Cunard, the luxury British cruise line, has made a significant announcement, reporting record-breaking bookings in 2024. The brand saw an exceptional surge in guest reservations between January 1 and October 31, 2024, recording an impressive 73,000 more bookings compared to the same period in 2023. This 23% year-on-year increase marks the highest number of reservations ever made for Cunard in this time frame.

The dramatic growth is attributed to several key factors, including the highly anticipated launch of Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, in May 2024, as well as the introduction of new cruise itineraries that have captured the interest of travelers worldwide. The brand’s UK and North American markets were particularly influential in this growth, with a 24% increase in bookings from the UK and a 29% increase from North America, compared to 2023.

The launch of Queen Anne, Cunard’s fourth vessel, has been a major milestone for the brand. As part of the company’s ambitious strategy, the new ship expanded Cunard’s fleet capacity and brought a new level of luxury cruising to its customers. The addition of Queen Anne to Cunard’s fleet has been met with significant enthusiasm, further increasing the line’s appeal to both new and returning guests.

In addition to the ship’s debut, Cunard introduced new itineraries for 2026 and beyond, with the Winter 2026 and Summer 2026 programs launched earlier in 2024 and the Winter 2027 itineraries following in October. These forward-looking programs are a clear indication of Cunard’s commitment to offering diverse, attractive travel options that cater to both new guests and loyal cruisers.

International Demand for Cunard Cruises Grows

Cunard has a long-standing reputation as an iconic British brand, and its global appeal continues to rise. The cruise line reports that, for the first time, more than half of its bookings between January and October 2024 originated from outside the UK. This international growth is being driven by Cunard’s targeted marketing campaigns across Europe, the U.S., and emerging markets, which have generated a 22% increase in international bookings compared to the previous year.

First-Time Guests Drive Cunard’s Record Success

The remarkable rise in bookings is not only reflective of Cunard’s growing international appeal but also of the brand’s ability to attract new guests. From January to October 2024, Cunard saw a 49% increase in first-time guests compared to the same period in 2023. This surge in first-time travelers highlights Cunard’s ability to appeal to a wide audience, attracting cruisers who may have previously considered other cruise lines or never sailed before.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, commented on the milestone, stating, “We are thrilled to see such a significant increase in bookings in 2024. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our teams and partners worldwide, and reflects the growing demand for Cunard’s unparalleled luxury cruise experiences. The launch of Queen Anne has been a key driver of this success, and we are excited for the future as we continue to deliver exceptional travel experiences for both our loyal guests and new cruisers.”

Cunard’s global strategy continues to position the brand as a leader in luxury cruise travel. Its blend of traditional elegance and modern luxury has made it a preferred choice for travelers seeking high-end, immersive experiences on the water.

Expanding Cunard’s Fleet and Brand Presence

Cunard has a storied history that stretches back to 1840, and it is now looking toward an exciting future. The brand recently celebrated 185 years of luxury cruise operations and is set to commemorate the milestone with several high-profile events in 2025. These special Event Voyages will be a part of Cunard’s 2025 offerings, providing an opportunity for guests to experience exclusive events aboard its ships.

Currently, Cunard operates four ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and Queen Anne. The addition of Queen Anne marks the first time since 1999 that Cunard has had four ships in simultaneous service, reflecting its commitment to expanding its fleet and maintaining its position at the forefront of the luxury cruise market. Cunard is based in Southampton, England, and is part of the Carnival Corporation & plc group, having been under Carnival’s ownership since 1998.

The brand’s growth is evident not just in its fleet expansion but also in the luxury experiences it offers aboard its ships. Cunard continues to provide exceptional dining, hand-selected entertainment, and world-class service to its guests. Collaborations with renowned chefs, guest speakers, and artists further elevate the Cunard experience, ensuring that every voyage is memorable and unique.

A Bright Future for Cunard and Luxury Cruising

As Cunard continues to innovate and expand, it remains committed to offering its guests the highest levels of luxury, comfort, and personalized service. With the launch of Queen Anne and its growing international bookings, Cunard is poised for even greater success in the coming years. The cruise line’s ongoing focus on quality, guest satisfaction, and new itineraries promises to keep it at the forefront of the luxury cruise market for years to come.