Cunard will celebrate a landmark year in 2026 with every Transatlantic crossing featuring an expanded program of world-class entertainment.
The luxury British cruise line is this year’s headline partner of the prestigious Olivier Awards.
To mark the occasion, Cunard is offering its most extensive program ever on board Queen Mary 2, the world’s only ocean liner.
Guests sailing between New York and Southampton will enjoy world-class performers, award-winning theatre and exclusive cultural events.
London Theatre at Sea
This event will bring the magic of the West End to the Atlantic. Departing on May 22, guests will enjoy performances, musical theatre singalongs and talks offering a look behind the scenes of world-class theatre.
Exclusive to the voyage, The Oliviers in Concert celebrates 50 years of the Olivier Awards in a one-off production with the Royal Court Theatre orchestra.
The Constant Wife
The Royal Shakespeare Company’s new production of The Constant Wife will make its debut at sea on May 29 during its UK tour.
Starring Kara Tointon (above), the hit comedy features original music composed by Britain’s best-selling jazz artist, Jamie Cullum.
Anthony Inglis and the National Symphony Orchestra
On September 5, eminent maestro Anthony Inglis leads the UK’s National Symphony Orchestra for two evening concerts aboard Queen Mary 2.
Guests can join talks and Q&A sessions and participate in the guest choir, rehearsing throughout the week for a special performance alongside the orchestra, creating a fully immersive musical experience at sea.
450th Transatlantic Crossing
On Queen Mary 2’s historic 450th Transatlantic crossing, guests can step into Cunard’s storied past through The 450 Club: Celebrate the Transatlantic. They will experience historic moments from Cunard history, from Noël Coward’s early performances to Sir Arthur Rostron’s bravery during the Titanic disaster.
Literature Festival at Sea
Departing November 28, this event brings together authors, journalists, historians and critics for a week-long celebration of storytelling.
Entertainment Residencies by Cunard
Guests can enjoy recitals, workshops and one-of-a-kind performances from acclaimed companies and artists, including Adam Riches’ Jimmy, Tim Benzie’s It’s a Mystery!, Dyad Productions’ A Room of One’s Own, Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful and the West End comedy The Last Laugh (main image).
The 2026 program also features more than 680 speakers, including a mix of inspiring and entertaining personalities, such as Celia Imrie, Dame Floella Benjamin, Sir Tony Robinson and former England cricket captain Sir Andrew Strauss.
“From award-winning theatre and classical music to thought-provoking literary conversations, this programme reflects our long-standing commitment to celebrating culture at sea,” said Katie McAlister, President of Cunard.
