Cunard’s iconic Queen Elizabeth is charting new waters as it completes a 21-night repositioning cruise from Seattle to PortMiami, marking its first-ever winter season in the Caribbean. Departing September 25, 2025, the voyage offers a sweeping itinerary that highlights the engineering wonder of the Panama Canal alongside some of the most captivating destinations in North and Central America.
For Cunard, this repositioning voyage represents more than a transition. It is the introduction of a grand liner—renowned for its British elegance—to the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean. Guests who joined the ship for its canal passage experienced not just a journey but an unfolding chapter in cruise history.
A Diverse Itinerary from Coast to Coast
The open-jaw itinerary allowed travelers to board in Seattle and disembark in Miami, creating a dynamic experience of multiple coasts, cultures, and climates.
The journey began in the Pacific Northwest before heading down the West Coast with key stops in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Guests enjoyed overnight stays, providing ample time to discover landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Hollywood Boulevard. Further south, the ship visited Cabo San Lucas with its dramatic rock formations and lively nightlife, and Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a gateway to lush rainforests and eco-adventures.
Crossing the Panama Canal was the centerpiece of the voyage. Watching the ship navigate its intricate lock system, guests experienced firsthand one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements, a rare maritime spectacle few travelers forget.
Once through the canal, the Queen Elizabeth continued into the Caribbean, calling at Willemstad, Curaçao, and Oranjestad, Aruba, before reaching Miami. Each port combined history, colorful culture, and postcard-worthy scenery, adding depth to the experience.
Miami Welcomes the Queen Elizabeth
Upon arrival in PortMiami, the Queen Elizabeth will begin its 2025–2026 Caribbean season, offering itineraries between nine and twelve nights. The maiden Caribbean voyage is a 12-night Eastern Caribbean sailing, featuring celebrated islands such as Tortola, St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbados, Puerto Rico, and St. Lucia.
In addition, sailings will include visits to Cozumel in Mexico, Montego Bay in Jamaica, and Belize City, providing a spectrum of experiences from colonial towns to pristine beaches and adventurous diving spots. This Caribbean debut cements Miami’s reputation as a global cruise hub while introducing Cunard’s legendary refinement to a new audience of travelers.
New Culinary and Cultural Experiences
To mark its Caribbean season, Cunard has introduced new culinary and entertainment offerings onboard. Guests will have the opportunity to savor dishes at Karibe, a Pan-Caribbean restaurant designed to celebrate regional flavors. Signature dishes such as jerk chicken, spiced goat curry, and Caribbean tiger prawns will highlight the richness of island cuisine.
Entertainment has also been elevated with live classical performances, contemporary theater productions, and rotating pop-up experiences. The ship’s programming is curated to blend Cunard’s tradition of sophistication with the vibrant rhythms and artistry of the Caribbean.
A Ship Renewed for Luxury
Ahead of this Caribbean launch, Cunard invested heavily in refurbishing the Queen Elizabeth. Updates completed in spring 2025 enhanced the ship’s signature venues, including the Queens Room, the Commodore Club, and the Garden Lounge, ensuring they offer both comfort and elegance. Outdoor decks were redesigned with new sunshades and lounges, ideal for relaxing under the Caribbean sun.
Staterooms and suites have been refreshed with modern finishes, while public spaces now reflect a balance of Cunard’s timeless design with contemporary amenities. This renewal underscores Cunard’s commitment to providing its guests with unrivaled experiences at sea.
Cultural Exploration and Economic Impact
Cunard’s expansion into the Caribbean not only enriches its global network but also contributes to the regional tourism economy. Ports across the Caribbean stand to benefit from increased visitor spending, with travelers engaging in excursions, dining, and cultural experiences.
The ship’s arrival underscores how luxury cruise lines are diversifying their offerings, giving seasoned cruisers new reasons to explore familiar regions while attracting first-time guests seeking refined travel.
Setting the Stage for a Legendary Season
The arrival of the Queen Elizabeth in Miami is more than the end of a voyage—it is the beginning of an exciting chapter. Guests sailing this winter can expect a blend of Cunard’s storied traditions and the Caribbean’s vibrant culture, from afternoon teas and black-tie dinners to excursions filled with sun, sand, and local history.
For travelers, this season offers an invitation to experience the Caribbean in unparalleled style. Whether exploring the colorful streets of Old San Juan, diving in Belize’s Blue Hole, or enjoying rum tastings in Barbados, the Queen Elizabeth will serve as a luxurious base for exploration.
Conclusion: A New Era for Cunard in the Caribbean
With its Seattle-to-Miami repositioning cruise complete, Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is poised to deliver an extraordinary Caribbean winter season. The combination of iconic ports, new culinary and entertainment offerings, and refreshed luxury spaces onboard ensures that every guest will enjoy both comfort and adventure.
For those seeking a winter escape, this season represents more than a cruise—it is a celebration of travel, tradition, and discovery. Miami, long known as the cruise capital of the world, now proudly welcomes the Queen Elizabeth, setting the stage for journeys filled with elegance, culture, and the enduring magic of Cunard.
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