Age Policy
- The minimum age to sail on Cunard Cruises is 6 months on most itineraries. For Full World Voyages, Transatlantic Crossings, and select longer or remote cruises, guests must be at least 12 months old due to extended time at sea and itinerary requirements.
- This policy ensures a safe, comfortable, and well-managed cruise experience for families traveling with Cunard Cruises.
- Children traveling as the first or second guest in a stateroom are charged the standard adult cruise fare.
- Infants aged 6 months to 2 years traveling as the third or fourth guest in a stateroom may sail at no additional cruise fare. However, a nominal charge may apply for voyages that include airfare, hotel accommodations, or ground transfers. Any applicable fees are clearly outlined at the time of booking.
- Guests aged 2 to 17 years traveling as the third or fourth guest in a stateroom receive the applicable third- or fourth-guest cruise discount, paying the cruise fare minus the promotional reduction.
- For safety reasons, children under 16 years of age must share a stateroom with at least one guest aged 16 or older.
- For clarity, Cunard defines age categories as follows:
Adults are guests aged 18 years and older.
Dining Information
Cunard Line is renowned for its refined dining culture, offering a wide range of complimentary and specialty restaurants that reflect classic elegance, culinary craftsmanship, and attentive service. Dining venues vary by ship and stateroom category, with select restaurants reserved for Grill Suite guests.
- Queens Grill Restaurant
The Queens Grill Restaurant represents the pinnacle of Cunard dining. Reserved exclusively for Queens Grill Suite guests, this intimate, single-seating restaurant features an à la carte menu paired with exceptionally personalized service. Elegant surroundings and a tranquil atmosphere make every meal feel like a private dining experience at sea.
Available on: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria - Princess Grill Restaurant
The Princess Grill Restaurant offers an elevated yet relaxed fine-dining experience for Princess Grill Suite guests. With single-seating dining and meticulously crafted menus, the restaurant highlights globally inspired flavors, premium ingredients, and flawless service that exceeds expectations night after night.
Available on: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria - Britannia & Britannia Club Restaurants
The Britannia Restaurant is Cunard’s grand main dining venue, featuring menus designed by Cunard’s Global Culinary Ambassador, Jean-Marie Zimmermann. Guests descend a dramatic staircase into a stunning two-tier dining room where classic elegance meets modern cuisine.
Britannia guests may choose between early or late dining, while Britannia Club Balcony stateroom guests enjoy single-seating dining in the more intimate Britannia Club restaurant.
Available on: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria - Todd English Restaurant
Designed by renowned chef Todd English, this specialty restaurant showcases Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a beautifully designed space with intimate alcoves overlooking the pool terrace. Signature dishes and bold flavors define this upscale alternative dining venue.
Available on: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria - King’s Court
King’s Court is Cunard’s casual self-service dining venue, serving breakfast, lunch, and late-night bites in a relaxed setting. In the evening, the space transforms into four rotating themed restaurants:
Lotus – Asian cuisine
The Carvery – Traditional British roasts
La Piazza – Italian specialties
Chef’s Galley – Interactive chef-led concepts
Available on: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria - Queen’s Room
Afternoon Tea in the Queen’s Room is a beloved Cunard tradition. White-gloved waiters serve freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and pastries accompanied by live orchestral music in this grand ballroom setting.
Available on: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2 - The Verandah Restaurant
Exclusive to Queen Elizabeth, The Verandah is Cunard’s formal alternative dining venue. It offers contemporary French cuisine crafted with ingredients sourced from France, evoking the spirit of the legendary Verandah Grill from Cunard’s historic ships.
Available on: Queen Elizabeth - Lido Restaurant
The Lido Restaurant offers buffet dining throughout the day, ideal for casual meals and light bites. In the evening, the Lido transforms into regional dining venues, including:
Asado – South American grill
Jasmine – Asian cuisine
Aztec – Mexican-inspired classics
Available on: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria - Golden Lion Pub
The Golden Lion Pub is an authentic British pub experience at sea, featuring a curated selection of beers and ciders. Guests can enjoy traditional pub fare such as fish and chips and cottage pie, prepared to Cunard’s high culinary standards.
Available on: Queen Victoria - Cunard Dress Code & Attire Guidelines
Cunard Cruises embraces timeless elegance while allowing flexibility for modern travelers.
