Days on deck.

From wildlife spotting and stargazing to deck games and swimming, when it comes to the great outdoors, a Cunard voyage offers countless ways to stay active and connect with nature on board.

Whether you’re sailing in the tropical climes of the Caribbean or among Alaska’s tidewater glaciers, being outside on your ship means never having to miss a glimpse of the ocean, those once-in-a-lifetime nature encounters, or the spectacular scenery ashore.

With ample space on deck, those longing for quiet relaxation can lounge by the pool, perhaps with a cool glass of champagne, while anyone looking for a little more action can find some friendly competition among the deck games on offer. 

Outdoors on board.

Life outdoors on your Cunard ship is something to relish and basking in the fresh sea air is only a small part of the story. Sports and deck games, such as golf, croquet, bowls, shuffleboard, deck quoits, or paddle tennis, offer a chance to learn something new or demonstrate your skills.

Another thrilling activity is wildlife spotting. It’s often at the most unexpected moment you’ll spot an inquisitive pod of dolphins surface beside your ship, or a graceful eagle soaring overhead.

On the other hand, guests who choose a Cunard voyage for the unique sense of occasion and indulgence will find many opportunities to experience just this. Peppered throughout the open spaces on deck you’ll find inviting bars, sparkling pools, and plenty of areas in which to lounge in the sunshine.

When you’re not lost in the world of a novel or taking a short siesta, you’ll be met with unplanned special moments that can truly make your voyage. Whether it’s watching the sun rise or gazing at the stars above, these are the moments that will imprint on your memory long after you return home.

Highlight: deck shuffleboard.

When it comes to deck games, a firm favorite among our guests is shuffleboard, a traditional game that has long been played on ocean liners. Said to have originated in the taverns of England in the sixteenth century, shuffleboard sits somewhere between curling and backgammon. It can be played at a table, but deck shuffleboard takes place on a larger scale, with a court measuring six feet wide by 39 feet long.

Outdoor venues on board.

On each Cunard ship you’ll find an abundance of outdoor space, designed to ensure your voyage offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh sea air.

Queen Elizabeth.

Queen Elizabeth is home to our unique games deck, a perfect spot to indulge in outdoor games and conversation. You’ll find the likes of bowls, deck tennis, and croquet to play at your leisure, under an expansive canopy, which keeps you shaded from the sun and dry in wet weather. You can also practice your golf swing using our golf nets or show off your putting skills at one of our regular golfing tournaments.

Queen Mary 2.

At the Pavilion on board Queen Mary 2, you’ll find table tennis, whirlpools, and a generously sized pool with surrounding sun loungers, not to mention a well-stocked bar. Regular morning fitness classes are also hosted here, while live entertainment is laid on throughout the day and into the evening. There’s even a retractable sunroof to ensure the venue is accessible in all seasons.

Queen Victoria.

On board Queen Victoria, no voyage is complete without an afternoon spent at the Lido. In this hub of outdoor activity, you’ll find two swimming pools and four whirlpools in close proximity to a bar and the Lido Grill. Choose from a range of dishes here, from classic pizzas to delicate sushi. Deck games including shuffleboard are also situated close by, if you feel like making some new friends on board.

The perfect spot.

If you’re booked into one of our Queens or Princess Grill suites, you’ll additionally have access to the Grills Terrace on board each of our ships. An outdoor area reserved exclusively for our Grills guests, you’ll be free to relax on a comfortable lounger or in the whirlpool, with your beverage of choice, plus something from the snack menu should you feel peckish.

Absorbing the scenery.

Of course, one of the most enticing aspects of a cruise is the chance to travel by ocean, and that brings a wealth of unparalleled sightseeing opportunities. In addition to native wildlife, you’ll likely pass famous coastal landmarks at some point during your voyage. Depending on where in the world you’re sailing, this could be anything from the Statue of Liberty to majestic fjords.

In the northern hemisphere, you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the highly sought-after aurora borealis, or Northern Lights. Out on deck is one of the best places to see this natural phenomenon because there is little to obscure your view, and the experience, when it does occur, is truly spectacular.

Be inspired.

Discover some of our most scenic destinations, perfect for viewing from deck or exploring ashore, with our inspiring articles, and pick your favorite for your next adventure.

Starry, starry night.

John Maclean is an astronomer, award-winning astrophotographer and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. He regularly joins guests on Cunard’s Northern Lights cruises to host expert talks and provide commentary on board, bringing celestial wonders to life.

Find out more

Alaska: Nature’s best.

Alaska, a fabled land of snow-capped mountains and fjords carved by glaciers, provides an unprecedented opportunity to spot fascinating wildlife in its natural habitat.

Find out more

New York state of mind.

If there’s one city that sums up the essence of the American Dream more than any other, it’s this one. Get set for an unforgettable bite of The Big Apple with Cunard.

Find out more