Southampton, UK: The legendary Cunard Line, known for its timeless elegance and traditional cruising heritage, has launched its first new Luxury Cruise Ship in over a decade — the magnificent Queen Anne. The ship aims to blend classic British sophistication with modern luxury, marking a bold new chapter for the century-old cruise company.
But the big question remains — does Queen Anne truly live up to Cunard’s royal reputation, or is it drifting too far from tradition? Let’s dive into our full Queen Anne Cruise Review to find out.
First Impressions: A Modern Touch to a Classic Legacy
From the moment you step onboard, Queen Anne feels unlike any previous Cunard Cruise Ship.
Instead of the classic dark wood interiors, this ship welcomes guests with bright tones, gold accents, and artistic modern décor. The ambiance feels younger and fresher, yet it still carries the unmistakable aura of Cunard’s heritage.
Built after seven years of design and construction, Queen Anne stands as a bridge between tradition and innovation, appealing both to loyal Cunard travelers and a new generation of cruise enthusiasts.
Cabin Experience: Affordable Yet Premium Feel
We stayed in the cheapest Inside Cabin, and surprisingly, it didn’t feel budget at all.
The cabin features:
Elegant blue-and-gold color palette
Comfortable bedding
Smart lighting and mirror placement
Compact yet functional layout
Even without an ocean view, the room feels cozy and well-designed — proof that Cunard understands comfort even in its most affordable cabins.
Dining Review: Classy Main Dining Room, But Buffet Needs Work
Cunard’s reputation for fine dining remains intact. The Main Dining Room offers:
- A calm, elegant atmosphere
- Large panoramic windows
- Impeccable service
- Delicious, well-presented dishes
However, the Buffet Restaurant needs improvement. While the “food court” concept sounds good, the organization and crowd control during peak hours felt chaotic.
Still, The Golden Lion Pub serves excellent fish & chips, and the Pool Grill burgers are among the best at sea — all included in the cruise fare.
Bars & Entertainment: Where Classic Meets Contemporary
Queen Anne’s entertainment lineup mixes timeless Cunard elegance with modern fun.
Highlights include:
Noir — an interactive, theatrical show with modern storytelling
Karaoke nights at the Pub — surprisingly lively and engaging
Queen’s Room Ballroom — traditional dancing returns, as elegant as ever
Live music in almost every lounge — from jazz to pop classics
Formal nights continue to be part of the Cunard charm, where guests dress to impress — a tradition that adds to the ship’s regal atmosphere.
Afternoon Tea: Traditional Taste, Modern Setting
The Afternoon Tea Service, one of Cunard’s proudest traditions, continues aboard Queen Anne.
Guests enjoy white-glove service, soothing classical music, and freshly baked scones, pastries, and sandwiches. However, the venue feels smaller compared to previous ships, losing a bit of the “grand ballroom” charm — though the experience remains delightful.
Outdoor & Pool Decks: Elegant but European Weather Plays Spoilsport
Queen Anne features two pool areas, one with a retractable roof — but unfortunately, it was closed for maintenance during our trip.
Still, the open deck seating and stylish sun terraces make it a relaxing space to unwind, especially during warmer cruises.
One small disappointment is the Promenade Deck, which feels narrower than Cunard’s older ships — a minor letdown for traditionalists.
Wi-Fi, App & Connectivity
Cunard has stepped into the digital era with decent Wi-Fi service and a functional Cunard App for dining and entertainment bookings. However, high-speed streaming (like YouTube) remains restricted, and the app could still use smoother navigation.
Price Breakdown & Value for Money
For our 4-night Queen Anne Cruise to Bruges and Cherbourg:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Inside Cabin (Double Occupancy) | £589 |
| Service Charge & Tips | £64 |
| Wi-Fi | £80 |
| Soda Package | £54 |
| Misc. Spend (Casino, Drinks) | £10 |
| Total | £750 / $938 (Approx.) |
While not the cheapest option, the price feels justified considering it’s a brand-new Luxury Cruise Ship from one of the most iconic names in cruising.
Final Verdict: A Fresh Future for Cunard
Queen Anne isn’t just another Cunard ship — it’s a symbol of transformation.
It retains the grace, class, and charm that loyal Cunard fans adore, while introducing modern design, youthful energy, and more relaxed experiences for today’s traveler.
Pros
- Gorgeous modern interiors
- World-class dining & entertainment
- Luxurious cabin experience
- Balanced mix of old and new traditions
Cons
- Buffet organization needs improvement
- Narrow promenade deck
- Some entertainment not suited for all audiences
Overall Rating: 4.2 / 5
Queen Anne successfully redefines what a Luxury Cruise Experience can be in 2025 — offering classic British charm with a modern soul.
If you’re someone who appreciates heritage, comfort, and style, but also loves innovation and variety, this Cunard Queen Anne Cruise is absolutely worth your voyage.