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 the world’s oldest literary festival that takes place in October every year, hosting The Cunard Stage at Cheltenham Town Hall and the VIP Lounge in partnership with Cunard. In 2025, visitors also enjoyed the Sea of Glamour photography exhibition that showcased 185 years of Cunard legacy, and captured the glamour and prestige of ocean travel through the years.

We are proud to present the Literature Festival at Sea on board Queen Mary 2. Sailing every year, this special Event Voyage features a myriad of special guests from the world of literature to delight fans of the written word with unique experiences on board.

Enjoy a daily dose of news from Times journalists and thought-provoking Q&A sessions. Meet your favourite writers at intimate book signings and listen as literary greats discuss art, film, history, and politics. And that’s on top of exploring the range of signature Cunard experiences you can already look forward to when you holiday with us. Experience various literature-based activities while enjoying Cunard's signature services, including relaxing spa treatments, and a cocktail menu that begs to be explored.