Cunard is calling 2024 an “exceptional year” after reporting record-breaking bookings, coinciding with the launch of its highly anticipated ship, Queen Anne.
From 1 January to 31 October 2024, Cunard recorded an 73,000 additional guest reservations compared to the same period in 2023 — a whopping 23% year-on-year jump.
The result marks the highest number of guests booked between those dates in any equivalent period on record. Both the UK and North American markets contributed significantly to this success, with a 24% bump in guests booking from the UK and 29% increase from North America, compared to 2023.
Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.The arrival of Queen Anne in May has been a key factor in the growth, Cunard said, alongside the launch of three new cruise programs in 2024. Winter 2026 and summer 2026 itineraries were introduced in March, followed by the winter 2027 program in October, further driving demand.
Cunard’s global appeal continues to grow, with more than half of bookings between 1 January and 31 October now originating from outside the UK. International markets have shown particularly strong interest, with targeted marketing campaigns in these regions driving a 22% increase in international guest bookings over the past year.
On top of international growth, Cunard continues to attract both new and returning travelers. During the same period, the British cruise brand saw a 49% rise in first-time guests choosing to sail with Cunard, like-for-like.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “As we look ahead to 2025, we are proud to report record-breaking bookings that demonstrate the continued strength of Cunard’s commercial performance.
“As an iconic British brand with growing international appeal, Cunard continues to attract travelers from across the globe who are drawn to the timeless elegance and modern luxury we provide. The launch of Queen Anne has been a key driver of this success, increasing our capacity and capturing the imagination of both loyal and first-time guests.
“These results are a testament to the hard work of our teams and partners worldwide, who ensure Cunard remains at the forefront of luxury travel,” McAlister added.
