By 
Shift Toward Experience-Driven Luxury Travel
Cunard is pivoting its 2027 programming to meet a rising demand for "information gain" in travel—moving beyond standard sightseeing toward deep cultural immersion. The cruise line has developed nearly 600 curated shore experiences designed to connect passengers with local communities, traditional cuisines, and private cultural encounters.
This strategic shift reflects a broader trend in high-end tourism where travelers prioritize meaningful interactions over checklist tourism. By integrating UNESCO World Heritage sites and local-led activities, Cunard aims to transform traditional port calls into comprehensive educational journeys.
Queen Anne’s South American Debut
The Queen Anne will make its first foray into South America with a 90-night Discovery Voyage. This itinerary is characterized by 15 maiden calls across Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay, including visits to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Regional Highlights:
- Rio de Janeiro: An overnight stay timed for the Rio Carnival, offering VIP Camarote access and premium parade viewing, alongside visits to Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Peru: A specialized four-day overland excursion to Machu Picchu, allowing guests to explore the Andean highlands before returning to the ship.
- Buenos Aires: Immersive cultural programming featuring tango performances, wine tastings, and private dinners hosted by local families to provide authentic Argentine hospitality.
Queen Victoria’s 109-Night Global Circuit
Departing from Southampton on January 10, 2027, the Queen Victoria will undertake a Full World Voyage. The itinerary balances iconic global hubs with maiden calls to emerging luxury destinations.
Strategic Port Highlights:
- Asia & Pacific: The voyage includes overnight stays in Singapore and Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, guests can access Cantonese dining experiences, Lantau Island’s Tian Tan Buddha, and sunset harbor cruises.
- Australia: Sydney serves as a hub for adventure, featuring evening climbs of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, trips to the Blue Mountains (UNESCO), and visits to the Hunter Valley wine region.
- Africa: The ship will make maiden calls to Dakar (Senegal) and Durban (South Africa). An overnight stay in Cape Town allows for excursions to Table Mountain, Groot Constantia wine estate, and seal watching at Duiker Island.
- North America: The itinerary is anchored by overnight stays in New York and Los Angeles.
2027 Voyage Specifications
| Vessel | Voyage Name | Duration | Key Destinations | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Anne | South America Discovery | 90 Nights | Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Argentina | 15 Maiden Calls; Rio Carnival |
| Queen Victoria | Full World Voyage | 109 Nights | Hong Kong, Sydney, Cape Town, NY, LA | Starts Jan 10, 2027; Maiden calls to Dakar & El Salvador |
Key Takeaways
- Immersive Focus: 600+ curated experiences replace standard tours to provide deeper cultural connections.
- South American Expansion: Queen Anne introduces 15 maiden calls and a high-impact Machu Picchu overland trek.
- Global Reach: Queen Victoria connects five continents with a 109-night itinerary starting in January 2027.
- Strategic Overnights: Extended stays in cities like Singapore, New York, and Cape Town allow for more comprehensive exploration.
FAQ
When does the Queen Victoria Full World Voyage begin? The voyage departs from Southampton on January 10, 2027.
What makes the South America Discovery Voyage unique? It marks the Queen Anne's first visit to the continent and includes a four-day overland trip to Machu Picchu and a timed visit for the Rio Carnival.
Which UNESCO sites are included in the 2027 programming? The South America voyage visits seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the world voyage includes the Blue Mountains in Australia.
