Back in South African waters

Luxury cruise line Cunard has returned to South African waters with its newest ship, Queen Anne, reaffirming the country’s growing appeal on global cruise itineraries.

The visit highlights renewed momentum in international cruising, alongside Cunard’s refreshed all-inclusive offering and a new generation of onboard luxury.

A legacy of elegance at sea

Founded in 1840, Cunard remains one of the most established names in ocean travel. The line has shaped luxury cruising for nearly two centuries, from historic icons like the RMS Queen Mary and QE2 to its modern fleet of four ships.

Queen Anne, launched in 2024, represents the latest chapter. The vessel blends Cunard’s heritage with contemporary design, advanced facilities, and a strong focus on refined guest experience.

Queen Anne’s South African itinerary

Queen Anne docked in Cape Town on Friday, 30 January, before sailing to Gqeberha on 2 February and Durban on 4 February.

She then continued her voyage to Singapore as part of a longer journey from Southampton to Asia and Australia.

This marks her second visit to Cape Town and Durban, following her first visit to South Africa in April last year. The current voyage also represents her first-ever call to the Eastern Cape.

Cruising’s global resurgence

The ship’s arrival reflects broader industry growth. In 2024, global cruising reached a record 34.6 million passengers, a nine percent increase year on year. The luxury cruise segment accounted for more than 1.5 million passengers.

Strong post-pandemic recovery, new ship launches, and rising demand for experience-led travel continue to drive growth. Cruise value also plays a role, with accommodation, dining, entertainment, and transport bundled into a single offering.

New Inclusive Signature packages

In response to changing traveller expectations, Cunard has introduced its Inclusive Signature packages.

The new offering includes:
• An onboard drinks package
• Wi-Fi access
• A dining credit

The package delivers savings of up to 30 percent while maintaining Cunard’s focus on service, space, and refinement.

Inside Queen Anne

Spanning 14 decks, Queen Anne features interiors inspired by art deco design, with curated artwork and refined detailing throughout.

Accommodation ranges from elegant staterooms to expansive suites and penthouses. Select categories include private balconies and dedicated butler service.

Dining and entertainment across the ship include 15 venues, from formal restaurants and relaxed cafés to traditional British pubs and speciality dining. Guests also enjoy live performances, gala evenings, themed casino nights, and stylish lounges.

Outdoor decks offer swimming pools, sweeping ocean views, and generous relaxation areas. The ship also houses Cunard’s largest wellness and fitness offering to date, alongside luxury retail featuring more than 115 premium brands.

With a capacity for 2 996 guests and 1 225 crew, Queen Anne is the largest ship in the Cunard fleet to complete a full circumnavigation of the globe.

South Africa remains key

“We cannot wait to once again see Queen Anne sailing into Cape Town’s magnificent harbour,” says Shaun McCarthy, Managing Director at Whitestar Cruise & Travel, Cunard’s South African representative.

“It is an exciting time for sea travel and a real opportunity for South Africans to experience Cunard’s blend of sophistication, comfort, and value in luxury cruising.”

More Cunard arrivals ahead

Later this year, South African ports will also welcome Queen Mary 2, Cunard’s last true ocean liner.

She is scheduled to arrive in Durban on 6 April, Gqeberha on 8 April, and Cape Town on 9 April as part of her ongoing World Voyage.