Cunard Unveils Actor Hugh Bonneville as Insight Speaker in the Caribbean
The Downton Abbey and Paddington star joins Queen Elizabeth from November 27 to December 3
VALENCIA, CA – August 6, 2025 – Queen Elizabeth’s maiden season in the Caribbean is getting a dose of British stardom this fall, with renowned British actor Hugh Bonneville sailing on board as an Insight Speaker this November.
Famed for his roles as Lord Grantham in Downton Abbey and the beloved Mr. Brown in the Paddington franchise, the Emmy-nominated actor will offer guests an exclusive glimpse behind the curtain of his distinguished career in film, television and theater.
From the grandeur of Highclere Castle to the marmalade mishaps of Windsor Gardens, Hugh will share anecdotes, reflections and more during an intimate onboard Q&A for Cunard guests.
The British TV icon will join the 2,000-guest Queen Elizabeth as part of her 12-night round-trip Eastern Caribbean voyage, departing from Miami on November 27.
Guests will discover the many treasures and rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Caribbean – with calls to Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados, St. Maarten and Tortola – as well as sea days to relax and unwind on the newly transformed Queen Elizabeth. Prices currently start from $1,699 per person for a Britannia Balcony stateroom, based on double occupancy.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Hugh on board Queen Elizabeth this year. He’s one of the most respected actors in British film and television, and his talent, warmth and wit make him a wonderful addition to our award-winning Insights Speaker program.”
Hugh Bonneville added: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be sailing with Cunard in the Caribbean. There’s something uniquely timeless and romantic about traveling by sea, especially when the ship is as elegant as Queen Elizabeth. I look forward to sharing a few stories, hopefully a laugh or two, and exploring the Caribbean with my fellow guests.”
About Queen Elizabeth
Her transformation earlier this year was designed to help guests admire majestic Alaskan glaciers or gorgeous Caribbean vistas, with more sunshades added to the aft deck to enjoy the outdoors.
Signature spaces such as the Commodore Club, Queens Room, Garden Lounge and The Pavilion have also each been thoughtfully revitalized, connecting guests to the ocean while providing the perfect space to relax or enjoy al fresco dining.
Queen Elizabeth’s inaugural Caribbean voyage from Miami departs on October 16 – a 12-night roundtrip sailing offering guests the chance to visit Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison and bustling markets of Castries, St Lucia.
This special sailing with Hugh Bonneville is part of Cunard’s renowned Insights Speaker program, which brings celebrated personalities from the worlds of film, literature, science and beyond to sea for thought-provoking talks and exclusive events.
For more information about Cunard or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Advisor, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273, or visit www.cunard.com.
For Travel Advisors interested in further information, please contact your Business Development Manager, visit OneSourceCruises.com, or call Cunard at 1-800-528-6273.
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About Cunard
Cunard is a luxury British cruise line, renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships since 1840, and this year celebrates an incredible 185 years of operation. 2025 is a momentous year in Cunard's history, which will be marked with several iconic land-based events and special Event Voyages. The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment, and outstanding White Star service. From a partnership with a two-Michelin starred chef, to inspiring guest speakers, to world class theatre productions, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys and round world voyages, destinations sailed to also include Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, the Far East and Australia.
There are currently four Cunard ships, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and new ship, Queen Anne, which entered service in May 2024. This investment is part of the company’s ambitious plans for the future of Cunard globally, with the brand now boasting four ships in simultaneous service for the first time since 1999. Cunard is based at Carnival House in Southampton and has been owned since 1998 by Carnival Corporation & plc. www.cunard.com (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).
Photography
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For additional information about Cunard, contact:
Cunard: cunardpublicrelations@cunard.com
Cindy Adams, cindy@mgamediagroup.com