The storied British cruise line Cunard is redefining luxury Caribbean cruising with an ambitious new chapter. For the first time in its 185-year history, one of Cunard’s legendary vessels will spend an entire season based in Miami, bringing White Star service and quintessential British elegance to the sun-drenched waters of the Caribbean.
A maiden voyage into uncharted waters
Queen Elizabeth, the epitome of ocean-going sophistication, will embark on her inaugural Caribbean season this October, marking a historic shift for the luxury line. Starting October 16, 2025, the vessel will offer dedicated round-trip voyages from Miami, with itineraries spanning nine to 28 nights across some of the region’s most coveted destinations.
This isn’t simply about repositioning a ship – it’s about reimagining how discerning passengers experience the Caribbean. The announcement signals Cunard’s commitment to bringing its legendary transatlantic heritage to a region long dominated by mass-market offerings.
The Caribbean iconic collection: beyond the beaten path
What truly sets this venture apart is Cunard’s meticulously curated portfolio of 32 exclusive shore experiences, aptly named the Caribbean Iconic Collection. These aren’t your typical port excursions – they’re carefully crafted adventures designed to unlock the authentic soul of each destination.
The collection spans 12 destinations, including perennial favorites like St. Lucia, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas, but the experiences themselves venture far beyond the usual tourist trail. Cunard has partnered with local expert guides to provide access to both beloved attractions and hidden treasures that most visitors never discover.
Michelin-starred dining meets pristine waters
Among the standout offerings is a private catamaran excursion around Antigua’s unspoiled coastline, where guests will enjoy sushi and barbecue prepared by a Michelin-starred chef while surrounded by crystalline Caribbean waters. It’s this attention to culinary excellence that elevates the experience from mere sightseeing to genuine luxury.
For those seeking untouched natural beauty, a visit to a secluded island paradise in Anguilla promises to showcase the region’s most pristine tropical landscapes. Meanwhile, adventure enthusiasts can embark on an exhilarating off-road 4×4 journey through Barbados, culminating in an al fresco cheese and wine picnic amid the island’s scenic wilderness.
Exclusive access to Caribbean treasures
The collection also includes a private tour of Puerto Rico’s cultural highlights, from the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan to the lush canopy of El Yunque Rainforest. Coffee aficionados can immerse themselves in the Dominican Republic’s coffee culture through hands-on experiences that reveal the artistry behind each cup.
Perhaps most spectacular is the Barbuda Belle Luxury Beach Escape, accessible only by helicopter from Antigua – a fitting choice for cruisers who appreciate both adventure and exclusivity. For those preferring refined relaxation, a luxury day pass at Scrub Island Resort in Tortola offers sophisticated beachfront indulgence.
The Cunard difference in tropical waters
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, stressed the significance of this expansion, noting that these experiences are designed to create lasting memories and deeper connections with each destination, all delivered with the signature Cunard touch that guests have come to expect.
The inaugural 12-night round-trip voyage will visit Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison and the bustling markets of Castries, St. Lucia – destinations that perfectly embody the Caribbean’s blend of colonial heritage and vibrant contemporary culture.
Setting sail into luxury
With prices starting from USD3,398 per person for a Britannia Balcony stateroom, Queen Elizabeth’s Caribbean season represents an accessible entry point into Cunard’s world of refined ocean travel. The investment reflects the company’s ambitious global expansion, with four ships now in simultaneous service for the first time since 1999.
As Cunard celebrates its 185th anniversary this year, Queen Elizabeth’s Miami season represents more than geographic expansion – it’s a bold reimagining of Caribbean luxury cruising, where British maritime tradition meets tropical paradise in ways previously unimagined.
Visit the Cunard website for more informaiton.
About the Author: Staff Writer
