My part in Cunard’s history as the line reaffirms its commitment to Australia

• Australians are among Cunard’s most devoted fans.
• Even though Cunard is no longer homeporting in Australia, but the brand is still loved.
• And, as Editor in Chief Peter Lynch hears, there may be themed Cunard voyages tailored to Australians.

When Cunard announced it would no longer homeport a ship in Australia, some loyal fans feared the brand was turning its back on one of its most passionate markets. After all, Australians have long held a love affair with Cunard’s grand liners—their history, their theatre and their romance.

But in an exclusive interview with Liz Fettes, Cunard’s new Vice President of Commercial for North America and Australasia, and Amy Williams, Sales & Marketing Director for Australia and New Zealand, it became clear that far from abandoning Australia, Cunard is doubling down on its commitment to our market.

With Cunard, the ships is the destination

Fettes made one thing clear: Cunard will continue to have a strong presence in Australia.

“We may not be homeporting here in the immediate future, but Australians will still see our ships,” she said, noting that Queen Mary 2 and the brand-new Queen Anne will both return in the coming year.

“The world voyages are key. They are iconic, and they’ll always include Australia. For us, the ship is the destination. Australians will still have plenty of opportunity to sail Cunard.”

Williams reinforced this point, stressing that Cunard is investing in dedicated local support—with a sales and marketing team, a call centre, and ongoing trade partnerships—to ensure Australian travel advisors and passengers feel the line’s presence.

Why Australians love Cunard

Australians are famously devoted to Cunard, and Fettes says the brand’s unique blend of heritage and theatre appeals deeply to us. “There’s such an affinity here for the Britishness of Cunard—the rich history, the pomp and ceremony, afternoon tea, the grandeur of the theatres. Australians love that.”

That passion is reflected in the repeat business. Williams notes that Australians consistently rank among Cunard’s most loyal markets. Some book year after year, even multiple voyages annually, including back-to-back “Queen” experiences across different ships.

I reminded them of my own history with the brand—covering the maiden transatlantic voyage of Queen Mary 2 for the Sydney Morning Herald, sailing alongside the legendary QE2. It was a heady moment. I also recalled how passionately Cunarders defended the quality of their sausages. Small details matter when the devotion runs so deep.

Fly cruise adventures

So if Australians won’t be seeing as much Cunard hardware at Circular Quay, where will we go?

Fettes sees enormous potential in fly-cruise.

“Australians are willing to travel further, spend more, and seek immersive experiences. We’re looking at Alaska, the Norwegian fjords, Canada and New England, and of course our famous transatlantic crossings.”

She described adventurous itineraries—like a cruise from Alaska down through the Panama Canal and South America—that appeal to Australians’ love of extended, destination-rich journeys. And then there’s Cunard’s signature event voyages: transatlantic fashion weeks featuring designers like Christian Siriano, literary festivals, and culinary showcases with Michelin-starred chefs.

“These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” she said. “Australians want something special, and Cunard delivers that.”

Above all, a traditional cruise line

One of Cunard’s enduring strengths is its ability to evolve while never losing sight of tradition. The ballroom of Queen Mary 2, with its dazzling gowns and jewels on gala nights, still delivers the kind of romance no other line can match. But Fettes is also quick to point out that modern travellers want flexibility.

“If you don’t want to dress up, you don’t have to. We offer relaxed venues too. It’s about choice. Cunard is timeless, but also approachable.”

This balancing act is key to attracting newcomers—whether families discovering the surprisingly strong kids’ clubs, or younger travellers seeking an “approachable luxury” experience that feels indulgent but not intimidating.

Part of Cunard’s magic lies in details few other lines can match. The onboard kennels, for instance, are often fully booked years in advance. Australians, unable to bring pets in and out of the country easily, may not be the prime market—but the romance of seeing dogs trotting the decks in their own uniforms, or hearing about the “kennel masters” who arrange playdates, is part of Cunard lore.

Then there are the uniforms. The Australians once had their own, designed by R.M. Williams, complete with boots and hats. Today, those iconic outfits are preserved at the Australian National Maritime Museum—a reminder of the brand’s deep roots here.

What’s next

So what’s next for Australians who love Cunard? Williams hinted at themed voyages tailored for Australians—whether that’s literary cruises, celebrity speakers, or experiences curated with our market in mind. Roadshows, afternoon tea events, and trade activations are also on the horizon to keep the connection alive.

Above all, both women wanted to reassure Australian travellers that Cunard’s commitment is unwavering.

“Australia remains one of our top source markets,” Williams said firmly. “We’re here. We’re engaged. We’re supporting our partners and our guests. We’re not going away.”

As I wrapped up the conversation, I reflected on the central truth: Australians simply won’t give up Cunard. They love the romance, the heritage, the dressing up, the theatre, and yes, the afternoon teas. They are passionate Cunarders.

And Cunard, for its part, is determined to keep giving Australians reasons to keep that love alive—whether from Sydney Harbour or far-flung fjords.

As Fettes put it, “It’s about delivering truly unique experiences that Australians can’t find anywhere else. That’s the Cunard difference—and it’s not going anywhere.”

You can enjoy a 12-night Eastern Caribbean Celebration (Q535) on Queen Elizabeth departing 18 December 2025 from AU$4,519 per person in a twin-share Balcony Stateroom. Cunard World Club members receive an additional 10% discount on select Caribbean voyages.

Terms and conditions apply, see cundard.com/Q535 for details.

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