Cunard unveils makeover for Queen Elizabeth

Cunard unveils makeover for Queen Elizabeth
Edited by Travel Weekly


Cunard has announced an era-defining refurbishment of the Queen Elizabeth, ahead of its inaugural Caribbean program sailing from Miami and debut Alaska season from Seattle in 2025.

The luxurious 2,000 guest ship undergoes a significant refurbishment from 25 February to 13 March 2025, in Seatrium’s Admiralty Yard in Singapore, preparing her for a new Alaska season from Seattle in June and a debut voyage from Miami to the Caribbean on 16 October. The Caribbean season begins with a 12-night roundtrip sailing, offering guests the chance to visit Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison and the markets of Castries, St. Lucia.

Queen Elizabeth top suite.

Queen Elizabeth top suite.

For the first time in Cunard’s history, one of their iconic vessels spends the full season in Miami and Queen Elizabeth offering a dedicated program of roundtrip Caribbean voyages with itineraries ranging from 9 to 28 nights. Guest can enjoy idyllic escapes to iconic destinations including Montego Bay in Jamaica, San Juan in Puerto Rico and St John’s in Antigua.

Queen Elizabeth‘s transformation features refreshed signature interiors and exteriors designed to capture both tranquillity and vibrancy. Signature spaces such as the Commodore Club, Queens Room, Panorama Pool Club, Garden Lounge and The Pavilion will be thoughtfully revitalised, connecting guests to the ocean while providing the perfect space to relax or enjoy al fresco dining.

Queen Elizabeth Commodore Club.

Queen Elizabeth Commodore Club.

As part of Queen Elizabeth’s transformation, the Grills experience, a hallmark of Cunard’s luxury offering, will be elevated to new heights. Guests staying in the exclusive Grills suites can enjoy enhanced interiors and exterior, featuring sumptuous furnishings, sophisticated detailing, and thoughtful design to deliver the ultimate in comfort and style.

The Grills dining experience enhancements also include a special menu crafted exclusively for Grills guests by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux. Launching on Queen Elizabeth following her refit, this three course Gala Evening menu, which currently features across the Cunard fleet, features expertly curated dishes designed to celebrate the finest culinary experiences at sea.

Queen Elizabeth Grills terrace.

Queen Elizabeth Grills terrace.

“Crafting exclusive new menus for Cunard’s Grills guests is an extraordinary privilege,” Chef Roux said. “This project allows me to blend my passion for fine dining with the timeless elegance and sophistication that define the Cunard Grills experience. Each dish is carefully created to celebrate the finest ingredients, ensuring every meal is as special as the voyage itself. I’m incredibly fond of my partnership with Cunard and I’m really excited to continue this luxury collaboration in 2025.”

Another standout feature of the refurbishment is the introduction of The Pavilion Wellness Cafe, which debuted earlier this year on Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne.  This wellness-focused venue serves breakfast, lunch hand daytime dining with a menu celebrating plant-based cuisine alongside sustainably sourced meet, fish and dairy.

Guests can also enjoy the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea program, first seen on Queen Anne. This innovative program offers three-day packages tailored to relaxation, energy restoration or recovery, providing a rejuvenating journey at sea.

Queen Elizabeth hall.

Queen Elizabeth hall.

“As Queen Elizabeth prepares for her highly anticipated debut seasons in the Caribbean from Miami and Alaska from Seattle, this transformation marks an exciting new chapter for Cunard. Inspired by the beauty of these extraordinary destinations, the ship’s revitalisation will seamlessly blend timeless elegance with modern comforts, creating an unparalleled guest experience,” Cunard president, Katie McAlister, said.

“We are especially excited to introduce the exclusive Gala Evening menu, crafted by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux. This remarkable addition will elevate the Grills dining experience to even greater heights, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it.”

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