Queen Anne: Sailing into the future aboard Cunard’s latest cruise ship

^{Written by Jay Cannon, Editor-in-Chief at Sail Away Magazine}

Sailing aboard Cunard’s newest cruise ship, Queen Anne, offers an experience where the grandeur of traditional ocean voyages meets modern luxury and innovation. As one steps aboard this splendid ship, there’s an immediate sense of entering into a new chapter in Cunard’s prestigious maritime legacy. This ship doesn’t merely transport; it transforms the concept of cruising with its blend of heritage and contemporary elegance. 

Queen Anne’s interior design is a dramatic departure from her sister ships. While retaining the lineage of the Cunard fleet, her aesthetics favour a modern yet timeless style. The Grand Lobby, with its soaring ceiling and intricate design, sets the tone for this beautiful vessel. The use of light and space creates an inviting environment that blends rich, dark woods with polished metals and soft lighting, making the transition from the traditional to the contemporary seamless and impressive. 

Cunard has long been celebrated for its dining and aboard Queen Anne, this tradition has evolved to new heights. Addressing the oft-mentioned limitations of its predecessors regarding dining variety, Queen Anne introduces a host of speciality restaurants. Aranya offers a delectable journey through India’s rich culinary landscape, while Aji Wa serves an array of pan-Asian dishes, including expertly crafted sushi. Tramanto, on the other hand, whisks guests away to the Mediterranean with its authentic dishes and rustic charm. Each restaurant is not only a place to dine but an immersive experience that caters to the senses. 

The culinary journey doesn’t stop at the speciality restaurants. The Wellness Café is a refreshing venue located near the Pavilion Pool, offering a variety of healthy options such as fresh salads and revitalising smoothies - ideal for those seeking nourishment without indulgence. For a more casual dining experience, the Pavilion Grill serves gourmet burgers that rival the finest onshore eateries. Meanwhile, Artisans’ Food Hall redefines the buffet experience with Cunard, presenting an array of choices that range from local delicacies to international favourites, ensuring that every palette is catered to. 

Onboard entertainment is both diverse and engaging. The Mareel Spa stands out with its extensive menu of therapeutic treatments and facilities, including a stunning hydrotherapy pool and an innovative snow sauna - a rarity at sea that offers a unique spa experience for paying guests. The spa’s design utilises natural materials and soothing colours to create a serene oasis that invites relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Queen Anne’s pool areas are thoughtfully designed, featuring ample sun loungers and a retractable roof at the Pavilion Pool, ensuring that swimming is enjoyable in any weather. These areas are perfect for both relaxation under the sun and leisurely afternoons spent reading by the water. 

For those seeking more traditional forms of entertainment, the Royal Court Theatre offers a slice of London’s West End at sea, with electrifying performances and lavish productions that captivate audiences night after night. The ship’s bars and lounges, including old favourites like the Commodore Club and the Chart Room, provide intimate settings for enjoying a cocktail or engaging in quiet conversation. 

Accommodation options aboard Queen Anne are a reflection of Cunard’s commitment to comfort and modern luxury. The staterooms are among the most spacious and elegantly appointed in the fleet, featuring a refined blue and gold colour scheme. Practical enhancements such as USB-A ports, solid stone worktops in the bathrooms and glass shower doors elevate the experience further, offering both comfort and convenience. The absence of shower curtains in favour of glass doors is a thoughtful touch that significantly enhances the bathroom’s functionality and aesthetic and shows that Cunard are listening to guest feedback. Luxurious amenities include premium Penhaligon toiletries - hand soap, hand cream, shower gel, shampoo and conditioner - adding a touch of indulgence to the daily routine. 

For those who opt for the ultimate in luxury, the Princess and Queens Grill suites provide an experience comparable to a stay at a prestigious London hotel. These suites offer enhanced privacy, exclusive dining options and personalised service that make them well worth the high premium. The Queens Grill experience is particularly distinguished, featuring the largest Grills Terrace in the fleet, complete with infinity whirlpools and exceptional service, creating an environment of unmatched luxury and relaxation for a big ship cruise line.

In conclusion…

Queen Anne is a remarkable embodiment of Cunard’s vision for the future of luxury ocean travel. She manages to capture the essence of classic cruising while providing an array of modern amenities and diversions that cater to all ages and preferences. From her sophisticated design and expansive culinary offerings to her luxurious accommodations and top-tier entertainment options, Queen Anne sets a new standard for what a luxury cruise experience should be. 

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