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Cunard, that grand old dame of ocean travel, is turning heads again—this time with a treasure chest of over 30 hand-curated shore experiences as Queen Elizabeth embarks on her inaugural Caribbean season from Miami.

With white-gloved elegance and the sort of polish only 180 years of maritime pedigree can bring, Cunard’s new Iconic Collection is not your average snorkel-and-sunscreen routine. No, dear reader—this is Caribbean immersion the Cunard way: stately, stylish, and unapologetically splendid.

From 16 October 2025, guests aboard Queen Elizabeth will be whisked into 12 sparkling Caribbean jewels, including St Lucia, St Maarten and St Thomas, where each port promises far more than a fridge magnet and a rum punch. This is the kind of shore program where you’re as likely to find a Michelin-starred sushi chef on your catamaran as you are a vintage rum distillery tucked away in a rainforest.

Queen Elizabeth – Cabo

And while the tropics may be sun-kissed and rum-laced, Cunard’s approach is anything but laid-back regarding detail. Thirty-two experiences have been thoughtfully assembled—each promising cultural connection, culinary wonder, or untamed adventure. Whether craving the serenity of an Anguillan private island or the adrenaline jolt of a 4×4 romp through Barbados’ lush backcountry, Cunard appears to have thought of everything—short of packing your sunhat.

Let’s talk highlights, shall we?

In Antigua, a private catamaran jaunt includes sushi and barbecue delicacies prepared by—brace yourself—a Michelin-starred chef. Yes, this is real life.
Over in Anguilla, guests are escorted to a little-known sliver of tropical bliss that has thus far avoided the Instagram crowd.
Barbados offers an off-road 4×4 experience through its green and glorious hinterland, ending not with a thud but a cheese and wine picnic under a whispering tree.

And that’s merely the amuse-bouche. The collection also features:

Cunard Queen Elizabeth-Club Balcony

A behind-the-scenes exploration of Puerto Rico, from the cobbled charm of Old San Juan to the mystical greenery of El Yunque Rainforest.
A hands-on Dominican coffee journey—ideal for those who worship the bean and believe a flat white is sacred.
A helicopter ride to Barbuda Belle, where sand meets serenity and luxury, hits high altitude.
A luxurious day pass at Scrub Island Resort in Tortola, perfect for guests who believe rest should come with butler service and champagne.

Cunard’s President, Katie McAlister, captured the spirit of the offering with typical poise. “The Caribbean has long been a favourite destination for our guests,” she said. “These experiences go beyond the usual tourist spots – they’re designed to create lasting memories and deeper connections with each place, all with the signature Cunard touch our guests expect.”

Indeed, this is more than just a day ashore—it’s a cultural handshake dressed in linen, served with fine wine, and guided by locals who know their islands like the backs of their sun-weathered hands. Including local expert guides is a deft move, ensuring each stop isn’t just ‘visited’ but truly experienced.

Queen Elizabeth, of course, is no slouch herself. Making history with her first full Caribbean season based out of Miami, she’ll offer round-trip voyages ranging from nine to 28 nights, with routes that read like a dream itinerary: Montego Bay, San Juan, St John’s and more.

Her maiden Caribbean voyage—a 12-night sojourn—departs Miami on 16 October. Guests will stroll through Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison, barter in the bustling markets of Castries, and return each evening to a ship where white-gloved afternoon teas and orchestras in the Grand Lobby still hold court.

Fares start at a rather civilised AU$4,249 per person (based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom), which seems a modest toll for the memory-making Cunard has on the menu.

In a world leaning toward the fast and the forgettable, Cunard is crafting slow, sumptuous voyages steeped in significance. This Caribbean season aboard Queen Elizabeth isn’t just another cruise—it’s an eloquent reminder that travel, at its finest, is equal parts adventure and artistry.

To book, or to fantasise, visit www.cunard.com.