Cunard’s iconic Queen Elizabeth made its inaugural appearance in Seattle on June 12, marking a significant milestone as the ship will serve as the homeport for Alaska sailings for the first time. This latest announcement has generated significant excitement among cruise enthusiasts.
Following its summer season in Alaska, Queen Elizabeth will be embarking on another historical venture, featuring a full schedule of Caribbean sailings from Miami starting in October. This dedication to Caribbean voyages is unprecedented for Cunard, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding its offerings in popular cruise destinations.
Convenient Roundtrip Itineraries from Seattle
The Alaska itineraries will range from seven to eleven nights, providing convenient roundtrip options for American travelers. Liz Fettes, Cunard’s Senior Vice President of Commercial North America, emphasized the importance of making travel more accessible. “Many of our guests hail from California and the broader West Coast, making it easy to travel from their own backyard,” Fettes stated.
A Groundbreaking Partnership in Seattle
Seattle’s Port Director, Steve Metruck, shared his enthusiasm about Queen Elizabeth homeporting in the city for the first time. “This partnership marks a major milestone in our efforts to expand economic opportunities and support local jobs in the cruise industry,” said Metruck. The collaboration is expected to advance sustainable and responsible tourism in the region.
Enriching Alaska Sailings
During the Alaska sailings, guests can look forward to an enriching experience facilitated by Cunard’s partnership with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. These sailings will feature lectures and presentations from eleven distinguished speakers from Alaska, including historians, photographers, and even a dance troupe, adding a layer of cultural immersion to the voyage.
Introducing the Maiden Caribbean Season
As part of its inaugural Caribbean season, Queen Elizabeth will be sailing from Miami, often regarded as the cruise capital of the world. Fettes highlighted the significance of this endeavor, stating, “It’s vital for us to not only have Caribbean voyages but also to be present in the heart of cruising.”
Revitalized Amenities Aboard Queen Elizabeth
Cunard completed a significant makeover of the Queen Elizabeth on March 14, enhancing various dining venues and launching the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea Program. This wellness initiative includes a wide range of physical treatments, workshops, and nutritional programming focused on health and well-being.
Innovative Dining Options
The wellness program introduces a comprehensive selection of healthy cuisine options, including innovative plant-based menus. “These menus are forward-thinking, rather than simply offering vegan or vegetarian options as a secondary choice,” Fettes noted, emphasizing Cunard’s commitment to catering to contemporary dining preferences.
The upcoming voyages aboard Queen Elizabeth promise a blend of luxury, cultural exploration, and wellness-centered experiences, making them an unparalleled choice for travelers seeking memorable adventures in Alaska and the Caribbean.
