Strengthening Cunard’s Legacy in Global Cruising
Queen Anne is now the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag, reinforcing the cruise line’s legacy of luxury travel that dates back nearly two centuries. Sydney Harbour served as a dramatic backdrop for the ship’s Australian arrival, with an elaborate welcome befitting Cunard’s reputation. This event marked a significant milestone for both the brand and the Australian cruising market, which continues to see increasing interest from international travelers.
Built to accommodate 3,000 guests and 1,225 crew members, Queen Anne was introduced to the fleet in 2024, offering a blend of classic Cunard traditions and new-age cruising innovations.
A Revolution in Cruise Ship Design and Accommodation
The design of Queen Anne was overseen by creative director Adam Tihany, with a focus on maintaining Cunard’s art-deco heritage while incorporating modern aesthetics. The Grand Lobby, which spans three decks, serves as the central attraction for guests boarding the ship, offering an immediate visual statement of grandeur.
For accommodation, six categories are available to passengers:
- Britannia Inside
- Britannia Oceanview
- Britannia Balcony
- Britannia Club Balcony
- Princess Grill Suites
- Queens Grill Suites
In response to increasing demand, Britannia Club staterooms have been expanded by over 200% compared to other Cunard ships, reflecting changing preferences among luxury cruise travelers.
The ship consists of 14 decks, although, as is common with many vessels and hotels, deck 13 is omitted due to superstitions associated with the number.
Culinary Innovation: Michelin-Starred Excellence and Cunard Firsts
Dining aboard Queen Anne has been curated to provide an array of experiences, featuring 15 dining venues ranging from casual fare to gourmet indulgences. Notably, the ship introduces the first-ever Asian restaurant in Cunard’s fleet, a concept named Aji Wa, meaning “harmony of flavors”, serving Japanese cuisine.
Other highlights include Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, who has designed specialty dishes to elevate the onboard culinary experience. The variety of dining options underscores the shift toward global gastronomy within luxury cruising, catering to diverse palates and emerging culinary trends.
Redefining Entertainment and Onboard Leisure
Beyond its luxurious accommodations and fine dining, Queen Anne has enhanced entertainment experiences with newly designed venues. Among these, the Bright Lights Society, an intimate cabaret-style club, introduces a fresh take on live performances, blending theatrical flair with an exclusive lounge atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Cunard’s signature venue, the Queens Room, has received a new striking redesign for Queen Anne. It continues to host afternoon teas, classical recitals, ballroom dancing, and gala evenings, maintaining its traditional role as an elegant social hub for passengers.
The ship also features The Pavilion, an all-in-one entertainment and recreation hub, offering guests relaxation, swimming, and dining options in an integrated, modernized setting.
Navigating Queen Anne: A Female Captain at the Helm
Cunard made history with the appointment of Inger Klein Thorhauge as the first female captain of Queen Anne. Having started her career as a Second Officer on Cunard’s Vistafjord in 1997, she has risen through the ranks to command both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth before taking the helm of Queen Anne.
During the Sydney welcome event, Captain Inger reflected on her role, stating that she had the privilege of overseeing the construction, launch, and inaugural voyage of Queen Anne, leading the ship into service and guiding it through its maiden world journey. She described the ship as a new chapter in Cunard’s storied legacy, symbolizing both innovation and tradition.
Her leadership highlights the evolving gender dynamics within the cruise industry, as more women take on high-ranking positions in what has historically been a male-dominated field.
Queen Anne’s Global Route and Its Significance for the Cruise Industry
On February 28, 2025, Queen Anne docked in Sydney with 2,610 guests aboard. Among them, 1,067 passengers had embarked on the entire 107-day World Voyage, including 39 Australians who were set to travel through multiple international ports.
Following its time in Sydney, the ship was scheduled to visit further Australian destinations, including:
- The Whitsunday Islands
- Cairns
- Darwin
Beyond Australia, the voyage was set to continue to Bitung (Indonesia), Manila (Philippines), and Hong Kong, contributing to an increase in regional cruise tourism across Asia-Pacific.
Impact on the Global Travel Market
Cunard’s investment in Queen Anne aligns with broader trends in the cruise industry, which has seen a resurgence in demand following recent global disruptions. With luxury cruising making a strong comeback, the introduction of new-generation ships like Queen Anne reflects growing consumer interest in long-haul voyages, premium onboard experiences, and niche destinations.
This expansion is expected to:
- Attract new demographics to luxury cruising, particularly younger travelers who seek modernized experiences while maintaining the elegance of classic ocean liners.
- Boost regional economies in destinations visited, as passenger spending in ports contributes to local tourism revenue.
- Encourage future cruise ship developments, with Cunard and rival cruise lines likely to increase investment in modern, eco-friendly vessels.
A Look Toward the Future of Cunard and Luxury Cruising
As Queen Anne continues its maiden voyage, its successful debut may set the foundation for Cunard’s future fleet expansion. With an increasing emphasis on luxury, sustainability, and enhanced guest experiences, the cruise industry appears poised for a new era of growth and innovation.
For passengers, Queen Anne represents not just a new ship, but an opportunity to experience ocean travel at its finest, blending historical grandeur with contemporary sophistication.
Key Takeaways
- Queen Anne is Cunard’s first new ship in 14 years, designed to modernize luxury cruising while retaining classic elegance.
- The ship features 15 dining venues, including Cunard’s first-ever Asian restaurant, Aji Wa.
- Entertainment offerings have been revamped, including the introduction of the Bright Lights Society cabaret venue.
- Inger Klein Thorhauge is Cunard’s first female captain, symbolizing greater inclusivity in the industry.
- Queen Anne’s maiden World Voyage spans 107 days, stopping in Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Hong Kong.
- The ship’s expanded accommodations, upgraded leisure facilities, and culinary innovations reflect the next generation of luxury cruising.
With Cunard’s legacy strengthened and Queen Anne’s grand debut, the ship is expected to play a major role in shaping the future of ocean voyages for years to come.
Tags: Cunard, Queen Anne, World Voyage Australia
