Event Cruises
On certain cruises we offer you special events to complete your cruise experience with a high-quality entertainment and accompanying programme.
Did you know? On your voyages from/to Germany you will be accompanied by international experts, mostly German-speaking lecturers and artists.
11 August - 18 August 2023 - Dance the Atlantic with the English National Ballett: Discover now
English National Ballet dances once more across the Atlantic with Cunard
Transatlantic crossing Southampton to New York on Queen Mary 2
The collaboration returns for the first time since 2019 and fuses together the perfect synergy of luxury travel, contemporary and classical dance and gives guests exclusive access to English National Ballet rehearsals, workshops, classes and performances in the Royal Court Theatre as Queen Mary 2 sails across the Atlantic.
Lee Powell, vice president of brand and product, Cunard said, “After the fantastic response from the original ‘Dance the Atlantic’, we are beyond thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate with English National Ballet, on what is set to be a very special encore crossing. Guests will not only have an ‘up close and personal’ insight into the English National Ballet on stage but will have access to watch and learn how ‘the magic’ is created. From invitations to the dancers’ Monday morning class onboard to watching as the dancers perfect their jaw dropping movements in rehearsals, this voyage will demonstrate the huge breadth of the company’s remarkable repertoire and talent.”
Perfect for those who love to dance or simply exercise, guests keen to practice their own pirouettes and pliés will be able to partake in classes held by English National Ballet choreographers and will be given tips and lessons on how to perfect their moves. Talks on board will feature the dancers regaling tales about their fascinating careers and the dedication and exhilaration of performing at professional level.
Patrick Harrison, CEO English National Ballet said, “We are overjoyed to perform and share our craft on board the iconic Queen Mary 2 as she sails to New York. To dance for and with Cunard guests, surrounded by such luxury and breath-taking views of the ocean, will be both an honour and a joy.
11 September - 18 September 2023 - National Symphony Orchestra: Discover now
Anthony Inglis and the National Symphony Orchestra
Transatlantic crossing New York to Southampton on Queen Mary 2
A regular favourite in the Cunard calendar, the UK’s National Symphony Orchestra sets sail again with maestro Anthony Inglis leading the ensemble in memorable orchestral performances in the Royal Court Theatre. Guests will enjoy an evening of all-American music including Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”, after departing New York, and an evening celebrating the best of British music before arriving into Southampton. Charismatic conductor Inglis leads the audience, guest choir, soloists and orchestra in both concerts, as well as presenting another afternoon concert featuring Ravel’s “Bolero.”
Anthony Inglis, said: “The annual Transatlantic Crossing by the National Symphony Orchestra and myself is keenly looked forward to by the musicians, as much as the guests on board the magnificent liner, Queen Mary 2.
“After the year we have all had, the orchestra and I have decided that we need a huge celebration in 2022, not only on behalf of the ship and her wonderful crew, but also the guests we have all missed. Therefore, I have planned some exciting surprises, which will be both hugely challenging and equally rewarding. We look forward to welcoming guests for a gigantic, seven-night party with an orchestra playing some favourite classical pieces of music, a choir made up of the guests, plus many other entertaining events as we cross the Atlantic Ocean from New York to Southampton.”
19 November - 26 November 2023 Literature Festival at Sea: Discover now
Transatlantic crossing New York to Southampton on Queen Mary 2
Immerse yourself in a true literary paradise, surrounded by fellow book lovers on board the 2023 Literature Festival at Sea. Curated by The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival programming team, this event brings together authors, poets, journalists, critics and historians to bring the spirit of the festival to your voyage.
Experience new highlights on your Cunard voyage thanks to this seven-day programme of inspiring events celebrating the written word in all its diversity.
Guests include bestselling authors Lynda La Plante, Kate Mosse and Anthony Beevor, journalists Julia Wheeler, Daniel Finkelstein and Alex Clark, frahling Luigi Bonomi and former Home Secretary and author Alan Johnson, to name but a few. Start your morning with a daily dose of news from The Times journalists before engaging in stimulating conversations in workshops, Q&A sessions and lecture events on all manner of topics, both fact and fiction. Listen as literary greats discuss books, art, film, history and politics, and meet your favourite authors at intimate book signings. On this journey, you will find bibliophile delights to delight and inspire you at every turn.
22 September - 29 September 2023 Festival of Food & Wine: Discover now
Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to New York on Queen Mary 2
Treat yourself to a truly incomparable experience at our first Festival of Food & Wine in collaboration with The Times and The Sunday Times on a transatlantic crossing with a difference. This unique event voyage offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of gastronomic grandeur, with an impressive repertoire of guests on board and events in which you can participate. Be inspired by experts from the culinary world, such as Michel Roux Jr, the legendary, two Michelin-starred Chef Patron of Le Gavroche.
Also on board is Sunday Times columnist and award-winning wine writer Will Lyons and more names are yet to be announced. Alongside these famous faces, our own talented chefs, sommeliers and mixologists will be on hand to share their knowledge. Experience a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create an exquisite Cunard menu. Look forward to a tantalising array of cooking demonstrations and wine pairings, and visit with culinary talent at lectures, tastings and Q&A sessions on all things gastronomic. Plus, dine like never before on the Verandah as Michel Roux Jr. will present Le Gavroche's renowned cuisine for the first time at sea. If you would like to explore the world of wine a little further, you have the opportunity to join the Cunard Wine Academy and gain your WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level 1 Award. This is a recognised qualification for those who are new to the world of wine.