Onboard Dress Code
Daytime: Casual attire is appropriate throughout the ship
Evenings: Designated as Formal, Semi-Formal, or Elegant Casual
Dress suggestions are published daily in the ship’s program
Formal evenings often themed as Royal Nights are a signature Cunard experience and provide a rare opportunity to dress elegantly. - Evening Attire Definitions
Formal
Gentlemen: Black tie or formal dark suit
Ladies: Evening gown or formal attire
Military dress or decorations may be worn
Formalwear rental or purchase is available onboard
Semi-Formal
Gentlemen: Jacket and tie
Ladies: Cocktail dress or trouser suit
Jeans are not permitted
Elegant Casual
Gentlemen: Jacket (no tie required)
Ladies: Dress, skirt, or trousers
Jeans are not permitted
Shore Excursion & Destination Attire
For shore excursions, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Attire should match the destination and itinerary:
Bring layers, as decks can be cool even in warm climates
Pack a lightweight rain jacket and umbrella
For religious sites, ensure shoulders and legs are covered for both men and women
Fuel Surcharge Policy
Cunard Line does not typically charge a fuel surcharge. In rare cases of extreme fuel price volatility, a surcharge may be applied in accordance with the cruise contract. Guests will be notified in advance should this occur.
Payments / Refunds
Understanding Cunard Cruises’ payment and cancellation policies helps you book with confidence. If you need to cancel your Cunard cruise vacation, standard cancellation fees apply based on the length of your voyage and how close your cancellation is to the sailing date. Refund eligibility is determined by Cunard’s official cancellation schedule outlined below
- CunardCare Travel Protection & Refunds
Availability Note: CunardCare is offered to residents of the United States and Canada, excluding New York State, Quebec Province, and Puerto Rico. Guests outside these regions may have alternative coverage options, including the At-Ease Waiver Program. - Refund Schedules & Final Payment Deadlines
Your booking confirmation email outlines the final payment date and cancellation terms that apply to your reservation. Complete legal details are also available in Cunard’s Passage Contract.
Because canceled reservations reduce Cunard’s ability to resell cruise space, cancellation fees apply even if the stateroom is resold. By confirming a booking, guests acknowledge that these fees represent a fair and reasonable estimate of Cunard’s losses.
Voyages 30 Days or Less
120–90 days prior to sailing: 25% of fare or deposit amount
Final payment due: 120 days before departure
89–61 days: 40% of full fare
60–31 days: 50% of full fare
30–15 days: 75% of full fare
14 days or less / No-show: 100% of full fare
Voyages 31 Days or Longer
150–120 days prior to sailing: 20% of fare or deposit amount
Final payment due: 150 days before departure
119–91 days: 40% of full fare
90–64 days: 50% of full fare
63–43 days: 75% of full fare
42 days or less / No-show: 100% of full fare - Reduced Deposit Cancellation Policy
For sailings booked under a reduced deposit promotion, cancellation penalties are capped at the deposit amount paid—up to a certain point.
Voyages Less Than 31 Nights
120–91 days prior to sailing: Reduced deposit amount
89 days or less: Standard cancellation fees apply
Voyages 31 Nights or Longer
150–120 days prior to sailing: Reduced deposit amount
119 days or less: Standard cancellation fees apply - Hotel, Land Tour & Transfer Cancellation Fees
Hotel Packages
90–61 days before stay: 50% of total hotel cost
60 days or less: 100% of total hotel cost
Land Tour Packages
100% cancellation fee if canceled 90 days or less before the tour begins
Transfers
No cancellation fee, regardless of cancellation date - CunardCare
Non-refundable once purchased
Cancellation Policy Exceptions
Certain promotional fares include non-refundable deposits or fares. Always review the specific terms before booking. - Non-Refundable Deposit Promotions
Deposits are forfeited if the booking is canceled for any reason.
100% Non-Refundable Promotions
No refunds or future cruise credits are issued once payment is made. - Shore Excursion Cancellation Policy
Shore excursion refunds and penalties are governed by Cunard’s official Excursion Terms & Conditions, which may vary by destination and tour operator.
Smoking Policy
- To maintain a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable onboard environment, Cunard Cruises enforces a strict smoking policy across its fleet. Smoking of any kind including electronic cigarettes, vapes, and other alternatives is strictly prohibited in all staterooms, on private balconies, and throughout indoor public areas.
