Major refurbishments are on the way for Queen Mary 2, and the ship’s canine cruisers are set to benefit.
Cunard will upgrade the ocean liner’s kennel facilities, which allow guests to take their pets on transatlantic crossings. The dedicated kennels, the only such facilities at sea, will be redesigned and expanded, while the owners’ lounge will be refurbished and the outdoor walking area enlarged.
The work is scheduled to take place during a dry dock at Damen Shiprepair Brest in France from 31 March to 9 May 2027.
Accommodation for human guests will also receive attention. Cunard will extensively refresh the existing Grill accommodation, with upgrades planned for the Queens Grill and Princess Grill restaurants. The refit will also add 31 new cabins, comprising 16 Princess Grill Suites and 15 Britannia staterooms.
Other changes include new luxury retail outlets, an expansion of outdoor deck space and an upgrade to Mareel Wellness & Beauty.
Illuminations, Queen Mary 2’s planetarium and cinema venue, will receive a digital technology upgrade.
It is not only Cunard looking after four-legged cruisers. Royal Caribbean’s future Hero of the Seas will have a new Chief Dog Officer named Dolly, a tribute to the late Dolly Parton.
Once trained, Dolly will join Hero of the Seas when the Icon Class ship debuts in August 2027.