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Cunard Queen Elizabeth debuts at PortMiami for Caribbean

Cunard Queen Elizabeth docked at PortMiami ahead of two-season Caribbean cruises, with Miami skyline and calm harbor waters visible.
2 min read

Key points

  • First PortMiami call launches two-season residency
  • Nine to 21-night Caribbean itineraries October to April
  • Ocean view fares start from $1,078, double occupancy
  • Patricia Altschul joins inaugural Caribbean sailing
  • Revamp adds shows, dining, and wellness programming
  • Ship repositions to Seattle for Alaska in May 2026

Cunard's recently refreshed Queen Elizabeth arrived at PortMiami on October 16, 2025, marking the ship's first-ever call and the start of a two-season Caribbean homeport residency. The program runs October through April with nine to 21-night sailings, entry ocean view fares from $1,078 per person, and new entertainment and culinary programming tailored to the region. PortMiami leaders welcomed the ship, underscoring Miami's growing slate of luxury options, while Cunard framed the deployment as a warm, service-forward answer to Caribbean demand.

Cunard Queen Elizabeth at PortMiami

Cunard confirmed the Miami debut and two-season plan, noting a plaque-and-key ceremony and a first sailing hosted by author and philanthropist Patricia Altschul. The line highlighted refreshed spaces and a slate of nearly 120 limited-time theatrical performances, plus regionally inspired dining additions. PortMiami Director and CEO Hydi Webb praised Cunard's investment and positioned the arrival as a boost to the port's premium mix.

Latest developments

Cunard detailed Eastern Caribbean calls, including San Juan, St John's, Castries, Bridgetown, Philipsburg, and Road Town, alongside Western Caribbean visits such as Amber Cove, Montego Bay, Belize City, and Cozumel. The 21-night voyages combine both regions in one itinerary. Following the winter and spring in the Caribbean, Queen Elizabeth will reposition to Seattle in May for a second and final Alaska season in summer 2026.

Analysis

For travelers seeking a longer, more leisurely Caribbean cruise, these nine to 21-night options from Miami offer a premium alternative to typical seven-night sailings. The scheduling window from October to April overlaps peak holiday and spring break periods, so securing preferred staterooms early will help with pricing and cabin choice. The ship's refurbishment, new onboard shows, and wellness experiences add differentiation in a competitive Miami market, while the commitment to a final Alaska season in 2026 creates a clear window for North American deployment planning across both warm and cold-weather itineraries.

Final thoughts

With this PortMiami debut, Cunard Queen Elizabeth brings a distinctive, Art Deco-forward premium experience to the Caribbean, anchored by longer voyages, fresh entertainment, and new dining. If you want refined service and an unhurried itinerary from Miami, the two-season Caribbean residency is a timely option.

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