- Guests who wish to smoke may do so only in designated outdoor smoking areas located on open deck spaces, which are clearly marked for convenience and compliance.
- The sole indoor exception is Churchill’s Cigar Lounge, a dedicated venue reserved exclusively for cigar and pipe smokers, offering a refined space designed specifically for this purpose.
Travel Protection
Travel with confidence by adding CunardCare® Guest Protection, a comprehensive travel protection program designed specifically for Cunard cruise guests. CunardCare® provides valuable insurance and non-insurance benefits that help protect your investment before and during your cruise, giving you peace of mind should the unexpected occur.
- CunardCare Travel Protection & Guest Coverage
Whether you need to cancel your cruise due to illness or encounter a disruption while traveling, CunardCare® helps minimize financial loss and ensures access to essential support services throughout your journey. - Cancellation Fee Waiver Program
The Cancellation Fee Waiver reimburses the unused portion of your prepaid cruise fare up to $50,000 per guest, if you or a traveling companion must cancel for a covered reason. This benefit waives the non-refundable cancellation fees outlined in Cunard’s Passage Contract, offering added protection if plans change unexpectedly. - Travel Insurance Coverage Highlights
CunardCare® includes travel insurance benefits that cover a wide range of potential travel disruptions: - Trip Interruption Coverage
Receive reimbursement up to your total trip cost (maximum $50,000 per guest) if your cruise is interrupted due to illness, injury, or death of you, an immediate family member, or a traveling companion. - Trip Delay Coverage
If you miss your cruise departure due to carrier delays or other covered events, CunardCare® may reimburse up to $1,000 for additional accommodations, meals, and transportation expenses. - Baggage Protection
Coverage of up to $3,000 for lost or damaged baggage. If your luggage is delayed more than 24 hours, you may be reimbursed up to $500 for essential items. - Medical Expense Coverage
Provides up to $20,000 in medical expense coverage if you become ill or injured during your cruise. - Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation
Covers up to $50,000 for emergency medical evacuation or transportation to an appropriate medical facility or home. Includes up to $30,000 for repatriation of remains in the event of death during the cruise. - Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services
Guests with CunardCare® receive access to 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance services, provided by LiveTravel. These non-insurance services include help with:
Emergency medical and dental referrals
Travel arrangement assistance
Lost luggage and document support
Emergency cash transfers
Coordination during travel disruptions
Tipping Policy
Cunard Cruises applies a daily hotel and dining service charge to recognize the dedication and professionalism of the onboard crew who deliver Cunard’s signature White Star Service™. For guest convenience, this service charge is automatically added to your onboard account each day of your cruise.
The charge supports crew members across multiple departments, many of whom rotate between ships within the Cunard fleet, ensuring consistently high service standards throughout your voyage.
- Daily Hotel and Dining Service Charge by Stateroom Category
For voyages departing until April 25, 2024 (Queen Elizabeth) and April 27, 2024 (Queen Mary 2 & Queen Victoria):
Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms: $14.50 USD per guest, per day
Grill Suites: $16.50 USD per guest, per day
For voyages departing on or after April 26, 2024 (Queen Elizabeth) and April 28, 2024 (Queen Mary 2 & Queen Victoria):
Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms: $16.00 USD per guest, per day
The exact amount charged depends on your stateroom category and is applied daily throughout the cruise.
Grill Suites: $18.00 USD per guest, per day - Adjustments & Guest Satisfaction
Cunard is committed to exceptional guest satisfaction. If you have any concerns regarding service, the Purser’s Office onboard is available to assist you. In rare cases where expectations are not met, the hotel and dining service charge may be adjusted at your discretion at any point during the cruise, provided it is done before your onboard account is finalized prior to disembarkation.
If no changes are made onboard, the service charge is considered final and non-refundable.
Is Additional Tipping Required on Cunard Cruises?
No additional tipping is required for hotel and dining staff, as the daily service charge already covers these services. However, guests are welcome to offer personal gratuities to any crew members who provide exceptional service at their discretion.
