Queen Anne: everything agents need to know about Cunard's first new ship for 14 years

Not surprisingly, there’s a great deal of anticipation from both regular and new-to-brand clients. Stefan Shillito, managing director of Sovereign Cruise Club, notes: “Our loyal Cunard clients cannot wait to see Queen Anne, and many have already booked more than one voyage, showing just how much confidence they have in the brand and this exciting new ship. I think loyal Cunard clients are fascinated by the juxtaposition of an opulent new ship heralding novel features and experiences with those of signature venues and familiar traditions.”

When asked if he expects Grill Suites class to be a strong seller, Shillito says: “It already is and has sold out on many sailings. The Queens Grill product is great value and provides one of the last unique luxury experiences at sea today.”

OPENING UP THE BRAND

The buzz about this new ship is not lost on Carl Burrows, strategic director at Imagine Cruising. He points out: “Our customers always love new options. Cunard is celebrated both in the industry and with passengers, and Queen Anne not only boosts this further but opens the cruise line to even more travellers. As a heritage brand, Cunard is cherished, and its identity is so well established that I think the new ship will prove just as popular with our clients already familiar with the unique experience. The fleet offers consistency but with individual differences. With this new ship, there’s a great opportunity for customers to experience Cunard for the first time.”

Burrows also states that Grill Suites are a strong seller. He says: “The exclusivity and elevated service suit our customers who love our ‘One Life’ philosophy and look for this in the itineraries we create for them as a whole holiday – Land and Sea.”

Perhaps it’s not surprising that the recent Queen Anne competition has been the cruise line’s most successful trade incentive to date. Struthers says: “Within the first month of welcoming this new addition to our fleet, we will offer opportunities for up to 500 of our most engaged travel agent partners to step onboard during a variety of activations. Queen Anne will also be showcased at the 2024 Clia UK & Ireland Conference from 23-25 May, where around 200 agents will embark and gather invaluable first-hand experience of everything this iconic new ship offers.”

Cunard’s 249th ship will be christened at the world-famous Mersey waterfront on 3 June. The event is expected to attract tens of thousands of spectators alongside the river at Pier Head between New Brighton and Seacombe on Wirral, and on beaches at Formby and Crosby in Sefton.