Queen Mary New York Cruises

Sail between Southampton and New York on Queen Mary 2, Cunard’s flagship ocean liner. These transatlantic crossings run in both directions, with westbound sailings from Southampton to New York and eastbound sailings from New York to Southampton.

This is not a port-heavy cruise. The appeal is the Atlantic crossing itself: several days at sea, time on board, formal evenings, afternoon tea, guest speakers, sea views and the slower pace of travelling by ship.

Chart Your Course

Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossings in 2026 and 2027

Queen Mary 2 continues Cunard’s classic transatlantic route between Southampton and New York in 2026 and 2027. Guests can book a one-way crossing, combine eastbound and westbound sailings, or join a longer Cunard voyage that includes the Atlantic route.

Queen Mary 2 carries up to 2,691 guests and was built for the open ocean of the North Atlantic. Her size, layout and public spaces suit consecutive sea days, giving passengers space to read, dine, listen to talks, attend events or simply watch the ocean pass by.

The World’s Only True Ocean Liner

Queen Mary 2 is described by Cunard as the world’s only true ocean liner. She was built for ocean crossings rather than short hops between nearby ports, which gives the voyage a different feel from many modern cruise holidays.

The ship has a traditional style, with Gala Evenings, live music, formal dining, afternoon tea and the White Star Service associated with Cunard. The crossing has a sense of occasion without needing a long list of ports to justify the journey.

Southampton to New York Cruises

A Southampton to New York cruise gives UK travellers a no-fly start to North America. You board Queen Mary 2 in Southampton, cross the Atlantic by sea and arrive in New York after several days on board.

This route works well for a New York break, a longer USA holiday or the start of a wider Cunard itinerary. It also suits travellers who want the journey itself to feel part of the holiday, rather than using a flight just to cross the Atlantic.

Arriving in New York

Queen Mary 2 usually uses Brooklyn Cruise Terminal for New York sailings. From there, passengers can continue into Manhattan or other parts of New York.

Before travelling, check your terminal, transfer plans, hotel arrangements and onward transport. This applies whether you are arriving in New York from Southampton or joining the ship there for an eastbound crossing to the UK.

New York to Southampton Cruises

New York to Southampton cruises cross the Atlantic eastbound, bringing passengers back to the UK by sea. These sailings can suit travellers returning from North America, or anyone who would rather finish a trip with several days on board Queen Mary 2 rather than a long flight home.

Eastbound crossings usually follow the same direct Atlantic pattern, with time on board before arrival in Southampton.

Travelling with Pets on Queen Mary 2

Queen Mary 2 is one of the few practical ways to cross the Atlantic by sea with a cat or dog. Selected transatlantic crossings offer dedicated kennel facilities, which makes these sailings especially useful for passengers who need to travel with pets.

Kennel spaces are limited and must be reserved well in advance. Check availability, rules, paperwork and pet travel requirements before choosing a sailing.

Cunard Transatlantic Cruises: Onboard Experience

Time at sea is a major part of a Queen Mary 2 crossing. The ship gives passengers space to enjoy the rhythm of the voyage, from morning walks on deck to formal evenings and daytime talks.

  • Illuminations is Queen Mary 2’s planetarium, cinema and event venue, with shows, films and talks during the crossing.
  • Gala Evenings invite guests to dress formally, with tuxedos, formal suits, evening dresses and ball gowns often seen around the ship.
  • Traditional Afternoon Tea is served at 3.30 p.m. in the Queen’s Room, with white-gloved waiters, silver teapots, scones and finger sandwiches.
  • The Library is one of Queen Mary 2’s best-known spaces and is described by Cunard as the largest library at sea.
  • The Insights Programme brings guest speakers on board, with talks from writers, experts and well-known figures.
  • White Star Service is part of Cunard’s on-board style, with a more formal approach than many casual cruise lines.

Practical Notes for Queen Mary New York Cruises

The weather in New York and Southampton can change between departure and arrival, especially outside of summer. Pack layers, including a light jacket or jumper for cooler mornings on deck and time ashore.

Comfortable shoes are worth bringing if you plan to explore New York before or after your sailing. For westbound cruises, it is also worth planning your first day in the city around disembarkation, transfers and hotel check-in times.

Are Queen Mary New York cruises one-way?

Many Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossings are one-way sailings between Southampton and New York, or vice versa. Some are part of longer Cunard itineraries.

Can I bring my dog or cat on a Queen Mary 2 crossing?

Yes. Queen Mary 2 has kennel facilities for cats and dogs on selected transatlantic crossings. Spaces are limited, so check availability before booking.

What is the minimum age for children on a transatlantic cruise?

Children must be at least 12 months old to travel on Cunard Transatlantic Crossings. This is higher than the six-month minimum that may apply to some other Cunard voyages.

Is there a planetarium on Queen Mary 2?

Yes. Queen Mary 2 has Illuminations, which includes the ship’s planetarium as well as cinema and event space.

Where does Queen Mary 2 arrive in New York?

Queen Mary 2 usually uses Brooklyn Cruise Terminal for New York sailings. Passengers can continue into Manhattan or other parts of New York after arrival.

Is a Southampton to New York cruise a no-fly?

The westbound crossing starts in Southampton, so UK passengers can begin the journey without flying to join the ship. If you are not returning by sea, you may still need a flight back from North America.

Is Queen Mary 2 suitable for people who dislike flying?

A Queen Mary 2 crossing can be a good option for travellers who prefer not to fly. However, they would need to fly home unless they are booked on another cruise. Often, you can buy a 14-night cruise that sails one way before returning to the embarkation port. If you are planning an extended stay in the States, why not book the return cruise for another day?