In partnership with Cheltenham Literature Festival

Cunard has been in partnership with The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival since 2018, developing the Literature Festival at Sea on board Queen Mary 2’s Transatlantic Crossing.

On land, we are delighted to support a series of special Author events at the world’s oldest literary festival that takes place in October every year, alongside the VIP Lounge in partnership with Cunard.

We are proud to present the Literature Festival at Sea on board Queen Mary 2, setting sail from New York to Southampton on 8 December 2025.

Enjoy a daily dose of news from Times journalists. Lose yourself in thought-provoking conversation at Q&A sessions. Meet your favourite writers at intimate book signings. Listen as literary greats dissect everything from art and film to history and politics. You could fill every day on board with all kinds of literature-based activities and experiences. And that’s on top of exploring the range of signature Cunard experiences you can already look forward to when you holiday with us. Spend your week at sea embracing a world of intellect and indulgence, thanks to round-the-clock room service, relaxing spa treatments, and a cocktail menu that begs to be explored.