Cunard’s Event Voyages invite guests to sail with some of the greatest talents in the arts, gastronomy, wine, and entertainment. Today, 6 June, sees the launch of its new programme for 2025 – including a brand-new voyage on Queen Mary 2, in partnership with the BFI, offering guests an unbeatable experience to cross the Atlantic in style.
Curated in partnership with The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival, English National Ballet, the BFI, Corney & Barrow, and the National Symphony Orchestra, these one-of-a-kind voyages blend live performance with Q&As and hands-on demonstrations to truly immerse our guests in the things they love most.
New for Cunard in March is Film Festival at Sea, in partnership with the BFI, on board Queen Mary 2. Guests can make the most of life on board this iconic ocean liner, not only by exploring all her leisure and dining options, but also by attending film-themed events and activities throughout their voyage. They’ll have the chance to hear from industry experts and icons. Test their knowledge at film-themed quizzes. Discover the world behind the scenes of the film industry and the BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express.
Back by popular demand in August 2025 is Dance the Atlantic, an extraordinary Event Voyage that celebrates the world of dance. Guests can enjoy the opportunity to become utterly absorbed in the remarkable talent of English National Ballet, with access to rehearsals, workshops, classes, and memorable performances at the Royal Court Theatre. With excerpts from iconic classical ballets and cutting-edge contemporary works, these stunning recitals will demonstrate the huge breadth of the Company’s repertoire.
Also returning in December 2025 is Literature Festival at Sea, where book lovers will find themselves in literary heaven on this Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing, curated by the programming team of The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival (which Cunard also sponsors each year). Each Literature Festival at Sea features events hosted by around 20 acclaimed authors, with past headliners including Ian Rankin, Ruth Jones and Simon Armitage. Guests can look forward to hearing from BBC presenter Sophie Raworth and author Richard Coles, among many more writers, on board the 2025 voyage.
2025 brings a unique opportunity celebrate Cunard’s history, as flagship Queen Mary 2 celebrates the 185th Anniversary. Guests can relish their time at sea on this iconic Transatlantic route – a route sailed by Cunard ships for decades – and be treated to a host of unique events on board. They will have the chance to hear captivating stories from maritime historians – some of which date back to when it all began in 1840. They can also learn more about the origins of our historic liners, from humble beginnings as a mail courier, to hosting some of Hollywood’s biggest names – and sail in utmost style as they do.
Another staple of the Event Voyages programme is the spectacular National Symphony Orchestra voyage, brought to you by the eminent maestro Anthony Inglis. Guests will be able to rehearse with the choir by day and enjoy classical concerts in the Royal Court Theatre by night, on board this unique 7-night Eastbound Transatlantic Crossing in September.
Queen Elizabeth welcomes the return of the Great Australian Culinary Voyage in February, which promises to be an unforgettable foray into the world of food and wine, including special guest and award-winning chef Matt Moran taking over The Steakhouse at The Verandah.
And as Queen Victoria embarks on her 11-night sailing around the Mediterranean on Voyage du Vin, guests will be transported, physically, to some of the world’s leading wine producing countries, and will be treated to a whole host of events and experiences designed to delight oenophiles of all kinds. Renowned personalities from the wine world will be on hand to answer questions, make suggestions, and share their knowledge. Then ashore, throughout the Iberian Peninsula, guests will have the chance to join a Shore Experience to a local vineyard, get to know more about the wines produced locally, and maybe discover a new favourite bottle.
Keep your eyes peeled over the coming months for exciting announcements and more details on the line up of speakers and performers joining the Event Voyages on board in 2025.