Cunard heralds ‘exciting chapter’ as it reveals Queen Elizabeth refurbishment

Cunard has revealed Queen Elizabeth will undergo refurbishment before its inaugural Alaska season from Seattle and debut Caribbean programme from Miami in 2025.

The work will be carried out on the 2,000-passenger ship between February 25 and March 13, 2025, at Seatrium Admiralty Yard in Singapore.

As part of the refresh of signature interiors and exteriors, the Commodore Club, Queens Room, Panorama Pool Club, Garden Lounge and The Pavilion will be among the areas that will be “thoughtfully revitalised”, while the Grills suites and Grills dining experience will also be enhanced.

Cunard president Katie McAlister described the refurbishment as ushering in an “exciting new chapter” for the cruise line.

The additions to Queen Elizabeth will include the introduction of The Pavilion Wellness Café and the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programme, both of which were first seen on Queen Anne.

The enhanced Grills dining experience will feature a three-course gala evening menu designed by Michelin-star chef Michel Roux. The menu currently appears across the Cunard fleet.

Roux said working on the project was an “extraordinary privilege”, adding: “Each dish is carefully created to celebrate the finest ingredients, ensuring every meal is as special as the voyage itself.”

Queen Elizabeth’s Alaska season will begin in June 2025, while the Caribbean season will start with a 12-night roundtrip sailing from Miami on October 16, 2025. The latter will offer the chance to visit Bridgetown’s Unesco-listed Garrison as well as the markets of Castries, St Lucia.

It is the first time in Cunard’s history that a member of its fleet will spend the full season operating out of Miami. The roundtrip itineraries, which will range from nine to 28 nights, feature calls to destinations including Montego Bay, San Juan and St John’s in Antigua.

Confirming the refurbishment project, McAlister said: “As Queen Elizabeth prepares for her highly anticipated debut seasons in the Caribbean from Miami and Alaska from Seattle, this transformation marks an exciting new chapter for Cunard.

“Inspired by the beauty of these extraordinary destinations, the ship’s revitalisation will seamlessly blend timeless elegance with modern comforts, creating an unparalleled guest experience.

“We are especially excited to introduce the exclusive gala evening menu, crafted by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux.

“This remarkable addition will elevate the Grills dining experience to even greater heights, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it.”

Photo: A rendering of what the Queens Room will look like on Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth after the ship’s 2025 refurbishment