Beyond the Brochure: A Real Passenger's Review of a Cunard® Asia Voyage

There are holidays, and then there are voyages. The former is a break from routine; the latter is a transformation. It’s a distinction I’ve come to appreciate after decades of circling the globe, but one that was never clearer than during my recent 14-night sailing through the heart of Asia aboard Cunard’s magnificent Queen Elizabeth. The brochure promises elegance, tradition, and exotic locales. But what it cannot fully capture is the feeling—the subtle magic that unfolds between the ports, the quiet moments of reflection on a private balcony, and the shared thrill of discovery in lands where ancient history and futuristic skylines collide.

This isn’t just a review; it’s an invitation. An invitation to step beyond the glossy pages and into the real, lived experience of a Cunard Asia voyage. If you’ve ever wondered if the reality lives up to the legend, allow me to be your guide. We’ll explore the hallowed decks, delve into the vibrant ports, and uncover why this journey is more than a cruise—it's a grand tour for the modern age. You can follow along and see current itineraries by using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the very top of this page.

The Cunard Difference: More Than a Cruise Line, A Legacy at Sea

Before we even set foot in Asia, it’s essential to understand what sets Cunard apart. In an era of mega-ships and non-stop attractions, Cunard remains a bastion of classic ocean travel. It’s a deliberate choice. The experience is built on a foundation of more than 180 years of maritime heritage, and you feel it in every detail. It’s the crisp, white uniforms of the officers, the resonant chime of the ship’s bell, and the unwavering commitment to what they call “White Star Service.”

This isn’t about being stuffy or old-fashioned. It’s about a sense of occasion. On Cunard, you don’t just travel from A to B; you make a grand passage. This philosophy is particularly potent in Asia, where the contrast between Cunard’s timeless British elegance and the dynamic, ever-changing landscapes of the Far East creates a truly unforgettable travel narrative.

The Ship: A Floating Palace Named Queen Elizabeth

Our vessel for this adventure was the Queen Elizabeth, a ship that exudes Art Deco glamour and refined comfort. While vast, she never feels overwhelming. Instead, she’s a collection of intimate, beautifully designed spaces, each with its own distinct character.

Staterooms and Suites: Your Private Sanctuary

I was fortunate to experience a Princess Grill Suite, which I cannot recommend highly enough. The extra space, the separate lounge area, and the expansive balcony were wonderful, but the true luxury lies in the Grills Experience. This includes access to the exclusive Princess Grill restaurant, a dedicated lounge, and a private terrace. The service is anticipatory, the dining is exquisite, and it creates a "ship-within-a-ship" feeling of exclusivity.

Of course, the Britannia staterooms are also exceptionally comfortable and well-appointed. Many guests I spoke with were delighted with their Balcony staterooms, citing the joy of waking up to a new, breathtaking coastal view each morning. Deciding on the right accommodation is key to your enjoyment. If you're unsure which suite or stateroom is right for you, our dedicated Cunard specialists are on hand to offer personalized advice. Give them a call for a no-obligation chat at 1 (888) 883-0460.

Onboard Amenities and Experiences

Sea days on the Queen Elizabeth are a destination in themselves. Far from being simple transit days, they are opportunities to indulge, learn, and relax.

• Afternoon Tea: Served daily at 3:30 PM in the Queens Room, this is an unmissable ritual. White-gloved waiters serve delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite pastries, all while a string quartet plays softly. It’s pure, civilized bliss.
• The Royal Court Theatre: This opulent, three-tiered theatre hosts West End-calibre productions, musical performances, and guest lecturers from the Cunard Insights program.
• The Golden Lion Pub: For a taste of home, this traditional British pub serves a fantastic fish and chips, hosts a lively pub quiz, and pours a perfect pint.
• Gala Evenings: These are the nights you’ve seen in the pictures. The ship comes alive with guests in their finest attire—black tie, gowns, and cocktail dresses. The energy is electric, a throwback to the golden age of ocean travel. Have a quick question about the dress code or dining options? Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower-right corner for an instant answer.

The Itinerary: A Tapestry of the Far East

Our voyage was a masterclass in itinerary planning, balancing iconic megacities with serene natural wonders. Each port was a new chapter, offering a distinct flavor of Asia’s incredible diversity.

Port Day Deep Dive: Singapore to Hong Kong

Here’s a glimpse into the sensory feast that awaited us at each stop.

Singapore: The Garden City

We embarked in Singapore, a city that feels like it was designed in the future. The first sight of the Gardens by the Bay Supertree Grove from the ship’s deck is simply jaw-dropping. We spent the day exploring the lush Cloud Forest dome, wandering through the vibrant streets of Little India, and sampling chili crab at a hawker centre. Singapore is impossibly clean, efficient, and green—a perfect, gentle introduction to the wonders of Southeast Asia.

