Cunard has showcased the Mediterranean to Australian and New Zealand travel agents on a voyage designed to highlight the cruiseline’s expanding presence in the region, and to offer an immersive experience of “The Cunard Difference”.
Departing from Barcelona on a seven-night voyage to Istanbul, the group enjoyed a curated itinerary that combined enriching shore excursions and on-board training programmes. This experience deepened agents’ knowledge of Cunard’s Mediterranean offering, which continues to resonant strongly with the increasing popularity of fly-cruise holidays among Australian and New Zealand travellers.
On shore, calls in Türkiye, including Kusadasi and Istanbul, provided a captivating mix of ancient architecture and cultural heritage. Highlights included visits to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, and the iconic Spice Bazaar.
Aboard the ship, the guests were immersed in the full Cunard experience, featuring a fine dining event hosted by Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw and an exclusive look into the luxury Grills suites.
Other key experiences included:
- Champagne High Tea
- Two Gala-Evenings and a silent disco
- Dinner at the Lido Alternative restaurant Bamboo, and the Steakhouse at the Verandah
- Insights Programme talks from Author of the ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ Heather Morris, International Crime expert Malcolm Nelson and Paul Madden, the former British high Commissioner to Australia who spoke on the Gallipoli campaign.
- A bridge tour hosted by the Staff Captain
This hosted voyage comes as Cunard continues to strengthen its Mediterranean expansion. By 2027, the majority of Cunard’s fleet will be based in Europe during the Northen summer season, offering international travellers a broader selection of destinations and itineraries.
In a significant shift, Queen Elizabeth assumes the Mediterranean season from 2027, marking her first return to the region in a decade, while Queen Victoria moves to Southampton to operate extended European voyages.
