With Cunard’s three queens being amongst the most popular ships at sea, there was a lot of speculation on whether Cunard would add to the existing trio. But as of 11th October 2019, ship building powerhouse Fincantieri, Josh Weinstein (president of Carnival UK Ltd) and Simon Palethrope (President of Cunard) pushed the button to mark the start of steel cutting process.

And while the ship is yet to be named, everybody is in high anticipation to see which queen will be given the honour of being picked to join the fleet. Or, indeed, if Cunard will stick with this naming convention. So, here are a few of the things that we expect to see on Cunard’s new vessel.

WHITE-STAR SERVICE

Whether you’ve sailed on a Cunard cruise or not, it’s good to know that they proudly stand by their white-star service. From the moment you step on board to when you leave, you will be treated like royalty. They believe that service is at the core of their experience and it shouldn’t be rushed or over familiar, but give that perfect sense of friendliness and sincerity. From formal nights to signature experiences, all of your time is spent catered towards you, always with the option to do what you like, when you like.

GALA DINERS

During every Cunard sailing, you can expect at least one Gala Dinner, with around two or three of these for every seven nights you spend on board. This is the chance to polish off your dancing shoes, pick out your new favourite suit and enjoy a relaxing evening of dance and dining in the most opulent hall at sea. These evenings have been a signature part of a Cunard cruise and are part of the reason why they receive a lot of repeat customers.

With the latest vessel being around the same size as the current largest ship, Queen Mary 2, the gala hall is a large talking point. Will it be larger than its sister, more opulent or just like Queen Mary 2?

GUEST SPEAKERS

Keeping customers entertained while they sail is a task in itself and, while larger lines opt for extensive shows, Cunard takes a different approach. With everything from astronauts to artists, athletes to award-wining writers and doctors to sport commentators, there is an abundance of talented guest speakers who want to share their experiences with you. Some of these current guest speakers include Sherree Valentine-Daines, Anthony Inglis, Stephen Jones OBE., Will Lyons, Dr. Septh Gopin, Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, Henry Blofeld, Robert Thirsk and Colin Jackson.

We are expecting Cunard’s new ship to follow the same trend, hopefully adding even more intellectual guests speakers to the already diverse range of topics covered on any Cunard cruise.

Even though this may seem too early to start talking about the forthcoming vessel, as it’s planning to leave port in 2022, bookings will start next year with the option to sail to the world’s most iconic destinations.