternoon tea service.
Dining Experience on Queen Anne
Cunard’s Queen Anne boasts an array of dining options that cater to diverse tastes. The ship features four main restaurants, each associated with different cabin classes, ensuring that every guest feels welcome. The culinary journey extends beyond these formal venues with several extra-charge eateries offering Mediterranean, Indian, and other international cuisines.
Key dining highlights include:
- Mediterranean Cuisine: Influenced by African and Arabic flavors, offering a unique twist on traditional dishes.
- Contemporary Indian Restaurant: One of the first of its kind on a cruise ship, providing an exciting culinary experience.
- Formal Main Restaurants: Each associated with a specific cabin category, maintaining Cunard’s tradition of formal dining.
Entertainment and Activities
Queen Anne elevates the entertainment experience with a variety of shows and activities, including a new cabaret venue that hosts a murder mystery theater show. The ship’s top deck features The Pavilion, a stunning pool area with a retractable glass roof, perfect for relaxation in any weather. Other activities include a paddle tennis court, putting green, and shuffleboard, catering to those seeking leisurely fun.
Some of the standout entertainment options include:
- Cabaret Venue: Features innovative shows like a murder mystery theater.
- Production Shows: Engaging performances such as “Pride and Prejudice (sort of)” and the innovative “Imagination” production.
- Live Music: Various venues offer live music, adding to the ship’s lively atmosphere.
Accommodations on Queen Anne
The cabins on Queen Anne are designed to be modern and spacious, with thoughtful touches such as ample charging stations and comfortable bedding. The Princess Grill suites offer a balance between luxury and affordability, providing exclusive access to private lounges and a dedicated restaurant. However, some guests have noted that storage space could be improved, particularly for longer voyages.
A detailed look at Queen Anne’s accommodations:
| Cabin Category | Features | Exclusive Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Britannia Inside Staterooms | Modern design, spacious, quiet, and affordable. | No specific exclusive benefits. |
| Princess Grill Suites | Modern decor, exclusive lounge, and restaurant access. | Private lounge and dining area. |
| Queens Grill Suites | High-end luxury, spacious, with premium amenities. | Ultimate luxury experience with all Princess Grill benefits. |
Wellness and Relaxation
Queen Anne places a strong emphasis on wellness, partnering with Harper’s Bazaar U.K. to offer a vegetarian-forward restaurant and a comprehensive fitness program. The Wellness Cafe provides healthy dining options, and the nearby bar serves pressed juices and smoothies. However, some guests have noted that the Wellness Studio feels underutilized, suggesting room for improvement.
Some key wellness features:
- Vegetarian-forward Restaurant: Offers healthy and innovative dining options.
- Wellness Bar: Provides a selection of juices and smoothies.
- Fitness Program: Includes various classes and activities to keep guests active.
Service and Experience
While Queen Anne has received praise for its modern amenities and entertainment, some guests have reported inconsistent service quality. This includes instances of listless service and untrained crew members, which Cunard is actively working to improve. Despite these challenges, the ship remains a promising addition to the Cunard fleet, offering a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Cunard’s Queen Anne is a ship that feels like a step into the future, yet it still resonates with the traditional elegance that has always defined Cunard. While it may still be finding its footing, its potential is undeniable.
As with any new vessel, there is a learning curve, but Cunard is committed to refining the Queen Anne experience to meet the high standards its loyal passengers expect. With its blend of modern luxury and classic charm, Queen Anne is poised to become a favorite among cruisers looking for a sophisticated and memorable voyage ???.
Conclusion on Queen Anne’s Potential
Queen Anne represents a significant evolution for Cunard, marking a transition towards more contemporary cruising while retaining the essence of its heritage. Despite some teething issues, the ship offers a compelling blend of luxury, entertainment, and wellness options that will likely appeal to both seasoned cruisers and newcomers alike. As Cunard continues to refine the Queen Anne experience, it is clear that this vessel will play a key role in shaping the future of luxury cruising.
In terms of growth and potential, Cunard’s approach to modernizing its offerings while staying true to its roots is a strategic move that could attract a broader audience. By addressing the current service inconsistencies and leveraging feedback, Queen Anne has the potential to become a flagship for Cunard’s modern era, appealing to travelers seeking a unique blend of tradition and modern luxury ?????.