Guests also have the option to prepay hotel and dining service charges before sailing by contacting Cunard directly. - Additional Service Charges to Know About
Certain onboard purchases and services carry separate service charges, which are automatically added to your onboard account:
Bar and wine purchases (not included in fare or drink packages)
15% service charge, shared among beverage staff
Salon services
12.5% service charge, paid directly to the service provider
These charges are distributed directly to the crew members responsible for delivering each service.
Premium food items
Beverages not covered by drink packages
Corkage fees
Private group events
Spa and wellness treatments
Why Cunard?
Over 180 Years of Legendary Maritime Heritage
Cunard is one of the world’s most historic cruise lines, renowned for its British elegance, seafaring tradition, and iconic ocean liners. This heritage translates into refined service, timeless design, and a cruising experience unlike any other.
Iconic Transatlantic Crossings
Cunard is the only cruise line to regularly operate scheduled Transatlantic Crossings between New York and Southampton. These voyages offer uninterrupted days at sea, perfect for travelers who value relaxation, culture, and classic ocean travel.
Elegant Ships Designed for Space and Comfort
Cunard ships are known for spacious public areas, grand ballrooms, sweeping staircases, and uncrowded decks ideal for guests who prefer a calm, refined onboard atmosphere over resort-style cruising.
White Star Service
Cunard’s signature White Star Service™ emphasizes polished, attentive, and highly professional hospitality. Crew members are trained to deliver personalized service while maintaining a discreet, elegant presence.
Distinctive Dining by Stateroom Category
Guests enjoy dedicated dining rooms based on their accommodation category, ensuring consistent service and an elevated dining experience throughout the voyage. This structure enhances personalization and culinary quality.
Enrichment & Cultural Programming
Cunard excels in onboard enrichment, offering guest lecturers, historians, authors, and experts who bring destinations and maritime history to life especially appealing to intellectually curious travelers.
Formal Evenings & Classic Dress Traditions
Cunard’s Gala Evenings are a hallmark of the brand, giving guests the rare opportunity to dress formally and enjoy elegant evenings that celebrate the golden age of ocean travel.
Ideal for Longer Voyages & World Cruises
With extended itineraries, world voyages, and immersive regional explorations, Cunard is well suited for travelers who want deeper destination engagement and longer, more meaningful journeys.
Multigenerational Appeal Without Feeling Crowded
While Cunard caters primarily to adults, it offers family-friendly amenities on select sailings especially during holidays making it a refined option for multigenerational travel.
A Calm, Sophisticated Alternative to Modern Mega-Ships
Cunard is perfect for travelers who prefer elegance, tradition, and thoughtful experiences over water slides, loud entertainment, and constant activity.
FAQ
What is Cunard Cruises best known for?
Cunard is best known for its Transatlantic Crossings, British heritage, elegant ships, formal evenings, and classic luxury cruising.
Are Cunard cruises all-inclusive?
Cunard cruises include accommodations, main dining, entertainment, enrichment programs, and many onboard activities. Beverages, gratuities, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining are typically additional.
Is Cunard good for first-time cruisers?
Yes. Cunard is an excellent choice for first-time cruisers who appreciate structure, attentive service, and a slower-paced, refined onboard experience.
Does Cunard have a dress code?
Yes. Cunard features Formal, Semi-Formal, and Elegant Casual evenings. Formal Gala Nights encourage tuxedos, suits, and evening gowns, though alternative venues allow more relaxed attire.
Are Cunard cruises suitable for families?
Cunard welcomes families and offers youth programs on select sailings, particularly during school holidays. However, the onboard atmosphere is generally more adult-focused and enrichment-driven.
What destinations does Cunard sail to?
Cunard sails worldwide, including Europe, Alaska, the Caribbean, Asia, Australia, South America, and iconic Transatlantic routes.
Are gratuities included on Cunard cruises?
No. A daily hotel and dining service charge is automatically added to onboard accounts, with the amount based on stateroom category.
Does Cunard offer shore excursions?
Yes. Cunard offers professionally curated shore excursions designed to complement each destination, available at an additional cost.
How old do you have to be to cruise with Cunard?
The minimum age is 6 months, or 12 months for longer voyages such as Transatlantic Crossings and World Cruises.
Why book Cunard through Top Cruise Deals?
Top Cruise Deals helps you find the lowest available Cunard cruise prices, access exclusive promotions, and enjoy expert cruise-only support making your booking simple, transparent, and stress-free.







