Stellar lineup of authors and journalists onboard Cunard’s inaugural Australian Literature Festival at Sea

Stellar lineup of authors and journalists onboard Cunard’s inaugural Australian Literature Festival at Sea
Edited by Travel Weekly


Cunard’s inaugural Australian Literature Festival at Sea, in partnership with leading bookstore Dymocks, has revealed a range of unique experiences that guests onboard the Queen Elizabeth will enjoy during the five-night sailing departing Sydney on 11 December 2024.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for book lovers features an impressive lineup of literature talent and has quickly become a much-anticipated highlight of the local literary scene.

The festival will feature a stellar lineup of authors, including acclaimed British author Alexander McCall Smith, Australian bestselling author Fiona McIntosh, one of Australia’s most prolific and internationally published authors Dr Anita Heiss, Graeme Simsion and Anne Buist of The Rosie Project fame, award-winning New Zealand author Paul Cleave, travel journalist and columnist Sue Williams and children’s book author and illustrator Elizabeth Stanley.

Queen Elizabeth docked at Circular Quay.

Highly acclaimed journalist joins as MC

Hosting the event will be 16-time Walkley Award-winning investigative journalist Nick McKenzie. Known for his work exposing corruption and criminal wrongdoing, McKenzie will engage guests with facilitating insightful talks and a special session detailing his most exhilarating cases, including Crossing the Line, his pivotal investigation into war criminal Ben Roberts-Smith.

Workshops, talks and trivia

Guests aboard the luxurious Queen Elizabeth will be enthralled by the authors’ stage talks, sharing insights into their careers, inspirations, and challenges.

The authors will not only discuss their approach to writing but also conduct intimate writing and illustrating workshops, teaching guests new skills including how to write a travel story and create a picture book for kids.

Highlights include a panel discussion on literature trends and a trivia session where guests can challenge the authors’ literary knowledge. Ample opportunities will be available to chat with authors and get books signed.

During the port call to historic Hobart, Cunard will offer bespoke shore experiences that allow guests to delve into the literary theme on land.

“Cunard’s first-ever Australian Literature Festival at Sea has proven to be highly popular among literature fans,” Cunard president Katie McAlister said.

“This event voyage, on board the magnificent Queen Elizabeth, offers a unique and captivating experience that combines the beauty of luxurious ocean travel with engaging sessions led by accomplished international and local authors. The announcement of our program is the final puzzle piece to this sailing, where the written word takes centre stage.”

Remarkable program in an inspiring setting

Departing 11 December 2024, the five-night return sailing from Sydney to Tasmania (Voyage Q435) is designed to inspire and educate guests through thought-provoking talks and interactive workshops, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Australian coastline.

This voyage will offer guests a remarkable fusion of literature and travel, bringing together award-winning authors, passionate readers and aspiring writers in an inspiring maritime setting.

About the ship

Beyond the literature aspects, the sailing offers all the luxuries Cunard is renowned for. Queen Elizabeth features sumptuous dining experiences across 10 restaurants, bars and cafes, world-class entertainment and fabulous wellness and leisure activities, ensuring a truly memorable voyage.

Its Queens Grill Suites epitomise luxury at sea with private butler services and numerous high-end inclusions. Daily Afternoon Tea served by white-gloved waiters and Gala Evenings in the Queens Room are just some of the many Cunard staples guests can look forward to.

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