Three Outstanding Cruises From Cunard's Peter Shanks
Peter Shanks, Cunard Line's President and Managing Director, takes time out of his busy schedule to share three of his favourite cruises with us. Here are his insider tips for a truly iconic Cunard experience.
Iglu are one of Cunard Line’s top travel agents — so I was delighted to be asked to pen a blog for them.
The choice of cruises out of the UK is greater than it has ever been. No matter what type of holiday or cruise you may be looking for there is a cruise line, a destination and an experience waiting for you. Iglu play a really important role in recommending and reassuring people in making the right holiday choice, including the Cunard experience, and here are three cruises for 2013 I'd like to share with you.
Queen Victoria & The Norwegian Fjords:
If you are looking for a week amongst beautiful scenery, then I would recommend a seven night fjords cruise on Queen Victoria. You have to experience the beauty of the fjords to believe it - and seeing that experience from the comfort of your own ship is the only way to do it. Cruising from Southampton is a big advantage for those who don’t like to fly, and of course there's the opportunity to take as much luggage as you like.
Queen Elizabeth & The Med:
If you prefer warmer climes, then one of our fantastic 12 night fly voyages down to the Mediterranean could be what the doctor ordered. By flying it means you don’t have to spend two days getting to the Med and another two days returning. Instead, you find yourself in the warmth, on a port rich cruise visiting both wonderful cities and calm and relaxing islands. A little tip - I would ask Iglu to book you a couple of nights before the cruise in Venice, for example, so that you can explore the city before you board the ship.
Queen Mary 2 & Transatlantic New York:
Every cruiser should experience a Transatlantic crossing to New York onboard Queen Mary 2 — our most iconic ships and the world's most historic cruise. Each night the clocks are put back an hour, ensuring you arrive jet lag free, perfect if you are planning a few extra nights in the Big Apple. Three nights a week onboard Transatlantic voyage's there is a wonderful formal night — it’s an elegant experience where everybody dresses up, enjoys a cocktail or two, before the fabulous gala dinner.
The arrival into New York is definitely the highlight of the trip — with the sun rising as you approach the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan .
Hopefully that has given you some ideas. There are many cruise lines who offer a fantastic experience at incredible value for money — but there is only one, in my view, that can offer you that unique mix of a legendary experience, beautiful surroundings and exceptional White Star Service.
We look forward to seeing you on board a Cunard ship in the future.