A new chapter of Caribbean cruising has just begun in Miami. The recently refreshed Queen Elizabeth has officially made its PortMiami debut, marking the first time in Cunard Line’s 185-year history that one of its legendary Queens will homeport in the Magic City.
The ship’s arrival launches a two-season Caribbean residency, offering a lineup of nine- to 21-night voyages that blend Cunard’s signature White Star Service with the region’s laid-back allure. It’s a milestone moment for the line — and a statement of intent in a market defined by bold, increasingly upscale cruise offerings.
Caribbean Luxury
Cunard’s Caribbean season introduces a new layer to the brand’s storied tradition of glamour. Guests can expect nearly 120 theatrical performances, bespoke culinary programming, and immersive onboard experiences crafted exclusively for this deployment.
The new Karibe restaurant spotlights coastal Caribbean cuisine with bright spices and modern interpretations. “The Whispering Hour” happy hour, featuring Whispering Angel wines, brings a playful energy to the evenings, while Sunset Celebrations and deck parties on the Lido Deck infuse classic Cunard elegance with island warmth.
Entertainment is taking center stage, too. The highlight is the first-ever at-sea production of Come From Away, complemented by Broadway and West End talent, including Tony Award-winner Sutton Foster. The reimagined Commodore Club, now the Abbey Road Listening Lounge, offers a more intimate space for music lovers, pairing curated cocktails with iconic soundtracks.
A Ship Reimagined
After an extensive refresh earlier this year, Queen Elizabeth now feels both timeless and new. The Royal Court Theatre has been enhanced, the Queens Room redesigned for gala evenings, and the Lido Pool Club elevated for languid days under the Caribbean sun. Grills Suites offer new amenities and personalized butler service, while the Pavilion Wellness Café and Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea program bring a holistic dimension to the onboard experience.
The debut was celebrated with a touch of old-school glamour. Author and philanthropist Patricia Altschul joined the festivities as the ship prepared to set sail on its first Caribbean itinerary. Local leaders, including PortMiami Director Hydi Webb, welcomed Cunard’s investment in the region as a significant addition to Miami’s luxury cruise landscape.
Voyages Across the Caribbean
Queen Elizabeth will sail from October 2025 through April 2026, with fares starting at $1,078 per person for an ocean view stateroom. Itineraries include Eastern Caribbean routes to San Juan, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Barbados, Sint Maartenand Tortola. Western sailings feature Amber Cove, Montego Bay, Belize City and Cozumel. The 21-night itineraries visit both regions, combining the glamour of transatlantic travel with the easy warmth of the islands.
Cunard’s entrance into the Caribbean market through Miami is both a nod to its past and a play for the future. It’s a meeting of two worlds — the polished ritual of ocean liner travel and the vibrant soul of the Caribbean.
Karen Udler
2025-10-16 18:25:00