First look: Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 to undergo major luxury refurbishment

British luxury cruise brand Cunard has revealed that its flagship liner Queen Mary 2 will be undergoing a major refurbishment in time for its summer sailings next year.

Known for being the world’s only true ocean liner, built to withstand rough seas on long voyages, the Queen Mary 2 makes regularly scheduled transatlantic crossings between Southampton and New York.

Yet for a few months next year, the ship will take a break from its timetable and will enter dry dock in Brest, France to undergo a major transformation.

There will be 31 new staterooms added across the ship, including 16 new Cunard Princess Grill Suites, which offer more exclusive amenities, experiences and a larger cabin size.

The remaining 15 new staterooms will be in the Britannia category, which are Cunard’s standard cabins that are split into an interior, oceanview or balcony choice.

All the existing Grill Suites will be refreshed with new interiors, such as updated furnishings and finishes and newly designed bathrooms with spa-inspired interiors.

The Queen's Grill and Princess Grill restaurants will also be revamped, while outdoor deck space will be extended with more places to relax outdoors.

The ship’s famous dog kennels, the only kennels to exist at sea, will also get a makeover, with an increase in capacity, a refurbished owners’ lounge and an expanded outdoor walking area.

Queen Mary 2’s spa, Mareel Wellness & Beauty, is also being updated, and a new collection of luxury stores will also open on board.

The new designs across the ship draw inspiration from Hollywood heyday glamour with a touch of British tradition, providing a refresh to the ocean liner’s interiors while remaining recognisable as Queen Mary 2.

Illuminations, the name of the largest planetarium at sea aboard the ship, is getting a major digital upgrade.

The liner’s most popular entertainment offerings, such as West End and Broadway productions in its theatre and notable speaker talks, will still be available to guests after the renovations.

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: “Queen Mary 2 is more than a ship, she is an icon of modern luxury travel and the only true ocean liner in the world.

“This is a significant investment in Queen Mary 2, and every decision has been approached with deep respect for her heritage, her character and the sense of occasion that only Queen Mary 2 can offer. We are not reinventing what guests love about her; we are refining it beautifully and ensuring she carries it forward.”

The ship will enter dry dock at Damen Shiprepair Brest in France, on 31 March 2027, returning to service on 9 May 2027.

Read more: I’m a cruise expert and this is my pick of winter sun sailings in 2026 and 2027