The name Cunard has been synonymous with lavish ocean cruising since the line launched the world’s first transatlantic sailing in 1840. The company prides itself on its British heritage and its reputation for elegance, fine cuisine and a high level of service.
Although now operated by the Carnival Corporation, Cunard Line maintains its high-class status with three of the most celebrated ships currently sailing: Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Mary 2 and their latest premium ship Queen Victoria which launched in December 2007.
Continuing the tradition of her Cunard and White Star Line predecessors, Queen Mary 2 is the only ship still offering a regular scheduled transatlantic service. She is the largest passenger ship ever built and will offer a round-the-world cruise – a voyage that epitomises Cunard’s continued tradition of grand voyages.
As well as Around-the-World cruises, destinations include North America, South America, the Caribbean, the UK, the Canaries, Northern Europe and Western Med, Eastern Med, and Central Mediterranean cruises . They provide a wide range of cruises that depart from Southampton as well as New York, Fort Lauderdale and Mediterranean ports. See our Cunard 2008 Late Deals and our Cunard 2009 Early Booking Offers.
Berlitz Cruise Review of Cunard
Sailing aboard a Cunard Line ship is quite different to being aboard a standard cruise ship. The ships incorporate a lot of maritime history and the traditions of ocean liners rather than of cruise ships per se.
Indeed, we can think of little that is more pleasing to the soul or more civilized than a transatlantic crossing, particularly if you are able to enjoy being cosseted in accommodation that affords you to dine in any of the ‘grill’-class restaurants with their fine cruise cuisine and presentation.
On cruises, simply being aboard any of the three ‘ocean liners’ provides a distinctly superior image and feeling when compared to ‘normal’ cruise ships with their tacky high-street trappings.
A wide range of joint travel programmes, tour configurations and pre-post stays is integrated into the marketing of all Cunard Line ships. All have well-stocked libraries, run by professional librarians, not cruise staff, as well as book shops and centres where ship buffs can purchase Cunard memorabilia.
Cunard Line ships are best suited to a wide range of seasoned and well-traveled couples and single travelers who enjoy a cosmopolitan setting of an ocean liner, with their extensive array of facilities, public rooms, dining rooms, and lecture programmes.
Cunard Line is the only cruise line that allows you to take your dog with you (transatlantic crossings only).
Find out more about Cunard cuisine and entertainment.
Gratuities and currency
The onboard currencies are the British pound and the US dollar (depending on the operating area of the ship). Gratuities are automatically charged to your onboard account (you will need to visit the information desk to make any changes necessary). The present amount is US$13 per person per day (Grill Class accommodation, including children) or US$11 per person per day (all other accommodation). In addition, 15% is automatically added to all bar and wine, and health spa/salon bills. |
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