Cunard occupies a category of one. Queen Mary 2 is the only ship in the world still making regular transatlantic liner crossings, and the brand's entire identity — from White Star Service to ballroom dancing to genuine formal nights — is built around a kind of old-world tradition that's become rare anywhere else at sea.
The Ships
Cunard's ships carry 2,691 to 3,000 guests. Queen Anne, launched in 2024, is Cunard's first new ship in 12 years and its largest yet. Queen Mary 2 remains the flagship for tradition, still running regular transatlantic crossings that no other line offers.
The Transatlantic Crossing
This is Cunard's signature product — a multi-day ocean crossing rather than a port-to-port itinerary, complete with formal evenings, ballroom dancing, and the kind of old-world liner experience that's genuinely disappeared from the rest of the industry.
Who This Line Is Actually For
Cunard suits clients who want the tradition of a classic transatlantic crossing or a more formal, old-world cruise experience — a distinct appeal from every other line in this category.
Best Time to Sail
Transatlantic crossings run year-round on Queen Mary 2, though spring and fall bring calmer seas. Caribbean sailings peak December through April.
The Details That Matter Before You Book
One bottle of wine or Champagne per adult guest (750ml max) is allowed on embarkation — a $20 corkage fee applies if opened in a public area, and alcohol bought ashore or in the gift shop is held until the final night. Gratuities are not included — roughly $17 per person per night in Britannia staterooms, $19 in Grill Suites, plus a 15% service charge on bar and wine purchases. Cunard is one of only a few lines left that still enforces formal and black-tie nights, especially in the Grill-class suites and on transatlantic crossings — worth flagging clearly to clients who dislike dressing up.
The One-Line Takeaway
Cunard is the right call for a client who wants the genuine tradition of ocean travel — a transatlantic crossing, formal nights, ballroom dancing — rather than a typical port-to-port cruise itinerary.
Frequently Asked
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Is Queen Mary 2 really the only transatlantic ship?
Yes — it's the only ship in the world still making regular scheduled transatlantic crossings, a genuinely unique product in modern cruising.
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Do I need formal wear?
Yes, more so than most competitors — Cunard still enforces real formal and black-tie nights, especially in Grill-class suites and on transatlantic sailings.
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What's the newest Cunard ship?
Queen Anne, launched in 2024 — Cunard's first new ship in 12 years and its largest yet.