Categories: Cruise News

Queen Elizabeth emerges from major refurbishment ahead of Caribbean season

Cunard Line has unveiled Queen Elizabeth’s new look following an extensive refit and refurbishment ahead of her debut season sailing from Miami and her inaugural Alaska voyages from Seattle. 

The 2,000 guest Queen Elizabeth completed a major three-week makeover at Seatrium’s Admiralty Yard in Singapore on Friday and is now set to begin her debut Alaska season from Seattle on June 12th.

Her inaugural Caribbean voyage from Miami departs on October  16th– a 12-night roundtrip sailing offering guests the chance to visit Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison and the bustling markets of Castries, St Lucia.

Queen Elizabeth

During the refurbishment, Queen Elizabeth’s signature spaces, such as the Commodore Club, Queens Room, Garden Lounge, and The Pavilion were revitalised, connecting guests to the ocean while providing the perfect space to relax or enjoy al fresco dining.

Outdoor decks have also been revamped, with more sun shades to the aft deck to accommodate warmer weather.

The Queens Room has been redesigned to reflect the elegance and luxury reminiscent of the golden age of ocean travel, taking inspiration from the Royal Palace’s heritage of planting Mulberry trees since King James I, with its new carpet pattern replicating a lush garden shrubbery.  

The Grills experience – a hallmark of Cunard’s luxury offering – has also been elevated to new heights. 

Guests staying in the exclusive Grills suites will enjoy enhanced interiors and exteriors, with sumptuous furnishings, sophisticated detailing, and thoughtful design. The Grills terrace also features new furniture for guests to enjoy sunset cocktails.

Another standout feature of the refurbishment is the introduction of The Pavilion Wellness Café, which debuted in 2024 on Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne.  

This wellness-focused venue will serve breakfast, lunch and daytime dining with a menu celebrating plant-based cuisine alongside sustainably sourced meat, fish, and dairy.

Guests can also enjoy the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programme, which debuted aboard Queen Anne.  

The industry first partnership with Harper’s Bazaar offers three-day wellness packages tailored to relaxation, energy restoration or recovery, providing a rejuvenating journey at sea. 

Queen’s Room

“As Queen Elizabeth begins this exciting new chapter, we are delighted to offer guests an even more refined experience on board, with beautifully updated spaces that combine classic Cunard style with modern comfort,” said Katie McAlister, President of Cunard. “With a full season based in Miami for the first time, more guests from the US and around the world can now experience the Caribbean with Cunard’s unique sense of luxury.” 

“The region remains a favourite for travellers on both sides of the Atlantic, and we can’t wait to welcome guests on board,” she added.

Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com.

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