Nha Trang, Vietnam: Sun, Sand, and Culture

Our first stop in Vietnam was the coastal city of Nha Trang. While known for its beautiful crescent-shaped beach, we opted for a shore excursion to the Po Nagar Cham Towers, ancient Hindu temples that have stood for over a millennium. The contrast of these weathered, sacred stones against the backdrop of the modernizing city was a powerful reminder of Vietnam’s deep and complex history. The scent of incense and the panoramic views of the fishing harbor made for a truly memorable afternoon.

Hong Kong: The Vertical City

Sailing into Victoria Harbour is one of the world’s great travel experiences. The iconic skyline, with its forest of skyscrapers pressed against verdant mountains, is a sight to behold. We took the historic Peak Tram to the top of Victoria Peak for unparalleled views, navigated the bustling markets of Mong Kok, and enjoyed a dim sum lunch that was worth the flight alone. As night fell, we watched the Symphony of Lights, a dazzling display that illuminates the entire harbor. Hong Kong is pure energy, a city that never sleeps and never fails to captivate.

Kobe, Japan: Gateway to Tradition

Our final port, Kobe, offered a change of pace and a gateway to the cultural heart of Japan. While the city itself is famous for its marbled beef (which we dutifully sampled), it’s also the perfect base for exploring nearby Kyoto and Osaka. A short train ride took us to Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of vibrant red torii gates creating a mesmerizing pathway up the mountainside. We wandered through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and caught a glimpse of a geisha in the historic Gion district. It was a day of profound beauty and tranquility.

This is just one possible itinerary. The beauty of a Cunard Asia voyage is the sheer variety of combinations available. Are you ready to see yourself on this incredible journey? Plan Your Asia / Far East Adventure with our expert guidance.

Life Onboard: The Rhythm of the Voyage

What the brochure can’t convey is the daily rhythm of life at sea. It’s waking up to the gentle motion of the ship, enjoying coffee on your balcony as the sun rises over a new coastline. It’s the fascinating lectures on maritime history or the culture of your next port. It’s the pre-dinner cocktails in the Commodore Club, with its panoramic forward-facing views, sharing stories with new friends from around the world.

The service is the invisible thread that ties it all together. Your stateroom steward who knows your name from day one. The sommelier in the Britannia Restaurant who remembers you enjoyed the Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a level of personal attention that transforms a great holiday into an extraordinary one. Experience this level of service for yourself. Get a Custom Quote and let us tailor your voyage with exclusive perks and amenities you can't get anywhere else.

Is a Cunard Asia Voyage Right for You?

This voyage is for the traveler who appreciates the journey as much as the destination. It’s for someone who finds romance in tradition, who seeks enrichment over amusement park thrills, and who understands that true luxury is about impeccable service and time to simply be.

It’s for the curious explorer who wants to see the world’s most dynamic region without the hassle of packing and unpacking, airport queues, and constant hotel changes. Your elegant, floating hotel delivers you, rested and ready, to the doorstep of a new adventure each day.

The Far East is calling. It’s a land of profound contrasts, deep spirituality, and boundless energy. To experience it with the grace, style, and comfort of Cunard is, in my opinion, the ultimate way to travel. Let us help you answer that call. Our team of travel advisors specializes in crafting seamless, unforgettable Cunard voyages. We handle every detail, from flights and pre-cruise hotels to securing the best shore excursions, often with added benefits you won't find by booking direct. Inquire About This Sailing today and discover the world in unparalleled style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code on a Cunard ship?

Cunard maintains a classic dress code. During the day, attire is casual (resort wear). In the evening, the dress code is either "Smart Attire" (jacket optional for men, stylish separates or dresses for women) or "Gala Evening" (black tie/formal dark suit for men, evening or cocktail dresses for women). The number of Gala Evenings varies by voyage length.

Are shore excursions included?

Shore excursions are not typically included in the base cruise fare, allowing guests to customize their port days. You can book a wide variety of Cunard-organized tours, or you can explore independently. Our travel advisors can help you pre-book the best excursions to ensure you don't miss out on popular activities.

What makes Cunard different from other luxury cruise lines?

Cunard's key differentiators are its deep British heritage, the emphasis on traditional ocean liner experiences (like Afternoon Tea and Gala Evenings), and its world-class enrichment program, Cunard Insights. It offers a more structured and formal experience than many other lines, which appeals to travelers who appreciate a sense of occasion.

Is a Cunard Asia cruise suitable for first-time cruisers?

Absolutely. While it attracts many seasoned travelers, Cunard's exceptional service and well-organized structure make it a wonderful choice for a first cruise. The ship is easy to navigate, the staff is incredibly helpful, and the entire experience is designed to be seamless and relaxing.

How do I get the best value on my Cunard voyage?

Booking early is often the best way to secure the best fares and your preferred stateroom. However, the absolute best way to maximize value is to book through an expert travel agency like ours. We have access to exclusive promotions, potential onboard credits, and package deals that aren't available to the public. For the best possible offer on your dream Asia voyage, call us at 1 (888) 883-0460 or fill out our quick quote form.