Majesty Reimagined: A First Look Aboard Queen Anne

Majesty Reimagined: A First Look Aboard Queen Anne

The moment Queen Anne comes into view, her iconic Cunard livery sets the tone — regal, commanding, and refined. With her debut, this 114,188-ton ship doesn’t just join the fleet; she ushers in a new chapter for the historic line.

I had the unique opportunity to sail on her maiden voyage from May 3–10, 2024, serving as a guest lecturer. While my role wasn’t that of a traditional passenger, I’ve traveled aboard every Cunard Queen since the QE2, and Queen Anne offered a fascinating blend of the familiar and the unexpected.

A Grand Entrance

From the very first steps aboard, Queen Anne makes an impression. The ship’s Grand Lobby soars across three decks, a modern marvel with hints of classic inspiration. A sweeping, metallic-finished staircase curves down elegantly through the space, bordered by glass balustrades. Behind it, an eye-catching artwork brings the ship’s Italian heritage to life with scenes of seafaring, ocean liners, and Venetian canals.

This sense of graceful flow continues throughout the ship. Circular design elements, open wells, and curved staircases echo the sophisticated interiors of her predecessors while forging a fresh identity.

Curtain Up on Adventure

Queen Anne is a ship that delights in the art of performance. The Royal Court Theatre — an 825-seat haven — hosts evening shows, musical numbers, and an engaging Insights lecture program. A standout moment? The ship’s stunning adaptation of Brief Encounter, where lighting and projection heighten the drama and draw you into the story.

Another gem is Noir, performed in the immersive Bright Lights Society. From the moment you enter, the cast is already in character, adding a layer of intrigue and fun. For those wary of audience participation — rest easy. The performers subtly gauge who’s open to the spotlight and who’d rather watch from the sidelines.

The Mareel Spa is another highlight. The hydro-pool, though perhaps not as iconic as the one aboard Queen Mary 2, is certainly a step above Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria. Surrounding it is a well-equipped fitness center, a dedicated spinning zone, and the tranquil Wellness Studio, offering yoga and wellness classes with a view.

Just below, the Wellness Café serves nutritious, plant-forward meals in a serene setting that overlooks The Pavilion — a poolside oasis with a retractable roof, bar, whirlpools, a takeaway grill, and a delightful gelato stand. This versatile venue is a hub of activity by day and transforms for cocktail parties by night.

Dining, Redefined

Queen Anne’s dining venues are both grand and intimate, with options tailored to your cabin category. At the top are the Queens Grill and Princess Grill, each offering an elegant single-seating dining experience with private lounge access.

The Britannia Club Restaurant wraps around the Grand Lobby, while the sprawling Britannia Restaurant spans two decks at the aft, offering early, late, and open-seating arrangements. It’s a study in modern luxury, with artful touches like a spiral staircase reminiscent of the QE2 and etched panels drawing inspiration from the legendary Queen Mary.

New to the line are several specialty restaurants that offer an exciting culinary journey. Tramonto delivers Mediterranean sunshine on a plate; Aranya spices things up with bold Indian flavors. Aji Wa brings Japanese finesse, and Sir Samuel’s Steakhouse offers hearty classics with a polished twist. Don’t miss the sherry trifle — an indulgent favorite of mine!

Familiar Touches & Bold Choices

Queen Anne retains many beloved venues from her sister ships. The Golden Lion pub is larger and livelier, the Chart Room exudes warmth, and the Commodore Club provides forward-facing views perfect for a sunset cocktail.

The Queens Room, however, may spark debate among traditionalists. Its sleek, modern design contrasts with its more ornate predecessors, featuring a curved dance floor and dramatic upper-level seating. Boutiques flank the upper deck, and while a library remains, some long-time guests may lament the absence of a dedicated bookshop.

A Comfortable Retreat

Cabins aboard Queen Anne have received thoughtful upgrades, especially in the bathroom department. Gone are the dreaded shower curtains — in their place are tiled walls, glass doors, and sleek vanities.

The decor throughout the accommodations is chic, with Art Deco lighting, curated artwork, and an intuitive entertainment system. Service is, as always, exceptional — my cabin steward, Simba, was attentive and friendly throughout the voyage.

Storage in the Britannia and Club Balcony categories may feel a bit tight for longer trips, particularly due to the lack of drawers, but for a seven-day journey, it was perfectly manageable.

Setting Sail for the Future

As Cunard nears its 185th anniversary, Queen Anne stands as a bold yet respectful evolution of the brand. She nods to the past while confidently stepping into the future, offering something for both seasoned voyagers and first-time cruisers.

Whether you’re drawn by the ship’s glamour, its cultural offerings, or simply the lure of the open sea, Queen Anne invites you to discover ocean travel anew. I know I’ll be back — and I suspect many others will, too.